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

Welcome to the New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse

For those seeking a captivating glimpse into maritime history and local heritage, the New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse offers a unique and rewarding experience. Located at 103 146th St, Ocean City, MD 21842, United States, this organization is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the legacy of the lighthouse and its surrounding grounds. The phone number for inquiries is 4438803973, and visitors can explore more details and operating hours on their website: fenwickislandlighthouse.org.

A Historical Landmark and Museum

The Fenwick Island Lighthouse stands as a prominent historical landmark, a testament to the vital role lighthouses played in maritime navigation. Established in 1875, the lighthouse served as a guiding beacon for ships traversing the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Now, thanks to the efforts of the New Friends organization, it’s been transformed into a museum, allowing visitors to delve into its fascinating past. The lighthouse itself, along with the adjacent keepers’ house, provides an intimate look at life for those who diligently maintained this critical navigational aid.

### Key Features and What to Expect

The site presents a blend of historical significance and accessible information. Here’s a breakdown of what visitors can anticipate:

* The Lighthouse Structure: The lighthouse is a significant architectural feature, showcasing the design and construction techniques of the late 19th century. While interior access to the lantern room may be limited, the exterior provides ample opportunity for observation and appreciation of its scale and design.
* The Keepers’ House: Adjacent to the lighthouse is the former residence of the lighthouse keepers and their families. This building has been carefully preserved and offers a tangible connection to the lives of those who lived and worked here, often in isolation.
* On-Site Services: The New Friends organization offers several on-site services to enhance the visitor experience. These services include informative displays, historical exhibits, and guided tours (availability may vary, it’s advisable to check the website for schedules).
* Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The location is particularly well-suited for families, providing an engaging educational experience for children. It’s a great option for those looking for an outdoor activity that combines history with a scenic setting.

### Location and Accessibility

The Fenwick Island Lighthouse is situated in a residential neighborhood, which might initially seem like a drawback. However, this location contributes to the lighthouse’s charm and sense of being embedded within the local community. It’s important to note that the lighthouse is not directly on the water's edge; instead, it's set back from the shoreline. Despite this, the surrounding area offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.

### Visitor Feedback and Reputation

Based on numerous reviews on Google My Business, the New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse consistently receives positive feedback. The average opinion is a strong 4.3/5, reflecting visitor satisfaction with the site's historical value, informational content, and overall presentation. Visitors frequently commend the knowledgeable guides and the dedication of the organization in preserving this important landmark. The fact that entry is free and there’s no registration requirement further contributes to its accessibility and appeal.

### Important Information for Prospective Visitors

* Operating Hours: It’s crucial to verify the lighthouse’s operating hours before visiting, as they may vary depending on the season and the availability of volunteers. The website, fenwickislandlighthouse.org, is the most reliable source for current information.
* Limited Visiting Hours: As some reviews indicate, the lighthouse may have limited visiting hours, particularly during the off-season. Planning your visit accordingly is advisable.
* Accessibility: While the grounds are generally accessible, visitors should be aware that the lighthouse itself may have limited accessibility due to its historic structure.

Overall, the New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse represents a worthwhile destination for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in learning more about the maritime heritage of the region. Its commitment to preservation and accessibility ensures that this historical landmark will continue to inspire and educate for generations to come. The good for kids aspect makes it an ideal outing for families.

👍 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.