Michigan City East Light

Michigan City East Light is an octagonal lighthouse on the shore of Lake Michigan with white walls and a black lantern room. The structure stands on a concrete pier with an iron walkway that extends over the water.

An earlier lighthouse stood at this location starting in 1858 to guide vessels through the Great Lakes. It was replaced with the current structure in 1904 as maritime traffic and safety needs along the shipping routes increased.

The lighthouse represents Indiana's maritime heritage as one of over 120 lighthouses that guided vessels through the Great Lakes navigation system.

The lighthouse sits on a pier that remains accessible in various weather conditions and seasons. Wear sturdy shoes and come prepared for exposed conditions along the shoreline.

The original Fresnel lens from the 19th century remains in place and still produces the light signal. This detail shows how the equipment was engineered to work reliably across decades of Great Lakes shipping.

Location: Michigan City

Inception: 1904

Height: 15 m

GPS coordinates: 41.72889,-86.91167

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:04