door county road trip

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The Full-County Driving Tour: How to Visit the Entire Peninsula & Its Islands

Published January 31, 2021

If the doldrums of winter have you dreaming of packing a bag, hitting the open road, and chasing big-time adventure, Door County should be on your road-trip bucket list.

The Door Peninsula has 19 established communities as well as other small villages, unincorporated towns, and even a few small but visitable islands, all interconnected by the simple (and scenic) Door County Coastal Byway system. Each destination has its own distinct community, culture, and style with its own charms and natural and scenic offerings, but each one is all-but-guaranteed to stoke your interest and inspire your wanderlust.

While Door County’s relative remoteness and scenic wonder are some of its biggest draws, they also mean you’ll need a car, motorcycle, RV, or similar vehicle while you’re up here. Many towns and destinations can be explored by bike, foot, or kayak and others, like the island communities, will require bringing, renting, or chartering a boat.

You’re encouraged to choose your own adventure and explore the county any way that works for your travel style, interests, and timetable. A full-county tour could take you a long weekend or an entire summer—it’s all up to you, and we like to think this ability to mix-and-match-and-remix your trip as you go is a major part of the fun and mystique of Door County.

Interactive Map

Use the interactive map below and the driving resources at the end of this guide to begin dreaming up your road-trip getaway. If the map is too zoomed out, try refreshing your browser window or using the +/- tool in the bottom-left corner of the map.

Door County Destinations

Southern Door As the only land-based entryway into the county, Southern Door and its seven towns serve as the welcome wagon for just about every and any visitor who comes up here. Depending on where you’re coming from, you’ll find yourself heading up the peninsula on either Highway 42 (runs through Forestville on the east side) or Highway 57 (runs through Brussels on the west side).

Brussels: The largest Belgian settlement in the entire country with country roads and farmhouses for scenic drives, Belgian chapels, a Belgian heritage center, traditional food, parks, snowmobiling and ATVing, and plenty of pastoral charm.
Forestville : Run, hike, or bike the Ahnapee State Trail, enjoy open roads and farm-lined highways, golfing, and tons of shoreline for photo ops.

Mid-Peninsula Sturgeon Bay is the next major stop on your list; it’s the largest city on the peninsula and where you’ll find the visitor center, a rich maritime culture, theatre and nightlife, and major stores and services. The area around Sturgeon Bay, including Carlsville, has no shortage of things to do and see and is the physical, cultural, and spiritual gateway to the rest of Door County.

Carlsville: Tiny community that has an outsized number of locally made artisan goods such as coffee, candles, wine, and spirits for sale in its shops, plus plenty of outdoor space for biking, hiking, and scenic drives.
Sturgeon Bay: Small city on a canal with a maritime history and strong shipbuilding culture boasting two state parks (Potawatomi & Whitefish Dunes), lighthouses, a famous steel bridge, a bright red lighthouse, diverse dining options, and three separate shopping districts.

Aerial view of Sturgeon Bay on a sunny, clear day

The Lake Side (East/Lake Michigan) If you take highway 57 out of Sturgeon Bay, stops might include small beach communities, an iconic county park, a quiet and lesser-known state park, two even lesser-known inland lakes, and a trip on Lake Michigan via a boat rental or guided paddling experience. The quieter side of Door County gives you all the water views and the outdoor activities you can handle, minus the bay side’s crowds.

Jacksonport: Uncrowded white-sand beaches, small shops and restaurants, jagged limestone cliffs and shoreline, Cave Point County Park, paddling options, a springtime festival, and a traditional New Year’s Day swim in Lake Michigan.
Cana Island: An island semi-connected to the land via a sandy causeway accessed by foot or hayride. Find a scenic lighthouse, hiking trail, lake and shoreline views, and a serene setting. Bring water shoes if you plan to walk in.
Baileys Harbor: A sanctuary for beer and food lovers as well as nature enthusiasts, kayakers, hikers, birders, anglers, and boaters. Find The Ridges Sanctuary, Moonlight Bay Bedrock Beach, Toft Point, Mud Lake State Wildlife Area, Kangaroo Lake Preserve, and more.

Northern Door Northern Door is in many ways where Door County’s real wilderness and outdoor adventure begin. In addition to secluded lakeside communities to explore, here’s where travelers can find multiple islands accessible only by boat or ferry, shoreline-hugging hiking trails, coves and bluffs and rocky outcroppings to explore, snorkeling and shipwreck-diving opportunities, and two of Wisconsin’s most remote and physically stunning state parks.

Rowleys Bay: Unspoiled natural beauty and wilderness adventure at the Mink River Estuary and the southern shores of Newport State Park. Birding and wildlife viewing, paddling, fishing, and zip lining as well as traditional fish boils at the resort.
Plum Island: Charter a boat or take your own to this publicly accessible island just north of the peninsula’s tip. Bring diving gear or a kayak to view historic shipwrecks through crystal-clear water, hike miles of unbelievably beautiful shoreline, enjoy a secluded picnic, search for birds in the wildlife refuge, and relax in the island vibes of this hidden-away paradise.

Aerial view of Plum Island shoreline with a historic house

Washington Island: Take a ferry from the mainland to this 100-square mile island—cars, bikes, and kayaks are all welcome aboard. Once there, drive or bike to an extremely rare stone beach, lavender farms, casual island dining, a bitters bar, a magical replica Norwegian stave church in the forest, tree-lined backroads, and wide-open highways.
Rock Island: A taste of the island life, an awe-inspiring Icelandic-style boathouse, primitive camping, hiking trails, secluded beaches, historic buildings, and Wisconsin’s oldest lighthouse.
Ellison Bay: The Clearing Folk School, towering limestone bluffs along the shoreline, the overlook at Ellison Bluff County Park, Newport State Park, and an old-fashioned candy store.

Gills Rock: A quaint and quirky lakeside fishing village serving as a jumping-off point for island adventures. Featuring Jens Jensen’s famously windy road, a maritime museum, views of bluffs and jagged shoreline, sunsets, shipwreck diving, lake-inspired food, and views of Death’s Door.

The Bay Side (West/Green Bay) The west side of the peninsula is considered the livelier, more social side of Door County. Here’s where you’ll find vibrant food and drink scenes, larger downtown areas, live music and performing arts, vacation resorts and communities, ample parks and greenspaces, and plenty of family-friendly attractions. Most of these towns are highly walkable and offer a quintessential Door County experience.

Egg Harbor: A favorite town on the peninsula for dining, drinking, nightlight, and culture of all sorts, a beautiful new public marina and beach, a trendy and ever-evolving downtown, local artisan goods, clothing and gear shops, craft beer, golfing, and beloved festivals.
Juddville: A charming, tiny town near it all. Stop here for farm markets and farm stands, an art gallery, peace and quiet for relaxation and recharging, art opportunities, and gorgeous countryside for biking or driving through.
Ephraim: Historic charm and a quiet respite from the social hubs surrounding it. Come here for motorcycling and biking, fine arts, the very photogenic Hardy Gallery, fish boils, and historical sites.

Fall-time view of the quaint Ephraim shoreline

Fish Creek: Many people consider Fish Creek to be the hub of social life in the county. Find Peninsula State Park, outdoor theater, performing arts, silent sports, music and nightlife, one-of-a-kind shopping, hiking and biking, loads of art galleries, restaurants, bars and cafes, and even more.
Sister Bay: A foodie must-stop. A huge array of cuisines, styles, and price points are available, and al fresco dining is the rule, not the exception, in summer and late fall. The downtown area offers dozens of local shops, food and coffee stops, and a public waterfront with a marina, beach, and plenty of sunset-watching spots.
Chambers Island: Getting to this island seven miles offshore will require some advanced research and planning and a zest for adventure. Visit a historic lighthouse, hike or bike one of several trails, relax on the beach with rare views of the mainland, and kayak-accessible inland lake with two of its own islands.
Horseshoe Island: This tiny island situated a mile offshore of Peninsula State Park offers a serene and unique setting. Ambitious visitors will find the 1-mile Engelmar Trail that circles the island, ruins of 19th century houses, birding and wildlife-viewing opportunities, a public boat dock, and top-notch trout fishing. Some highly experienced kayakers will reach the island by paddling from the mainland, but most people rent or charter a motor boat.

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Road Trip Itinerary: A Long Weekend in Door County, Wisconsin

Posted By: Guest Author August 13, 2012

Sunset at Fish Creek

I needed to get away for just a few days. Somewhere rich in natural beauty, good shopping, delicious food and low stress. Door County, Wisconsin fit the bill perfectly. Since this trip was spur of the moment, I turned to Door County’s excellent tourism website, www.doorcounty.com to find a place to stay and then I hit the road with my sister and her grandchildren in tow.

Book Your Stay

Find family-friendly accommodations in Door County, Wisconsin from traditional hotels to private vacation rentals through Stay22.com:

Natural beauty abounds. Lake Michigan has sculpted amazing cave and inlets, depositing sand and stone making for stunning beaches. Visit Cave Point County Park to view the wind caves carved out of the limestone cliffs by strong winds. Cave Point, is actually surrounded on three sides by Whitefish Dunes State Park , and by Lake Michigan on the fourth. Whitefish Dunes offers a mile of white sand beach and the highest sand dunes in Wisconsin.

Seaquist Orchards Farm Market , on Hwy 42 in Sister Bay grows famous Door County cherries and apples. When the apple harvest is in, the scent of apples greets you at the door. Today, I smell something freshly baked. A cherry pie, maybe? A wedge of cherry deliciousness is reasonably priced and generously sized. Beautiful red cherry jams and jellies appear like precious jewels in the bright, sunlit store. Seaquist’s produces many of their own products locally. Free samples, too. A new customer-friendly processing plant, along with seasonal displays and kid activities, makes this a destination stop.

Door County Car Wash at Gill’s Rock

Gills Rock makes the most of its fishing heritage, offering delicious and fresh smoked fish, along with spectacular natural water shows, when the waves come crashing over the edge of the breakwater. You can see in this photo why some people call the parking lot near the Shoreline Restaurant the “Door County Car Wash”.

From Gills Rock, we head over three short miles toward Jacksonport for the ferry to Washington Island. On a windy day, you can get a sense of why this passage way was called “Port des Mortes,” or “Death’s Door” by the French fur traders. Drive yourself around the island, or leave your car on the mainland and take the Cherry Train, a guided ride around the island with a narrated history of the Island. You will have plenty of opportunities to see the island, visit historic places, like the Jacobsen Museum, filled with fascinating artifacts going back the the earliest days of the French trappers.

Time to explore “the quiet side”, along Hwy 57. First stop is to indulge in sesame-encrusted Corsica bread from the delightful Door County Bakery . This European-style bakery, cafe, deli and wine shop is surrounded by charming little gardens and is definitely worth a visit.

Ephriam Harbor

Next stop is Schopf’s Dairy Farm. Located on County I at the North end of Sturgeon Bay , this busy dairy farm has cute little goats, calves and piglets on display and a kid’s play area. Schopf’s features an engaging and hands-on display that brief explains dairy farming, with a plaster cow and a working milking device. A window to a milking station shows the real thing in action. Schopf’s also makes their own delicious ice cream daily. Calories don’t count today!

Sister Bay, Ephraim, Fish Creek and Egg Harbor make for a delightful drive homeward. Breakfast at Al Johnson’s in Sister Bay, is a must for any first-time visitor. The goats on the grass roof watch us as we wait outside. Inside, we indulge in the Swedish cherry-topped pancakes and other delights. Sister Bay is known for excellent dining and wonderful shopping. The town’s shoreline boasts a beautiful sand beach and great view.

Goat Munching on the Grass Roof at Al Johnson’s

Domicile in Sister Bay houses a wonderful collection of art and handcrafts created solely by Wisconsin artisans. Unique, unusual and local. Ephraim boasts a gift shop that is worth a stop. The Rusty Rabbit offers high quality art and gifts to satisfy many tastes in a beautifully renovated old house in an fairytale-like setting.

Our final stop is Cooper’s Corner to shop at Fat Louie’s Olive Oil Company . I promise myself that next time I will eat here! The sun sets as we drive through Fish Creek. And, yes, you should visit for the sunsets, too. The beauty of Door County was just enough to soothe our souls, treat ourselves and not break the bank.

Thanks to the fabulous Julie Ravely for this suggested itinerary.

A summer road trip guide to Wisconsin’s Door County, the Cape Cod of the Midwest

Hear the squeak of fresh cheese curds and immerse yourself in the region’s Scandinavian roots at these 7 must-see stops

By Leandra Beabout

Wisconsin’s idyllic lake communities are sometimes overlooked in favor of Milwaukee brew tours or a visit to Green Bay’s Lambeau Field. But venture outside the urban centers and you’ll discover charming road trip destinations that feel straight out of a summer camp postcard.

Take Door County, for instance. Comparing this upper Wisconsin region to Cape Cod is a tale as old as time. The peninsula and its outlying islands dotted with hydrangea-festooned cottages are home to crystalline waters, balsam fir forests, and oodles of outdoor recreation opportunities for families. So what makes the region worth the effort of venturing into the heart of the Midwest? Its affordability compared to the Cape, unique Scandinavian roots, central location, and more.

From south to north, here’s a roundup of places you won’t want to miss on your road trip through Door County.

cheese curds, sausages and olives on a white background

1. Renard’s Cheese

The journey begins with a sampling of Wisconsin’s most iconic food: cheese curds. At Renard’s Cheese in Sturgeon Bay, sink your teeth into curds made by Chris Renard, a certified Master Cheesemaker since 2014. Tradition runs deep at this third-generation family-owned shop, which serves up classic cheddar cheese curds alongside fun innovations like whip string cheese—long, thin strands of salty mozzarella.

While families are welcome to stock up on cheese snacks and fudge for the campsite, they can also stop and stay awhile at Renard’s. Browse the shop, pick out some Door County souvenirs, and belly up to the bistro counter to order a hot grilled cheese made with squeaky curds (the squeakier the sound , the fresher the curd). Immersive factory tours are scheduled to resume in 2023.

