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Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography

Manistee's North Pierhead Lighthouse

One of the most symbolic icons of Manistee, the Victorian Port City, is the North Pierhead Lighthouse, located between the 1st Street and 5th Avenue beaches.

The Painted Lady
T.J.'s Pub

Discover the Manistee North Pierhead Lighthouse

Standing watch over Lake Michigan waters, the North Pierhead Lighthouse welcomes boaters into its harbor, and is a reminder of Manistee’s great maritime history.

First built in 1869, it burned in the Great Fire and a new one was constructed in 1872. The North Pierhead Lighthouse is built from cast iron and stands 39 feet tall. 

Many changes have taken place over the years–including a wooden catwalk that was eventually replaced by an iron one around 1900. Many Michigan lighthouses demolished their catwalks when the lights became electrified, so Manistee’s catwalk is a rare sight. In the late 1920s, after extensive pier renovations, the old fog signal building was replaced by the present structure.

What is it about a lighthouse that draws people to enjoy the view?

Is it the way the lighthouse stands strong and proud against the Lake Michigan waves, and storms of every season? Is it the opportunity for a spectacular photo? Whether you are a Manistee local or a visitor to West Michigan, be sure to visit the North Pierhead Lighthouse in Manistee often. 

More Manistee County Travel Information

Planning a visit to the Manistee area? Have questions about your trip? Here’s where you can find help: 

Contact the Manistee County Tourism Authority here:

Scroll below for more articles about the Manistee area.
 

Experience the Manistee Area

Fishing in Manistee

Manistee offers a variety of fishing opportunities! Cast your own line into one of the many lakes or streams — or hop aboard a charter boat!

Manistee’s Riverwalk

The Manistee Riverwalk follows the Manistee River from Jones Street, under the US-31 bridge, behind downtown, and ends at First Street beach.