The Ozaukee Interurban Trail follows a former electric railway that carried Milwaukee commuters from 1908 to 1951. And this segment, from Mequon to Port Washington’s lakefront, is a snap: It’s a mostly flat, half-day out-and-back at a moderate pace.
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Most of the route is on the paved trail, but the handful of city-street stretches are clearly marked with bike route signs. You’ll traverse farmland, exurbs and the charming downtowns of Thiensville, Grafton and Cedarburg. So shoulder a light backpack and saddle up!
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LENGTH: 30 MILES, ABOUT THREE HOURS OUT AND BACK
START AT THE PARKING LOT behind Mequon Town Hall and head north. Mequon Public Market (eats include sushi, Greek and Thai) is nearby, as is the excellent Foxtown Brewing, but perhaps those are best left for your return.
You’ll tool through Thiensville and an unexpected little woods before arriving in Cedarburg, a cute town that is even more so at the slower speed of a bike tour. Downtown is replete with cafes, restaurants and shops (hence the backpack). Admission to the Cedarburg Art Museum is free if you want to catch a quick eyeful. Cross Cedar Creek into a neighborhood of well-kept homes, then take a right on Bridge Road for a stop at Hefner’s Frozen Custard. (Or save it as an incentive on your ride back.)
Catch the Interurban again from Windsor Drive on your way north to Grafton. Though there is a bypass along First Avenue, take the eastern route into downtown, where you’ll find a cluster of bars and restaurants, including Sahale Ale Works (go for a sour or hazy IPA). Or swing off the trail for a scenic riverside breather at Veterans Memorial Park.
Next is the longest stretch of uninterrupted pedaling, across the Milwaukee River and another (big) bridge, over I-43. When you reach Sunset Road on Port Washington’s outskirts, hang a right and head for Hollander Chocolate Co., which specializes in syrups and powders for coffee; its Tulip Cafe is open Tues-Sun until 3 p.m. daily. Tiramisu mocha latte, anyone?
You’re almost there! After the relief of the route’s biggest downhill (an uphill awaits early on your return), you’ll reach Port Washington’s downtown, a harborside playground of restaurants, bars and parks. (We’re fond of Twisted Willow Restaurant and Inventors Brewpub.) Before you stop for lunch, peel off your shoes and cool your toes in Lake Michigan at South Beach.