Related Eat cheese like a local at these 8 stops along the Wisconsin Cheese Trail

a grey barn with white trim with black lettering painted on the side that reads "est. 1917 horseshoe bay farms"

2. Horseshoe Bay Farms

Horseshoe Bay Farms is no ordinary roadside stop. Part historic relic, part immersive agricultural showpiece, the 8.5-acre complex in Egg Harbor includes dahlia and vegetable gardens, along with several century-old farm structures that once represented the ultimate in modern technology of their day.

After lying dormant for years, the heritage site was reestablished in 2017. Now, for a small donation, visitors can enjoy an intimate look at the rich history of Door County with tours led by executive director Drew Richmond. It’s a must-see stop for anyone interested in history or agriculture.

a wooden walkway overlooks a body of water

3. Peninsula State Park

While heading north through Door County, you’re bound to come across Peninsula State Park . The sprawling green space includes views of glittering Green Bay, thick green forest crisscrossed with hiking and biking trails, and an 850-foot, fully wheelchair-accessible canopy walk up to the top of Eagle Tower.

If you’re lucky enough to snag a campsite in July or August, enjoy an evening at the park’s Northern Sky Theater, where professional actors entertain with family-friendly performances under a blanket of stars—but don’t forget to bring the bug spray.

Related From tobogganing to spelunking: Wild and weird experiences await at these state parks

a structure painted in bright colors sits next to the water with boats under a blue sky

4. The Hardy Gallery

Art galleries don’t have to be stuffy. Pull up to The Hard y , and you’ll see why. The graffiti-scribbled building next to the water in the town of Ephraim is an art piece itself, providing a plethora of angles for fun selfies.

Inside, you’ll find a gallery chockablock with colorful artwork from residents of Door County. It’s the perfect place to invest in community art or set up an easel and try “en plein air” painting. And if the gallery only whets your appetite for artsy treasures, keep shopping across the street at Anderson House Workbench , an eclectic collection of gifts and goods.

a goat on a sod-covered roof under a bright blue sky

5. Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant in Sister Bay

No road trip through Door County is complete without a meal at Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant , where the region’s Scandinavian roots remain on full display. From Swedish pancakes with lingonberry sauce to Swedish meatballs, Al Johnson’s offers a true smorgasbord of Scandi fare. Even the servers dress up in red and white traditional Swedish dresses. Heritage aside, what attracts many first-time diners to Al Johnson’s are the goats on the roof. In fair weather, snag an outside table to watch the resident animals munch away at the lofty sod.

an elaborate stavkirke structure surrounded by greenery

6. Washington Island Stavkirke

Here’s where the journey through Door County gets even more fun. Take coastal byway Highway 42T to Northport Pier on the northeast tip of the Door County peninsula. Park your vehicle or drive it aboard the ferry (for a fee) and get ready for a soothing ride past Plum Island and onward to Washington Island.

Once you’ve got your land legs again, visit the Washington Island Stavkirke , a tranquil roadside stop built in the style of the 1150 ACE Church of Staves in Borgund, Norway. Breathe in the aroma of the carved wood interior, then stroll through the quiet, dense woods around it. Visiting this homage to Door County’s Scandinavian culture feels like stumbling into an old Viking village.

a lavender farm with purple and white flowers and a white bench under a blue sky

7. Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm and Shop

This last must-see stop on Washington Island will delight fans of aromatherapy. Fragrant Isle boasts a working lavender farm, restaurant, and gift shop. On a hot summer day, adults can relax with a lavender-infused wine slushy after roaming the picture-perfect purple fields. And the whole family will love the fragrance overload of experiencing the late-summer steam distillation process that’s open to the public.

Meet the Author

Leandra Beabout

Leandra Beabout is a travel and lifestyle writer who left her job as a reporter to pursue the freelance life. When she's not chasing sunshine on the road, she lives in Goshen, Indiana.

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A Door County Weekend Road Trip

Post last modified: February 27, 2021
Post category: Itineraries / North America / Overnighters / Wisconsin

Door County is a great Wisconsin getaway for a short weekend road trip. A weekend in Door County is filled with unique experiences, delicious food and quiet living. We’ve created our perfect two day itinerary for you to follow in order to get the most out of your trip to Door County.

Door County is surrounded on all sides by the majestic Lake Michigan. These 300 miles of shorelines make for some amazing views and charming lakeside towns. Therefore, we recommend visiting Door County in the summer for the pleasant weather and the fall for the fall colors (end of June through early October).

Where to Stay?

We love camping in Door County as the county is home to several State and County parks. There are also several private campgrounds to choose from as well. We love camping in Peninsula State Park . If you’re looking to stay in less rustic accommodations, Door County is filled with many adorable Bed and Breakfasts, resorts and AirBnBs . Additionally, you can always stay in a hotel as well but we’d recommend the charm of more local accommodations.

Friday Night

Make your way to Door County on Friday night. Eat dinner in Sturgeon Bay and make sure to stop for drinks at Starboard Brewing Company .

Day 1 – North Island

During your Door County weekend, you can explore the entire island by following the Door County Costal Byway in a circle around the island. We like staying in Peninsula State Park, so we start our weekend with the North side of the County. Depending on where you’re staying the night, you can adjust what you do each day to do eliminate extra driving time. On your first day, complete the top part of the loop.

For your first stop, explore Peninsula State Park. Take in the beautiful views of lake Michigan. We love taking a walk on some of the hiking trails or going for a bike ride through the park. Whatever you decide to do, it’s definitely worth a stop.

Next, stop in Sister Bay for brunch at Al Johnson’s . The Swedish pancakes there are delicious. However, the real treat is stopping to see the goats on the roof. The goats walk and graze on the grass rooftop of the restaurant.

Al Johnson's Swedish Pancakes - Door County

Check out Grand View Park before heading into Ellison Bay. On your way out of Ellison Bay, check out the wilderness of Newport State Park .

Your next stop will be Gills Rock. Continue on to Northport. On your way there, make sure to slow down and snap a picture of the windiest road on the island. This is the famous road that you see in most pictures of Door County and is worth the wait for the perfect picture as you’re heading north. Hop out of the car at Northport and take in the views of Washington Island.

Looking for a great place to eat? Check out our list of great food in Door County.

Day 2 – south island.

Make your first stop Fish Creek. Hop out here and take a walk through the cute shops and parks in town.

Next, Head south to Egg Harbor. On your way there, stop for a sampling of local treats at Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market . In Egg Harbor, stretch your legs in the local shops and find something truly Wisconsin.

Explore more of the Door County Wine Trail! Check out our full post on all the wineries here.

Continue your loop around the island and head to Jacksonport following the Door County Costal Byway. Detour off the Byway to visit Cave Point County Park and Whitefish Dunes State Park for some more views of Lake Michigan coastline.

On your way back to your accommodations, check out Cana Island lighthouse. Additionally, i f you’re looking for a sweet treat for dinner, check out Wilson’s Restaurant and Ice Cream Parlor in Ephraim.

Want to Adjust the Itinerary?

Door County is one of those charming places where time slows down. You could easily spend an entire week in Door County relaxing. If that appeals to you, do it! However, we’d recommend just adding more time to your visit and filling your extra days with whatever you feel like doing and enjoying the slow pace of island life. If you have less time, you could easily spend just one day in Door County. However, we’d recommend just choosing one or two things to do as you won’t be able to drive the complete loop and make all the stops. Instead focus your one day in the specific area you want to spend your time.

If you want to add your meal stops to your itinerary, our list of amazing things to eat in Door County will help you plan your weekend.

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A Four-Day Road Trip Through Door County, Wisconsin

Exploring hundreds of miles of enchanting shoreline along lake michigan .

Road map of Door County peninsula in Wisconsin with a road trip route highlighted, and the Cana Island Lighthouse near Baileys Harbor

Elaine Glusac,

A popular peninsula in eastern Wisconsin piercing Lake Michigan , Door County is blessed with 300 miles of shoreline easily explored by car, mostly on two-lane roads that never take you more than a few miles from the water. On this four-day road trip — a memorable mix of coastal and countryside drives — make a scenic loop around this slender jewel, which is 70 miles long and just 18 miles wide at its base. You’ll pass bucolic family farms and cherry orchards that intersperse cliff-hugging state parks, photogenic lighthouses and intimate resort towns with quaint shops, farm-to-table dining and cozy inns. The county’s appeal defies its deterring namesake, “ Porte des Mortes ,” or “Death’s Door,” for the treacherous passage between its tip and offshore Washington Island.

The Door County Maritime Museum in Gills Rock, Wisconsin

Day 1: Green Bay to Sturgeon Bay (70 miles)

Setting out northeast from the city of Green Bay at the bottom of the peninsula, State Highway 57 mostly hugs Green Bay (an arm of Lake Michigan) and introduces the rolling farmland for which the region is famed. About half an hour in, stop to taste (and savor) the signature 2-year-aged cheddar at Renard’s Artisan Cheese, made from locally sourced milk. Just before you reach Sturgeon Bay, the county’s largest city (population 9,700), detour north 2½ miles on Park Drive to Potawatomi State Park , home of the eastern terminus of the Ice Age Trail, a 1,000-mile hiking path that winds its way through the state, tracing the ice-sculpted landscape left behind 12,000 years ago when the glaciers retreated. On its first few miles, stretch your legs on a level, hard-packed, former railroad bed along the Sturgeon Bay inlet, part of a channel that crosses the peninsula.

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That channel helped establish Sturgeon Bay as the shipbuilding hub of Lake Michigan, one subject of the Door County Maritime Museum in town. Take a guided tour of the 1919 tugboat John Purves that formerly worked on the lake and served in Alaska during World War II with a 13-man crew (quarters are tight, and the tours include stairs to the engine room).

Spring for a steak or walleye at Donny’s Glidden Lodge, a stone-and-wood-built classic supper club with panoramic lake views about 12 miles northeast, mostly via State Highway 57.

Where to stay: In Sturgeon Bay, all 38 suites at the modestly priced Westwood Shores Waterfront Resort come with a kitchen and gas log fireplace, providing residential comfort perfect for multigenerational travel. Another plus for families: swimming pools, indoor and (seasonally) outdoors.

Wilson's Restaurant and Ice Cream Parlor in Ephraim, Door County, Wisconsin

Day 2: Sturgeon Bay to Sister Bay (41 miles)

Continuing along Door’s bayside, State Highway 42 and smaller tributary lanes string together a series of small towns, beginning with Egg Harbor, roughly 17 miles north of Sturgeon Bay. There, the intriguing gift shop Chief Oshkosh Native American Arts sells local and Indigenous crafts (various Native American tribes inhabited this land long before European settlers arrived). If you need a bite to eat, drop into MacReady Artisan Breads for a loaf studded with Door County cherries, or stay for a Wisconsin cranberry chicken salad on homemade French bread.

About 7 miles north, Fish Creek, an original timber and fishing settlement, is another walkable town (most are invitingly level) with a bustling marina and shop-lined main street. Take in a guided tour of the Alexander Noble House Museum , an 1875 Greek Revival farmhouse (the main floor is accessible to those in wheelchairs and walkers, but not the second). There you can pick up a copy of a self-guided tour to more than 20 historic buildings in town (there’s also a free audio tour). The artistic seat of Door County, Fish Creek is home to several cultural attractions, including the popular Peninsula Players Theatre, where an 87-year-old professional company performs June through October (with wheelchair-accessible seating).

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Next, spend some time in neighboring Peninsula State Park , a nearly 3,800-acre knob of forest edged in limestone cliffs. Stop to snap a photo of the 1868 Eagle Bluff Lighthouse. From the popular 60-foot-high Eagle Tower, spy panoramic views of the surrounding waterfront and smell the sun-warmed pines; climb 100 steps or take an 850-foot accessible walk that winds its way up at an angle of 5 percent or less, with benches for resting along the way.

On the park’s north side, in Ephraim, grab a root beer float (the soda’s home-brewed) at the 1906 favorite Wilson’s Restaurant and Ice Cream Parlor, and take it five blocks north to the Anderson Dock, a landmark boathouse graffitied by sailors and tourists since the 19th century.

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Catch sunset with a stroll or a sit along the 1,900 feet of public waterfront at neighboring Sister Bay, then return to Fish Creek for a fish-boil dinner. Such feasts are a local tradition dating back to the late 19th century, when fish and potatoes were boiled in a vat to feed large numbers of Scandinavian immigrant workers. Watching the flames and the signature “boilover” of water into them has long entertained diners at the 1896-vintage White Gull Inn.

Where to stay: The Dörr, a 47-room hotel in Sister Bay, draws on the region’s Nordic heritage with bright minimalist interiors and wood finishes (ADA-compliant rooms are available). Welcoming Adirondack chairs ring firepits on the front lawn seasonally.

Door County, Wisconsin, Green Bay, Boardwalk and tourist, near sunset.

Day 3: Sister Bay to Baileys Harbor (41 miles)

Don’t leave Sister Bay first thing. Instead, start your day with lingonberry-topped pancakes at Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant & Butik, famous for the goats that graze its sod roof by day (they spend their nights — and the winter — safely in a nearby barn). Then browse unique shops selling garden goods, gourmet foods and housewares.

Back on State Highway 42, just past tiny Ellison Bay, stop at The Clearing Folk School, established in 1935 by the renowned Danish-born landscape architect Jens Jensen. The school offers classes and welcomes visitors to browse its art-filled gift store and walk the paths of its wooded campus (two-hour docent-led walks take place Saturdays and Sundays May through October). The terrain is rugged in places, and sturdy walking shoes are recommended.

