Washburn Wisconsin is just one of 19 Wisconsin Harbor Towns that you should add to your Wisconsin beach town summer bucket list.
Washburn is known as “The Little Town on the Big Lake.” Most travelers drive right through Washburn on their way to Bayfield without stopping, but I think Washburn deserves attention and a little exploration. There are three historic brownstone buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, arts and culture, some great food options, and a fabulous Wisconsin beach town just waiting for travelers to discover.
This post contains an excerpt from my Wisconsin Harbor Towns: The Ultimate Wisconsin Road Trip Guide. You can order a signed copy here.
Location
Washburn is a simple drive from Ashland, just 11 miles north on Highway 13. It’s almost smack in the middle between Ashland and Bayfield.
Washburn Facts
- Washburn’s founders established it in the late 19th century. Its location significantly influenced its development on Lake Superior because of the logging industry. There were three sawmills operating in Washburn until the early 20th century.
- Washburn is home to the Bayfield County seat.
- Post-logging era, Washburn underwent a transition from a logging-based economy to more diversified industries, including fishing, and more recently, tourism.
- Many buildings in downtown Washburn reflect the architectural styles of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, indicative of the town’s historical prosperity during the logging boom. Construction of many of these historical buildings utilized the “Apostle Brownstone” quarried in the area. These structures often serve as physical reminders of the town’s rich past.
- Today Washburn’s population is 2,055 (2021)
How Much Time To Spend In Washburn
I would suggest spending a day if you want to hit the highlights in Washburn. With its location between Ashland and Bayfield, you can certainly make Washburn your home base if you only have a long weekend or a week to explore the entire area.
Beaches In And Near Washburn
Washburn, Wisconsin, is along the shores of Lake Superior’s Chequamegon Bay. It has several inviting beaches perfect for relaxation and recreation. Here are some notable spots you might consider visiting:
Thompson’s West End Park This family-friendly park features a sandy beach, playground, artesian well, boat launch, fishing piers, and a campground. It’s an ideal location for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying Lake Superior’s scenic views.
Friendly Valley Beach Located just 5 miles north of Washburn, this long, sandy beach offers shallow and warmer waters, making it great for families with children. Its expansive shoreline provides ample space for privacy and relaxation.
Bayview Beach Situated between Washburn and Bayfield along Highway 13, Bayview Beach is part of a continuous stretch of sandy shoreline. Visitors can enjoy soft sands and beautiful lake views. Note that there are no amenities available, so plan accordingly.
Memorial Park This park offers a more rugged, rocky beach experience. It’s a quieter spot, ideal for those seeking a peaceful environment to enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Superior.
Lakeshore Trail Beaches The Lakeshore Trail, stretching from Thompson’s West End Park to the Washburn Marina, features several secluded sandy beaches along its path. These spots are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking amidst a serene setting
Whether you’re looking to swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the tranquil lakeside atmosphere, Washburn’s beaches offer a variety of experiences to suit your preferences.
Things To Do In Washburn
I suggest you stop at the Washburn Area Chamber building when you arrive in town. You will find important information about events happening during your visit. You can also pick up a map to take the Washburn Historic Buildings Tour.
Washburn Highlights
Washburn Historic Buildings Tour
This self-guided tour takes you to nine stops in town. You can see architecture and fine examples of buildings made from local brownstone quarried in the Apostle Island area. Pick up a map before you begin your tour at the Washburn Area Chamber building.
100 West Bayfield Street
washburnchamber.com
Washburn Cultural Center
This center, housed in one of the historic buildings on the Washburn Historic Buildings Tour, showcases local art, history, and cultural exhibits. There’s a museum inside dedicated to local artifacts and history and a gift shop with souvenirs. Make sure you visit the website for hours.
1 East Bayfield Street
washburnculturalcenter.com/work
Catch A Show At StageNorth Theater
StageNorth Groundlings is the local production company that puts on shows ranging from creative original shows to theatrical and Broadway hits.
123 West Omaha Street
stagenorth.com
Washburn Lakeshore Parkway and Walking Trail
This trail, which stretches over a mile and runs along the Lake Superior shoreline, is a popular spot for walkers and hikers. There are three beaches you can access for a dip in the cool lake waters. It’s moderate in ability and there is a section that is wheelchair friendly. Park in West End Park and access the trail from there. The trail runs to the marina and farther into Memorial Park.
Enjoy A Cool Drink Of Water From An Artesian Well
There are two artesian wells at West End Park for you to quench your thirst. You’ll see locals come to fill up water jugs with the pure water.
Thompson’s West End Park
Shopping
Chequamegon Books
What’s more enticing than the scent of books? This bookstore has a collection of new, used, and discounted books. With more than 70,000 books in its inventory, you may find that rare addition you’ve been looking for. You can cozy up with a cup of coffee too.
2 East Bayfield Street
chequamegonbooks.com
ABC Thrift Shop
You know I love thrifting and ABC Thrift is a gem! The prices are fantastic, but bring cash. The store does not accept credit cards. If you’re lucky, you’ll be there for one of the store’s bag sales.
