Let’s go to the island! Our kids, knowing us well enough, knew we weren’t talking about a tropical vacation when we’d announce that we were going to Washington Island. And they were just as excited.
Venturing beyond the tip of the peninsula always begins with a boat ride! We often went to Washington Island before the height of the season, to celebrate Mother’s Day with two other families, and it felt like we had the island to ourselves. However, being there so early had some drawbacks.
The water was ice cold. Sometimes it snowed. And many places had not yet opened for the season. But we didn’t care. We found plenty to do and had a ball just being together inside our spacious waterfront rental home. If you’re not staying on the island, it is definitely still worth a day trip! (And easy access from one of these Northern Door Vacation Rentals.)
Crossing “Death’s Door”on the Washington Island Ferry
We always met up at Northside Pier (just east of Gills Rock) where we would get in line for the Washington Island Ferry. The ferry runs year round and you can get schedule and prices here. After driving our cars on board, the kids headed out and up to the top. It’s a good idea to take a car because the island is big and many places are not walking distance from the ferry. In the fall and summer you could get away with just your bikes.
If you don’t want to stay in your car, or are walking on, the ferry has plenty of seats inside and outside. Speaking of biking to the island in the summer…
The lavender fields of Washington Island
Drive or pedal to this purple paradise if you find yourself on the island in July or August. That’s when Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm says their fields of 30,000 lavender plants are at their peak. As you can see from the pictures, it’s worth the trip. It’s beautiful, smells great and you can get drinks! Have you ever had a lavender mimosa? It’s delicious! They also have a lavender rose slushie or lavender honey wine.
The extensive “Lavender Cafe” menu also lists some fun n/a drinks such as lavender lemonade or a lavender latte. Sandwiches, snacks and desserts are available, too! Lavender Snickerdoodle, anyone?!
There are also different stands around the farm where you can buy lavender bouquets and products made from lavender. Our friends brought their bikes to the island and felt very safe biking to the farm. And while they were there, they had “a lovely and relaxing time walking through the lavender, enjoying a couple of drinks and listening to some live music.”
The magic of Schoolhouse Beach on Washington Island
Schoolhouse Beach is perhaps the most unique beach in all of Door County, because it’s made up of pebbles. Yep, it’s a rocky beach, not a sandy one. But these rocks are smooth, polished, limestone pebbles. A white shoreline that leads into the stunning, crystal blue waters of Lake Michigan. In May, it is truly breathtaking. One step into the icy waters and it literally takes your breath away!
While you may be tempted to scoop up some of these pebbles for your own, they are strictly for viewing only. Signs at the park will remind you of that. Come here to swim or picnic and don’t forget your camera!
Go to Nelsen’s Hall to join the Bitters Club!
Any trip to the island for us, also means a trip to Nelsen’s Hall where we ensure our place in history once again. There are books going back decades filled with names of those who have downed a shot of bitters and joined the club! We’ve lost count of how many times we’ve “renewed our membership!”
And you thought Angostura Bitters was only for those famous Wisconsin Old Fashioneds!
Once you’ve had your shot of bitters, the bartender will present you with your card. Then you dip your thumb into the bitters at the bottom of the glass and make your imprint on the card. You’re in and are officially a card carrying member!
Nelsen’s is a full service tavern with a food menu, games (darts, etc.) and tv’s for watching the game. We highly recommend the potato pancakes with BOTH applesauce and sour cream. You’re welcome.
For the adventurous nature lovers
This could be a good activity before or after indulging in those potato pancakes at Nelsen’s. We climbed the lookout tower at Mountain Park. 186 to the top to enjoy views of Washington Island and the surrounding water.
There’s more to explore. Take a hike, or a drive and enjoy the slow pace of Washington Island.
If you’re looking for a place to stay that’s not far from the Washington Island Ferry, we have beautiful rentals for your family that are on the northern end of the peninsula. Book your getaway today!