The sleepy fishing town of Gills Rock, 5 miles farther north on 42, marks the northern tip of the Door, a tranquil place to escape the crowds and take in the water views. Then, descend Door County by roughly following the peninsula’s lakeside, a.k.a. the quiet side. In the north, Newport State Park offers access to beaches and forest trails over 11 miles of shoreline. Paved paths from the parking lots near the entrance easily reach the beach at Newport Bay, where Lake Michigan audibly laps the shore, making for a pleasant experience even for the visually impaired.

Doubling back to Ellison Bay, take a rural drive south on Mink River Road to county roads ZZ and Q, and follow signs to the Cana Island Lighthouse near Baileys Harbor. You can reach the region’s most iconic beacon, located on a nearby offshore island, via a hay wagon pulled by a tractor across shallow water May through October. It’s a precipitous 97-step spiral staircase to the top of the 89-foot attraction, but most fans are content with views and photos from the ground.

Hit Baileys Harbor for a waterfront dinner at Harbor Fish Market & Grille, with outdoor seating in season. Try the local whitefish (highly esteemed and priced accordingly).

Where to stay: The affordable, family-friendly, 20-room Beachfront Inn has its own beach (and pool). Request a first-floor room if you have mobility issues; second-floor rooms require walking up stairs.

North Pierhead Lighthouse, at the mouth of the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal

Day 4: Baileys Harbor to Sturgeon Bay (28 miles)

Head south about 10 miles along lakeside State Highway 57 and North Cave Point Drive to Cave Point County Park , where the crystal-clear water meets the peninsula’s limestone base along 900 feet of shoreline. The ground is uneven, and paths often have exposed tree roots, but you can view the lake from the parking lot to avoid these obstacles. For beach access, make the short drive to adjoining Whitefish Dunes State Park , which preserves a vital ecosystem of dunes and grasses.

Continue 15 miles south to close the Door County loop, making your final stop the North Pierhead Light at the mouth of the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal. A popular must-see for its bright-red color, get a good view of it from the break wall. It fronts a working U.S. Coast Guard station.

Chicago-based freelancer Elaine Glusac writes the Frugal Traveler column for The New York Times .

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The Ultimate Guide to Door County's Charming Towns and Islands

Without giving up on sweet cherry wine and fish boils, the legendary peninsula has discovered its cool side. We'll show you where to find it—town by picturesque town.

Lauren Sieben is a freelance writer and journalist in Milwaukee. A native of the Chicago suburbs, Lauren has also lived and worked in Iowa, Spain and Washington, D.C. She now resides in (and writes about) Milwaukee.

A full moon hangs overhead as I drive toward the northern tip of Door County. I've come to spot stars—the real kind . One of only 195 places in the world designated an International Dark Sky Park, Newport State Park is one of the Midwest's prime destinations for catching constellations, shooting stars and other astronomical wonders. They're not kidding about the darkness.

Even with my car's headlights on, I have to strain my eyes to see the road. Once I arrive, I quickly park and kill the engine. The moon, shining like a stadium light over Lake Michigan, has technically sullied the view. But to my city-dweller eyes, the sky is still inky and clear. I walk a path to the lake and can tell the location of other people only by their voices.

Waves lap at an invisible shoreline as I approach the water; everything feels vast and boundaryless in the dark. I'm suddenly minuscule, sandwiched between the lake before me and the blinking stars above. This version of Door County is a world away from the one I entered earlier in the day, with bumper-to-bumper traffic stretching from Egg Harbor to Sister Bay, the peninsula's tourism epicenter. If you vacationed here as a kid, you probably remember Sister Bay because of Al Johnson's —the Swedish breakfast-lunch spot with goats grazing on a grass roof. In the last few years, the log-cabin restaurant has expanded its empire across an entire block facing the bay. A sprawling beer garden offers lawn games and bar food, and a polished gift shop sells Marimekko wares and hygge home decor alongside branded Al Johnson's hoodies. Visitors who haven't traveled to Door County since the early aughts might not recognize it today. You can still find the lace doilies and cherry pie, but you'll also discover businesses that cater to a new generation of vacationers— you're never too far from a hoppy IPA on tap, vegetable forward small plates or a stylish Airbnb.

Once-sleepy towns like Egg Harbor and Baileys Harbor buzz with cafes and breweries. Ephraim, a famously dry village until 2016, is now home to bars and restaurants serving natural wine and craft beer. You can escape into a remote oasis at rentals like the quirky Binkhaven property in Ephraim—a vintage Nordic cottage surrounded by 13 acres of hardwood forest. The northern outposts of Ellison Bay and Gills Rock remain blissfully quiet. But the beauty of Door County is that you don't have to choose between the charm of yore and the chic attractions of today, or between bustle and serenity. The taprooms and fine dining coexist with the sunsets, lakefront trails, clear night skies and moments that transcend time.

So pick your flavor: A farm-to-table feast on the patio of a restored farmhouse while you sip a handcrafted cocktail? Or stargazing with the crickets in the obscurity of Newport State Park ? For me, that's easy—I'll take both.

Village by Village

Flanked by Lake Michigan on the east and Green Bay to the west, Door County stretches for 70 miles. Here's your guide to the towns along the peninsula's principal arteries—Highways 42 and 57.

Sturgeon Bay

The Vibe: The region's gateway has a more industrial feel—but also charming, old-timey storefronts.

Eat + Drink: Grab a cherry scone at 5&J Coffee House or a lavender latte at L awlss Coffee and peruse the nearby art gallery. Bluefront Cafe serves the best lunch in town, with indulgent vegetarian options like the Portobello Reuben and the Brie sandwich with cherry jam.

Do: On Saturday mornings, the Farm and Craft Market pops up in Market Square with produce, baked goods and handmade items. Grab a pint at downtown's Starboard Brewing Company , Door County's first nanobrewery.

The Vibe: No longer just the town you pass on your way north, Egg Harbor buzzes with shops and dining.

Eat + Drink: One Barrel Brewing from Madison opened a taproom here with a massive beer garden and cozy firepits. Soak up your brew with a wood-fired pizza from Pizza Bros next door—pick from a menu of classic pies or build your own. Take your taste buds to NoLa at Big Easy Bagel and Beignet , serving sugardusted beignets. Or dine on traditional Spanish tapas like Patatas Bravas and garlic shrimp at Parador for dinner.

Do: Pick up a bottle of whiskey at Hatch Distilling Company or browse shops selling fine cheese, olive oil and gifts. On Friday mornings, shop the Farmers Market at Harbor View Park, a great place to later watch the sunset.

The Vibe: You're getting into the thick of things now, with scenic Peninsula State Park and a downtown full of bars, restaurants and boutiques.

Stay: The newly renovated motel rooms at Cedar Court Inn offer unbeatable proximity to downtown at a modest rate, or reserve one of their roomier suites or cottages for extra amenities like a fireplace or kitchen.

Eat: Highlights include Barringer's for a white-tablecloth dinner (don't skip the decadent layered carrot cake) or pizza at the original Wild Tomato location. In the morning, head to Fika Bakery and Coffeehouse for the drool-worthy case of pecan sticky buns and gooey cinnamon rolls. Order a custard sundae at Not Licked Yet Frozen Custard , where a secret sanctuary behind the parking lot offers excellent views of the herons and ducks in Fish Creek.

Do: Sprawling Peninsula State Park is one of the area's most popular destinations. Anticipate a crowd on the weekends—and for good reason. Attractions include a lighthouse, bike trails, a sand beach, an outdoor theater, an 18-hole golf course, kayak rentals.

The Vibe: A tiny bayside town of 345 residents delivers big with sublime sunsets and fine food.

Stay: Take your pick of many traditional B&B's, or book Binkhaven , a cabin that sleeps up to seven and is memorably adorned with Norwegian rosemaling—a floral, folkloric painting technique.

Eat + Drink: Put your name in for a table at Trixie's for natural wines and small plates like flaming saganaki cheese and chicken liver mousse. While you wait, sip a craft brew at nearby Bad Moravian . Or keep it classic and order carryout from longtime favorite Wilson's Restaurant and Ice Cream to eat at a picnic table across the street, overlooking the sparkling bay.

Do: On summer Mondays, the Evenings in Ephraim Concert Series features local musicians. BYO blanket or lawn chair and stick around to see colors paint the sky.

The Vibe: Little village, lots to do. The busiest strip in the peninsula draws families, couples and revelers with its quaint waterfront (and cute goats).

Stay: Make your home base in one of the minimalist-posh guest rooms at The DÖrr Hotel downtown. Nosh on a grab-and-go breakfast on your private patio, then pick up beach chairs and a cooler from the gear room before heading across the street for sunbathing and swimming in the bay.

Eat + Drink: Watch the goats munching on the grass roof at Al Johnson's before chowing down on Swedish pancakes with lingonberries. Build your own charcuterie board at the peninsula's newest wine destination, Twelve Eleven Wine Bar , where the back patio opens up into a bucolic wooded prairie. When you're ready for dinner, choose among steak, seafood, pizza, Mexican, bar grub and more—you've got many options.

Do: Play a game or two at Sister Bay Bowl, but brush up on the basics before you arrive; bowlers keep score by hand at this old-school alley. You'll feel like it's Christmas in July at Tannenbaum Holiday Shop while browsing ornaments on trees organized by theme (including zoo animals, sweets and snowmen).

Ellison Bay

The Vibe: Removed from crowds, this quietly cool village warrants the drive nearly to the end of the peninsula.

Eat + Drink: Pop into Island Orchard Cider for ferments made from local apples and pears. If you only splurge on one upscale dinner, do it at Wickman House . Seasonal dishes like Sunchoke Farroto, Blackened Carrots with tomato jam and spicy Fishmonger Stew will linger in your memory longer than they do on your plate.

Do: Get into the fresh air at Ellison Bay Bluff County Park , where a walkway leads to a scenic overlook and limestone bluffs. On a rainy day, browse the dense shelves at William Caxton Ltd. Books , complete with that irresistible old-book smell.

The Vibe: The tourism bug hasn't yet bitten this tiny commercial fishing hub.

Eat: Charlie's Smokehouse , a 90-year-old family fish business, sells some of the best smoked fish in Door County. Get there early before they sell out of popular options like Atlantic salmon and whitefish.

Do: Embark on a Shoreline Scenic Cruises and Charter boat ride that departs from Gills Rock. Themed excursions include a lighthouse tour or a shipwreck sail.

Baileys Harbor

The Vibe: The place to be on the peninsula's east side swaps sunsets over Green Bay for sunrises over Lake Michigan.

Eat + Drink: Door County Brewing Company has an outdoor stage for live music and serves year-round favorites like Pallet Jack Cruiser and Vacationland. Book a table for the New England-style lobster boil at Harbor Fish Market and Grille , or enjoy Neapolitan pizza at Clover and Zot with yard games overlooking the lake.

Do: Drive south for a beach day and a hike at Whitefish Dunes State Park . On your way in, stop at Cave Point County Park to admire the limestone cliffs—a geological masterpiece created from erosion over the last 400 million years.

Island Time

Discover Door County beyond the mainland.

Washington Island

Take a car ferry from the tip of the peninsula to visit Schoolhouse Beach, Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm and Stavkirke—an ornate church modeled after an ancient one in Norway built in 1150.

Rock Island

From Washington Island, catch another ferry to Rock Island, a remote state park with no cars and no bikes, but plenty of hiking, swimming and rustic campsites.

Cana Island

Outside of Baileys Harbor, take a wagon ride on the back of a tractor across the shallow Lake Michigan causeway. Visit a lighthouse and the new interpretative center, part of the Door County Maritime Museum .

How to Plan the Perfect Long Weekend in Door County

By: Author Adam

Posted on Last updated: 16 August, 2023

How to Plan the Perfect Long Weekend in Door County

Heading to Door County this summer or looking for a unique long weekend trip in the Midwest? Look no further than this guide to the perfect long weekend in Door County, Wisconsin.

The summer is short here in Wisconsin, so we are going to show you how to make the most of every precious day while visiting Door County. Here is our step-by-step guide to the perfect 3 day weekend in Door County.

Aerial view of Glidden Lodge Beach Resort in Door County

Where to stay in Door County – We recommend staying on the lake. There is something special about waking up to lake views. For more of our favorite lake resorts in Wisconsin check out this article .

Day 1 in Door County – Mid Penisula

Renard’s Cheese

Start your trip to Door County in true Wisconsin fashion with a cheese stop. Just off the highway to Door County is everyone’s favorite cheese shop Renard’s, along HWY 57. It’s a must to get a bag of fresh squeaky cheese curds. They are in front of the registers, not in the coolers.

They also have a little cafe that serves fried cheese curds, sandwiches, pizza, and ice cream. If you’re renting a house in Door County or Vrbo pick up a cheese curd pizza, you won’t regret it.

Address: 2189 County Rd DK, Sturgeon Bay, WI

Fuel Up at Kick Coffee

If you need a little pick-me-up to keep you going, stop by Kick Coffee in Sturgeon Bay. They also have smoothies for those non-coffee drinkers or if you’ve got kids along. They also have some good sandwiches.

Address: 148 N 3rd Ave, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

Wooden path at the Ridges Sanctuary with light house at the end - Things to do in door county on a weekend

Visit Ridges Nature Center & Baileys Harbor Lower Rangelight

Jump right into nature in the 1,600-acre Ridges Sanctuary just behind Baileys Harbor. Some trails wind through the forest, five miles of nature trails. You can go on a self-guided hike or join a naturalist-guided hike for $8.

Address: 2301 Ridges Rd, Baileys Harbor, WI 54202

Woman holding beer sample paddle at Door County Brewing - Places to eat in Door County

Door County Brewing Co. Taproom and Music Hall

There are some amazing microbreweries in Wisconsin, and Door County Brewing is one of them. Make sure to stop in their taproom and try a flight of beers and pick up a six-pack to bring back home with you.

Also, make sure to check their event calendar to see who is performing next.

If beer isn’t your thing, make sure to check out these top wineries in Door County .

