Did you know that the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is home to the largest and most complete collection of historic lighthouses in the country? There are ten lighthouses and towers throughout the 21 islands, from the gothic-inspired Sand Island Lighthouse to the easily accessible Raspberry Island Lighthouse. These Lake Superior lighthouses have guided boats since the mid-1800s and are reminders of Wisconsin’s rich maritime history. Visit us at Old Rittenhouse Inn and embark on a Lake Superior lighthouse tour!
Raspberry Island Lighthouse
The Raspberry Island Lighthouse is considered the showplace of the Apostle Islands, built-in 1862. The lighthouse was built with a two-bedroom house at the base for the lighthouse keeper. It is only of the easiest accessible lighthouses and is open to the public for summer tours!
Old Michigan Island Lighthouse
The Old Michigan Island Lighthouse was built in 1856 on an isolated island seventeen miles from Bayfield. Getting the materials to the island was an impressive feat, ferrying stone from a nearby quarry, and the Fresnel lens was manufactured by a prestigious company in France. In 1929 a 112-foot tower was built to replace the old lighthouse.
Outer Island Lighthouse
The Outer Island Lighthouse is located at the most remote point of the Apostle Islands chain. This lighthouse was built in 1874 and included a small lightkeeper dwelling to the right.
Sand Island Lighthouse
Sand Island Lighthouse is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful Lake Superior lighthouses. Built in 1881 and inspired by the Gothic architecture of the Victorian period. Unlike the other Apostle Islands, Sand Island was home to a small community of fishermen and farmers.
Long Island Light Station
Three lighthouses have been built on Long Island since 1858. The first was hastily constructed after the lighthouse that was supposed to be built on Long Island ended up on Michigan Island instead. Over the years, two new light towers were erected, and the New LaPointe tower remains in use today.
Devils Island Light
Devils Island is home to the last crewed light station of the Apostle Islands, which operated until 1978. First lit in 1901, it is also one of the only Apostle Island lighthouses with its original Fresnel lens.
Stay at Our Bed & Breakfast on Lake Superior
Experienced boaters and sea kayakers are welcome to visit the Lake Superior lighthouses independently. And beginners should access the lighthouses with one of the Apostle Islands Cruises. Stay with Old Rittenhouse Inn in Bayfield and enjoy Lake Superior views from our historic bed and breakfast.