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

Introduction

The Fenwick Island Lighthouse, a beacon of maritime history, stands proudly at 103 146th St in Ocean City, Maryland. This iconic lighthouse, built in 1859, has been guiding mariners safely to shore for over a century and a half. Today, it's not just a navigational aid but also a cherished tourist attraction, maintained and operated by the dedicated volunteers of the New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse.

Main Services

• Historical Tours: The lighthouse offers guided tours, providing visitors with a fascinating journey through its rich history. The volunteer guides, armed with extensive knowledge about the lighthouse, bring the past to life, making each visit an enlightening experience.
• Museum and Exhibits: The lighthouse is also home to a museum that houses artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the lighthouse and its keepers. These displays offer a unique glimpse into the lives of those who tended the light and the challenges they faced.
• Education Programs: The New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse organizes educational programs for schools and groups. These programs aim to instill an appreciation for maritime history and the role of lighthouses in navigation.
• Special Events: Throughout the year, the lighthouse hosts special events, such as open houses, historical reenactments, and even weddings. These events offer unique opportunities to experience the lighthouse in different ways.

Location and Access

The Fenwick Island Lighthouse is located at 103 146th St, Ocean City, MD 21842, nestled in the quiet, residential neighborhood of South Ocean City. Despite not being on the waterfront, the lighthouse offers a scenic view of the surrounding area.

Access to the lighthouse is via the Inlet Parking Lot, located at the intersection of Philadelphia Ave and 146th St. Parking is free, but spaces can fill up quickly during peak season. Public transportation is available, with the Ocean City Bus providing service to the area.

Featured Characteristics

• Architecture: The lighthouse is a classic example of 19th-century American lighthouse architecture, with a conical brick tower rising 87 feet above the ground, topped by a red lantern.
• Grounds: The lighthouse sits on a beautifully landscaped 1.5-acre plot. The grounds include a visitor center, a gift shop, and a picnic area, providing a peaceful and enjoyable setting for visitors.
• Lighthouse Keepers' Quarters: The original keeper's quarters, now restored, serve as the volunteer center and a museum exhibit.

Practical Information

• Hours of Operation: The lighthouse is open to the public from late May to early November, with visiting hours varying by season. It's advised to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
• Admission: Entry to the lighthouse and museum is free, although donations are welcome to support the upkeep and operation of the site.
• Accessibility: The lighthouse grounds are wheelchair accessible, but the tower itself is not, as it involves climbing a spiral staircase.
• Contact Information: You can reach the New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse at 443-880-3973 or via email at [email protected]. For volunteering inquiries, contact Winnie Lewis at [email protected].

Positive Aspects from Reviews

Despite some reviews mentioning limited visiting hours and the lighthouse not being on the water, the Fenwick Island Lighthouse consistently receives high praise for its historical significance, well-informed guides, and the free admission. Many visitors appreciate the dedication of the volunteers, who bring the lighthouse's history to life and make each visit a memorable experience. The scenic grounds, peaceful atmosphere, and the opportunity to climb the tower and enjoy the view from the top are also frequently mentioned as highlights.

👍 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.