Little Red Lighthouse Manhattan
A quaint, decommissioned red lighthouse beneath the George Washington Bridge, offering scenic views and a touch of history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Little Red Lighthouse Manhattan
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A quaint, decommissioned red lighthouse beneath the George Washington Bridge, offering scenic views and a touch of history.
"A somewhat hidden NY treasure, this charming decommissioned Lighthouse is one of the few surviving ones in New York City."
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture stunning shots of the lighthouse and GWB, especially during golden hour.
🚴♀️ Cyclist's Paradise
The Hudson River Greenway is ideal for biking. Start north of 125th St to avoid crowds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Little Red Lighthouse
Fort Washington Park, Manhattan
A charming, decommissioned lighthouse offering iconic views under the George Washington Bridge.
George Washington Bridge Views
Fort Washington Park
Experience the immense scale of the GWB from a unique vantage point directly beneath it.
Hudson River Greenway
Riverside Park
A scenic path perfect for biking or walking, offering beautiful river vistas and parkland.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Fewer Crowds
Accessing the Lighthouse
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture stunning shots of the lighthouse and GWB, especially during golden hour.
🚴♀️ Cyclist's Paradise
The Hudson River Greenway is ideal for biking. Start north of 125th St to avoid crowds.
🚶♀️ Scenic Strolls
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the river. It's a quick 20-min walk from the 181st A train.
📚 A Children's Classic
Learn about its history, including its role in a famous children's book.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture stunning shots of the lighthouse and GWB, especially during golden hour.
🚴♀️ Cyclist's Paradise
The Hudson River Greenway is ideal for biking. Start north of 125th St to avoid crowds.
🚶♀️ Scenic Strolls
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the river. It's a quick 20-min walk from the 181st A train.
📚 A Children's Classic
Learn about its history, including its role in a famous children's book.
🧺 Picnic Potential
Picnic tables are available nearby for a relaxing break with a view.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Little Red Lighthouse as a charming, somewhat hidden gem offering beautiful views of the George Washington Bridge and Hudson River. It's a peaceful escape from the city bustle, perfect for photography, leisurely walks, and cycling along the scenic Greenway. While access inside the lighthouse is limited, its picturesque exterior and historical significance make it a worthwhile destination.
"Worth the hike up here from lower in Manhattan cause you really get to take a break from the city life and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The lighthouse is small and it wasn’t too crowded nearby on the day I was there. Would go back again for more nice pictures!"
Josh Rose
"If you're in the area, this is an absolute must visit !!! Tucked away under the George Washington Bridge is this somewhat hidden NY treasure ,The Little Red Lighthouse, this charming decommissioned Lighthouse is one of the few surviving ones in New York City and the main character in the children book "The Little Red Lighthouse and The Great Gray Bridge "
If you like to take pictures ,go for a walk ,or just enjoy the scenic views of The Hudson River and The George Washington Bridge, you shouldn't miss this place !!! ❣️"
Maria Eugenia
"If you love taking photos, the Riverbank State Park trail is perfect for you. It's filled with spots to capture beautiful portraits and landscapes. You can walk all the way from Battery Park to Inwood Park, passing by Inspiration Point along the trail. If you like to walk, it's a quick 20-minute stroll from the 181st A train station, just four blocks away from the trail entrance."
A HDEZ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Little Red Lighthouse is located in Fort Washington Park. You can reach it via the Hudson River Greenway. The closest subway station is the 181st Street A train, followed by a short walk to the park entrance.
Limited street parking is available in Fort Washington Park, but it can be challenging to find, especially on weekends. Cycling or using public transport is often recommended.
Yes, the Hudson River Greenway is a popular and scenic route for cyclists. You can bike from various points in Manhattan, including Prospect Park via the Brooklyn Bridge.
To avoid climbing the steep hill to The Cloisters, try to stay on the lower Riverside Drive path. Some users suggest starting rides north of 125th Street to experience less crowded and flatter sections of the Greenway.
Yes, the 181st Street A train station is a convenient option. From there, it's a short walk to the park and the lighthouse.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General access to Fort Washington Park and viewing the exterior of the Little Red Lighthouse is free. However, access inside the lighthouse itself is limited and often requires booking special tours or attending specific events.
The park grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours. Access inside the lighthouse is not consistently available and depends on scheduled events or tours. It's best to check for any special access opportunities.
There is no admission fee to visit the Little Red Lighthouse from the outside or to enjoy Fort Washington Park.
