TWO HARBORS, Minn. — A beacon of Minnesota's north shore will again be welcoming visitors when Split Rock Lighthouse near Two Harbors reopens Wednesday.
The popular attraction was among a number of historic sites shut down March 14 as part of the State of Minnesota's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Most of the staff was furloughed
Split Rock Lighthouse will reopen July 15. Timed entry tickets will be available online at the Minnesota Historical Society (MHS) website for $8, with a limited number set aside each day for walk-ups. The lighthouse will be open seven days a week.
There are some changes to the visiting experience, necessary due to the ongoing risk posed by COVID-19. While guests can explore the grounds and the fog signal building, and get an up close look at the light station from the exterior, indoor spaces - including the lighthouse and keeper’s residence - will remain closed as they are too tight to allow proper social distancing.
A pop-up store will be set up outside so guests can shop for their favorite Split Rock Lighthouse items.
MHS spokesperson Julianna Olsen says Jeffers Petroglyphs, a historic site in southwestern Minnesota, will also reopen Wednesday. She adds that MHS is working on plans to reopen the Minnesota History Center, Mill City Museum, and to resume tours of the State Capitol some time this fall.
