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For a family outing that blends history, nature, and stunning lake views, the North Point Lighthouse & Museum in Milwaukee is a can’t-miss destination. Located in scenic Lake Park, this historic landmark offers artifacts, stories from Milwaukee’s maritime past, and the chance to climb a 74-foot tower for panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the city.
About the North Point Lighthouse
Nestled between two ravines and overlooking Lake Michigan, the North Point Lighthouse is one of the oldest surviving structures in Milwaukee’s now-urban landscape. The restored museum and its tower offer families a hands-on way to explore the city’s role in Great Lakes navigation and shipping.
Inside the museum, visitors can explore artifacts that highlight local maritime history, learn about the lighthouse keepers who tended the light, and browse displays filled with stories from Milwaukee’s past.
Climb the Lighthouse Tower
Families with adventurous kids will love climbing the lighthouse tower. To make the ascent, climbers must:
- Be at least 5 years old, and
- At least 38 inches tall
The climb includes 84 steps and ends with a ladder leading to the lantern room.
The reward is a sweeping 360° view of Lake Park, Lake Michigan, and downtown Milwaukee — a moment kids and adults tend to remember long after the visit.
Inside the Museum
The museum offers a closer look at Milwaukee’s lighthouse history. Exhibits include:
- A Keeper’s Wall featuring the lighthouse keepers through the years
- Stories of shipwrecks on Lake Michigan
- A pictorial history timeline of the lighthouse
- A brass fog bell used in 1892
- A traveling library from 1893 with original books
These displays help bring to life the people and events that shaped Milwaukee’s maritime story.
Location, Parking & Accessibility
Parking is simple, with available street parking on Wahl Avenue and surrounding neighborhood streets.
The museum is handicap accessible, though the tower climb is physically demanding and may not be suitable for everyone because of the stairs and ladder ascent.
The museum is open on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, making it a great choice for an easy weekend activity.
Tips for Visiting With Kids
- Ask for a certificate after completing the tower climb — it’s a fun memento for kids.
- Combine your visit with time exploring Lake Park, one of Milwaukee’s most beautiful public spaces.
- The tower climb can feel challenging for some children, so plan for breaks and enjoy the museum at your own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions About the North Point Lighthouse
The tower is 74 feet tall.
The climb includes 84 steps, plus a ladder to reach the lantern room.
Yes, children who are at least 5 years old and at least 38 inches tall may climb.
The museum is handicap accessible, but the tower climb is not due to the stairs and ladder.
The museum is open on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.
Parking is available on Wahl Avenue and nearby neighborhood streets.
More Family-Friendly Milwaukee Museums
- Pabst Mansion: Family Friendly Tours Combine History & Fun
- Betty Brinn Children’s Museum: A Family Guide To Visiting
- Milwaukee Public Museum: Must-See Exhibits & Pro Tips
- 10 Best Things To Do at the Milwaukee Art Museum
- 100 Best Things To Do With Kids in Milwaukee
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
