Cape Henry Lighthouse

New (left) and old (right) Cape Henry Lighthouses. blimpcaptain (Atlas Obscura User)

Located on Cape Henry within Fort Story near the northern end of Virginia Beach are pair of lighthouses.

The original, constructed in 1792, was both the first construction project authorized by the nation’s first president, George Washington, and the first lighthouse authorized by the federal government. The project was overseen by Alexander Hamilton. This lighthouse is open to the public and offers a panoramic view of the coastline. This lighthouse was constructed using Aquia sandstone which is the same material used to construct many of the buildings in Washington, D.C.

The “new” lighthouse, built-in 1881, is not open to the public. It is painted using a distinct black and white pattern. It is automated and operated by the United States Coast Guard.

There is also a First Landing Memorial on the grounds to commemorate the arrival of English colonists who landed here in April 1607.

Know Before You Go

The official website includes information on hours of operation and fees to visit the lighthouse, as well as regulations that must be followed to access Fort Story, where the lighthouse is located.