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

Welcome to New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse

The Fenwick Island Lighthouse, nestled at 103 146th St, Ocean City, MD 21842, United States, is a historic landmark that has been guiding mariners and captivating visitors for over a century. Now under the care of the New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse, this iconic structure continues to serve as a beacon of history and a beloved tourist attraction. Let's delve into the rich history, unique features, and practical information about this remarkable lighthouse.

Main Services

• Historical Education: The New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse offer insights into the rich history of the lighthouse, its keepers, and the maritime history of the region. Through their educational programs and guided tours, visitors gain a deeper understanding of this important piece of American history.
• Guided Tours: Explore the lighthouse and its museum with knowledgeable guides who can share fascinating stories and anecdotes about the lighthouse's past. Tours are subject to availability and may require scheduling in advance.
• Volunteer Opportunities: The organization welcomes volunteers to help welcome visitors and share information about the lighthouse's history. If you're interested in volunteering, contact Winnie Lewis, the Volunteer Coordinator, for more details.
• Events and Programs: The New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse host various events and programs throughout the year, including the popular "A Keeper's Life" exhibit and photo collections showcasing the lives of lighthouse keepers.

Location and Access

The Fenwick Island Lighthouse is situated in the charming coastal town of Ocean City, Maryland, along the state's Eastern Shore. It is conveniently located near several neighborhoods, including the bustling Ocean City Boardwalk and the peaceful communities of Ocean Pines and Fenwick Island. The lighthouse is easily accessible by car, with nearby parking available on 146th Street. Public transportation options, such as the Ocean City Shuttle, can also bring visitors close to the lighthouse.

Visitors should note that the lighthouse is located in the middle of a residential neighborhood and is not directly on the water. The visiting hours are limited, primarily during the summer months, so it's essential to plan your visit accordingly.

Featured Characteristics

• Iconic Lighthouse Structure: The Fenwick Island Lighthouse stands as a classic example of a conical brick tower with a wrought-iron lantern, showcasing the traditional design of late-19th-century lighthouses. Its distinctive red and white stripes make it a recognizable landmark along the Maryland coast.
• Museum and Exhibits: Inside the lighthouse, visitors can explore a museum that houses artifacts, photographs, and interpretive displays that tell the story of the lighthouse and its keepers. The museum also features exhibits on the maritime history of the region and the role of lighthouses in coastal navigation.
• Lighthouse Keepers' Quarters: Adjacent to the lighthouse, the historic keepers' quarters offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the lighthouse keepers and their families. The quarters have been restored and now serve as a welcome center and gift shop.

Practical Information

• Admission: There is no price or registration required to enter the lighthouse grounds or museum. However, donations are welcome and help support the organization's efforts to preserve and maintain the lighthouse.
• Visiting Hours: The Fenwick Island Lighthouse is open to the public during the summer months, typically from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Hours of operation may vary, so it's best to check the organization's website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
• Contact Information:
  • Address: 103 146th St, Ocean City, MD 21842, United States
  • Phone: 443-880-3973
  • Website: fenwickislandlighthouse.org

Positive Aspects from Reviews

With an average rating of 4.3/5 from 376 reviews on Google My Business, the New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from visitors. Some of the most praised aspects include:

• Knowledgeable and Engaging Guides: Many reviewers commend the guides for their extensive knowledge of the lighthouse's history and their ability to share it in an engaging and entertaining manner.
• Well-preserved and Informative Museum: Visitors appreciate the well-maintained and informative museum exhibits, which provide insight into the lighthouse's past and the lives of its keepers.
• Free Admission and Welcoming Atmosphere: Reviewers often mention the free admission and the welcoming atmosphere created by the volunteers, making the experience enjoyable for all ages.

While some reviews mention limited visiting hours and the lighthouse's location in a residential neighborhood, these aspects do not detract from the overall positive experience that the Fenwick Island Lighthouse offers to its visitors.

The New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse have successfully preserved this historic landmark and transformed it into an engaging and educational experience for visitors. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique attraction to explore during your time in Ocean City, the Fenwick Island Lighthouse is a must-visit destination.

👍 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.