Attractions and Places To See in Ozaukee County - Top 15

Ozaukee County offers several great options for families. You can visit Port Washington with its marina and lighthouse, or explore the natural beauty of Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve, which has accessible trails and stunning Lake Michigan views. The Covered Bridge in Cedarburg is a historic spot perfect for picnics, and the Riveredge Nature Center provides trails and educational programs. For sports fans, the Lakeshore Chinooks baseball team offers family-friendly entertainment at Kapco Park.

For cycling, the Ozaukee Interurban Trail is a 30-mile paved, multi-use path connecting various communities and natural areas. Hikers can enjoy the Lion's Den Trail, which winds through a beautiful forested area, or the extensive trails at Riveredge Nature Center. You can find more hiking options in the guide to Hiking in Ozaukee County.

Ozaukee County is rich in history. The Covered Bridge in Cedarburg, built in 1876, is one of Wisconsin's last surviving covered bridges. You can also explore the restored lime kiln chimneys at Lime Kiln Park in Grafton. The Ozaukee County Pioneer Village in Saukville is a living history museum with over 24 restored buildings from the 1840s to early 1900s. Additionally, the Port Washington Light Station, an 1860 lighthouse, offers a museum and climbable tower.

Absolutely. Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve features stunning bluffs overlooking Lake Michigan and trails to the shoreline. Harrington Beach State Park offers a mile-long sandy beach and 715 acres of natural beauty. The Cedarburg Bog, a National Natural Landmark, is the largest bog in southeastern Wisconsin, providing a refuge for diverse plant and bird species. You can also visit Fairy Chasm Natural Area, known for its deep chasm, and Mequon Nature Preserve with its restored wetlands and observation tower.

The Cedarburg Cultural Center is a central hub for art, music, and history, featuring free art galleries and performance spaces. The Cedarburg History Museum displays collections related to the community's past. Art enthusiasts will also appreciate the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts in Cedarburg, housed in a restored 1850s barn, which hosts exhibitions and workshops. Many art galleries and studios are also scattered throughout the county.

Yes, several attractions in Ozaukee County offer accessibility. Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve has a barrier-free circuit with benches along the paths, providing views of Lake Michigan. Some cafes like Fiddleheads Coffee and Amy's Candy Shop are also noted as wheelchair accessible.

Ozaukee County has several pleasant cafes. You can stop by Colectivo Coffee Mequon for a break. Fiddleheads Coffee is another popular spot, offering plenty of food and drink options with outdoor seating. For those with a sweet tooth, Amy's Candy Shop is also available.

Beyond the well-known spots, consider visiting the Cedar Creek Settlement in Cedarburg, a former 1864 woolen mill now housing specialty shops, galleries, restaurants, and a winery. The Cedar Creek Winery offers daily tours and tastings. Another unique find is the Luxembourg American Cultural Center in Belgium, featuring the Roots & Leaves Immigration Museum in an 1800s Luxembourg-built stone barn.

Ozaukee County offers attractions year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for outdoor activities, enjoying the Lake Michigan coastline, and exploring nature preserves. Fall is particularly stunning, especially along the Lion's Den Trail, as the leaves change colors. Many historical and cultural sites are open throughout the year, making winter a good time to explore indoor attractions and enjoy the festive atmosphere of towns like Cedarburg.

Yes, Ozaukee County's natural areas are excellent for wildlife viewing. The Cedarburg Bog is a significant refuge for many northern plant and bird species. Riveredge Nature Center, with its diverse habitats of prairies, forests, and ponds along the Milwaukee River, is another prime location for observing local wildlife. Mequon Nature Preserve also features restored wetlands and forests, attracting various species.

Beyond visiting the attractions themselves, Ozaukee County offers a range of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, including easy trails like Pleasant Valley Trails and Riveredge Red Loop. For cyclists, there are many road cycling routes, such as the Cedarburg loop or the Historic Cedarburg Mural loop. The Ozaukee Interurban Trail is perfect for a longer bike ride.

Port Washington is a charming town with a lot to offer. It features a beautiful marina, a scenic coast, and a historic lighthouse at the end of an impressive pier. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the town's interesting architecture, dining at waterfront restaurants, and attending local events like Port Fish Days and Music at the West Slip Beer Garden. It's a great spot for relaxing by Lake Michigan.