Things to Do on Washington Island

Are you planning your next trip to Washington Island, Wisconsin? Washington Island in Door County offers a range of year-round attractions, as well as seasonal ones. Here are some of the top must-see spots:

island outpost building — Island Outpost at Washington Island

1. Island Outpost

Conveniently located next to the ferry drop-off on Washington Island, Island Outpost is a family-owned store and boat dock offering a unique mix of high-quality brands and local charm. You’ll find quality brands including Kuhl, Fjallraven, Helly Hansen, Huk, Aran Crafts Irish sweaters, OluKai shoes, Merrell shoes, Orca, Klean Kanteen, Buck Knives, Suncloud sunglasses, Rheos sunglasses, and Grand Trunk. Island Outpost proudly supports local artisan communities by offering handcrafted goods, artwork, and pottery. Island Outpost also offers souvenir sportswear representing both Washington Island and Door County. Our docking facilities on Lake Michigan provide scenic views of Detroit Harbor and can accommodate vessels of all sizes, with 45′ x 250′ slips and both 30- and 50-amp power services.

2. Next to Island Outpost

Island Adventure Company

Located right across from the ferry drop-off, Island Adventure Company offers same-day rentals on a variety of adventure equipment, including utility vehicle rentals (UTV), e-bikes, and stand-up paddleboards (SUP). Along with equipment rentals, Island Adventure Company offers tours of Washington Island.

Annie’s Island Moped Rentals

Just down the road from Island Outpost, Annie’s Island Moped Rentals offers both bike and moped rentals with flexible hourly and daily rates. It’s a fun and unique way to explore the 35 square miles of scenic nature and beaches that Washington Island has to offer.

Historic Nelsen's Hall — Historic Nelsen’s Hall

3. Nelsen’s Hall Bitters Pub

Nelsen’s Hall Bitter Pub is the oldest continuously legal saloon in the United States. Since opening in 1899, Nelsen’s never had to close, even during prohibition, due to a loophole with Angostura Bitters. Along with their famous bitters club, Nelsen’s offers some food options, including fresh whitefish sandwiches.

4. Eateries

The Koyen Collection: K.K. Fiske Restaurant, Granary Saloon & Coop Hangout

K.K. Fiske Restaurant & The Granary offers fresh fish with daily catch offerings of Burbot and whitefish, as well as nightly specials. On Saturdays, they offer fish boils, but you need a reservation, so make sure to plan accordingly.

Albatross Drive-In

Open May through October, Albatross Drive-In is known for its old-fashioned milkshakes and burgers. They offer 60 flavors of malts and shakes, and a variety of food, including burgers, fries, and Wisconsin classics like cheese curds.

5. Washington Island Campground

Washington Island Campground has a variety of campsite offerings, including rustic tent sites, sites that offer both electric and water utilities, rustic cabins, deluxe cabins, a premium cabin, and a couple of group sites. They also offer community recreational areas, including a swimming pond and beach, mini golf, sand volleyball, a playground, a game room, and a pool table.

6. Schoolhouse Beach

This is a limestone beach that is the island’s original shipping port and is part of the Niagara Escarpment. Swimming areas are marked, and there is a diving raft further into the lake. Along with the scenic views and swimming opportunities, Schoolhouse Beach has a picnic area with tables, grills, and bathrooms.

7. Hiking

Little Lake Nature Preserve Trail is a 1.6-mile hike on the north side of Washington Island that takes you to the island’s only landlocked lake. The preserve protects a variety of species you may see during your hike, including waterfowl, songbirds, bald eagles, white pelicans, osprey, and herons.

8. Trueblood Performing Arts Center (TPAC)

TPAC is a nonprofit organization that focuses on education and entertainment for both residents and visitors of Washington Island. They exist due to the estate of Ruth and Wilson Trueblood, as well as the donation of five acres of land from Arni and Mary Richter. TPAC offers concerts, performances, and presentations that are entertaining for the whole family.

Butterfly at Lavender Farm — Butterfly at Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm

9. Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm & Shop

Fragrant Isle has 21 acres of lavender fields, as well as an oil distillery, cafe, and beer and wine distillery. They offer a variety of products, including essential oils, bath and body care items, teas, culinary ingredients, candies, and candles. Fragrant Isle also offers tours and serves as a venue for weddings, receptions, and other events.