Address: 8099 Wisconsin 57, Baileys Harbor, WI 54202

Ariel view of the Cana island lighthouse in Door County Wisconsin

Climb the Cana Island Lighthouse

Door County’s most famous lighthouse is located on the lakeside of the peninsula on Cana Island. Once on the island, you’ll find a classic-style white lighthouse with a gift shop below.

The is a road that connects the island to the peninsula, but rising water levels have submerged it, so now a tractor takes groups of people out to the island.

To reach the top of the lighthouse, you’ll need to summit the 97 spiraled stairs to reach the lantern and viewing platform. Cana Island Lighthouse is one of the best lighthouses in Wisconsin and our personal favorite to visit.

Address: 8800 E Cana Island Rd, Baileys Harbor, WI

Not Licked Yet – Frozen Custard

For an afternoon snack, grab some classic Wisconsin Frozen Custard. If you’ve never had frozen custard, you really can’t leave Door County without trying some. It’s like ice cream, but better, way better.

With a few extra ingredients and a little Wisconsin dairy magic, frozen custard is more creamy and tastes way better than plain old ice cream.

At Not Licked Yet, they also have burgers and other drive-in classics if you need more of a meal than a snack.

Address: 4054 Main St, Fish Creek, WI

Yellow and Pink sunset over Anderson's dock in Door County Wisconsin - Must see things on a weekend in Door County

Anderson’s Dock for Sunset

One of the best places in Door County for sunset is Anderson’s Dock. Finish your day here on the dock with nice westward-facing views. Here you’ll find even more great photo opportunities, on the dock is an old warehouse that is covered top to bottom in years and years of graffiti.

If you’re spending a romantic weekend in Door County, this is a great spot for a couple shot.

Address: 3083 Anderson Ln, Ephraim, WI

Exterior of Alexanders Supper club in Door County Wisconsin

Have dinner at a Supper Club

No, you don’t have to be a member. You just need to remember that in Wisconsin, it’s not dinner – it’s supper, and you have it at a supper club.

Recommended supper clubs in Door County: Florian II Supper Club or The English Inn are some of the best restaurants in Door County .

Day 2 in Door County – Northern Penisula

Julie’s park cafe.

Start your day off with some of the best coffee in Door County before heading out for the day. You can take away or dine in with a full breakfast menu. It’s one of the best breakfasts in Door County .

Address: 4020 Main St, Fish Creek, WI 54212

woman riding a segway in a cherry orchard in Door County - Best weekend itinerary

Take A Segway Tour

Segways are just as fun as they look and super easy to operate. We loved zooming by the vineyards and cherry blossoms on our Segways. There are several Segway the Door tours out there, including Peninsula State Park, Washington Island, Sunset, etc. Click here to see all Segway tours in Door County.

Must see things in door county long weekend - Woman standing on the windiest road in Wisconsin

Check Out the Picturesque windiest road in Door County

Hwy 42 between Gills Rock and Northport is a fun road to take some pictures on, and it’s pretty fun to drive! If you’re trying to get the perfect photo, pull over and be patient, it only seems to get busy right before and after the ferry to Washington Island comes and goes, as that’s right down the road.

Ferry to Washington Island

If you have more time, you might want to hop on the ferry and take the scenic ride out to Washington Island. If you happen to be visiting during the Lavander Festival, a trip out here is a must. It’s $13.50 per person to take the ferry and an additional $26 to bring your car over.

Address: 215 WI-42, Ellison Bay, WI

Plum Island Lighthouse

On a clear day, you can see the Plum Island Lighthouse from the dock at Northport. Bring a camera, binoculars, or better yet, a drone for great travel photos .

Goats eating grass on top of Al Johnsons restaurant - Best places to eat in Door County

Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant

A Door County itinerary wouldn’t be complete without stopping by Al Johnson’s. Make a lunch stop at Door County’s most famous restaurant, known equally for the food and the goats on the roof.

Yes, there really are goats on the roof if you don’t believe me check the goat cam online here . The goats go up every morning, weather permitting.

Address: 10698 N Bay Shore Dr, Sister Bay, WI

Peninsula State Park

One of the most popular parks in Door County is Penisula State Park, located on the bay side full of stunning bluffs and picturesque lighthouses.

You can rent a bike and take a leisurely stroll through the park or pack a picnic and find a spot to take in the view.

Address: 9462 Shore Rd, Fish Creek, WI

Sunset Cruise

For some of the best views in Door County, you need to get out on a boat, and one of the best times of the day to do that is sunset. Set sail with Door County Boats and cruise the calm waters of the bay as the sun makes its slow march into the horizon.

From the boat, you’ll get one-of-a-kind views of the stunning bluffs and small islands scattered around the bay. The perfect romantic weekend in Door County involves sunset and wine, all of which can be found on a sunset cruise.

Dinner at Husby’s

After your sunset cruise, stay in Sister Bay for some food and a little bit of nightlife. While Door County isn’t a party destination, one of the most lively areas is in Sister Bay after the sun goes down. We highly suggest their burgers.

Address: 10641 N Bay Shore Dr, Sister Bay, WI

Day 3 – Nature & Adventure in Door County

Cave Point County Park

If you are an early riser, there is no better place for sunrise in Door County than Cave Point County Park. While this park is beautiful at any time of the day, it is magical in the early morning.

Address: 5360 Schauer Rd, Sturgeon Bay, WI

a couple Kayaking in Lake Michigan in Door County - 3 day weekend in Door County

For those looking for an adventure to add to their Door County itinerary, consider kayaking in Lake Michigan. There are several different kayak tours in Door County. We went kayaking in Whitefish Dunes State Park with DC Adventure Center.

WARNING: Lake Michigan is cold year-round. It rarely gets above 60 degrees. When we kayaked in May, it was 45 degrees. We wouldn’t advise this as a newbie or beginner kayaker.

Whitefish Dunes State Park

Whitefish Dunes State Park has a mile of sandy beach, 863 acres of forest and dunes, and is home to the highest sand dunes in Wisconsin.

If you plan on spending 3 days in Door County or more, we suggest getting the Wisconsin State Park pass for $25. This will allow you to enter all the state parks in Wisconsin for the year, you’ll get your money’s worth visiting the state parks in Door County alone.

Address: 3275 Clarks Lake Rd, Sturgeon Bay, WI

woman in a red shirt on a zip line tour in door county - things to do

There is no better morning rush than ziplining. We ziplined with Lakeshore Adventures, which has 3 canopy zip lines and a dual zip line where you can race someone. Ziplining is always a blast, and it’s super affordable in Door County.

Address: WI 54202, 8652 WI-57, Baileys Harbor, WI

orange and pink sunset at Andersons dock in Door County

Long Weekend in Door County

If you have even more time in beautiful Door County, you’ll have no trouble filling it with as much or as little as you want. While most people take a long weekend here in Door County, you could easily spend a week and not even cover all of the highlights.

We put this guide to help you make the most of your 3 day trip to Door County, but if you are looking for even more things to do, check out our full list of Door County activities !

Our trip was in partnership with Door County Tourism, but all opinions are our own. We’re lucky to have this great spot just 2.5 hours from home.

13 Nov Wisconsin Road Trip Adventures: A Week in Door County with Lands’ End Heritage Tour

We recently road tripped to Wisconsin in partnership with Land’s End to join in on the Land’s End Heritage Tour . Our mission was to explore the beauty that the great state of Wisconsin has to offer. We grew up in and currently live in Minnesota–Wisconsin’s neighbor to the west. Being from the midwest, we know how many great adventures this area has to offer, so we are always excited to head out and explore our neck of the woods. For this road trip, we made our way to Door County, which is a small peninsula bordered by Lake Michigan on the western side of Wisconsin. And wow, we were in awe at all the natural beauty in the region time and time again.

Door County, Wisconsin, Adventures, Lands' End Heritage Tour

There is so much to see throughout Door County—a week was not even close to enough time to see it all! Throughout Door County there are five state parks, 19 county parks, orchards, wineries, breweries, lighthouses, lots of local art and adorable shops, an abundance of opportunities to get out on the water, delicious restaurants, and more. The weather wasn’t the best during our visit…think 30 mph winds, misty rain, and temperatures hovering around 35-45ºF! We may not have been able to do some of the activities that we wanted to do like canoeing, ziplining, or a sunset boat ride, but even so, we still had a fantastic trip full of one adventure after another.

Lands’ End provided us with clothes to wear throughout our journey and we stocked up on warm jackets, cozy sweaters, fleece, pants, shoes, slippers, and more. Thankfully, with our toasty new wardrobe, we were ready for the elements and adventures the week had in store for use!

Wearing: Bounce Roll Neck Sweater

Hy-Land Court RV Park and Lands’ End Airstream

Our home for the week was at Hy-Land Court RV Park in Ellison Bay, Wisconsin. The RV park was chalk full of amenities like cable, internet, electric, bathrooms with showers, laundry facilities, water and sewer hook ups, picnic tables, and fire rings. We stayed at site #12 and it had a few trees that would be great for shade on a sunny day. The park was brimming with fall colors in every direction and the location was perfect—we were a short drive from Ellison Bay, Sister Bay, Ephraim, Fish Creek and several other towns in the area.

We were staying in the adorable Lands’ End Seagoing Duffle Airstream which was created to look like their iconic bright blue duffle bag. Inside, we had a bedroom with a super cozy double bed, table/couch area, a kitchen with fridge, sink, stove and microwave, heat/air conditioning, bathroom, and shower. And it came stocked with Lands’ End home goods and everything we could have ever needed for a week of camping! We enjoyed time at our campsite having bonfires, relaxing, reading, and playing games.

Product: Natural Open Top Canvas Tote Bag

Product: Seagoing Duffle Bag

Wearing: Shearling Moc Slippers

Wearing: Performance Texture Merino Crew Sweater

Wearing: Micah- Performance Texture Merino Crew Sweater & Jenna- Cozy Sherpa Fleece Pullover

Wearing: Rib Hat , 600 Down Vest , Serious Sweats Full Zip Hoodie , Straight Fit Jeans

Wearing: Lofty Blend Quarter-Zip Mock Tunic Sweater , Mid Rise Pull On Skinny Blue Jeans , Suede Everyday Comfort Penny Loafer

Cave Point County Park

One of our favorite spots in Door County was Cave Point County Park. The park is located along the eastern side of the peninsula, and it’s surrounded on three sides by Whitetail Dunes State Park. We spent the better part of an hour at this park exploring the rocky coastline and watching the crashing waves ebb and flow. The caves at this park are all located underwater, but if the weather is nice, taking a kayak out and getting a glimpse though the crystal-clear water would certainly be a treat.

Wearing: Waxed Canvas Backpack , Active Sweater Fleece Hooded Jacket

Wearing: Suede Everyday Comfort Penny Loafer

Wearing: Waxed Canvas Backpack , Rib Hat , Serious Sweats Full Zip Hoodie , Straight Fit Jeans

Wearing: Active Sweater Fleece Hooded Jacket , Down Vest , Knit High Waist Leggings

Whitetail Dunes State Park

We didn’t have a ton of time to spend at Whitetail Dunes State Park, but we did manage to check out the exhibit in the ranger station and take a look at the beach. The white sands were shining in the sunlight and Lake Michigan looked as endless as the ocean. The park is home to almost 15 miles of trails, sand dunes, rocky coastline, a display of a Native American village site, and more.

Peninsula State Park

We always love exploring state parks, and Peninsula State Park was no exception. Throughout our week in Door County we stopped here several times for hiking, leaf peeping, and lighthouses. The park was filled with bright orange, yellow and red fall foliage during our visit, and we couldn’t get over how stunning it was! One of our favorite hiking trails was the 2.1 mile loop, Eagle Trail. The hike took us through thick wooded paths, along the shoreline, and next to towering, rocky bluffs. It was definitely a treat for the eyes, and a wonderful hike on a brisk autumn afternoon.

Wearing: Active Fleece Pullover Tunic

Wearing: Long Sleeve Solid Flagship Flannel Shirt , Straight Fit Jeans , Casual Comfort Chukka Boots

Wearing: Active Fleece Pullover Tunic , Mid Rise Pull On Skinny Blue Jeans

Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Tour

Due to Door County’s peninsula position on Lake Superior, there are several lighthouses to guide ships around the rocky landscape. A few of them offer tours, and we were able to take a tour of the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse in Peninsula State Park. Our guide led us through the keeper’s house and told fascinating stories about the history of the property. We even got to peek at the light in the tower that is still in operation today. William Duclon was a lighthouse keeper at Eagle Bluff for 35 years, and he and his wife raised seven sons there. The sons all shared one bedroom, and they helped keep the place running in tip top shape. When the property was being renovated into the museum it is now, one of the sons paid the house a visit. He gave the docents insights as to what the house looked like when they lived there and told them stories about life at Eagle Bluff when he was a child. These stories were some of my favorites during the tour—we heard about how the light was kept running through the night, how the boys had to carry water up a giant staircase from Lake Michigan before the well was built, how the boys all had to pile into two beds to sleep, and so much more. It was a fun tour at an interesting historic site!

Wearing: Squall Jacket

Another lighthouse that we wanted to visit was the Cana Island Lighthouse. We ran out of time (and good weather), so we didn’t make it, but we did catch a glimpse of it from shore. The lighthouse is located out on an island off the shore of Baileys Harbor. Sometimes the path to the island is walkable, but when the water level is too high, rides are offered on a trailer behind a tractor…yes, a tractor! Hopefully we can make it out to Cana Island next time because it certainly looks beautiful!

Wearing: Active Sweater Fleece Hooded Jacket , Down Vest

Fish Boil at Pelletier’s

Door County is famous for their fish boils, so of course we had to pay a visit to Pelletier’s Fish Boil in Fish Creek to check one out. What is a fish boil? It’s a traditional Scandinavian cooking technique that involves a large steel pot over a fire. Basically, what happens is the potatoes, onions, and salt boil in a giant pot, and towards the end of the boil, locally caught whitefish gets added. Once everything is cooked, the “boil over” takes place, aka fuel is thrown on the fire, which causes the water to boil over in an explosion of flames. It’s quite a show to watch!

