Lighthouses? In Indiana? Yes, weather can get wild on our sliver of Lake Michigan in the northwest corner of the state, and in pre-radar days, ships needed the lighthouse for guidance. Michigan City boasts Indiana’s oldest lighthouse, built in 1858.

Harriet Colfax maintained the lighthouse for 43 years, until she retired in 1904, a community legend. In 1973, the Michigan City Historical Society restored the lighthouse and keepers’ quarters as a museum. You can tour the lighthouse and climb the tower, learn about Michigan City’s maritime history, and pick up lighthouse-themed souvenirs at the gift shop.

Also in Michigan City, you can check out the East Pierhead Lighthouse, built in 1904. Saved from demolition in 1994, the landmark still has the elevated  iron catwalk the keeper clung to while battling wind and waves to reach the lighthouse. You can’t climb the tower or traverse the catwalk, but the pier in Washington Park is a picturesque spot for fishing, taking photographs and watching the sunset.

The Michigan City Lighthouse Museum is open 1 to 4 p.m. every day except Monday. Call 219-872-6133 or visit the website to plan a visit.

Washington Park and Beach  is open year round, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. From Route 12 in Michigan City, take Franklin Street north to Lake Shore Drive which leads to Washington Park. Call 219-873-1506 or visit the website.