Washington Island · Door County, WI

Nature Center

Hands-on exhibits, guided nature hikes, and junior naturalist sessions for kids, all summer long on Washington Island.

The Nature Room

The nature room explores the plants, animals, and natural history of Washington Island through hands-on exhibits and displays. Naturalists are available throughout the season to answer questions and guide discovery.
Outside, the ANC grounds include a nature trail through hardwood forest, a pollinator garden, milkweed patch for monarchs, and a pond. Free to explore anytime during open hours.
Plan your visit →
Naturalist explains bee hive display to four children inside a bright nature center room.

Nature on the Island

Mourning Warbler - photo by Monica Novak
Killdeer - photo by Monica Novak
Green Heron - photo by Steve Waldron
Eastern Meadowlark - photo by Monica Novak
Black and White Warber
Kenny feeding the gulls
Junior naturalist holding small snake
For kids all summer

Junior Naturalist Program

The Junior Naturalist program introduces kids to the plants, animals, and natural history of Washington Island through hands-on activities and discovery stations in the nature room.
Junior Naturalist sessions run throughout the summer season. Check the events calendar for upcoming dates and age groups.
see upcoming sessions

Nature activities

Download these free activities and guides for exploring the natural world of Washington Island.

Washington Island Bird Checklist

 A checklist of birds commonly spotted on Washington Island. Perfect for birding walks.
Download PDF →

Junior Naturalist Activity Sheet

Hands-on activities for young naturalists exploring the island's plants and animals.
Coming soon

Nature Scavenger Hunt

Find plants, insects, and animals on the ANC grounds and nature trail.
Coming soon