Gaining entry inside the lighthouse is rare and usually part of organized events or private access tours. Keep an eye out for announcements from local organizations like the New York Adventure Club.
Guided tours inside the lighthouse are not regularly scheduled. However, special access events are sometimes organized, offering a unique opportunity to explore the interior.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The lighthouse itself, framed by the George Washington Bridge, is a prime photo spot. The surrounding park and river views also offer excellent photographic potential, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Late afternoons during the golden hour provide beautiful lighting for capturing the lighthouse and bridge. Early mornings can also offer a serene atmosphere with fewer people.
Yes, the park offers various scenic backdrops for portraits, with the bridge and river providing a dramatic setting.
From the lighthouse area, you get impressive views of the Hudson River and the massive George Washington Bridge.
Drone usage in NYC parks is generally restricted. It's advisable to check current regulations with the NYC Parks Department before attempting to fly a drone.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the lighthouse, take photos, enjoy the views of the George Washington Bridge and Hudson River, and walk or bike along the scenic Greenway.
Crowds can vary. Weekends and holidays tend to be busier. Visiting on a weekday during work hours or early in the morning can offer a more peaceful experience.
Yes, there are picnic tables available in Fort Washington Park, making it a great spot for a leisurely lunch or snack.
The lighthouse, officially Jeffrey's Hook Light, was built in 1880 and moved to its current location in 1921. It was decommissioned in 1947 but saved from demolition thanks to a children's book.
As it's located along the Hudson River, you might spot various bird species. The park itself offers a natural escape within the city.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy at the available picnic tables, making it a full afternoon of fun. The story of the lighthouse, especially its role in the children's book, can also be a great way to engage younger visitors. It's a chance to experience a bit of history and enjoy nature within the city.
🚴♀️ Cyclists
Whether you're doing a short ride to explore the northern tip of Manhattan or incorporating it into a longer city tour, the lighthouse provides a picturesque landmark and a great photo opportunity. Remember to wear your helmet and be mindful of pedestrians on the shared path.
📸 Photographers
+2Beyond the lighthouse itself, the surrounding park and river offer diverse backdrops for portraits and scenic shots. The dynamic views of the bridge and the river traffic add further interest. While interior access is rare, the exterior views are more than enough to create stunning photographic portfolios.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of the Little Red Lighthouse
+1However, with the advent of modern navigation systems and the construction of the towering George Washington Bridge, the lighthouse was decommissioned in 1947. It faced the threat of demolition, but a public outcry, significantly fueled by the popular 1942 children's book "The Little Red Lighthouse and the Great Gray Bridge" by Hildegarde H. Swift and Lynd Ward, saved it from being torn down. This book highlighted the lighthouse's importance and its picturesque setting, galvanizing support for its preservation. Today, it stands as a testament to New York City's maritime past and a beloved icon.
Visitors can learn more about its history through informative plaques located around the site. While interior access is rare, the exterior and its story continue to captivate visitors, offering a unique glimpse into a bygone era of New York City's waterfront. The lighthouse's survival is a story of community advocacy and the enduring power of literature.
Exploring the Hudson River Greenway
+1For cyclists, the Greenway is a dream. You can embark on long rides, like the one mentioned from Prospect Park all the way to the northern tip of Manhattan, or enjoy shorter excursions. To maximize your enjoyment and minimize crowds, especially on weekends, it's often advised to start your ride north of 125th Street. This area tends to be less congested and offers a more serene cycling experience. Remember to wear your helmet for safety!
Beyond cycling, the Greenway is perfect for a leisurely walk or a jog. It connects various parks, including Riverside Park and Fort Washington Park, where the Little Red Lighthouse is situated. Along the way, you'll find plenty of spots to rest, enjoy the river breeze, and take in the urban landscape. It's a vital green artery that offers a refreshing escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Photography Tips for the Little Red Lighthouse
+2Experiment with different angles to emphasize the scale of the bridge or the quaintness of the lighthouse. The surrounding Fort Washington Park provides natural elements like trees and riverbanks that can add depth and context to your photos. If you're interested in portrait photography, the area offers a striking backdrop with the bridge looming overhead and the river flowing beside it.
Remember that access inside the lighthouse is limited, so most photography will be from the exterior. However, the views from the park are plentiful and varied. Keep an eye out for passing boats on the Hudson River, which can add dynamic elements to your shots. The changing seasons also offer different photographic opportunities, from lush greenery in summer to autumnal colors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit