Eagle Bluff Lighthouse: A Timeless Beacon in Door County’s Peninsula State Park

Celebrating our 15-year wedding anniversary in Door County was a special journey back in time. My wife and I revisited the same bed and breakfast from our honeymoon, soaking in the nostalgia of that first trip. While I’ll share more about that experience in a future post, today’s story focuses on one of Door County’s most iconic and picturesque landmarks: Eagle Bluff Lighthouse in Peninsula State Park. It’s a place where natural beauty and maritime history meet—perfect for photography and reflection alike.

📍 Location: Where to Find Eagle Bluff Lighthouse

Eagle Bluff Lighthouse is located in Peninsula State Park, just outside Fish Creek, Wisconsin. Perched atop a limestone bluff 76 feet above Green Bay, this red-brick lighthouse overlooks the waters of Eagle Harbor, offering breathtaking views—especially at golden hour.

Address for GPS:
Peninsula State Park
9462 Shore Rd, Fish Creek, WI 54212

Park Fee: An admission sticker is required to enter Peninsula State Park. You can purchase one at the entrance or online ahead of time.

🕰️ Best Time to Visit Eagle Bluff Lighthouse

The best time to visit is from late spring through early fall, when Peninsula State Park is in full bloom and the lighthouse is open for guided tours.

• Morning: Ideal for soft lighting and peaceful surroundings.
• Golden Hour (sunset): For photographers, this is when the limestone cliffs and red-brick tower light up beautifully.
• Fall: The surrounding forest transforms into a vivid display of autumn color, making it one of the most picturesque times to visit.

🚗 Directions to Eagle Bluff Lighthouse

From Fish Creek, enter Peninsula State Park via the main entrance on Shore Road. Follow signs for Eagle Bluff Lighthouse:

1. After entering the park, take Shore Road east toward the bluff.
2. Follow the signs for Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Road—a scenic, winding drive through forest and shoreline.
3. Parking is available near the lighthouse, followed by a short walk on a paved path.

🕯️ A Brief History of Eagle Bluff Lighthouse

Built in 1868, Eagle Bluff Lighthouse helped guide ships through the once-busy waters of Green Bay, part of a crucial trade route. Its fourth-order Fresnel lens shone across the bay for decades, safeguarding schooners and steamers navigating the treacherous coastline.

The lighthouse was automated in 1926 and later restored by the Door County Historical Society. Today, the keeper’s house and tower serve as a museum, showcasing the life of 19th-century lighthouse keepers and their families. Guided tours are available seasonally and offer a glimpse into the past.

📸 Things to Do Nearby

Your visit to Eagle Bluff Lighthouse can easily turn into a full afternoon of adventure. Nearby highlights include:

• Eagle Trail: A rugged 2-mile loop with views of Niagara Escarpment cliffs.
• Sunset Bike Trail: Scenic and family-friendly, winding through forests and shoreline.
• Nicolet Beach: Great for a picnic or kayaking.
• Eagle Tower: A newly rebuilt accessible observation tower offering panoramic views.
• Fish Creek: Explore charming shops, restaurants, and galleries in this nearby harbor town.

🧳 Final Thoughts

Eagle Bluff Lighthouse isn’t just a place to snap a postcard-perfect photo (though it’s definitely that). It’s a reminder of Wisconsin’s maritime heritage, set within one of the state’s most beloved parks. For us, it was more than a scenic stop—it was a symbol of enduring light and memory, fitting for a 15-year anniversary trip.

Stay tuned for my next blog where I’ll share more about our bed-and-breakfast experience and the special moments that made this trip unforgettable.