Built in 1860, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse has guided ships along Florida's Atlantic coast for more than 165 years. The red brick tower features a 105-step climb up a narrow spiral staircase to reach the gallery at the top. Lighthouse keepers once climbed these same stairs night after night to keep the powerful Fresnel lens shining for mariners. From the gallery, visitors can see panoramic views including the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the turquoise waters of the Jupiter Inlet meeting the Loxahatchee and Indian rivers below.
The museum grounds feature restored historic buildings that document the lighthouse's history from its construction before the Civil War through its years as an active Coast Guard station. Boats glide through the channel below the lighthouse, and the sea breeze provides relief on warm Florida mornings for visitors exploring the site.