For a little island with a little population, the museums that surround your Washington Island vacation rental are impressive. The Jacobson Museum, on the western edge of the island, has natural and historical artifacts from the area, including ship models carved by Jens Jacobsen himself, the Danish poet who preserved the remains of the Potawatomi village that once occupied the site. Outside is a collection of artifacts salvaged from area shipwrecks. The Washington Island Farm Museum displays farm implements and housewares from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Opportunities to enjoy Washington Island's lush forests, beaches, and rolling hills abound. Percy Johnson County Park has a beach with a view of neighboring Hog Island, plus picnic tables and grills for public use. Gislason Public Beach is great for families, with easy walking trails, a playground, and a picnic area. It's adjacent to Red Barn Park, which offers family events, theatrical productions, and live music. Visitors love kayaking and canoeing around the island, and eco-tours can fill you in on the wonders of the island's rocky coastline.
Washington Island has warm summers and cold winters, with summer temperatures hitting highs in the upper 70s. July and August are when the area is most popular among vacationers, but the locals say September is the secret sweet spot. The weather is still great; the autumn colors are inspiring; and you can grab a Washington Island vacation rental within your budget. Rain is common in the area, but not overwhelming, even in the winter season. Just come prepared with warm clothes and a rain slicker.
The island's landscape hosts all kinds of birds, such as herons, pelicans, and swans. If your Washington Island vacation rental is near a meadow, look for grassland-nesting birds. White-cedar wetlands welcome warblers and vireos. Rock Island State Park, Wisconsin's only island state park, is just a ferry ride away and equipped with beautiful nature trails, a white sand beach, and striking dolomite cliffs. With no cars and no permanent residents, the serenity of the park is enhanced by breathtaking views of the Milky Way on clear nights.
The nearest airport is in Escanaba, MI (ESC-Delta County), located 26.2 mi (42.2 km) from the city center.
Our 2021 property listings offer a large selection of 68 vacation rentals around Washington Island. From 22 cabin rentals to 61 house rentals, find a unique house rental for you to enjoy a memorable holiday or a weekend with your family and friends.