Death’s Door BBQ
The island's premier food event, the Death's Door BBQ features arts & crafts for sale, music, food and drinks, and plenty of BBQ chicken, pork, beef, and classic sides.
Washington Island:
Wisconsin's Island Getaway
Watch: Serenity is a Ferry Ride Away
Death’s Door is Just the Start of the Adventure on Washington Island
Washington Island is your destination for adventure in Door County. It starts with a five-mile ferry ride across the once-treacherous waters of Death’s Door, where Green Bay and Lake Michigan meet. Once ashore, embark on a tour of one-of-a-kind shopping, eating, and outdoor fun hosted by the 600 residents who call the island home.
Here you’ll find the famous Schoolhouse Beach as well as 10 other amazing island parks and beaches. Music and theater performances, quirky traditions, and lavender farms are all part of the experience. Those looking for another step removed can take their journey to remote Rock Island State Park. Learn more about the community at WashingtonIsland.com.
Restaurants on Washington Island
As you might expect on an island, fish is a staple on menus here, whether it’s boiled, fried, broiled, or grilled. It’s all fresh and all served in family-owned taverns, fine restaurants, and family drive-ins. Mix with the hearty year-round residents at the community coffee klatch and eat local in a place where you almost have to.
View RestaurantsWashington Island Favorites
Lodging on Washington Island
Washington Island offers lodging of all kinds. Rustic visitors can find primitive hike-in campsites on Rock Island or private campgrounds, while there are plenty of family-friendly hotels, motels, and cozy cottages available.
View LodgingWashington Island Favorites
Things to Do on Washington Island
You’ve got to visit one of the island's 11 glorious parks—just don't forget your Washington Island Parks Pass! You can also eat a lawyer (kind of!) or visit the Sievers School of Fiber Arts. Play a round of golf at the Deer Run Golf Course. Rent a boat, moped, or UTV and tour the island.
Take the Karfi Ferry to Rock Island for a visit to a beautiful sand beach, primitive walk-in camping, hiking trails, a trip to Wisconsin’s oldest lighthouse, and a tour of the majestic Thordarson Boathouse. Or just leave your stress on the mainland and relax.
View ActivitiesWashington Island Insider
History of Death's Door
So where does the name Door County come from? You can trace it to the area’s most dangerous, mythical feature - Porte des Morts, or as it’s now called, Death’s Door...
Traveling Death's Door
With over 275 shipwrecks, the waters of Door County offer amazing historical sites and stories. Known for...
BLOG: Hike Rock Island State Park
Rock Island is hands-down one of the coolest places in Door County. I mean, what other park takes TWO ferries...
4 Must-Dos in Washington Island
Did you know?
Washington Island is the largest of the 35 named islands that are part of Door County.
1. Cross Death’s Door. Well, to get here you sort of have to, but in this case the reward is in the journey.
2. Picnic on the Beach. Washington Island's parks, trails, and beaches are known for their peaceful, secluded locations and stunning waterfront views.
(New in 2022: Don't forget to buy your Parks Pass to access Washington Island parks!)
3. Eat the local way. Eat a lawyer, chase it with bitters, and follow that with a beer made from wheat harvested right here on Washington Island.
4. Take the trek to Rock Island and visit the Thordarson Boathouse, a majestic relic of 1920s opulence now open to the public.
(New in 2022: Don't forget to buy your Parks Pass to access Washington Island parks!)
Washington Island Events
Washington Island Lavender Festival
Join islanders as they celebrate the lavender blossoming and the beginning of lavender-harvest season.
Fall Fun Fest and Cider Pressing Party
Favorite fall activities such as games, rides, food and drinks, and cider-making are at the forefront at this party at the Farm Museum.
Washington Island Music Festival
Classical music from various nations and styles is celebrated in this multi-week festival that promotes performance, education, and community arts.
Today's Temperature
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Summer is when Door County shines the brightest. Learn about the area's culinary riches or find family-friendly activities.