Dinner is served with whitefish, potatoes, onion, coleslaw, bread, a drink, and a slice of cherry pie for dessert. We both opted for the “Lite Eater’s Fish Boil” which came with one 7 oz. piece of fish, but the regular order comes with two pieces of fish. Both Micah and I were stuffed at the end of dinner, so instead of getting two pieces of pie, we shared one topped with ice cream. It was a fun evening and a delicious meal!

Ellison Bay Fall Art Crawl

Our visit happened to fall during the Ellison Bay Fall Art Crawl, which was a happy coincidence. For one weekend, nine different artistic businesses come together and create a trail of events. The participating businesses were a combination of shops, galleries, learning facilities, and even a cider house. The 2018 trail was made up of the following stops: Clay Bay Pottery Gallery, Linden Gallery, Turtle Ridge Gallery, SUTRA Fine Art & Textiles from India, Gills Rock Pottery, Rob Williams Studio/Gallery, The Clearing Folk School, Ellison Bay Pottery Gallery, and Island Orchard Cider. We managed to make it to the majority of the locations on the list.

Some of the locations were serving treats like cookies and drinks, and Gills Rock Pottery was offering kiln baked bread and turkey sandwiches (which was amazingly delicious!).

A couple of our favorite shops were Clay Bay Pottery Gallery and Linden Gallery.

Wearing: Lofty Blend Quarter-Zip Mock Tunic Sweater , Mid Rise Pull On Skinny Blue Jeans

We also enjoyed walking around the beautiful grounds of The Clearing Folk School. The shop inside was cute, we took a peek at a woodworking workshop that was taking place, and the wonderful ladies at the desk gave us some great suggestions on what to see and do in the area.

Wearing: Rib Hat , Long Sleeve Pattern Flagship Flannel Shirt , Straight Fit Jeans

Island Orchard Cider was a great place to end our art crawl. We ordered a flight of hard cider and appreciated sipping on the various ciders they brewed in house. We even randomly ran into one of our friends there—it was definitely a hopping place during the art crawl!

Wearing: Long Sleeve Pattern Flagship Flannel Shirt

The Curvy Road Along Highway 42

Located along Highway 42 in northern Door County, you can find a stretch of road that curves into what looks like a squiggly line. It is one of the most photospread spots in Wisconsin and one of the most famous roads in the Midwest, so we just had to check it out for ourselves. The construction of the road is said to have been influenced by a famous landscape architect, Jens Jensen, who was the founder of the nearby Clearing Folk School in Ellison Bay, but some say it was built to weave around utility poles. But whatever the reason was for the design, it certainly ended up as an intriguing and beautiful stretch of road.

Anderson’s Dock

Anderson’s Dock in Ephraim is one of the most iconic sites in Door County. The building at the docks houses The Hardy Gallery (which was unfortunately closed during our visit), but just the outside of the building alone makes this place a must stop location. The building is slathered with painted names, messages, declarations of love and more. We stopped just before sunset and were welcomed with a beautiful, glowing light cast over the entire area.

Wearing: Jenna- Bounce Roll Neck Sweater , Mid Rise Pull On Skinny Blue Jeans , Comfort Elastic Ballet Flats & Micah- Rib Hat , 600 Down Vest , Long Sleeve Pattern Flagship Flannel Shirt , Straight Fit Jeans , Casual Comfort Chukka Boots

Orchard & Winery Tour at Lautenbach’s Orchard Country

Lautenbach’s Orchard Country sits on 100 acres of land and includes an orchard, vineyard, and market. It is a family owned business, and they grow cherries, apples, grapes, raspberries, and pears. We figured this would be a great spot to take a winery tour since they offer so much more than just a winery. Door County is famous for their cherries, and as luck would have it, our tour at Lautenbach’s Orchard & Winery covered both cherries and wine! We went out into the orchard and learned all about growing, harvesting, and processing cherries. Then it was time to learn a bit about the on-site wine production.

Wearing: Sweater Fleece Coat , Mid Rise Pull On Skinny Blue Jeans

Once we heard about the history of the farm and how everything is made, it was time for a wine tasting. We sampled three different wines and got to take our glasses home with us. Our favorite was the Ashlyn Sophia. After the tour was complete, we sampled even more wine in the store as they offer a complimentary wine tasting of up to six wines. Lautenbach’s produces a wide range of red and white wines, fruit wines, and hard ciders.

Apple Tasting at Seaquist Orchards Farm Market

We were a little too late in the season to actually pick apples from the trees, but we did make our way over to Seaquist Orchards Farm Market for a bunch of apple fun. They have a production facility that you can peek at—you can see how they sort/process the apples and how they make a variety of apple products. Inside the market they sell a wide range of local products like baked goods, canned goods, fruits, honey, decorations, and more. They have a large assortment of samples for you to try, and our favorite was the apple tasting station. The apples are set up from sweetest to most tart, and we each picked a couple of our favorites to take home with us.

A Picnic with Local Products

There are so many local products produced in Door County that we just had to throw together a picnic with some of our favorites. All of the products were made in Wisconsin, and most of them actually came from within the boundaries of Door County. We spent the week visiting specialty producers of cheese, wine, beer, cider, cherries, apples, honey, and artisan bread. The treats we gathered were apples from Seaquist Orchards Farm Market, tart cherries from Cherry De-Lite, honey from Wisconsin Natural Acres, pepperjack meat sticks from StoneRidge, cracked wheat bread from Macready Artisan Bread Co, a bottle of Ashlyn Sophia wine from Lautenbach’s Orchard Country, and a couple varieties of cheese (Valmy and Santa Fe Southwest Cheddar) from Door Artisan Cheese Company. It was a delicious and fun meal full of fresh local products!

Product: Seagoing Stadium Travel Blanket , Natural Open Top Canvas Tote Bag

Arts & Shopping

All of the small towns in Door County are filled with one adorable boutique shop after another. Every time we went for a drive I wanted to pull over and start shopping. We especially loved browsing through the shops in Sister Bay, Ellison Bay, Ephraim, and Fish Creek, but really, any town you go through has so much to offer. Many of the shops feature work from local artists, as well!

One of our favorite shops in Sturgeon Bay was Popelka Trenchard Glass. The store is gallery and workspace owned by Stephanie Trenchard and Jeremy Popelka. We stopped in one afternoon following lunch and got to take a peek inside the workshop during a glass blowing demonstration led by Jeremy. We also had a great chat with Stephanie about her glass sculpture work, travel, and more. It’s definitely a fun place to stop if you have any interest in glass artwork!

Wearing: Lofty Blend Placed Cable Sweater , Mid Rise Curvy Skinny Jeans

Door County Coffee

I’ve been drinking Door County Coffee with my parents for years, so it was only appropriate that I stop in the flagship store when we were in Door County. Micah and I went in for an afternoon treat of a cookie and a coffee flight. My coffee flight contained cold brew drip coffee, breakfast blend, a fall harvest blend, and a dark roast coffee. It was fun to try several varieties at once and I was surprised that the cold brew was one of my favorites. And, of course, we had to pick up a couple bags of coffee to take home with us!

Wearing: Lofty Blend Placed Cable Sweater

Door County Brewing

We always like to check out local breweries when we travel, so visiting Door County Brewing was another must that came highly recommended. The taproom is filled with reclaimed wood, board games, and a music stage—it was cozy and lively all in one. We arrived just before a band went on for the evening, and we listened to the show while snacking on a cheese spread board and a couple of brews to go with it.

Wearing: Cozy Sherpa Fleece Pullover

Door County Creamery

Door County Creamery was another spot that was recommended, and I’m so glad we had a chance to stop in. They offer farm tours during the summer and fall (which I would have loved to do if it wasn’t sold out!), and they offer a variety of gelato, cheese, and soaps all made from goat milk. We popped in one afternoon for some coffee and gelato. Micah ordered the mint stracitella gelato and I settled on the olive oil and sea salt. They were both fantastic, but the olive oil and sea salt stole the show—yum!

Door County Ice Cream

Everything in the area seemed to be called Door County something or another! And, Door County Ice Cream was no exception. Located in an adorable historic building in Sister Bay, this ice cream and sandwich shop served up some might tasty treats. We had a hard time picking a flavor from the never-ending row of ice cream, but in the end, classic chocolate and Door County cherry won out and both were great choices.

Wearing: Active Sweater Fleece Hooded Jacket , Down Vest , Knit High Waist Leggings , Suede Everyday Comfort Penny Loafer

Our Favorite Restaurants

We went to so many fantastic restaurants throughout our week in Wisconsin. There are so many that we will write an entire post dedicated to our favorite restaurants , but for now, here are some of our absolute favorites. The Swedish breakfast and cozy atmosphere made Al Johnsons a standout—plus, they have goats on the roof! Our salad and pizza at Wild Tomato and sandwiches at The Cookery were two of our favorite meals from the trip. And, we had a blast going out to the Sister Bay Bowl supper club for a Friday night fish fry. Stay tuned for even more deliciousness from Door County soon—Bluefront Café, Glacier Ledge, Chef’s Hat, Analog Coffee, Basecamp Coffee Bar, and Heriloom Café & Provisions all made the list, too!

Door County, Wisconsin, is such a fun region to explore. Even though we were there for a week, we still left with a long list of actives that we want to do on our next visit. Wisconsin is a beautiful state with so much to see and do—we had an absolute blast road tripping around Door County as part of the Lands’ End Heritage Tour!

We visited Door County, Wisconsin, as part of a paid content creation project with Lands’ End . As always, all opinions are our own.

Door County

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Door County Trip Planner

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All related maps of Door County

Map of Door County
Map of Sturgeon Bay
Map of Maplewood
Map of Forestville
Map of Jacksonport
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Map of Baileys Harbor
Map of Fish Creek
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Map of Oconto
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Door County Road Trip

Bring your favorite four-legged travel companion to this dog-friendly destination..

Some of the best people I know are dogs. When I heard that Door County bills itself as a dog-friendly destination I knew it was time for a proper road trip. With my own adorable rescue pup, Casey – the world’s happiest terrier mix, along for the ride, I set out to explore the Midwest’s celebrated cape.

Just a few hours north of our Chicago North Shore home, Door County beckons with 300 miles of Great Lakes coastline, 11 lighthouses ( I love lighthouses! ), picturesque farms and villages. The experience begins as you cross into Sturgeon Bay. This town retains much of its industrial cred with a busy shipping harbor serving vessels bound for Great Lakes ports and beyond. But look closely and coastal charm is everywhere. Locals, who seem to understand that living at the gateway to a noted tourist destination comes with a certain responsibility, outfit their charming homes with brightly painted shutters and bountiful perennial gardens. As we cross the bridge over the Sturgeon Bay Ship Channel, that familiar relaxed vacation feeling begins to settle upon us. Well, for me anyway. Casey gets carsick on winding roads so the next 100 miles might be a bit sketchy.

We begin on Route 42 along the north shore of the county. Door County’s low, coastal landscape only a few miles wide on the peninsula, affords broad views of farm fields and orchards and an occasional glimpse of Green Bay to our left. Farm stands and markets dot the roadside and offer a bounty of the region’s specialty – cherries. In the early spring rows of cherry trees burst into color with soft pink blossoms. By mid-summer the sweetly tart berries are waiting to be picked, eaten by the handful and baked into every imaginable application from the obvious – pies, tarts, cobblers – to the only-in-Wisconsin obscure – beer, cider, cocktails, salad dressing, and cheese. Oh Wisconsin, you’re adorable!

Follow route 42 along the north shore of the cape through lovely villages, each brimming with boutiques, cafes and ample opportunities to slow down and take in the scenery. The first stop, Egg Harbor, is home to the venerable Shipwrecked Brew Pub and its dog-friendly outdoor deck. Tragically, the pub was destroyed by fire in August of 2017, but after long months of re-construction, it’s nearly ready to welcome guests to relax and enjoy great burgers and Door County’s favorite brews in a familiar but completely new space.

Next on the route, Fish Creek is my personal favorite. In this perfect coastal town window boxes and hanging porch planters spill over with trailing petunias in such abundance they seem to be a feat of engineering. Locals and visitors enjoy picnic lunches and afternoon music on the town green and charming shops offer an array of accessories for lakeside homes. For nautical gifts and attire, I felt right at home in On Deck Clothing where a dreamy mahogany runabout enjoys a place of honor in the center of the store. O’Mera’s Irish House called me to stop in and pay tribute to my heritage. Don’t miss a chance to get out on the water for a history lesson and the best view of the landscape. I recommend the Millionaire’s Row and West Islands Cruise where you’ll see the most coveted lakeside cottages in the area and learn about Green Bay’s most famous seasonal visitors – a flock of white pelicans that return to the west islands each summer. Pelicans in the Great Lakes!

After the cruise, there is time for one more stop at the end of the day. The town of Ephraim is home to Wilson’s, a Door County classic, for casual lakeside dining and ice cream and a perfect spot to catch the sunset.

After a restful night, the next day brings a coast hike in one of Door County’s five state parks, a visit to an out-of-this-world Christmas shop, and completion of the loop road along the southern coast of the peninsula. With attractions for the outdoorsy set including camping, rock-climbing, biking and sailing, as wells as options for those of us, like Casey and myself, who just want to sit in a deck chair and breathe in the experience, Door County is an ideal summer destination.

Stay Door County welcomes dogs and their humans with a great variety of comfortable and (sometimes) canine-accessible lodging and dining options. With many options available, it’s best to have an idea of the type of accommodations you seek – hotels, inns, B & Bs and cottages are available in every town on the peninsula. If traveling with your dog, always call ahead and be sure that pets are welcome. Some places allow dog only in certain rooms, so it’s important to ensure that your dog is included in the reservation. Here are a few recommendations.

