Where Every Street Corner Tells a Story
Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, our charming city invites you to step back in time and explore a rich tapestry of maritime heritage, architectural marvels, and captivating tales of the past. From the iconic 1860s lighthouse standing sentinel over the harbor to the beautifully preserved downtown district, Port Washington offers a unique journey through time that will enchant history buffs and casual explorers alike.
Port Washington Now
Visitors to Port Washington, Wisconsin will discover endless coastal charm and outdoor fun, from touring the historic 1860 Light Station atop the bluff to walking the scenic 2,500‑foot breakwater pier for unforgettable Lake Michigan views. Enjoy waterfront relaxation at South Beach, Coal Dock Park, or Upper Lake Park, which also connects to the popular Ozaukee Interurban Trail for biking, walking, or jogging through town and beyond. Families love the award‑winning Possibility Playground, an all‑abilities play space located within Upper Lake Park.
Downtown Port Washington invites visitors to shop and dine at local favorites like The Chocolate Chisel, Inventors Brewpub, Tello’s, and Twisted Willow. Nature lovers can explore nearby gems like Lions Dens Gorge in Grafton or enjoy a beach day at Harrington Beach, while anglers can book charter fishing excursions right from the marina. Plan your visit around seasonal highlights such as Pirate Fest or the Upper Lake Park Beer Garden!
Fishing & Boating
History
Arts & Tours
Outdoor Rec
Eat & Drink
St. Mary's Church
Perched atop the hill since 1884, the Gothic-style Catholic church, featuring a 160-foot spire, offers breathtaking views of the city and a timeless symbol of faith.
Upper Lake Park
Overlooking Lake Michigan from dramatic bluffs, the park offers expansive views, shaded picnic areas, Beer Garden, staircase down to North Beach and fully-accessible Possibilties Playground.
1860 Light Station
Now a museum, the light station, rebuilt in 1860, includes the lantern room atop a two-story brick building, which served as the lightkeeper's living quarters.
Port Washington Marina
Providing 275 deep-water slips, public boat launch, boating utilities and amenities, fish cleaning station, and home to our large charter fishing fleet.
Historic Downtown Franklin Street
On the National Register of Historic Places, the four-block downtown area houses Wisconsin's largest collection of pre-Civil War buildings, now filled with quaint shops and eateries.
Visitor Center
Locally known as the Pebble House, the 1848 former residence with a unique architectural style now welcomes visitors with information, local recommendations and bit of history.
Pierhead Light
This Art Deco breakwater light, built in 1935, was fully restored in 2025 and provides an iconic photo opportunity for those making the trek along the breakwater to stand beneath its famous arches.
South Beach
Below soaring bluffs just south of downtown, South Beach is a popular destination for swimming, freshwater surfing, kayaking, and beachcombing. Accessible by foot along the Harborwalk or by car.
The party of the season is just around the corner
There's a reason why Downtown Port's Fall Street Festival has quickly become a seasonal favorite in Ozaukee County! If you love classic rock or country music, cold drinks, fall flavors and artisan wares, classic cars, and family fun, you will love this festival. Just steps from Lake Michigan, Historic Franklin Street in downtown Port Washington turns into the perfect venue for celebrating fall.
Fall Street Festival is the Party of the Season
Mark your calendars for the biggest Fall party in Downtown Port Washington! Fall Street Festival, presented by Harbor Homes, has quickly become a favorite fall tradition in Ozaukee County. Enjoy all the beauty and bounty of FALL as we close down Historic Franklin...
Guide to Labor Day Weekend in Port Washington
Labor Day weekend in Port Washington brings an unmistakable coastal energy. From white sails cutting across the blue horizon to evening harbor lights and lively downtown sidewalks, here is your playbook for spending the holiday weekend here in Port. Friday 6:30 PM –...
