Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse Accessibility

Sensory Considerations

• General
  • While all exhibits are indoors, visiting the lighthouse requires movement through outdoor spaces. The weather can change quickly in northern Michigan, ranging from hot to cold, calm to very windy, and dry to humid and rainy. The Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Museum (6)  is air conditioned.   
  • While usually not too bad, a variety of insects may be present while visiting the lighthouse. In spring and early summer, non-biting/non-stinging flies will be found along the lakeshore in large numbers.
  • Snacks and drinks can be enjoyed throughout the site.
  • Some spaces, including the lighthouse tower (4), may become crowded during tours.
  • A limited number of guests are permitted to climb the tower (4) during pre-scheduled, guided tours. Guests must meet certain requirements to participate in tower tours- inquire at the admission area for details. Tower tours involve climbing a spiral staircase and ladder, and passing through a narrow opening. The lantern room at the top of the tower may be very warm. Alternative programs are provided for guests not participating in tower tours.
• Sights
  • Museum staff wearing historical clothing are stationed throughout the site.
  • Some exhibit spaces are purposefully kept dark. Others are brightly lit.
  • Exhibits inside the Keepers’ Quarters (2)  include two illuminated lighthouse lenses, which cast focused beams of bright light.
• Sounds
  • Museum staff will loudly announce the beginning of all programs.
  • Demonstrations of the fog whistle involve three short whistle blasts. Museum staff will warn visitors about the noise before sounding the whistle.
  • Traffic noises from the Mackinac Bridge can be heard throughout the site.
• Smells
  • Some buildings may smell musty.