White Gull Inn | Fish Creek This classic, colonial style inn has served the region for more than a century. The rooms and suites are beautifully appointed and the location is ideal to enjoy all of the area’s attractions. Sadly, pets are not welcome, but Door County has many other equally appealing options.

Settlement Courtyard Inn & Lavender Spa | Fish Creek This comfortable inn features 33 rooms and two rental houses with convenient access to Fish Creek, Peninsula State Park and the Peninsula Players Theater. A lovely breakfast is included daily and dogs are welcome in the Garden House.

Find other pet-friendly accommodations HERE . And if your planned activities don’t suit your canine friend’s tastes, consider day boarding at Door County Kennels in Egg Harbor . Casey enjoyed an afternoon reliving her farm dog origins at this spot and was perfectly happy to take a pass on the boat tour.

Wickman House For the dedicated localvore, the choice is Wickman house. Located in picturesque Elison Bay, Wickman House offers the best of the area’s agricultural bounty. Ingredients are grown right on the property or sourced from local producers throughout Door County.

Gibraltar Grill This Fish Creek favorite claims the best outdoor patio in Door County and invites dogs to enjoy an evening of great food, lawn games and music with their two-legged, bill-paying companions. If you’re staying in Fish Creek they’ll even pick you in their courtesy shuttle, a six-passenger electric vehicle.

Fish Boils This is the classic Door County dining experience and options to partake can be found everywhere. Comparable to an old-fashioned clam bake, the Door County Fish Boil is equal parts nourishment and theater. Local whitefish are simmered along with potatoes and onions. Master purveyors stoke the carefully maintained fire into a dramatic boil over creating a sensational photo op. The simple meal is served with plenty of local butter, Wisconsin beer and finished with, of course, cherry pie. Perhaps the best-known fish boils are found at Pellitier’s Restaurant or The White Gull Inn in Fish Creek. Reservations are necessary.

Supper Clubs Another not to be missed Wisconsin dining experience, the quintessential supper club is well represented in the area. Although each family own establishment is unique in its own way, the feeling of dining among family is a hallmark of the experience. Stick with a classic like the Greenwood Supper Club in Fish Creek or the Florian II in Bailey’s Harbor which offers a sweeping view of Lake Michigan to enhance the experience. Start with a brandy old fashioned and save room for boozy ice cream desserts.

Evening Entertainment I can’t miss an opportunity to combine two of my favorite experiences – summer evenings spent outdoors and musical theater. In Door County and I can enjoy both along with my best dog friend, Casey. (Truthfully, theater is not her bag, but like my husband, she has learned that, in my home, it comes with the territory.) Door County boasts two outdoor pavilions offering live stage productions and, get this , an old-school drive-in movie theater. Classic. For information and to see what’s currently playing, visit:

Northern Sky Theater Peninsula Players Sky Way Drive In Theater

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The Best Wisconsin Road Trip Includes Door County Cherry Picking

Door County is definitely on the list of popular Wisconsin tourist destinations. When there are days that you just need to get away, Door County is a great place to go. When it’s cherry picking season and the cherry trees are full and ripe it’s an even better time.

A visit to Door County cherry-picking calls for a road trip. That doesn’t always mean a romantic road trip. Door County cherry-picking is the ideal time for a girls’ day out. This could be time with friends or it could be a road trip to do some door county cherry picking with your daughters. Door County has something for almost anyone.

Where is Door County, Wisconsin?

Door County Cherry Picking Wisconsin Map

Door County is about a 45-minute drive north of Green Bay up the peninsula. When looking at the map of Wisconsin many people say it looks like a glove. Door County consists of almost all of the thumb.

Located in Door County are more than a dozen small charming towns, on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan.

Door County offers visitors more than 300 breathtaking miles of shoreline with dozens of public beaches. When visiting Door County you have the rare opportunity of being able to watch the sunrise and the sunset without ever leaving the county.

As Wisconsin natives, we’ve been coming here for years and the beauty never changes. It is the ideal place for a relaxing and romantic road trip.

Door County History

The earliest settlers to Door County were Scandinavian, and they brought with them many of their customs. The men were fishermen and lumberjacks. One of the customs they brought with them was known as a fish boil. A Door County Fish Boil is an experience that visitors to the area can still enjoy today.

There is no mistaking the Scandinavian flair of many of the shops and restaurants. The Scandinavian influence makes shopping and eating in Door County a very unique experience.

Unlike other parts of Wisconsin, the soil in Door County is perfect for growing cherries, grapes, and even lavender. This makes Door County a perfect place to retreat for wine tasting, some cherry-picking, or enjoying the fragrance and romance of walking in the lavender fields .

This post may contain affiliate or sponsored links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you). Please see my full disclosure policy for details.

Getting to Door County

Getting to Door County is half the fun. Make the drive part of your trip, meaning if something catches your eye, give yourself permission to stop and explore.

For most Wisconsin residents Door County is an easy road trip. A road trip is a great opportunity for a little girl-talk to catch up on what’s been happening in everyone’s life. Or the ideal start to a romantic date.

Green Bay, Wisconsin is the last major city before hitting Door County. If you are flying into Wisconsin, Green Bay Austin Straubel Airport would be the nearest airport to Door County.

If you are flying into Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, Door County is only a three-hour drive.

From either airport, the best way to enjoy Door County is to rent a car and enjoy the scenery during your short drive. You will want the car in Door County so you can get around to all of the unique places.

What You Need to Know About Door County Cherry Picking

When is Door County Cherry Season

Door County Cherry season is between mid-July and mid-August depending on Wisconsin’s weather. This makes a summer road trip the perfect time to spend the day cherry picking.

We timed our visit just right! It was cherry season and many of the orchards were open for picking. When I mentioned to my daughters I was going on a road trip to Door County cherry picking, they were very excited but insisted we make a weekend out of it. Door County is the ideal place for a weekend getaway.

Where to go Cherry Picking

Although Door County has numerous family-owned cherry orchards, not all of them are open for public picking. Make sure to call ahead and see if the farm you are thinking of is open for picking and ask which cherries are ripe.

If you are already on an adventure in Door County, you will know it’s cherry picking season when you see all of the cars lined up in the cherry fields. Even if you just want to pick a little bucket, it’s fun being in the fields.

What to Know Before You Go

Three types of cherries grow in Door County; Montmorency is a more tart cherry and is normally used for jams and juices, Balaton is a sweet-tart cherry and is good for baking, the third type of cherry grown in Door County is the Sweet Cherry which is good for snacking or in fruit salads.

Depending on your winemaker, any of these varieties are good for making wine.

Door County Cherry Picking Felicia Picking Cherries

We chose to stop at Lautenbach Orchard . Lautenbach’s is a family farm that has been in operation since 1955. In addition to the cherries this year-round farm grows popular fruits including apples, grapes, raspberries, and pears.

Many of the things that are produced using the fresh fruits from the Lautenbach farm are available to purchase in their store, including fresh baked goods and a wide variety of wines.

Of course, you will want to do some shopping before picking your cherries. Don’t be surprised when you leave the store with bags of goodies, such as wine, freshly baked cherry pie, jam, bread, cheese, and even cherry salsa. Trust me here when I say the cherry salsa is amazing!

The store was also filled with numerous gift ideas all centering around cherries or Door County. What a treasure we found when we stopped at Lautenbach Orchards.

At Lautenbach’s, you purchase empty cherry buckets in the Lautenbach Orchard store. Cherry-picking is a little different than strawberry picking, which we love to do also.

Door County Cherry Picking Girls picking cherries

When cherry-picking you first purchase your bucket for a set price. You are then directed to the area of the orchard you can pick.

On this particular day, it was way at the other end of the orchard. We were able to drive out into the orchard and find our area to pick.

We were free to enjoy the orchard and fill our buckets with nice ripe cherries. You always want to look for nice firm dark red cherries when picking. You can fill your bucket as full as you can.

Door County Cherry Picking little bucket of cherries

When you are finished picking you do not need to go back and have them weigh your cherries. If it fits in your bucket you are good to go.

When we first drove out into the cherry orchard. We wandered for a while taking pictures before we chose our cherry tree and started picking. It was so much fun giggling, watching the families picking cherries, enjoying the trees and the neighboring grape fields.

Door County Cherry Festivals

Door County Cherry Picking Cherry Spitting

Cherry season is a big deal in Door County. Many of the local farms hold festivals to celebrate the cherry harvest. Some of the local churches and communities also hold cherry festivals throughout Door County.

During the festivals, you can find everything from wine tasting, pie judging, games, food, local craft fairs, live music, and activities for the kids.

Did if forget to mention adult games also? Does anyone want to do some cherry-pit spitting? Gary is really good at it. He tried his hand at it on one of our previous Door County weekends and came in second. Pretty good for the first time trying cherry-pit spitting. (say that three times.)

As you can see, Door County cherry picking makes for a wonderful road trip for couples or even a girls’ day. But Door County is so much more than just cherries. Check out the other fun things we found.

Things to do in Door County

Cherry picking is not the only thing that Door County is known for. Door County is filled with many amazing things to fill your day and night. These are some of the many things we had to choose from during our road trip in addition to the cherry-picking.

Door County Coffee

Door County Coffee and Tea has to be your first stop. I swear you can smell the roasting coffee while driving up. It is the perfect stop for that first cup of coffee or even the second cup of the day. While you are there don’t leave without grabbing a scone to go with it.

This is also the ideal place to start your day of shopping and stretching your legs before ordering your coffee. If the weather is nice Door County Coffee has tables and chairs set up outside for visitors to sit and enjoy the early morning sunshine and breeze under the trees.

Even if you are not needing your caffeine fix, you really have to include a stop at Door County Coffee on your list. Not only can you stop in and buy freshly roasted Door County Coffee to take home, but you can also buy scone mixes in their large attached store. You will also find so many gifts and special items under their roof. You will surely find something that needs to go home with you.

Strolling the Marina and Enjoying the Beach

No stop in Door County is complete without a stop at the marina, it is so much fun to just stroll and dream. Depending on the weather you must put your feet in the sand. It may not be the ocean, but feeling the sand between your toes just makes it a vacation.

Door County Shopping

Shopping is so much fun in Door County. Each of the little towns along the peninsula offers its own unique shopping experience. You won’t find any chain stores, each of the unique stores is locally owned and operated.

You will find stores offering everything from one-of-a-kind clothing, to beachwear, holiday items, kitchen gadgets, home decor, jewelry, artwork, and antique shops. I couldn’t keep up with the list of all the places we stopped to shop but these are just a few of our favorites.

Mistletoe Holiday House ~ A great way to start dreaming of Christmas.
Door County Candle Co. ~ A 20-year tradition in Door County
Fat Louie’s Olive Oil Co. ~ They offer varieties of dipping oil you have never thought of.

Door County Cherry Picking Cassie and Chicken

This list could go on forever, there are so many fun shopping opportunities in Door County. You may want to plan a girl’s weekend and not just a one-day girl’s day.

Door County Restaurants

Door County is filled with a wide range of restaurants, It’s really hard to choose where to eat. Everyone has their own specialty, and what they do they do well. We are going to have to make a return visit to try more places. One day is just way too short to explore Door County.

We found so many amazing places to eat in Door County and in this blog post, you can read all about more than twenty Sister Bay Restaurants .

Wild Tomato Wood-Fired Pizza

Pizza does not get any more authentic than this. Not only is the pizza made in a wood-fired oven, but if you are seated on the patio, you will notice the numerous tomato plants and herbs that they are growing.

All pizzas are made to order. All of the other items on their menu are as delicious as their pizza.

Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant

Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant is an authentic Swedish family-owned business. It is known for two things, first is the goats grazing on the sod roof. Second, is the food, have you ever had authentic Swedish pancakes? Even if you have I’m sure you have not had them the way Al Johnson’s serves them.

Don’t be fooled these are not just pancakes, they are amazing, and so is all of their food.

Door County Ice Cream Factory

No day in Door County would be complete without a stop at Door County Ice Cream. There is nothing like local, homemade ice cream.

While there, be sure to ask for samples before choosing. They have some amazing flavors like Door County Cherry and Deaths Door Chocolate. It’s hard to pick a flavor.

Wine Tasting

One additional stop is necessary for any trip through Door County. To top off a day of shopping, sightseeing, eating, and cherry picking you must stop at one of the local wineries for a wine tasting.

Door County Peninsula Winery is one of our favorites! Although we do try to patronize all of them, we always add a stop to Door County Peninsula Winery. One year we enjoyed the Cherry Drop on New Year’s Eve in Sister Bay and then on New Year’s day after doing a polar plunge in Lake Michigan this was our go-to stop to warm up. We love being able to sample the new wines of the season. It seems each year we find a new favorite.

Best Places to stay in Door County

With so many options in Door County for places to stay, we wanted to give you our top three picks.

Country House Resort – Sister Bay

Country House Resort is a charming and cozy resort located in Sister Bay. The resort overlooks the serene waters of Green Bay and offers a peaceful and tranquil retreat for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The resort has 46 rooms and suites, each offering stunning views of the bay or the lush gardens surrounding the property. You can enjoy a range of amenities, including a heated outdoor pool, tennis courts, and a private beach.

The resort is also just a short distance from some of the area’s top attractions, including the Door County Maritime Museum and the Peninsula State Park. Country House Resort is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a relaxing getaway in beautiful Wisconsin.

Newport Resort, Egg Harbor

Newport Resort is a delightful resort located in the heart of Egg Harbor. The resort has a selection of spacious one, two, and three-bedroom beautiful suites.

Each suite features a fully equipped kitchen, a fireplace, and a private balcony or patio overlooking the beautiful woodlands and gardens surrounding the property.

Guests can enjoy a heated indoor swimming pool, a hot tub, and a fitness center. The resort is also situated within easy reach of some of the top attractions in Door County. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a loved one, Newport Resort is an excellent choice for a relaxing and enjoyable stay in Egg Harbor.

What a great Door County weekend this turned about to be! So what are we going to do with all those fresh cherries? I’m pulling out a few of my favorite recipes.

