You Are Invited To Get Away to Port Washington!

Photo © Eric Curtin Photography 2016

You Are Invited To Get Away to Port Washington!

Located along the coast of Lake Michigan just north of Milwaukee, Port Washington, Wisconsin, is known for its unspoiled shoreline, beaches and historic downtown harbor.

Reminiscent of an East Coast seaside village, Port Washington has been a bustling port since the Civil War and is now a popular tourist destination for shopping, dining, and familyfriendly events. One of the crown jewels of Port Washington is the 1935 Breakwater Lighthouse, accessible by a 2,500-foot, recently renovated breakwater. This jetty lures visitors all the way to the lighthouse, and the views are particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset or when rough seas toss majestic waves against and over the breakwater.

If you’re up for an adventure, charter a boat for a few hours and get out on Lake Michigan for an incredible fishing adventure. These fishing charters frequently haul in a bounty of king salmon, trout, and more.

Nestled between Milwaukee’s Brown Deer Trail to the south and the Sheboygan Interurban Trail on the north, the Ozaukee Interurban Trail travels right through the middle of Port Washington. This trail is 90 percent off-road, relatively flat, spacious and easy to navigate even for families with small kids. The trail takes bikers (plus walkers, hikers, skaters, snowshoers, and cross-country skiers) through protected wetlands and forests, over-restored railroad trestles, and across rivers.

There are fun shops and boutiques in Port Washington for you to explore, including specialty food shops, a winery, and a brewpub. Port doesn’t have just the typical, touristy shops. Include a stop at the old-fashioned meat market. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s worth it for the smell of it. There are two popular outdoor gear stores in town, numerous specialty retail stores, and even a surf shop (rent your stand-up paddleboard here)!

Don’t miss the great restaurants in Port Washington. All are locally owned and have unique offerings, as well as their own vibes and traditions. The downtown is compact and walkable, so you can eat lunch overlooking the lake and dip your toes in the water within minutes. A variety of cuisines are offered, from gourmet farm-to-table to homemade soups and sandwiches, and all this is surrounded by a 19th-century downtown.

The hotels in Port Washington boast local charm, suitable for either a romantic getaway or a family trip. The Harbor View Hotel is located right on the harbor, and visitors can choose from one of over 90 rooms or suites. The Port Hotel was built in the late 1800s and still can provide old-world charm with modern amenities. A Holiday Inn Express is located on the north side of town, right at the I-43 exit to Port Washington. There are also several Short Term Stary homes or apartments located throughout the city, with a few right in the downtown area.

If you want to play outside, nearby lakeside parks and trails offer hiking, biking, and birding opportunities. Remember your binoculars and camera!

Plan your Lake Michigan trip and/or vacation with the Port Washington Visitor's Guide for hotels, bed and breakfasts, shopping, events, farmers markets, lakefront festivals, and more. For more information, go to visitportwashington.com website or call 800-719-4881