New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse - Ocean City, Maryland

New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse

The New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse is a historic landmark and museum located in Fenwick Island, Delaware. This organization is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich history of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses on the Delaware coast.

Location and Access

The lighthouse is situated at 103 146th St, Ocean City, MD 21842, United States, in the middle of a residential neighborhood. While it is not located on the water, it is a significant historical site in the area. The visiting hours are limited, so it is recommended to check their website or call ahead to confirm their schedule.

The lighthouse and its attached keeper's house are operated by the New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse organization. Entry is free, and there is no price or registration required to enter the property or the museum. However, guided tours are available, and the guides are well-versed in the history of the lighthouse and the keeper's house.

Historical Significance

The Fenwick Island Lighthouse was first lit in 1859 and has guided ships along the Delaware coast for over 150 years. It is one of the few lighthouses in the United States that is still in operation and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The keeper's house, built in the late 1800s, provides a glimpse into the lives of the lighthouse keepers and their families.

On-Site Services and Family-Friendly Atmosphere

The New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse organization offers on-site services, including guided tours and educational programs. The lighthouse and museum are also good for kids, providing a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

Opinions and Reviews

The New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse has received 376 reviews on Google My Business, with an average rating of 4.3/5. Visitors praise the historical information provided by the guides and the free entry to the lighthouse and museum. However, some visitors have noted that the lighthouse is not on the water and that visiting hours are limited.

In conclusion, the New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse is a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts and families alike. Its historical significance, on-site services, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a unique and educational experience.

👍 Reviews of New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse

Kevin S.

3/5

Lighthouse is in the middle of a neighborhood and not on the water. Limited visiting hours. I did not go onto the property or enter the lighthouse or museum.

Leslie D.

4/5

A organization operates the lighthouse. No price or registration to enter. If they are open it free to enter. The guides are well versed on the history of the lighthouse and attached keepers house.

C

5/5

The lighthouse is absolutely beautiful. It was closed for renovations, so we were unable to go in. However, we met 2 wonderful volunteers who invited us into light keepers' house, which was absolutely amazing in itself. It's definitely worth a visit if you're in the area. I'm so glad we did!

Exit Z.

5/5

Alright so we showed up at 10am and on google it states they close at 12. However what google did not state was the lighthouse is closed for the season. With that said it’s still a very cute place to visit. The grounds are well taken care of, they even have an amazing garden pumping out all types of veggies. Definitely come out here in the off season and just walk around, take in the views and enjoy it for what it is.

Timothy S.

5/5

Really neat nineteenth century lighthouse with lots of interesting history. The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1978 by the US Coast Guard and placed on the National Register of Historic Places a year later. Unfortunately, commercial and residential development over the years has nearly hidden it but thankfully a private nonprofit currently maintains it as a museum. Also located on the grounds is a stone monument that was placed by surveyors in 1750 to mark the
Transpeninsular Line separating Delaware and Maryland. Be sure to visit during operating hours.

Beverly (.

5/5

Whenever I visit Ocean City, I like to see what else is available in the area. This was a nice little stop. I was surprised that this light house was in its original location. You can't climb the lighthouse, but you can visit the entrance area. I received a nice tour of the gift shop and museum area. This is a great place for families as well as solo visitors.

Scott O.

4/5

Lovely lighthouse and friendly staffer!
Thank you for the lighthouse lamp.

Coming J.

4/5

I've been to Ocean City, MD many times over the years, and just recently got the chance to visit this lighthouse. Unfortunately they were closed when I got there. But it was still fascinating to see it up close and personal.