Cherry Bounce

4 cups Door County Cherries (remove the pits) 1 quart of your favorite liquor 1/2 cup sugar Combine all of the ingredients in a large mason jar. Refrigerate and set aside for at least 1 month (mine will wait till Christmas) Occasionally tip the jar upside down and back again to mix. Alcohol content increases the longer you let it sit. Serve in a holiday drink or on a dessert.

Cherry Pie Filling

This is my favorite recipe from allrecipes

4 cups pitted tart red cherries 1 cup of sugar 1/4 cup cornstarch Place cherries in a saucepan over low heat. Cover the pan and heat until the cherries release their juices and come to a simmer. About 10 minutes. Stir often. In a bowl, whisk the sugar and cornstarch until smooth and blended. Pour the sugar mixture into the hot cherries and juice. Thoroughly mix. Simmer on low until the filling thickens about 2 minutes. Remove from heat, and let cool. Use it as your pie or tart filling. You can water-bath can the filling for later use.

I also made cherry salsa, cherry BBQ sauce, cherry syrup, and cherry jam. It was a busy week but will be worth the extra effort. You can get all six of my cherry recipes by requesting them below.

I am Michelle the author of Love and Traveling ~ Our Laptop Lives. Gary and I spent all of our lives in Wisconsin. We met later in life and in October 2021 we took the plunge and got married. We learned the hard way the importance of working on your relationship first hand. After working with numerous couples, what we heard most was there is no time for romance, travel and even dating. So we set out to discover romantic adventures right here in the US that couples can take. Here we share our relationship tips and romantic adventures that you can take with your partner.

THE 10 BEST Door County Tours & Excursions

Door county tours.

Sightseeing Tours
Historical & Heritage Tours
Segway Tours
Cultural Tours
Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
Walking Tours
Photography Tours
Private Tours
Vespa, Scooter & Moped Tours
Up to 1 hour
1 to 4 hours
4 hours to 1 day
5.0 of 5 bubbles
4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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1. Cave Point Kayak Tour

2. Peninsula Day Trip: Sightseeing Top to Bottom

3. Boat Cruise- Sunset Live Music Cruise

4. Peninsula State Park Views Segway Tour w/ Private Tour Option

5. Sister Bay Shuffle Scavenger Hunt

6. Cave Point Fat Tire E-Bike Tour

7. Fish Creek Town Segway Tour w/ Private Tour Option

8. Bluff Kayaking Adventure in Door County Wisconsin

9. Cave Point E - Bike Tour

10. 1-Hour West Islands & Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Cruise

11. Boat Cruise - North Shore to Death’s Door Crossing

12. Peninsula State Park Kayak Tour

13. Cave Point Kayak Tour

14. Door County Sunset Tour

15. Fish Creek E-Scooter Guided Nature Glide w/ Private Tour Option

16. Sea Kayaking in Door County, Wisconsin

17. Wetlands Kayak Tour

18. 3-Hour Boat Rental up to 15 people

19. 23' Pontoon 3.5-Hour Rental Up To 12 People

20. Cave Point Kayak Tour

21. Death's Door Bluff Kayak Tour

22. Sturgeon Bay Canal City Segway Tour w/ Private Tour Option

23. Door County Wetlands Kayak Tour

24. Baileys Harbor Lighthouse Segway/Hike Tour with Private Tour Opt

25. PRIVATE TOUR: Wine Tour or Peninsula Sightseeing, or do Both!

26. Cave Point/Whitefish Dunes Segway Tour

27. Whitefish Dunes State Park & Cave Point Kayak Tour

28. Sister Bay Cheese Curd Tour

29. Fat Tire E-Bike Rental

30. Baileys Harbor Lighthouses Segway Tour

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15 Best Hikes in Door County, Wisconsin

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: June 3, 2022 - Last updated: April 16, 2024

Guide to the best Door County hiking trails, including best winter hikes and easily-accessible hikes

Are you looking for a truly unique outdoor experience this season?

From bluffs overlooking stunning shoreline vistas to rugged trails through peaceful old-growth forests, Door County in Wisconsin offers some of the most breathtaking hiking opportunities around.

Not only is it home to a wide variety of stunning natural attractions, but it’s also filled with picturesque towns, delicious restaurants, and cozy inns that make the journey even more fun. There are just so many things to do in Door County !

Here’s an overview of my favorite hikes in Door County that will show off all its charms—so grab your gear and get ready for your adventure!

pin for the best hiking trails in door county wisconsin

Psst…!!?? You can’t get enough of Door County, Wisconsin? Have a look at my other posts:

Best cabins in Door County
Things to do in Door County
Best resorts in Door County

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Table of Contents

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Where to Stay in Door County, Wisconsin

If none of these work for you, please check out my guide on the best resorts in Door County .

1. The Eagle Trail at Peninsula State Park

Length: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Top Door County hiking trails, Eagle Bluff Lighthouse

You can’t afford to miss out on the Eagle Trail that’s one of the most beautiful places to hike in Door County.

And it is especially beautiful during fall in Wisconsin as the colors change.

The Eagle Trail Door County hike can be found in the beautiful Peninsula State Park, one of the best state parks in Wisconsin .

Peninsula State Park is Wisconsin’s third-largest state park, with 3,776 acres for visitors to explore.

This is one of the best Door County hiking trails for nighttime hikes.

It boasts around 8-miles of Green Bay beachfront which allow you to see for miles at night, and enjoy the stunning, clear sky.

During the day, the views are equally impressive, especially on a bright sunny day.

Visitors may also climb to the top of Eagle Tower, a freshly restored observation tower in the park.

The primary attractions are Eagle Bluff and the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, which is one of the best lighthouses of Wisconsin .

However, while not incredibly difficult, the Eagle Trail is one of the most difficult hikes in Door County.

Parts of this 2.5-mile loop also trail along a coastline with breathtaking 148-foot cliffs – so don’t look down if you’re scared of heights!

Any rock climbers will be delighted to visit the steep rocky portions.

But be careful, because the rough terrain is braided with loose stones and tree roots.

Because this is Door County’s most popular hiking path, it may get very crowded during the summer.

In fact, during peak seasons, this Door County trail is very busy and can feel quite crowded.

Additionally, the extra foot traffic can make some of the stones looser, and the path more strenuous.

Because of the rough terrain and elevation climb, this is a relatively tough hike in parts.

This path may be done at any time of year, although because of the ice conditions in the winter, it’s best done between March and October.

In fact, it’s one of my favorite things to do in Door County in March as the trails are just starting to be passable again and it’s less busy.

Only experienced hikers should attempt the hike in harsh winter conditions.

You follow the rocky lakeshore close to the Niagara Escarpment from the trailhead at Eagle Bluff.

The walk winds through the woods and along Green Bay’s rocky shoreline. You’ll get the opportunity to explore the caverns and climb a lookout tower.

Not only is this one of the best hikes in Door County, but it’s also some of the best hiking in Northern Wisconsin .

Buy here the best hiking maps of Wisconsin

2. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail – Sturgeon Bay Segment

Length: 13.8 miles
Difficulty: Easy

places to go hiking in Sturgeon Bay, view over Sturgeon Bay on clear sunny day

The Ice Age Trail’s Eastern Terminus is Potawatomi State Park near Sturgeon Bay, and it has some of the trail’s most aesthetically magnificent sections.

Sturgeon Bay is also a proud member of the Ice Age Path Community, which has strong links to the Ice Age Trail Alliance and a number of villages along the 1,200-mile trail.

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a 1,000-mile pathway that passes through some of the state’s most attractive natural locations, highlighting various landscape elements.

The Trail is one of only eleven National Scenic Trails that run wholly throughout Wisconsin.

Due to the epicness of its length, people from all across the entire USA visit to hike parts of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, including this segment.

This is one of Door County’s quietest trails, but it is also one of the best hikes in Door County. Plus, despite its length, the terrain is not particularly difficult.

You might want to visit the observation tower before starting your journey to take in the stunning views.

The trail’s first-half leads you through woodlands and towards the city of Sturgeon Bay, and you can explore all the fun things to do in Sturgeon Bay .

Hiking in Sturgeon Bay is a delight because the route then continues around the lake, and you may want to make a stop at the beach if you choose.

The final stretch of this path follows part of the Ahnapee State Trail until you reach the Forestville Segment Trailhead.

Together, the Ice Age Trail Alliance and Trail Communities promote the distinct traits that distinguish the Trail and the communities through which it passes.

The Trail also intersects with some of the best Sturgeon Bay bike trails on occasion.

Keep in mind that bike riding is permitted only on certain parts while riding a horse is not authorized anywhere.

Book here the best cabins in Door County

3. The Black Trail at Cave Point County Park

Length: 3 miles (full loop)

Best Things to do in Door County, WI, Spectacular view of Lake Michigan from Cave Point County Park

Cave Point is quickly becoming one of the most popular natural attractions in Door County.

Lake Michigan waves pound the rocky coastline, forming magnificent sea caves that are a unique and stunning feature.

There are a few short paths along the cliffs at Cave Point that are worth exploring.

But the Black Route – a loop trail that explores the hardwood forest set back from the sea and links to the Whitefish Dunes State Park trail system – is a favorite.

The Black Trail is an experience in and of itself, as well as one of the greatest wildlife excursions in Door County.

It’s a 3-mile lollipop across flat terrain. It starts and finishes at the parking lot of Whitefish Dunes State Park.

The Black Trail follows a calmer stretch of shoreline to Cave Point County Park. Here you’ll find one of the best beaches in Door County .

Short offshoot paths along this initial portion provide views of Lake Michigan, one of the most important lakes in Wisconsin .

Along the route, there are also various picnic spots, including one with shipwreck artifacts.

The route winds through a hardwood forest set back from the beach that is home to animals and beautiful wildflowers.

This is one of my favorite hikes to take in Wisconsin in November as it’s quieter but still has great views.

Buy here the best road trip itinerary for Wisconsin

4. Plum Island Hiking Trails

Length: 3 miles of hiking trails

best Door County hiking trails, house and lighthouse surrounded by trees near sandy coastline

Plum Island is located between Northport and Washington Island in Door County.

Until recently, it belonged to the Coast Guard, which ran a range of light and life-saving stations between the front and rear entrance channels of the Port Des Morts route (translated to Deaths Door).

Once there, there are various recognized hiking paths totaling 5 miles in length.

While on the island, you may tour all of these hiking paths in half a day and select your own route.

The island is a nature lover’s paradise since it is a protected wildlife sanctuary and home to Bald Eagles and some of Wisconsin’s rarest flora.

The routes also pass through marshes, lighthouses, beaches, and historic sites.

It is possible to finish these beautiful Door Country hiking trails in three hours, but you may want to leave more time to take in all of the views.

One of two trails in Door County that cut across the island between the life-saving station and the lighthouse keeper’s residence is the most popular.

This is the Eagle View Trail, so named because there is a bald eagle nest near its halfway point.

However, the eagles have migrated to another nest on the island, so there is now little possibility of seeing them on the Eagle View Trail.

Plum Island provides stunning views and is a route that can be accessed at any time of year, so come and prepare to be impressed!

Book here the best tours of Door County

5. Ellison Bluff State Natural Area

Length: 1.2 miles

Door County hiking trails, view from Ellison Bluff with bit of tree covered cliff face and clear blue water stretching for miles

Ellison Bay – near the northernmost extremity of Door County – is considered one of the most straightforward and easily accessible hikes in Door County.

Ellison Bay is a basic route that even inexperienced walkers may appreciate because it is short and just traverses flat terrain.

Many people appreciate this short circular hiking route because it allows them to sit and take in the beautiful views from the observation point.

The remainder of the trail follows an established path through woodland.

Depending on the time of year, you will be treated to the sight and perfume of a variety of flowers along the journey.

The park’s steep limestone cliffs are part of the Niagara Escarpment, which was produced by debris deposited by glacial inland seas.

There is no access to the water since the bluff is almost 100-feet high and runs parallel to the beach throughout the park.

This is one of the best things to do in Northern Wisconsin if you’re passionate about nature.

You’ll find a stairway leading to a viewing platform offers breathtaking views, including sunsets and picture possibilities of the cliffs, Green Bay seas, and the numerous Green Bay Islands.

There are also many different types of plants along the path, including some rarer species that will interest visiting botanists.

A wide diversity of species live in the forest, and the peninsula serves as a migratory bird flyway.

The Ellison Bluff State Natural Area is home to 26 species of land snails, including five uncommon species and two glacial relicts.

The park provides calm picnics in the park’s eastern end, which is accessible through the service road that circles across a section of the park’s property.

Book here the best RV rentals in Wisconsin

6. Thordarson Loop at Rock Island State Park

Length: 6 miles

unique places to visit in Wisconsin, rocky coastline of Rock Island Wisconsin

To get to Rock Island, take a ferry to Washington Island and then an additional boat to Rock Island.

You should generally allocate a whole day for this excursion because of the added driving and boating time, even though you will probably complete the hiking trails in roughly three hours.

The route begins near the rocky beach and winds its way around the island, traversing both flat and difficult terrain.

You may enjoy the beach, lighthouses, and a historic boathouse in addition to the stunning surroundings.

If you’re camping in the region, you might wish to spend the night on the island because there are various backpacker campsites.

You’ll come across the Pottawatomie Lighthouse in about an hour.

Take a break here, fill your water bottle at the pump, and if you have time, take a brief tour of the century-old building (courtesy of the Friends of Rock Island State Park).

At the top, visitors can get a close look at the lighthouse’s lamp and lantern.

You’ll also be able to enjoy a beautiful view of Lake Michigan surrounded by trees and other flora.

From here, continue on the route to round the island. You’ll eventually find yourself back on the south side of the island, near the ranger station and boathouse.

You may cut across the island via the Fernwood Trail or Havamal Trail for a little shorter version of the Thordarson walk.

