Just to our north in Kenosha, you’ll find not one, but two lighthouses to explore and enjoy.
These lighthouses have played a significant role in guiding ships along Lake Michigan's shoreline and are integral to the area's maritime heritage.
The Southport Lighthouse was built in 1866 and it was the first navigational light a mariner would see traveling from Chicago to Wisconsin and beyond.
While it was decommissioned in 1906, the lighthouse was restored and relit in 1996. Today, the lighthouse and the light station keeper’s house can be toured, and you can even climb to the top of the lighthouse tower for a spectacular view of Lake Michigan and the surrounding area.
Located at the end of a walkable break wall, the North Pier Lighthouse stands as one of Kenosha’s most recognizable landmarks. Painted a striking red, it offers a bold contrast against the blues of Lake Michigan.
Although the lighthouse is privately owned and not open to the public, it still serves as an operational aid to navigation, helping guide boaters traveling between Chicago and Milwaukee.
The iconic red lighthouse makes a perfect backdrop for photos and a memorable stop along the lakefront.