Cape Canaveral Lighthouse

DID YOU KNOW

Cape Canaveral Lighthouse

THANKS TO THE PIONEERS OF FLORIDA

Did you know there is only ONE lighthouse in operation in the United States owned by the Air Force…and the 321 has it!! The Cape Canaveral Lighthouse is proudly owned by the 45th Space Wing of the U.S. Air Force. The Cape Canaveral Lighthouse Foundation works in conjunction with the USAF to keep it accessible to the public.

The lighthouse is located on the eastern tip of the Cape and stands 151 feet tall, with a distinctive light that flashes every 20 seconds and can be seen for more than 24 miles. Inside, 167 steps will take you to the top!

Built 175 years ago, the original one stood a mile closer to the shore. In 1893, it was decided to move it a mile inland. It was meticulously taken down and rebuilt in its current location.

A restoration project to bring new life to the lighthouse started in 2004 and was finished in 2007 with the relighting of the beacon. During this process, the original copper roof was removed and replaced with a galvanized steel roof.

A gazebo was built with the exact same dimensions as the lighthouse’s light room and the copper roof was placed on top of it. However, during the final renovations, the decision was made to put the copper roof back in its original place, on top of the lighthouse! The galvanized steel roof now sits atop the gazebo. It’s a unique addition to the surrounding area of the lighthouse.

I encourage you to take a trip to the Cape and explore this piece of 321 history! You can support the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse Foundation by visiting their website and booking a tour.

Due to the lighthouse being on government property, you are required to book your tour 2 days in advance, and you must park at the indicated parking locations and be driven in by government personnel. There are other rules and regulations you must comply with, so please check out the website ahead of time.

When you go, snap some pictures and post them to Florida’s 321 social media pages! I’d love to see your explorations. Until next time, keep exploring, Florida!