A Breath of Fresh Air: Nurturing Mind and Body in Port Washington
There is a distinct kind of wellness that comes from living along Lake Michigan-it's in the rhythm of the waves, the crisp morning air, and the steady climb up the staircases that reach into our iconic seven hills. But here in Port Washington, a healthy lifestyle...
Upcoming Events
We are bringing together the best of the season right on the shores of Lake Michigan. Grab your crew, your family, and your appetite—there’s a full day of lakeside entertainment waiting for you!
Festival Highlights:
🎸 Two Live Music Stages – Rock out all day long with incredible local bands.
🛍️ 100+ Makers & Artisans – Find unique jewelry, home decor, and seasonal treats.
🏎️ Fall Street Festival Car Show – Head to Pier Street to see an amazing lineup of classic rides.
🎈 Free Family Fun Zone – Keep the kids entertained with bounce houses, pumpkin painting, and games.
Best of all? Admission, parking, and event shuttles are 100% FREE! 🚗💨
📍 N. Franklin Street, Downtown Port Washington, WI
⏰ Saturday, Oct 3 | 11 AM - 5 PM
👉 More information at www.facebook.com/events/1566067178472092. See you there! 🎃👇
#PortWashingtonWI #FallStreetFestival #FamilyFun
From locally made goods to one-of-a-kind finds, the unique shops lining the streets offer something special around every corner. You never know what hidden gem you’ll discover—or what perfect souvenir will catch your eye. ✨
Find a full listing of shops at visitportwashington.com.
#ShopLocal #PortWashington ##ShopLocal #PortWashington ##summerdaysSummerDays
Spend your day strolling through our historic streets, getting lost in our local @verbositybookhouse, discovering new favorite tea blends at @tsteportwashington, or picking up seasonal treats at @dreamportharvestmarket. It’s the perfect recipe for a slow, cozy autumn day by the lake. ✨
Pictured: javadockcafe
#PortWashingtonWI #CozyVibes #FallInWisconsin
We are shutting down historic Franklin Street for a full day of autumn magic, lakeside breezes, and endless entertainment. Bring your family, your friends, and your appetite—there’s truly something for everyone!
What to look forward to:
🎸 Two Live Band Stages – Catch Shotgun Jane, Conscious Pilot, and more rocking downtown all day.
🛍️ 100+ Artisan Vendors & Harvest Farmers Market – Perfect for seasonal shopping and local treats.
🏎️ Car & Vintage Motorcycle Show – Cruise down Pier Street to check out some incredible rides.
🎈 Fall Family Fun Zone – Free activities for the kiddos, including bounce houses, pumpkin decorating, and games.
Best of all? Admission is FREE, parking is FREE, and we’ll have FREE shuttles running all day!
📍 N. Franklin Street, Downtown Port Washington, WI
⏰ Saturday, Oct 3 | 11 AM - 5 PM
👉 Head over to the Downtown Port Fall Street Festival event for the full lineup and shuttle maps! Link in comments 🎃👇
#PortWashingtonWI #FallStreetFestival #WisconsinFall
It’s Port Washington, Wisconsin.
A picture-perfect harbor. Blue water. Sailboats drifting by. A charming downtown just steps from the water.
It may look like a classic New England coastal town, but this waterfront view is right here on Lake Michigan.
This isn’t New England. It’s Port Washington.
#ThisIsnt #PortWashingtonWI #VisitPortWashington #LakeMichigan #WisconsinTravel
#labordayweekend #midwestcoast #portwashingtonwi
✔️ T-shirt
✔️ Circle sticker
✔️ Oval sticker
✔️ Kite
Watch for new merchandise to arrive in August with the full brand launch 🚀
#porthole #newbrandlaunch #portwashingtonwi
After years of planning, collaboration, and community support, the historic Breakwater Lighthouse has completed a major preservation project that addressed structural repairs, surface refinishing, and measures to protect the landmark well into the future.
Now is the perfect time to take a stroll down the breakwater and see it shining once again.
#PortWashingtonWI #HistoricPreservation #WisconsinTravel
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