Door County, WI was the first digital itinerary I made. It was so much fun to create a 4 day trip to a place that is very near and dear to my heart. My family has been vacationing to Door County, specifically Washington Island, since the 60’s. Its our special place, our home away from home that feels more like home than home. I hope you enjoy learning what this little island in the middle of Lake Michigan.
Where is Washington Island?
At the tip of the Door Peninsula, nestled between the Green Bay and Lake Michigan lies Washington Island. The only way to the island is by a car ferry from Ellison Bay and through the waters known as Death’s Door.
What does Death’s Door mean?!
Death’s Door, or Porte des Morts is the water passage that flows from the Bay of Green Bay and Lake Michigan. With over 275 shipwreck, the rough waters can rock even the largest ferry on a stormy day. There are legends of sailors, Frenchmen, and Native Americans crashing through the narrow and rough waters between the islands of Plum, Pilot, Detroit and Washington dating back to the 1700’s. Although a once dangerous passage, with today’s technology, there has not been a shipwreck since the Schooner in 1861.
When is the best time to visit Washington Island?
The best time of year in Door County, in my opinion, is from June-September. You can visit earlier in the spring or later in the fall as well, just make sure to look ahead at the weather so that you can properly prepare for the temperatures. Cherry picking season in Door County is from late July through mid August. If you are interested in Cherry picking or other Door County activities check out my Door County Digital Itinerary to help plan your trip!
How to spend a full day on Washington Island!
7am-Arrive at the ferry dock at Ellison Bay. You cannot purchase tickets ahead of time, they can only be purchased at the dock. The first ferry to the island is typically at 7:30am during the summer, however, ALWAYS check the ferry schedule. Make sure to purchase the combination ticket which would include a passenger ferry ticket to Rock Island.
8am-Arrival on the island. The ferry will take about 30 minutes to cross Death’s Door. Once you arrive on the island, drive to Red Cup for coffee and a quick breakfast. This is a popular location and a much needed fuel up before the day of activities.
9am-Board the ferry to Rock Island. After grabbing coffee, make your way to Jackson Harbor where you will park and board the ferry. You will give them the “Karfi” ticket on the boat.
Typically, the ferry leaves Jackson Harbor on the hour and returns on the “15 after” the hour. Again, always check the ferry schedule!
When you arrive, grab a map of the island from the ranger stand and make your way to the Pottawatomie Lighthouse. Just over a mile hike from the dock you will find an 1850’s lighthouse towering over Lake Michigan sitting on top of a bluff. Learn more about the Pottawatomie Lighthouse by taking a guided tour through the house. There is not a cost, however, donations are much appreciated by the staff that provides this unique experience!
After touring the lighthouse, take a walk down to the water. You will pass by an old cave that was used to store ice. Make sure to also stop and see the graveyard where light keepers of the past have been buried. You will not need more than 45-1 hour at the lighthouse before making your way back to the main camp. At this time you will likely have about 20 minutes to explore the boathouse. You can go inside of the viking inspired structure and marvel at the carvings of the giant fireplace, or learn about the island and its function of the past and present.
11:15am-Head back to Jackson Harbor for lunch at Jackson Soup and Sandwich. They will likely have a line, you will order at the counter then sit down with a number. Although it can be busy, the food is delicious and patio/yard has a great view and games while you wait!
1pm: Drive to schoolhouse beach. This can be a quick stop to see the unique smooth rock beach that has public access. It is located in Washington Harbor and is a popular stop for all visitors.
1:30pm: Drive to People’s Park, Little Lake, and the Jacobsen Museum. Those 3 activities are located within a short walking distance from each other. The Park overlooks the water on top of a steep bluff, the lake is the only inland lake on the island, and the museum dips into the history of the island and the first settlers of the area.
2pm: Drive to the downtown area and park along the road so you can stop in the little stores and shops: Wisco for coffee, candy and pastries, Mann’s Mercantile (including the little grass roof shops) for crafts and gifts/souvenirs.
3pm: Drive to Stavkirke Church and walk the prayer trail to the beautiful Scandinavian church in the woods. This can be a quick stop or a longer stop depending on your own spiritual journey. I love walking the prayer trail and reading the verses along the route. You can also enter the church and sign the guest book or write down a prayer request. It can be a moving visit if you let yourself experience it.
3:30pm: Drive to Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm. The entrance to the fields is $8 and gives you full day, come and go access to roam the fields (this is a great place for pictures!) and sit on the patio. You can also explore the calendar of events for activities including Tarot readings, massages, and wine tastings. The patio offers cocktails and mocktails as well as snacks and sandwiches. There is also a U-Pick station of the fields for you to take away some fragrant lavender. The gift store is open for souvenirs and you do not need your field access to browse the store and bakery!
4:30pm: Finish your day on Washington Island with dinner at the Albatross Drive-in. This is not a fast food joint, it is the island after all. Their food is quality and worth the stop. Enjoy a drink from The Nest or play around with the yard games while you wait for your food. If you are worried about making the last ferry you can always call ahead so your food will be ready when you arrive!
5:30pm: Start making your drive towards the ferry dock. Typically the last ferry to the mainland is at 6pm. Again, make sure to check for the exact ferry schedule.
If you have the time…
Stay on the island for a couple days if you can spare the time on your Door County vacation! There is more to do than what is mentioned above. This hidden gem is a precious experience and deserves more than just 1 day of exploring 🙂
If you are interested in planning a Door County trip, check out my digital itinerary! FOUR days of unique experiences and activities including booking links, menus, and directions!
