Grand Haven South Pierhead Entrance

A federal lighthouse, Grand River Light was first built in 1839 at the south side of the mouth of the Grand River in Grand Haven. In 1855, it was replaced by a new lighthouse built on a high bluff east of the shore. In 1875, the original fog signal building was constructed at the end of the south pier, using some materials from the 1855 structure.

Then in 1905, the south pier was extended and the fog signal building was moved to its end. At that time, the current 52 foot-high conical inner tower light was constructed. These are perhaps the most recognizable of all Michigan lights.

The tower and fog building, each with its own light, are connected along the pier and to the shore by a long catwalk, a remnant of the days when keepers would have to make their way between the two structures despite crashing waves that often washed over the piers. Grand Haven and St. Joseph boast the only remaining two-pier range light systems with both towers and catwalks intact.

The Grand Haven South Pier Lighthouse is an operating lighthouse at the end of the pier, which is an extension of the Grand Haven boardwalk. The pier is open to the public from 7 a.m to 10 p.m. year round, but weather conditions can make the pier unsafe for pedestrians during winter months, storm conditions and high winds. The Lighthouse is not open inside because it is an operating lighthouse, but the public can walk up and around the lighthouse.

Directions:

• From U.S. 31 northbound: Take US 31 north through Grand Haven and turn left on Franklin Street. Go west on Franklin until it ends at Harbor Drive and turn left on Harbor. The lighthouse will appear on the right hand side before the State Park entrance. There is angle parking adjacent to the Boardwalk and at the State Park.
• From I-96: Take I-96 from Grand Rapids to Exit 9 the Grand Haven & Spring Lake Exit, which is located on the left side of the highway. Exit onto M-104 and travel west through the Village of Spring Lake. As approaching the US 31 interchange, follow signs to Grand Haven which will direct you south across the Grand River Drawbridge. At the first light after the bridge, turn right at Jackson. Jackson St becomes Harbor Drive as you approach the Grand Haven Harbor and downtown. Continue on Harbor Drive past the Coast Guard Station and the lighthouse will appear on the right before the Grand Haven State Park.

Tri-Cities Historical Museum: 616-842-0700
Grand Haven Visitors Bureau: 800-303-4088
West Michigan Tourist Association: 800-442-2084
Great Lakes Lighthouse Keepers Assocation: 313-436-9150