Cape Henry Lighthouse

583 Atlantic Ave., Fort Story

Cape Henry Lighthouse Tickets for Two or Four in Virginia Beach (Up to 55% Off)

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Highlights

Guests learn about the lighthouse’s 200+ year-old past and enjoy scenic ocean views

About This Deal

Choose Between Two Options

  • Two General Admission Tickets with Walking Tour
  • Four General Admission Tickets with Walking Tour

Visitors to the 72-foot-tall Old Cape Henry Lighthouse enjoy a day amid the rich, salty Chesapeake Bay air, exploring a towering remnant of America’s early post-colonial government.

Fine Print

Promotional value expires 210 days after purchase. Amount paid never expires. 3 feet, 6 inches height min. Not valid toward gratuity. Subject to weather. Tower under renovation 1/6/20-3/23/20. During this period, guests can still visit the location and take a tour, just not climb the tower. Site may be closed during thunderstorms or extreme heat, so call ahead. Reservation required one week in advance for groups of 12+. Visitors over 16 must provide photo ID for entry. Children cannot be carried up stairs. Backpacks/frontpacks not permitted on stairs. Must have proof of insurance and updated vehicle tags to enter base. Valid for admission and choice of Walking Tour or Tower Climb. Limit 5 per person. Limit 5 per visit. Valid only for option purchased. Merchant is solely responsible to purchasers for the care and quality of the advertised goods and services. Learn about Strike-Through Pricing and Savings

About Cape Henry Lighthouse

If Cape Henry Lighthouse was a history book, its authors would be two of the nation's founding fathers. President George Washington authorized the lighthouse's creation and Alexander Hamilton oversaw its construction in 1791. Renowned architect John McComb brought their vision to reality, finishing the job in 1792 to produce not just a lighthouse, but a symbol of how the fledgling American government could protect its citizens.

The lighthouse performed the role of protector beautifully. For nearly a century, it stood sentinel over the coasts of Virginia and Maryland to ensure the safety of incoming ships and giant bottles filled with hundreds of letters from Europe. The lighthouse was finally replaced in 1881, but it wasn't finished. In 1930, Preservation Virginia took over the building, giving the public access to climb its twisting iron stairs.

Today, families still gaze out from the observation deck, soaking in 360-degree views of the water and surrounding forests. Meanwhile the staff–most of whom have been guides for years–happily answer questions about the lighthouse's history.