Located just 35 minutes northwest of Milwaukee, the area offers scenic natural landscapes, dog-friendly parks, historical attractions and modern museums, family-friendly festivals and unique restaurants. 

On the drive there, see the spectacular fall colors decorating the hills of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Washington County features award-winning golf courses and more than 1,200 acres of wooded trails, lakes and ponds, trails, and dog parks. The county is an ideal place for recreational activities such as hiking, biking, canoeing, fishing, sledding, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. 

Take a leisurely stroll through a charming downtown area in one of Washington County’s welcoming communities. 

Then visit Richfield Historical Park, a park which includes a farmhouse built in the early 1900s and an 1870s grist mill. 

There is still plenty of golf time at places available in October, like the award-winning Washington County Golf Course and the world-class Erin Hills.

Germantown’s historical Dheinsville Settlement features historic buildings and furnishings from the area’s original German settlers (germantownhistoricalsociety.org). The city’s Bast Bell Museum boasts a collection of more than 5,000 unique bells. 

A “must do” in Washington County is the West Bend Farmers Market! One of the top farmers markets in the state, it is open on Saturdays from 7:30-11am through October. westbendfarmersmarket.com

Jackson, located in the center of Washington County, offers a paradise for birders and other nature lovers at the Jackson Marsh Wildlife Area (villageofjackson.com).   

Just near the Pike Lake Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, Hartford features access to picturesque hikes and a quaint downtown. 

October Events 

Pink Pumpkin Fest | Oct. 1
Food vendors, crafters, and great deals at local downtown Hartford businesses. Fall fun with a pink twist! hartfordchamber.org

Jackson Family Glo Run & Party | Oct. 8
The more you run, the more you glo! Family fun with “glo stations” along the route. Walk or run. All ages groups welcome! jacksonparkrec.recdesk.com

Lac Lawrann Fall Luminary Walk | Oct. 22
Hike the scenic trails of Lac Lawrann lit by beautiful lanterns! visitwestbend.com