Cape Henry Lighthouse
The Cape Henry Lighthouse silently guards the entry way into the Chesapeake Bay. Standing near the "First Landing" site of the Jamestown settlers where in 1607, Captain Newport raised a cross to offer thanks for their safe crossing of the Atlantic, the Lighthouse has stood sentinel since it was completed in 1792.
Authorized by George Washington and overseen by Alexander Hamilton, the construction of the Cape Henry Lighthouse was one of the first acts of the newly formed Federal government. The octagonal sandstone lighthouse was designed by New York architect John McComb and was in active use for nearly a century before being replaced by a new cast iron lighthouse still standing nearby. It is one of the oldest surviving lighthouses in the United States.
Preservation Virginia acquired the Cape Henry Lighthouse in 1930 whe.n Congress deeded the lighthouse and 1.77 acres of land to the organization in order to preserve it and make it accessible to the public. Over the years it has restored the lighthouse and its surroundings including repairing the lantern after damage from Hurricane Barbara in 1953, repairing the damaged original Aquia sandstone, and restoring the surrounding dunes.
Today visitors to the Cape Henry Lighthouse can climb to the top of the tower to enjoy spectacular views of the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean. They can also enjoy a quided walking tour of the area as well as a visit to our museum shop.
During the summer months, the temperature at the top of the tower can reach extreme levels. Cape Henry Lighthouse will close the tower when the temperature inside reaches 110°. Visitors will still be able to walk to the top of the dune and shop in the museum store. If you have questions about closings call 757-422-9421
Visitor Information
Hours
|
March 16th - October 31st |
10am - 5pm |
| November 1st - March 15th | 10am - 4pm |
|
Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Day and New Years Eve and Day |
Admission
| Preservation Virginia Members: | Free (Become a Member) |
| Adults (13 & over): | $5 |
| Youth (12 & under -- must be 42 inches tall): | $3 |
| Adult Group: | $4 (call for info) |
| Youth Group: | $2 (must be 42 inches tall, call for info) |
| Walking Tour: | $4 (6 years and over) |
| Combo Ticket (Tower and Walking Tour): | Adults (13 & over): $8 Youth (6-12): $6 |
Additional Information
Museum store on site
Note to Our Visitors: The Cape Henry Lighthouse is located within Fort Story military base. To visit the lighthouse, you must pass through the security gates of Fort Story. Please have identification including a picture with you for all visitors aged 16 years or older. This ID should be a student or state or Federal issued ID card. Proof of vehicle insurance and current vehicle registration is also required for admission to Fort Story Military Base.The security personnel have the right to examine your car before issuing a pass to enter the military base and visit the lighthouse. While we apologize for the inconvenience, we respect the military's interest in force protection. The security guards are courteous and efficient, but please allow a few extra minutes for entry into the site. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
For your safety and comfort, please observe the following rules for climbing the Cape Henry Lighthouse:
- You must be at least 42 inches tall to climb the lighthouse.
- Children may not be carried up the steps.
- Backpacks and frontpacks are not allowed on the staircase.
Contact
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757-422-9421
