Lighthouses You Can Tour Inside

Built in 1791, Portland Head Light still operates as a navigation beacon from its perch on the rocky cliffs of Cape Elizabeth. The lighthouse sits inside Fort Williams Park, a larger area with old military bunkers, walking trails along the bluffs, and an impressive mansion on the grounds. The setting is photogenic year-round. Fall brings peak foliage. Winter can mean snow and ice on the trails. The rocky cliffs are well-fenced, which protects people but does frame the views a bit. Parking is available but there's a fee. Plan to walk the grounds, not just snap a quick photo. The park is flat and scenic near the lighthouse itself, though the cliff walks involve some elevation.

This 1858 lighthouse sits on a sea cliff in Acadia, accessible via a short but steep walk down stairs and across rocky terrain. You'll get multiple angles to photograph the lighthouse, and tide pools dot the rocks during low tide. The effort to reach the viewpoint is worth it, especially at sunrise or sunset. Fair warning: the parking lot is tiny and fills fast, particularly on weekends and in summer. One visitor who arrived an hour before sunset in November found only two spots open. Come early, or plan to visit on a weekday or during the shoulder season. The walk down requires decent footing and sturdy shoes.

This 40-plus-acre free park in Cape Elizabeth is built around Portland Head Light but offers much more. Walking paths loop past an old mansion, Civil War-era fort, historical plaques and panels, and rocky shoreline views. The cliff walk is particularly scenic. It's a genuinely nice place for a picnic and family outing, with plenty of space to wander. The park is very well maintained by the town. Bring good walking shoes if you plan to explore fully, as there are hills and uneven terrain. Weekends get crowded, especially in summer. On a clear day or in fall, it's easy to spend a couple of hours here without feeling rushed.

Built in 1827, Pemaquid Point Lighthouse stands 38 feet tall and offers panoramic views of the Atlantic from New Harbor. The lighthouse opens seasonally to climbers for a small donation. Beyond the tower itself, the grounds include a fishermen's museum, art gallery, and plenty of outdoor space with picnic tables and rock ledges where you can sit and watch the water. The views alone are worth the trip if the lighthouse is closed. The site is a bit off the main road, so allow time to find it. Bring lunch if you plan to linger on the rocks.

Bug Light is a quick, accessible stop in South Portland. The 1875 lighthouse is small compared to others on this list, but its setting is unusual: Portland's skyline and harbor form the backdrop, making it a favorite with photographers and cyclists. The 9-acre park has nice walking paths, benches, and views of Casco Bay. There's also an exhibit about the Ugly Duckling tale and various historical panels. The park is very clean and well-maintained. It's perfect if you're short on time or looking for an easy walk with good city views.

This 1902 lighthouse sits at the end of Maine's longest breakwater, a stone jetty that stretches 4,336 feet into the harbor from Rockland. The walk to the lighthouse takes 20 to 25 minutes each way and isn't for everyone. The breakwater surface can be slippery when wet, and high tides can reach partway up the rocks, so check the tide before you go. The views of Rockland from out on the water are excellent, and sunset is a popular time to visit. The parking area opens at dawn and has port-a-johns on site. Come early or later in the evening if you want to avoid crowds.

This 30-foot lighthouse, built in 1825, sits in a small state park with breathtaking bay views. The structure is small, but its setting is picturesque, and the walk to it is easy with just a few stairs at the end. The surrounding state park has picnic areas and a rocky beach worth exploring. There's no entry fee or parking charge. Tours and a gift shop operate during the day in season. The parking lot is small and can be tight, so don't expect to turn around easily if you change your mind. It's an unrushed stop that pairs well with other lighthouses nearby.

Two Lights State Park in Cape Elizabeth covers 41 acres and centers on two lighthouse towers on a rocky coast. The park is unusually full-featured: it has a playground, picnic areas with grills, scenic walking trails through trees, bathrooms, and historical marker boards about World War 2 sites on the property. The trails are short and easy to moderate, offering views of Casco Bay and the Atlantic. There's plenty of parking, though there's a day-use fee. The park is well-managed and family-friendly. It's a good choice if you want more than just a lighthouse photo.

West Quoddy Head, in Lubec, is the easternmost point in the contiguous United States, and its distinctive lighthouse is as photogenic as it gets. Freshly painted in late 2025, the red and white tower sits on a dramatic headland overlooking vast ocean views. An adjacent keeper's house and visitor's center provide context. Miles of scenic, well-marked trails crisscross the property, ranging from easy to moderate. The lighthouse is really affordable to visit and doesn't feel overwhelming even when busy. Winter visits are possible but can be treacherous in snow or ice. Bring plenty of time to explore the trails and take in the views.

Built in 1858, Marshall Point Lighthouse in Port Clyde is famous to movie fans as the lighthouse featured in Forrest Gump. The white tower sits on a rocky point with a keeper's house nearby. During summer, a small museum and gift shop operate on the grounds, staffed by knowledgeable volunteers. A walking path with historical panels loops around the property. The setting is serene and classic New England. It's a popular photo stop, but it doesn't feel packed. Bring a camera and plan to spend 30 minutes to an hour. The museum is seasonal, so call ahead if you're visiting outside summer.