The Little Known Lighthouse Tour Near Buffalo That Will Make Your Summer Complete
By Lea Monroe|Published July 26, 2019
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Lea Monroe
Author
Writer for Only In Your State. Scribbling about all things New York and Buffalo related while also keeping you updated on the latest travel news! Inquiries: Lmonroe@onlyinyourstate.com
You can enjoy visiting the Buffalo Lighthouse right in the heart of the Queen City, but this isn’t the only lighthouse nearby that you can explore. Take a 60-mile scenic drive along the lakefront to tour this little-known lighthouse this summer!
Overlooking Portland Harbor and standing at 40 feet fall, the Barcelona Lighthouse was built in 1829 and can be found only an hour south of Buffalo along Lake Erie.
While it may not be the tallest lighthouse you’ll ever see here in Western New York (or anywhere in New York for that matter), the Barcelona Lighthouse can be seen all the way from Canada.
This unique piece of history lies along the lakefront, and Barcelona Lighthouse was actually the first lighthouse in the entire country to be powered by natural gas.
The lighthouse remained privately owned for over 135 years before New York State took over ownership, giving others the chance to enjoy this historic gem.
The Keeper's Cottage now operates as a visitor center for the town of Westfield, with its own museum that allows Buffalonians and beyond to learn more about the lighthouse’s history.
Once you’re done learning all about the lighthouse and checking out the historical signage, head down and explore Portland Habor for an afternoon waterfront fun.
The beautiful little waterfall feeds right into the lake.
The grounds of Barcelona Lighthouse are open all year long, but the Westfield Visitor Center in the Keeper’s Cottage is open during our summer months, so now is the perfect time to make the trip down to this beautiful small town.