Only accessible via a 20-minute ferry off of the Door County Peninsula, Washington Island is a must-visit Wisconsin destination. Offering a unique combination of history, natural beauty, and outdoor recreation, this Wisconsin destination is fun for everyone.
I explored Washington Island on a hot summer day in late July and was pleasantly surprised by how much there is to do on such a small and peaceful island.
This post provides all of the details you need to know when planning a trip to Washington Island, along with the top things to do there.
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Where is Washington Island?
Washington Island is located approximately 20 minutes Northeast of Ellison Bay, Door County.
How Do You Get to Washington Island?
Washington Island is accessible via the Washington Island Ferry, a car ferry from Ellison Bay. It’s a 20- to 30-minute ride depending on whether and provides beautiful views of mainland Door County and the surrounding islands. On the way, you’ll hear the history of the route and sights along the way. You also get to traverse the famous Death’s Door (or Porte Des Morts).
You can also take your own boat to Washington Island and dock at Shipyard Island Marina.
Hotels on Washington Island
While Washington Island is just over 20 square miles, the island is home to over 700 year-round residents and almost 1600 seasonal residents. You’ll find plenty of vacation rentals, cottages, and even local hotel options during your visit to Washington Island.
Lodging Options:
– Hotel Washington: historic hotel with 8 rooms overlooking the Detroit Harbor
– Harbor Inn & Resort: the island’s newest waterfront property with 8 rooms, 3 cabins, and 4-bedroom vacation rental
– Four Elements Lodging: Scandinavian-inspired lodging with 5 queen-bed studio cabins and 3 cabins
– Townliner Motel: 6 standard rooms (the basics), 4 1-bedroom units, and 1 2-bedroom unit
Do You Need a Car on Washington Island?
I highly recommend bringing a vehicle on the ferry to Washington Island. While you can walk or bike around the island, you can cover much more ground with a car.
And a heads up if you plan to visit Rock Island State Park – the Karfi Ferry dock is about a 30-minute drive from the Washington Island Ferry drop-off so a car is needed to maximize your time.
If you really do not want to bring your own vehicle on the ferry to Washington Island, you can rent a 4×4 or a moped on the island.
When is the Best Time to Visit Washington Island?
The summer months are the most popular to visit Washington Island. The weather is beautiful and businesses are open for the season. Fall is also a busy time on the island when visitors come for peak fall foliage.
While you can visit in the winter, most businesses are seasonal (May through late summer/early fall) so don’t expect much to be open. However, you’ll have a very peaceful experience on the island and can partake in winter activities like ice fishing and snowshoeing.
Top Things to do on Washington Island
Visit Stavkirke Church
1763 Townline Rd Washington Island, WI 54246
People travel to Washington Island each year just to see one incredible spot, the Stavkirke Church. A Lurtheran church that was built in 1995 to resember an 1100 AD Norweigan chapel, today the church sees visitors from all over the world.
The church is open for visitors to enter and I highly recommen writing a prayer or meditation in the book at the altar.
While the church structure is incredible, the grounds are equally as impressive. Summer months boast bright flowers that attract colorful butterflies and cheerful birds.
During your visit, take the time to walk the prayer path and enjoy the new labyrinth. This is one of the most peaceful and contemplative spots on the island.
The church is managed by Trinity Lutheran Church and is free to visit, although donations are always welcome.
Explore Schoolhouse Beach
1860 School House Beach Rd, Washington, WI 54246
Part of the Niagara Escarpment, Schoolhouse Beach is a true Midwest gem as only five beaches of its kind exist in the world. The beaches’ largest, flat limestone rocks make it a true rarity.
The beach is incredibly popular in the summer, often filling up early for families looking to picnic and spend the afternoon enjoying the water.
I loved seeing the clear water and huge rocks that make up the beach. Be prepared for seagulls and crowds. And bring waterproof shows as the rocks can be difficult and painful to walk on.
Taste Bitters at Nelsen’s Hall & Bitters Club
1201 Main Rd, Washington, WI 54246
Visit the oldest legally continuously operated saloon in the United States – Nelsen’s Hall Bitters Pub & Restaurant – during your trip to Washington Island. Now a full-service restaurant and bar, this location never closed during prohibition due to the consumption of Angostura Bitters.
You can become a fully-initiated member of the Bitters Club by taking an entire shot of Angostura and earning your membership card. This bitter adds a sharp tang to any drink, but you’ll need to partake in the shot challenge to truly call yourself a local.
Even if drinking is not your thing, I still recommend a stop at Nelsen’s. The American bar-style food is tasty and the atmosphere is fun. The tables have Trivial Pursuit card decks so you can quiz your meal guests while waiting for your order.
Meander the Fields at Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm
1350 Airport Rd, Washington, WI 54246
Washington Island is home to the largest single-site lavender grower in the Midwest – Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm. It was my first time visiting a lavender farm and I was so impressed.
The lavender was in bloom and the fields were stunningly purple and so beautiful. Fragrant Isle has approximately 30,000 lavender plants and plenty of photo ops throughout the farm.
There’s a $5 entrance fee to enter the farm and then you can walk around the lavender fields, sit and enjoy the view, and order food and drink. Sam and I enjoyed a flight with 2 ciders and 2 wines, including a couple of lavender infused options for $28.
The farm also has an indoor shop where you can purchase lavender products like facial products, essential oils, and bath and body items. You do not need to pay an admission fee to enter the store.
Take the Ferry to Rock Island State Park
1924 Indian Point Rd, Washington, WI 54246 (Ferry Location)
Island hop in Wisconsin and head to Rock Island State Park. If you don’t have your own boat, you can access Rock Island State Park via the 45-passenger Karfi Ferry from Washington Island. The ferry runs Memorial Day through the second Monday in October.
Rock Island State Park is the most primitive Wisconsin state park and it’s such a unique experience. No cars are allowed on the island and there are no services like lodging, plumbing, and food. You can tent camp on the island (advanced reservation required), but you must bring everything you need and transport it to your camp site (wagons are available to assist).
The state park boasts several beautiful hiking trails, including the 5.2-mile Thordarson loop which circles the entire island and passes several park landmarks like the Pottowatomi Lighthouse and the beach.
Your Karfi Ferry ticket serves as your entrance fee to the state park and no separate state park pass is required.
Conclusion
I can’t wait for you to explore this Wisconsin gem! What will you explore first on Washington Island? As always, drop any questions you have in the comments or send me an email.
