For old-world maritime glamourthere’s really nothing that can beat a beautiful lighthouse. Knowing that these towers on the shore did their best to cast light over a dark oceanwarning ships of rocks aheadfeels mysterious and compelling. Back before even telegraphs existedthe sole way to communicate with a ship at night to warn it of danger was the beam that radiated from the lighthouse lantern. When you read lighthouse descriptionsyou’ll often hear mention of a Fresnel lensan 1822 invention of Augustin Fresnel. This lens used glass panels with an etched bullseye refracting light horizontally and verticallymaking for a dramatically stronger beam of light.

You can visit each of the lighthouses on this listwhich eliminates some favorites like the Nubble Lighthouse in Maine or the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in North Carolinawhich is closed until 2026. You’ll climb an often harrowing circular staircase in the tower to get to the light source—and an incredible panorama of water and land below. Many will offer special events on International Lighthouse DayAugust 17so check their calendar listings. Some of the coolest lighthouses listed here are still on active duty protecting ships—and you might even be able to spend the night and tend the light.