Visit Maryland's Lighthouses during National Lighthouse Month

Did you know there are more than two dozen lighthouses in Maryland? When you stay at the Inn at the Canal, you are just a short drive away from three of them on the northern-most tip of the Chesapeake Bay. August is National Lighthouse Month, so you have just enough time to plan a fun weekend escape to observe this holiday by touring these monumental beacons of light. Exploring historic lighthouses, enjoying Chesapeake food and drink specialties, and relaxing at the Inn at the Canal sounds like an amazing getaway. Be sure to check out these lighthouses while you're visiting.

Turkey Point Lighthouse

Situated on a 100-foot bluff, the Turkey Point Lighthouse at Elk Neck State Park is the third highest light on the Chesapeake Bay. This lighthouse was built 188 years ago, and even after almost two centuries, it remains a prominent landmark for sailors, hikers and tourists. Admission is free to climb to the top of the lantern room, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the bay. Fun fact: The lighthouse holds the distinction of being tended by more women keepers than any other lighthouse on the Chesapeake Bay. Today the lighthouse is maintained by Turkey Point Light Station, Inc., which plans to reconstruct the keeper’s quarters previously demolished by the Coast Guard.

Bethel Bridge Lighthouse

The Bethel Bridge Lighthouse was one of six small wooden lighthouses that were once positioned along the 14-mile channel connecting the Chesapeake Bay and Delaware Canal. The original Bethel Bridge Lighthouse was 30-feet tall and fitted with a red oil lamp. Today, a full-size replica now sits on the property at the C&D Canal Museum.  When you visit the Bethel Bridge Lighthouse, you’ll be able to learn more about the historic lighthouse and the surrounding area at the Canal Museum. It recounts the history behind the Bethel Bridge Lighthouse as well as about half a dozen other lighthouses that were used along the channel to warn ships of the location of the numerous locks and bridges.

Concord Point

Concord Point Lighthouse is located in Havre de Grace, where the Susquehanna River meets the Chesapeake Bay in a setting so picturesque it's the site of many weddings and special events. Built in 1827, Concord Point is the second oldest lighthouse in Maryland. And although decommissioned in 1975, today the fully restored lighthouse and keeper’s house are both open to the public on weekends with free admission from April to October. Spectacular views from the top of the lighthouse will be worth the climb up 27 granite steps and a ladder to the lantern room.

“Don’t forget that maybe you are the lighthouse in someone’s storm.” —Unknown