Maine Stories

They are made of brick, wood, cast iron and stone. They stand on rock islands, atop 50-foot cliffs and along urban waterfronts. And they have nicknames like Nubble, Two Lights, and the Candy Cane.

For more than 200 years, Maine’s coastal lighthouses have helped safely guide ocean mariners, while becoming well known local attractions for their unique architecture and scenic vantage points. On Saturday, September 12, visitors will have the chance to explore the state’s iconic landmarks up-close during the first-ever Maine Open Lighthouse Day.

The event, coordinated by the United States Coast Guard, Maine Office of Tourism, and the American Lighthouse Foundation, will make more than 25 of Maine’s lighthouses open to the public from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. It will be the largest event of its kind to take place in the United States.

Lighthouse communities will celebrate their local maritime heritage and recognize former lighthouse keepers with special events on Open Lighthouse Day. Stories and tales will be told including those of hauntings at lights like Wood Island in Biddeford Pool, Seguin Island off Popham Beach, and Owls Head Light.

Historic lighthouse artifacts, mementos and stories from lighthouse keepers and their families, and the history of local maritime industries will be on display at museums and visitor centers on the grounds of Pemaquid Point, Marshall Point, Grindle Point, and other lighthouses.

Get information about Lighthouse Day events, activities, and transportation to island lighthouses.