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Preservation Virginia: Cape Henry Lighthouse

Chesapeake Bay

#11 of 186 things to do in Virginia Beach

583 Atlantic Avenue, Fort Story, VA 23459 (757) 422-9421 (757) 422-9421 (757) 422-9053 [email protected]
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Description

Tour the Cape Henry Lighthouse, the first federally funded lighthouse and first federal works project of the United States. The Cape Henry lighthouse was built in 1792, authorized by George Washington and overseen by Alexander Hamilton. Cape Henry sits next to the "First Landing" site where the English arrived in 1607, prior to settling Jamestowne.

Self-guided tours take place every day and our historic interpreters discuss the history of the area, lighthouse, military, and do STEM-related topics.

The Cape Henry Lighthouse is located within the Fort Story military base. To visit the lighthouse, you must state you are visiting the lighthouse to pass through the security gates of Fort Story. Proof of vehicle registration and insurance is required, as well as a government-issued form of identification for all persons over the age of 16. Weapons of any kind are prohibited. State concealed weapons permits are not valid. Children must be 42" tall to climb.