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1

Port Washington

For more information about Port Washington, visit www.portwashingtontourism.com

The atmosphere of a New England fishing village and the abundant Midwestern friendliness make Port Washington a wonderful place to explore art, history and natural beauty. Nestled among seven hills and on the shores of Lake Michigan, Port Washington is a city of magnificent views. A sand beach, an active marina and wonderful architecture provide postcard perfect scenes at every turn. It’s no wonder so many artists have been drawn to this lakeshore community.

RestaurantIn Port Washington, the city itself functions as a community-wide art gallery. Throughout the restaurants, hotels, shops and galleries of Port Washington, original works of art are prominently featured. Port Washington boasts the largest collection of pre-Civil War buildings in Wisconsin, which has earned the city a place on the National Register of Historic Places.

Excellent restaurants provide everything from sandwiches to the finest in gourmet food, and Port Washington’s very own microbrewery offers tours. And Port Washington offers a variety of accommodations. Choose from a luxury inn, modern hotels, a cozy bed & breakfast or a comfortable motel.

Art Deco LighthouseTwo Lighthouses:
1860 Historic & 1935 Art Deco

Some of the most inspiring works of architecture are lighthouses. Port Washington is home to a lighthouse and a light station, both true works of art. The city’s art deco lighthouse, located at the end of the harbor breakwater, was built in 1935. While not open for tours, it provides a magnificent photo opportunity. Ashore, the historic 1860 light station has been restored and its tower and lantern room, destroyed in 1934, have been rebuilt. The first floor has been refurbished, reflecting the decor of the Lewis family, lightkeepers from 1874-1934.

Shirley Schanen Gruen outside her studio

Shirley Schanen Gruen

Port Washington is home to a number of accomplished and nationally-renowned artists. One of them is the watercolor artist Shirley Schanen Gruen. Gruen has won numerous awards and her work has appeared in many notable exhibitions. Visitors to Port Washington have the unique opportunity to see her amazing work as well as visit her studio.

Courthouse Mural

Ozaukee County Courthouse Ceiling Mural & Restoration

The Ozaukee County Courthouse was built in 1901. Recently, a huge painted ceiling and wall murals were uncovered to reveal a mural. This once-hidden work of art is in the process of being restored to its original splendor.

HouseBuilt in 1848 by the Dodge family and constructed of stones washed smooth from the Lake Michigan shore, the Pebble House Visitor Center is an example of unique architecture found throughout the downtown Port Washington.

Historic Walking Tour

Port Washington is home to some of Wisconsin’s oldest buildings, and the size and layout of the community makes it ideal for walking. The Port Washington Historic Walking Tour takes you past the town’s most historic places and along the harbor. Highlights of the tour include a shipwreck and views of the two lighthouses. Maps for the tour can be picked up at Pebble House, a building dating back to 1848 that serves as the community’s visitor center.

Live Music at the Farmer's Market

Live music performances are the highlight of Port Washington’s weekly Farmer’s Market. Enjoy toe-tapping tunes each Saturday morning through October while you peruse the market. With views of the lake, wonderful food and great music, it’s the perfect way to put yourself in the Wisconsin Frame of Mind. The final Farmer’s Market of the year on the last Saturday in October has lots of special surprises—don’t miss it.

 

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