118 East Bayfield Street
Phone: (715) 373-5929
Harbor House Sweets
Who doesn’t love an adorable small town candy shop? Bring a box home for a friend of specially handmade Lake Superior chocolates, or indulge in homemade ice cream and sorbets in the summer. Owner Ginamarie brings a passion for baking and candy making to Washburn.
127 West Bayfield Street
harborhousesweets.com
Ghost Ship Gallery
This artist collective has nine studios and an impressive eclectic gallery space that features the work of over 50 artists from the surrounding community. Did I mention you can also grab a local brew while you soak in the inspirational vibes? This is a must-stop for anyone who appreciates the arts.
318 West Bayfield Street
ghostshipgallery.com
Places To Eat And Drink In Washburn
Coffee and Bakery
Cafe Coco
This bakery and eatery is quite famous in the area. In fact, I sampled the bread when I was staying in Bayfield and was won over! I knew I had to stop. But woman cannot live by bread alone, so owner Noreen offers a delectable array of pastries and desserts, all made from scratch. Her menu offers breakfast, lunch, deli options, and custom cakes, with a focus on accommodating various dietary preferences including gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options. Definitely a must-stop.
146 West Bayfield Street
coconorth.com
Patsy’s Bar & Grill
Patsy’s has been a local favorite for over 30 years, specializing in classic American comfort food. They are renowned for their burgers, which were voted the Best in Bayfield County in 2014 and 2017. The menu also features a popular Friday Fish Fry, sandwiches, soups, and salads, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere with a full-service bar, occasional live music, and a seasonal patio. Don’t be surprised if it’s busy, since it’s one of the local gathering spots.
328 West Bayfield Street
patsysbarandgrill.com
The Fat Radish
This restaurant, known for its cozy and eclectic ambiance, offers a unique farm-to-table dining experience. The menu is quite diverse, featuring American, Indian, Thai, and seafood cuisines, along with Gluten-Free and vegetarian options. Customers have particularly enjoyed dishes like Roasted Vegetables, Eggs Benedict, Lamb Shank, Fish Fry, and Mac. The Fat Radish caters to various dietary needs, making it a suitable choice for a wide range of visitors. The Fat Radish was previously located in nearby Cornucopia.
905 West Bayfield Street
thefatradish.weebly.com
Good Thyme Restaurant & Catering
This restaurant offers artisan cuisine with generous portions in a historic (built in 1898) yellow home. The wrap-around veranda speaks of old time elegance. They are known for their steak, whitefish, and pork shank dishes, as well as a notable brown butter cake dessert. The restaurant has a Friday Fish Fry at night.
77180 State Highway 13
goodthyme.catering
Bars, Wine, and Breweries
South Shore Brewery
The main South Shore Brewery production is right here in Washburn. If you’re thirsty and want to try the brews, there is a taphouse located here. You can order food from a list of local eateries, bring it in and enjoy your beer. I really like the award-winning Nut Brown Ale.
532 West Bayfield
southshorebrewery.com
Sweet Treats
Harbor House Sweets
See above.
Accommodations
There’s not a lot to choose from as far as accommodations go in Washburn. For this reason, you may make Ashland or Bayfield your home base. There are some rental properties available, as well as a few hotels. Here are my suggestions.
Hotels and Bed and Breakfast
The Washburn Inn
The Washburn Inn is known for its clean and comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and a lakeside setting. Guests can choose from a variety of room types including Double Queen, Single Queen, and King Suite, all recently renovated with modern amenities. The hotel also features facilities for disabled guests, free WiFi, free parking, and beachfront access. Nearby, guests can enjoy activities like kayaking on Lake Superior, exploring the Apostle Islands, or attending concerts at the Big Top Chautauqua. For dining, the Harbor Table restaurant offers delightful meals next to the hotel.
128 Harbor View Drive
washburninn.com
Campgrounds
Memorial Park Campground
This city park campground offers sites on a first come, first served basis. They have 50 total sites that are available daily, weekly, and 14 sites, seasonally. All the sites are in a wooded area, some lakeside. There is a dump site, a playground, and most sites have electricity. Because this campground is wooded, it is best for smaller RVs and tent camping.
cityofwashburn.org
Thompson’s West End Park
If you have a larger RV and appreciate sunny camping, then camping in Thompson’s West End Park is a better choice versus Memorial Park. This campground is also first come, first served, and has a swimming beach, playground, and boat launch. West End has 50 electric sites, 17 of them are seasonal. There is also a dump station available. You’ll also find pay showers and flush toilets.
cityofwashburn.org
Birch Grove Campground
Camping here is primitive, with no electric hookups or flush toilets. Tucked between East Twin Lake and West Twin Lake, Birch Grove Campground is a favorite for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The campground is equipped with 16 campsites, each featuring a parking spur, fire ring, picnic table, and tent pad. It can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet. The area is ideal for those who enjoy fishing, as both lakes offer access to anglers looking to catch bass, panfish, and northern pike. Other popular activities include berry picking in late summer and exploring the nearby Moquah Barrens. The campground has no reservation system and operates on a first come, first served basis.
Forest Road 435
