New York is a fascinating place to visit, but most people think Manhattan when they visit New York, and go to the same old places. But there are other interesting places that are worth a visit. Places that take you into history, and at the same time offer you a great view and a chance to enjoy nature and forget the skyscrapers and noise of the big city.
Such a place is the historic lighthouse located in Fire Island. This is a great place to go, as it combines history, nature and beaches all in one place, and honestly -- you feel as if you've stepped into another world. Recently we took some friends that came from abroad to visit this place, and they could not believe that they were still in New York.
Now the lighthouse itself was originally built in 1826, but at only 74 feet in height, it was not effective in its function of signalling ships that land was near, so it was taken down and its stones were used to build the terrace for the present lighthouse. The new tower that was built, measures 168 feet in height, and was lit for the first time on November 1, 1858. Originally the color of the tower was a creamy yellow, but in 1891 the color was changed to alternating black and white bands, which are the colors that it has at the present.
Even though you can get to it by car, by taking an approximate 3/4 mile walk from the Robert Moses State Park, Field 5 parking lot, there's a nicer way to get there. We took the nicer way, which was taking the ferry from Bayshore to the Kismet port and then walking for one mile to reach the lighthouse. I said the nicer route, because on the ferry you have the great views as you slowly approach the island and then as you walk to the lighthouse you get to see the local sights. It's really fun!
When you get to the lighthouse you can view the historical documents and artifacts. And then, if you have the energy, you can climb the spiral, staircase, which has 156 metal steps, and two more small ladders, to go to the top. Once there you can go outside a circular veranda, and enjoy a fantastic 360 degree view of the surrounding area.
Of our four guests, two decided that it was too much for them, but the other two that went up with us, got rewarded with panoramic views, and they took many good photos. Afterwards we all went to one of the nice restaurants near the Kismet port, after that -- we took the ferry back to Bayshore.
If you want more information about the Fire Island Lighthouse, just search on the internet, you will find out how to get there and other important stuff. Believe me, this is a very nice trip to take for those who live here or those who are just visiting.
