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National Lighthouse Museum | A journey through maritime history

The National Lighthouse Museum, situated on Staten Island, New York City, unveils the captivating story of lighthouses and their keepers. Established in 2015, the museum occupies a historic structure that formerly served as the US Lighthouse Service's General Depot. Through captivating exhibits, explore the evolution of lighthouse technology, get into the daily lives of lighthouse keepers, and know the significance of these navigational marvels. The museum also organizes intriguing events, boat tours, and educational programs, making it a captivating destination for lighthouse enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Stay on this page to find out more about the National Lighthouse Museum including ticket information, top highlights, opening hours, tips, & more.

Why visit the National Lighthouse Museum?

  • Uncover the fascinating history of lighthouses: The museum traces the evolution of lighthouses from their humble beginnings to the marvels of modern technology.Step into the shoes of a lighthouse keeper: Explore exhibits that recreate the living quarters and workspaces of lighthouse keepers.
  • See stunning artifacts and exhibits: The museum houses a collection of over 5,000 artifacts, including Fresnel lenses, foghorns, ship models, and lighthouse keepers' tools.
  • Take a boat tour: Climb aboard a ferry for a unique perspective of the New York Harbor lighthouses.
  • Enjoy special events and programs: The museum hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and family-friendly activities.

National Lighthouse Museum highlights

Wall of Lights

Start your museum trip with a giant wall of tiny lighthouses! See over 180 from 29 states, all in one amazing display. It's the perfect introduction to America's cool lighthouses.

Historic Lighthouse Models

Travel through time to see how lighthouses went from fires to fancy lenses. Cool lamps, intricate designs, tiny models of real giants - discover all kinds of lighthouses in this fun exhibit!

Maritime Artifacts and Memorabilia

Explore a diverse collection of maritime artifacts, including navigational instruments, ship models, historical photographs, and personal items belonging to lighthouse keepers and their families, at this exhibit.

Supplying the Nation's Light Stations

Ever wonder how lighthouses stay lit? Step into the General Depot, where they used to send supplies! See maps, tools, and everyday items used by keepers - it's like a lighthouse supply store frozen in time!

Fresnel Lens Collection

Discover the museum's remarkable Fresnel lens collection, invented by Augustin-Jean Fresnel. Learn how these lenses worked and revolutionized lighthouse illumination, magnifying light for safer navigation.

Keeper's Quarters Replica

Step into a real lighthouse keeper's home! See where they lived, ate, and kept the light shining bright. Imagine the ocean views and exciting rescues - a life at the lighthouse awaits!

Boat Tour

Set sail for an adventure with a lighthouse boat tour! See iconic lighthouses up close, hear their stories, and click stunning pictures. Choose a sunshine cruise or a magical sunset tour and create beautiful memories

Plan your visit to National Lighthouse Museum

The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 11 AM to 4 PM.

Closed on: The museum remains closed on Monday, Tuesday, and all legal holidays

Best time to visit: The best time to visit the museum is on a weekday morning or afternoon as the crowd is less during these times of the day.

Address: 200 The Promenade at Lighthouse Point, Staten Island, NY 10301, United States | Find on Maps

  • By ferry: Take the Staten Island Ferry from Manhattan's Whitehall Terminal to St. George Ferry Terminal. Once you arrive, either walk down to the museum or take a short taxi or bus ride.

Nearest stop: St. George Ferry Terminal

  • By bus: Take bus numbers S52, S62, S76, S78, or S86. 

Nearest stop: St. George

  • By subway: Take a Staten Island Railway subway

Nearest stop: St. George

  • By car: The museum is a 40-minute drive from Newark Liberty International Airport

Parking: You can park your car on the street or at any of the garages nearby with charges

  • Restrooms: Available on all floors of the museum.
  • Gift Shop: Browse a selection of lighthouse-themed merchandise, including books, toys, clothing, and souvenirs.
  • Storage: Leave your bulky coats and bags at the coat check for a small fee.
  • Picnic area: Relax and enjoy your lunch outdoors in the designated picnic area.
  • Library: Explore a collection of maritime-related books, articles, and photographs in the museum's library.
  • Theater: Watch educational films and presentations in the museum's theater.
  • Visitor center: A central hub where visitors can obtain information, purchase tickets, and learn about upcoming events and exhibitions.
  • Meeting rooms: Spaces  are available for meetings, presentations, and private events.
  • Safety measures: Emergency exits, signage, and safety protocols have been put in place to ensure the well-being of visitors and staff.
  • Accessible entrance
  • Elevators
  • Wheelchair accessible restrooms
  • Assistive listening devices
  • Service animals
  • Touch tours
  • Audio tours
  • ASL interpretation
  • Screen readers

The National Lighthouse Museum itself doesn't have any restaurants on-site. However, there are plenty of great options nearby to grab a bite before or after your visit:

  • Pier 76: Pier 76 pizza parlor with a patio serves thin-crust pies and other Italian-American eats, plus craft beers. It's just a short walk from the museum and offers a lively atmosphere.
  • Cargo Cafe: Cargo Cafe eclectic hangout offers refined pub grub amid surreal artwork, plus event nights and a pool table.
  • Beso: This cozy Spanish restaurant serves tapas, entrees & sangria in a relaxed brick-walled space. Beso offers a delicious and authentic Spanish dining experience.

The National Lighthouse Museum has several rules in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Here are some key points to remember:

  • Food and drink are not allowed in the exhibit halls.
  • Smoking isstrictly prohibited inside and outside the museum.
  • Running and horseplay isnot permitted to ensure safety and prevent damage to exhibits.
  • If visiting as part of a guided tour or group visit, stay with your group and follow the instructions of the tour guide or museum staff.
  • Keep children under supervision at all times to ensure their safety and to prevent accidental damage to exhibits or disruptions to other visitors.
  • Touching exhibits is strictly prohibited.
  • Only service animals are allowed inside the museum.
  • Large bags and backpacks might need to be checked at the coat check.