This year we’re continuing our weekly look at unique festivals, events, and attractions that are within an easy driving distance of the Mansfield area. We call these “Summer Road Trips.” Of course, we regularly feature the many extraordinary places to visit right here in Richland County and encourage our readers to get out and experience what is on offer in our own backyard. There’s an extraordinary exhibition taking place this summer, and it’s an easy drive from greater Mansfield.
Built in 1821, the Marblehead Lighthouse is an active navigational aid and the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on the Great Lakes.
Visitors can climb 77 steps to the top for a spectacular view of Lake Erie and the entrance to the Sandusky Bay, Cedar Point, and the Lake Erie Islands including Johnson’s Island, Kelleys Island, and the Bass Islands.
The grounds of this state park feature picnic facilities, fishing, walking trails, a life-saving station, and the Marblehead Lighthouse Museum. The Museum, which was once served as a home for the lighthouse keeper, features artifacts, historical photos, and other materials which represent the rich and colorful history of the Lighthouse and the Marblehead area. All items on exhibit are authentic originals or professional replicas.
Hours for the two on-site museums vary slightly from the lighthouse schedule.
Marblehead Lighthouse is open daily from Noon-4 PM through Labor Day. The lighthouse is also open the second Saturday in October for the Lighthouse Festival.
The cost to climb the lighthouse is $3 for adults and children ages 6 and up. Children under age 6 are free. Last trip to the top starts at 3:40 PM. Cash only.
The Keeper’s House and Livesaving Station museums are open during the same hours as the lighthouse. There is no charge to visit the museums.
Here is information on how to get there.
Source: TourismOhio; Photo: Creative Commons License
