Beyond the Harborwalk: 5 Unique Ways to Experience Port Washington

Think you’ve seen all that Port Washington has to offer just by strolling the iconic marina? Think again. While our stunning lakefront views are undeniable, the real magic happens when you venture just a few steps further and dive into the stories, history, and unique experiences waiting around every corner.

 🧭 Historic Franklin Street Walking Tour: The four-block stretch of Franklin Street is on the National Register of Historic Places, as it boasts the largest collection of pre-Civil War buildings of any downtown in the state. Tap into this self-guided walking tour through QR codes at tour stops or by picking up a printed tour guide at the Visitor Center or the Port Washington Historical Society. Look for the embedded brass numbers in the sidewalk! Start tour

🧭 POP Mural Tour: Between 2023 and 2025, 13 new murals were installed as part of the Paint on Port (POP) Mural Program. Find them all and learn about the city through these art pieces! There are 10 easily-walkable downtown murals. Take the online tour or pick up a brochure at the Visitor Center. Tap into the online tour

🧭Shipwreck Audio Tour: Port Washington is the southern gateway to the new Shipwreck Coast National Marine Sanctuary. Take this self-guided walking and audio tour, listening to the fascinating history of the shipwrecks off the shore of our harbor city as you stroll the lakefront. Learn more

🧭Ghost Walks: Experience the history of Port Washington through a Caper Company Ghost Walk. Hear stories of the historic buildings and cemeteries -- and their previous inhabitants. These tours run on select dates in summer and fall. Check the website for upcoming dates.

🧭Judge Eghart House: Tour the Victorian era home of Judge Leopold Eghart and his family to experience a living example of family life in the 19th century. Museum tours run Saturdays 1-4 pm through Labor Day. Learn more

🧭Starting June 24th, the 1860 Light Station Museum will also be open to the public for tours Wednesday through Sunday 11:30am to 3:30 pm. Climb to the lantern room for panoramic views, and tour the keeper's living quarters to get a glimpse into the life of a 19th century light keeper.

🧭Interactive Exhibits: While in town, explore the interactive exhibits at the Port Washington Historical Society (205 N Franklin St) to dive deeper into the shipwreck history and the city's commercial and maritime history. The Historical Society is open Wednesday through Friday 1-4 pm and Saturdays 10am-2pm.

There is so much to experience here in our harbor city! Take a tour. Stay awhile.