Sister Bay was featured in National Geographic and results (and pictures) were stunning.

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Being right on Lake Michigan, South Haven Michigan has always been a port city. In the late 1800’s the surrounding timber industry gave way to farming, but another industry grew very well here–the resort and tourism industry.

Sandy beaches, lovely lake breezes and a charming downtown still make South Haven a popular summer tourist destination. South Haven is in southwestern Michigan, along Intestate 196 at the mouth of the Black River on the shores of Lake Michigan.

It’s home to about 4300 people and 1100 boats. Do the math –that’s a lot of boats, people!

Watch the full episode at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VVcKSuIWEUo


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Well everybody...BIG NEWS!
Our next chapter begins, check it out here & on your social feeds soon
https://mainstreets.tv/main-streets-shorts/

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Get all the behind-the-scenes stories from Port Washington, WI! Available on your favorite podcast platform or at https://mainstreets.tv/podcast/

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At Cavelier Wine Bar in Port Washington, Kelly Brown shares what makes the community feel welcoming, creative, and deeply connected. While discussing the experience of spending a day in Port Washington, she highlights everything from the local farmers market and lakefront restaurants to the small businesses, artists, and makers that give downtown its personality. She also talks about the importance of creating spaces where visitors can slow down, explore, and feel part of the community.

Kelly also explains how collaboration between local businesses helps shape the atmosphere of the town. At Cavelier Wine Bar, that includes a strong focus on inclusivity through zero proof beverages and options for different dietary needs. Combined with nearby hiking, biking, waterfront views, and a walkable downtown, Port Washington is presented as a place where community support, hospitality, and small business culture all work together to create a memorable experience.

New Episodes drop every Thursday
On Air Thursdays at 7:00pm on @pbswisconsin and @milwaukeepbs
Check your local #PBS listings to find out where it airs across the Midwest or stream on YouTube and the free PBS Video App

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And last but not least... 

Listen in with John, Emmy, Lois and this week's content producer as they talk about the best behind the scenes stories in Port Washington, Wisconsin.

We want to extend a special thank you to all the fans of the show. Thank you for a great 5 seasons!

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Inside the Allen Edmonds factory in Port Washington, decades of craftsmanship connect the company to Hollywood films, Olympic teams, athletes, and world leaders. The factory has created footwear featured in movies like Titanic and Ocean's Eleven, including boots worn by background actors in Titanic’s iconic sinking scenes. Over the years, the company has also crafted boots for Olympic uniforms, specialty footwear for athletes, and even custom shoes for figures like George H. W. Bush.

The conversation also highlights the scale and flexibility of the factory’s craftsmanship. From creating size 20 shoes for Karl-Anthony Towns to producing more than two million pairs of the company’s classic Park Avenue shoe, every pair has been made inside the Port Washington facility. The discussion reflects how traditional manufacturing, attention to detail, and custom sizing continue to make Allen Edmonds a recognizable name in American footwear.

New Episodes drop every Thursday
On Air Thursdays at 7:00pm on @pbswisconsin and @milwaukeepbs
Check your local #PBS listings to find out where it airs across the Midwest or stream on YouTube and the free PBS Video App

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Along the waters of Lake Michigan in Port Washington, fishing charters follow the changing rhythms of the salmon season from spring through fall. Early in the year, anglers focus on coho salmon as they move north through the lake, bringing fast paced action and fish known for being some of the best eating in Lake Michigan. As summer arrives, attention shifts toward king salmon, larger fish prized for their strength, fight, and trophy potential, alongside rainbow trout, brown trout, and lake trout mixed throughout the season.

The experience on the water changes depending on who steps aboard. Families with younger children often visit during the spring and early summer when the fishing is quicker and more active, while experienced anglers wait for the larger king salmon runs later in the season. Charter trips bring together people from all over the country, including families, business groups, reunions, birthday celebrations, and groups of friends, all sharing the experience of spending a day fishing on Lake Michigan.

New Episodes drop every Thursday
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Check your local #PBS listings to find out where it airs across the Midwest or stream on YouTube and the free PBS Video App

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Along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, the historic lighthouse in Port Washington tells the story of the city’s deep connection to maritime life and Great Lakes shipping. Originally rebuilt in 1859 after the first lighthouse proved unstable, the structure later served as Coast Guard housing before being carefully restored by the local historical society. The episode explores how the lighthouse evolved over time, including the reconstruction of its iconic tower with the help of the Duchy of Luxembourg, whose contribution reflected both local Luxembourg heritage and gratitude tied to World War II history.

Inside the lighthouse keeper’s office, the episode also highlights the demanding responsibilities of life on the harbor. Lighthouse keepers tracked ships passing through the port, recorded shipping activity, and helped monitor vessel safety across the lake. With clear views of the water and close relationships with ship captains, the lighthouse became more than just a navigation point. It served as an important communication hub for the region’s maritime community. Today, the restored building stands as both a historical landmark and a reminder of the people who once helped guide life along the Great Lakes.

New Episodes drop every Thursday
On Air Thursdays at 7:00pm on @pbswisconsin and @milwaukeepbs
Check your local #PBS listings to find out where it airs across the Midwest or stream on YouTube and the free PBS Video App

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