New York State has a multitude of lighthouses on its various bodies of water. Visiting a lighthouse is like visiting a snapshot of history when these beacons of light were of the utmost importance to the lives of those who sailed the waters along the New York State coastline.
Barcelona Lighthouse, also known as the Portland Harbor Light, was built in 1829. It stands over Lake Erie and can be seen all the way across the Lake in Canada. The Barcelona Lighthouse was the first lighthouse in the world to be powered by natural gas. The original lens is gone and the Lighthouse is no longer used for lighting the way for ships. The light, however, still glows as part of an arrangement with the Town of Westfield.
The lighthouse was decommissioned from Federal Service in 1859 and was privately owned until 2008 when it was acquired by the New York State Parks Department. The Barcelona Lighthouse was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
Visiting Barcelona Lighthouse
Address: 8234 E Lake Rd (Route 5)Westfield, NY 14787
Google Map Link
The grounds are open year-round
During the summer season, Memorial Day thru Labor Day, the Keeper’s Cottage houses both a small museum and Visitor Center are open during staffed hours (usually 10 am-4 pm daily).
Guest cannot, at this time, climb to the top of the lighthouse tower due to structural safety concerns.
Other Places to Visit in the Area
Barcelona Falls
While you are at the Barcelona Lighthouse, you might as well stop by Barcelona Falls, which is literally a few hundred feet away. This gorgeous waterfall flows right onto Westlake Beach and then into Lake Erie.
Eternal Flame Falls
The Eternal Flame Falls is by far one of my most favorite and awe-inspiring hikes. This waterfall is a natural wonder. The Eternal Flame has definitely become more well-known and popular in recent years.
Evagola State Park
Some places in New York State were just made for watching sunsets and Evangola State Park is one of them. Perched just perfectly on Lake Erie, this magnificent state park is perfect for enjoying everything that is beautiful about the nature of New York State.
Have you visited Barcelona Lighthouse before? Do you have a favorite New York State Lighthouse? We would love to hear from you. Please leave us a comment below.