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

Discovering the Rich History at New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse

The New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse, nestled in the heart of Ocean City, Maryland, is a beacon of history and a must-visit attraction for locals and tourists alike. This iconic lighthouse, established in 1859, stands as a testament to the region's maritime past and serves as a crucial landmark for the area's waterways.

Main Services

• Historical Landmark: The lighthouse itself is a step back in time, offering visitors a glimpse into the 19th century. With its distinctive black and white stripes, it's an instantly recognizable symbol of the area's history.
• Museum: The lighthouse houses a small but fascinating museum that delves into the story of the lighthouse and its keepers. Here, you can explore artifacts, photographs, and interpretive exhibits that bring the lighthouse's history to life.
• Tourist Attraction: The New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse is not just a historical site; it's also a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can climb the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the surrounding area, and the grounds offer a peaceful, green space for relaxation and picnicking.
• Volunteer Opportunities: The organization welcomes volunteers to help welcome visitors and share the history of the lighthouse. If you're interested, please contact Winnie Lewis, the Volunteer Coordinator, for more details.
• Educational Programs: The lighthouse offers educational programs and events for children and adults alike. These programs aim to engage and inform visitors about the lighthouse's history and its role in the community.

Location and Access

The New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse is located at 103 146th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, United States. It's situated in the bustling resort community of Ocean City, just minutes from the beach and the boardwalk. The lighthouse is easily accessible by car, with ample street parking available nearby. Public transportation is also an option, with several bus routes operating in the area.

While the lighthouse is not directly on the water, it's still a must-visit spot for those interested in history and local culture. The lighthouse's unique location in the middle of a neighborhood adds to its charm and makes it a beloved landmark for residents and visitors alike.

Featured Characteristics

• Architecture: The lighthouse is a classic example of a screw-pile light, a unique type of lighthouse built on a pile-driven foundation. Its distinctive architecture is a hallmark of the area's maritime history.
• Grounds: The lighthouse sits on expansive, well-maintained grounds that offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. The grounds are perfect for picnicking, photography, or simply enjoying the beauty of the lighthouse.
• Accessibility: The lighthouse is wheelchair accessible, with a ramp leading to the entrance. This ensures that all visitors can enjoy the history and beauty of the lighthouse.
• Educational Opportunities: The lighthouse offers a wealth of educational opportunities, from school field trips to adult workshops. These programs aim to engage and inform visitors about the lighthouse's history and its role in the community.

Practical Information

Visiting the New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse is free, making it an affordable and accessible attraction for all. The lighthouse is typically open to the public from April through October, with visiting hours varying depending on the time of year. It's recommended to check the lighthouse's website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date visiting hours.

To contact the New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse, you can call 443-880-3973 or visit their website at fenwickislandlighthouse.org. The lighthouse also has an active presence on social media, where they regularly share updates and events.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 from 376 reviews on Google My Business, the New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse is a beloved attraction in Ocean City. Many visitors appreciate the lighthouse's historical significance and the dedication of its volunteers. The lighthouse's free admission is also a popular feature, with many visitors commenting on the affordability of the attraction. The peaceful and well-maintained grounds are another highlight for many visitors, providing a serene setting for relaxation and reflection.

Word Count: 1208

👍 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.