“The Story of Split Rock Lighthouse” – film
“The Story of Split Rock Lighthouse” explores the history and scenic beauty of this Northern Minnesota tourist destination, as well as the drama of storms and shipwrecks on Lake Superior. This 13-minute film uses original footage, rare archival footage, and first-person accounts from newspapers, storm survivors, lighthouse builders, and lighthouse keepers.
Plan your visit
Exhibit
For more than 14,000 years, people have had a relationship with Lake Superior—drawn by its power, sustained by its bounty, and inspired by its beauty. This enduring connection deepened in the early 20th century, when a devastating storm in 1905 claimed lives and crippled Great Lakes shipping, prompting the construction of Split Rock Lighthouse.
Built over a century ago, the lighthouse stands as a testament to advanced lens technology, innovative engineering, and the skill and dedication of a local labor force. Together, these elements created one of the most iconic navigational aids on Lake Superior.
Through firsthand accounts and personal stories, this exhibit brings to life the people, technology, and experiences shaped by the lake—revealing how Lake Superior has long influenced those who call its shores home and those who journey across its waters.
Plan your visit
Daily programs
Throughout the day our program staff will hold specific interpretive programs designed for all ages that cover many aspects of Lighthouse and the North Shore.
Plan your visit
Photography & Art at the Rock
“Photography & Art at the Rock” is a rotating monthly photography show in the lobby of the visitor center at Split Rock Lighthouse. It showcases landscape and wildlife photographers of the area.
View the Split Rock Lighthouse event calendar to learn when featured photographers will be on site to discuss their work with visitors.
Plan your visit
Museum store
Bring home a memento of your visit! Whether you’re looking for maritime décor, north woods artwork, or Split Rock Lighthouse souvenirs, the museum store is your go-to source. Find apparel, Duluth packs, mugs, toys, jewelry, and many locally crafted items at the museum store, open whenever the visitor center is open.
If you can't make it to the lighthouse, you can find many souvenir items online.
Plan your visit
Keeper’s Tour
Experience the site like the keepers and their families did and immerse yourself in their stories. This 60-minute guided tour of the historic site includes the lighthouse and keeper’s house, plus general admission access. Limit of 10 people per tour.
Plan your visit