This is one of the most spectacular hiking trails in Door County that you need to experience!

7. The Red Trail at Whitefish Dunes State Park

Length: 2.8 miles

places to hike in Door County, wooden boardwalk leading to sandy beach on cloudy day

The massive Whitefish Sand Dunes, which are beautiful, are one of the outstanding attractions along Door County’s shorelines.

This state park has various trails, but the red path is probably the nicest.

It leads from the nature center to the top of Old Baldy Lookout and then into the Whitefish Dunes State Natural Area.

There are three locations along the trip where you may access the beach. The trail then loops back to its starting position.

The lovely environment makes any outdoor exercise delightful, therefore this trail is also frequented by runners and bikers.

The red route continues to zigzag along the beach, gaining in height between unexpectedly enormous dunes that are densely forested and home to a healthy forest.

The route leads to the third beach access, which is also one of Door County’s pet-friendly beaches.

The Red Trail branches out to the west just after reaching the pet beach, going farther into the tallest group of dunes.

8. Door Bluff Headlands County Park

Where to go hiking in Door County, cliff drop into water

Door Cliff Headlands is a county park located at the end of the Port Des Morts Passage between Gills Rock and Washington Island on a bluff overlooking Green Bay.

This county park has multiple unmarked trails that crisscross it, but I prefer the blue route, which is a 2.5-mile moderate loop.

Door Bluff County Park is one of the quietest and least frequented natural beauties in Door County.

It’s just a wilderness at a gorgeous place near the ominously named Deaths Door.

There is a circle drive parking area, a portable bathroom, and a small information kiosk.

From there, you must negotiate the park’s unsigned but well-traveled pathways.

This Blue route loop begins by climbing along the bluff’s edge through a thick cedar woodland.

One bald outcropping provides beautiful clear views over Green Bay. The route then begins to descend through a rich hardwood woodland.

I have not plotted all of the branch paths that connect to this mainline.

There appears to be a network of cross-country ski routes here that crosses private property as well as Door Bluff County Park.

This park is a beautiful and pristine environment that begs to be explored!

The yellow trail on my GPS map allows you to easily descend the front of the bluff to the water’s edge.

Fishermen may find this to be a secluded and good fishing area.

9. Ridges Sanctuary in Door County

Length: 5+ miles of trails
Difficulty: Very Easy (also wheelchair accessible)

best hiking trails in Door County, wooden boardwalk surrounded by trees leading up to small red and white lighthouse

Conservationists were drawn to Bailey’s Harbor because of an unusually textured landform.

As Lake Michigan receded, it left behind a pattern of parallel sand dune ridges and marsh swales that resembled wave impressions.

This terrain was challenging to develop, but it proved to be an ideal habitat for uncommon flora and spectacular species of animals.

The Ridges were protected as Wisconsin’s first land trust in 1937, and a total of 1600 acres of natural land and native ecology have been conserved.

The majority of visitors are hosted at a nature center in Bailey’s Harbor, which serves as the starting point for a network of Door County trails totaling more than 5 miles.

Many of these hikes are on boardwalks, making them quite easy to traverse.

This is one of the best places to hike in Door County for those who are less fit or unable to hike difficult terrain for any reason but still want to admire the beauty of nature.

If you are looking for an easy scenic route to take in spring and enjoy the blossoms, visiting Ridges Sanctuary is one of my favorite things to do in Door County in April .

10. Toft Point Natural Area

Length: 2.4 miles

Amazing Door County hiking trails, rocky coastline lined with trees

This out-and-back hike is in a quiet area of Door County called Bailey’s Harbor, so it is frequently overlooked by tourists.

However, this is both a beautiful place to visit and an interesting historic site!

There are plenty of things to do in Door County, especially around the region of Bailey’s harbor.

The basic trail begins at the Toft Point State Natural Area parking lot and leads through fields and forests to Toft Point on Moonlight Bay.

This land was once the homestead of the Toft family and is now used to educate people about conservation.

There are log cabins near Toft Point that offer both guest accommodation and event space.

Although the trail is short, there is an option to hike off into the wilderness – but you will, however, need a compass and a map.

11. Tower Trail, Potawatomi State Park

Length: 3.9 miles

where to see fall colors door county, view of Potawatomi State Park

Tower Trail is located at the southern end of Door County, and many locals consider it the gateway of Door County.

Established in 1928, it houses 123 campsites, some of which have electrical hookups and even a shower building.

The Tower trail leads to the observation tower located at the highest bluff in Potawatomi State Park.

Visiting the observation tower is a cute idea for romantic getaways in Wisconsin .

The landscape is breathtaking! Parking and restrooms are available at the old tower site.

The trail loops through the park before going through the campground. It’s a great spot for picnic or group camping too.

There are multiple group camping sites and some cozy cabins in Door County , right in the park.

12. Hotz Loop, Newport State Park

Length: 2.9 miles

Best Beaches in Wisconsin, view of Newport State Park, Ellison Bay, Lake Michigan

There are miles and miles of some of the best hiking trails in Door County, Newport State Park.

Fortunately, you can get a brochure marking the trails and explaining the park’s history at its headquarters.

The best hiking in Door County is the Hotz loop. Running 7 miles, it is also the longest.

The approximately 7-mile Europe Bay Trail is part of Newport State Park’s large trail system and the ambient setting is lined with many inviting plants and trees.

This north-to-south running loop trail is unique in that it takes hikers across the majority of the park and provides a nearly complete tour of everything it has to offer.

Visitors will find dense and untouched old-growth conifer forests, shoreline lookouts, hidden coves, and even a large inland lake (Europe Lake)!

There’s also an abundance of wildlife such as squirrels, chipmunks, deer, and birds.

The route may be accessed from a variety of locations across the park, although most visitors begin at the southern end, near the main parking lot.

It can also be connected at the trailheads off Europe Bay Road at Liberty Grove Town Park on its northern end.

The trek can easily be extended by adding additional side paths that split off the main track.

The trail winds through a lovely forest between Europe Lake and Lake Michigan, giving the impression that you are going through a tunnel of trees.

This trek is especially lovely in the fall when the leaves change color and you can enjoy all the stunning fall colors in Wisconsin .

At various spots along the path, you will be able to enjoy the splendor of Lake Michigan’s shoreline as well as the tranquility of Europe Lake.

Hotz Loop is truly one of the best hikes in Door County for getting “lost” in nature.

13. Lynd Point Fern Loop at Newport State Park

best hiking in Door County, rocky cliffs with many boulders having fallen into surrounding water

With its massive trees, frequent terrain variations, ecological niches, and rarely another trail-goer in sight, the Lynd Point Fern Loop is the quintessential Newport State Park experience.

Although it does not cover every inch of the park – something that the seven-mile Europe Bay Loop comes close to doing – the trail does serve as a condensed sample of what Newport has to offer.

It also overlaps with two sections of the Europe Bay Loop near the park’s center.

As the Fern Trail enters Lynd Point, it begins to parallel the shoreline, which is as varied as the hiking path terrain.

Here you’ll find flat, walkable rocks similar to those found at Cave Point County Park and water sloshing between jagged boulders.

There are also some of the most beautiful beaches in Wisconsin with fine sand, pebble, and shell mixtures.

The trail then follows the shoreline of Lake Michigan and Newport Bay.

The trek is 2.5 miles long but may appear longer because something constantly piques the curiosity or diverts attention away from the landscapes.

And once you get close to the water, it’s difficult not to step off the trail at every opening to enjoy a new vista.

The Lynd Point Trail concludes – or begins, depending on your hiking route – by intersecting with the Europe Bay Loop, which drops you off at Newport Bay’s beach.

From here it’s just a short walk back to the parking lot.

It diverges from Europe Bay Trail and follows the rugged, rocky shoreline, with stunning lake views and vistas.

The trail leaves the beach on the northern shore and heads inland to an ancient shoreline.

This dolostone ledge invites you to explore its small caves and outcroppings, which are covered in mosses and rare ferns.

The terrain is moderate, with rocks and tree roots.

This is a great trail in the winter because wildlife is quieter, but you may still see signs and tracks of porcupines, deer, coyotes, squirrels, weasels, and shoreline and inland birds.

So if you wonder what are the things to do in Door County in winter , admiring the frozen landscape and the pureness of the fauna is a blessing.

14. Ahnapee State Trail

Length: 48 miles (12 miles within Door County)

Top Door County walking trails, two bikes in distance on paved trail surrounded by trees and grass

This moderately difficult 48-mile trail begins near Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, and takes an average of 14 hours and 27 minutes to complete.

The trail is ideal for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain bike riding.

In fact, it’s not just one of the top Door County bike trails , but one of the best mountain bike trails in Wisconsin .

It’s a quiet atmosphere, you won’t see many other people while exploring it. The trail is open all year and is a beautiful place to visit at any time.

The trail passes through a variety of evergreen glades, farmland, prairies, and wooded areas teeming with wildlife and native wildflowers, so put this one on your list without a doubt.

The trail branches off near Sunset Road in Kewaunee County in three directions: west to Luxemburg, northeast to Algoma, and southeast to Kewaunee.

The tracks were removed as part of a “rails to trails” conversion.

Hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and horse-drawn carts and wagons share the trail in the spring, summer, and fall.

As one of the best hikes Door County has to offer during fall, it is a great idea for fun Wisconsin fall getaways .

Be sure to make the most of your stay and explore all the other fun things to do in Door County in October .

Snowmobiles, fat bikes, cross country skiers, and snowshoers whiz across its frosty surface in the winter.

The Ahnapee State Trail connects Kewaunee, Casco, Algoma, and Sturgeon Bay hiking routes and is nearly 50 miles long.

The firm surface of the 8 to 10-foot wide trail is one of the ideal Door County hiking trails, trail biking, and horseback riding.

During the winter, the trail is primarily used by snowmobilers, though cross-country skiing is also permitted.

And it is undeniably home to some of the best snowmobile trails in Wisconsin .

So be sure you include Ahnapee Trail on your winter getaways in Wisconsin list!

Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash.

15. Brachiopod Trail, Whitefish Dunes State Park

Length: 1.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy (it is intended to be fully accessible, but can be more difficult to traverse in adverse weather conditions)

Best Things to do in Door County, WI, Beach coastline of Lake Michigan from Whitefish Dunes State Park in Door County

This 1.5-mile interpretive route will introduce you to some of the particular features of the park.

Byron, the brachiopod, will take you on an excursion around the interpretative route.

Byron is a one-footed clam-like creature that formerly lived here millions of years ago.

Brachiopods and other fossils from that age may be found all around Door County.

The route begins at a fossil rock wall along the picnic area’s coastline.

It is meant to be accessible to everyone, although weather and terrain fluctuations may make certain portions challenging.

To safeguard the unique plant and animal species that call Whitefish Dunes home, it is not allowed to climb the sand dunes.

So sticking to the park’s authorized routes and staircases is a must.

This waterside wonderland, located alongside Lake Michigan in Sturgeon Bay, is the ideal place to take in the natural beauty of Door County.

Swimming, boating, hiking, and picnicking are just a few of the activities available at Whitefish Dunes State Park.

There is also a recreation of the villages where the original settlers of Door County lived.

It’s the most authentic way to experience what life was like in Door County hundreds of years ago.

A nature center offers programs, exhibits, and displays all year.

The reservable picnic shelter at the park overlooks Lake Michigan and is close to the nature center, beach, and hiking trails. No camping, only day use.

This park provides adaptive equipment for people with mobility issues, such as a beach wheelchair and a special beach trail.

Pets may be prohibited from certain areas.

Hiking is such a wonderful way to maintain yourself fit but also to discover the world that surrounds us.

And when it comes to hiking Door County is a region so full of opportunities and experiences!

Short FAQ About the Best Hikes in Door County

Where can i go hiking in door county in the winter.

One of the best winter hikes in Door County is the Lynd Point Fern Loop at Newport State Park. The Ahnapee Trail is also great for winter sports.

How long is Eagle trail in Door County?

This popular Door County hiking trail is around 2.5 miles.

Where can I run in Door County?

Many of the best hiking trails in Door County are great for running. However, my top recommendations are Eagle Trail, the Ahnapee Trail and Hotz Loop.

Before You Go: Top Tips for your Trip

You’ll snap tons of photos and I love to take my GoPro in order to shoot even in extreme situations.
Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and hiking sandals when traveling to warm countries. Consider trying some of these eco-friendly vegan hiking boots .
Sunscreen is key! I always take with me my eco-friendly sunscreen by Thinksport.
I always carry a light rain jacket , just in case. Pack smart with these organic cotton clothing companies .
Be environmentally friendly and get one of these awesome backpacks made from recycled materials .
Get in the mindset with these amazing wilderness survival books .
Travel insurance is essential! If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, travel is protected against all odds with HeyMondo .

Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀

Best Hiking Trails to Explore Door County

This post may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I (The Winding Road Tripper) earn from qualifying purchases. Read more .

If you are looking for some wonderful hikes in Wisconsin, Door County is a great choice.

Exploring Door Country on foot is a perfect way to experience its gorgeous shoreline and unique geological features.

And with its delightful dining and lodging options, including one of the best Wisconsin State Parks , Door County is a great overall destination.

To get you started on your Door County hiking adventure, we are sharing 6 of our favorite hikes to explore Door County.

All hiking distances are round trip.

Eagle Trail – Peninsula State Park

Distance: 2.0 miles | Difficulty: Moderate | Elevation Gain: 183 feet | Time: 1.5 – 2.5 hours

Scenic view of the shoreline of Peninsula State Park

The Eagle trail is one of the most loved hikes in Wisconsin in the most loved state park.

It’s a moderate hike with a slight elevation gain. But what makes it a challenge is all of the rocks and tree roots you’ll have to tackle. Take it slow and make sure to stop to enjoy the beautiful scenery and sounds of Lake Michigan as you hike along the shoreline to stunning rock formations.

You can take the loop either clockwise or counterclockwise. Views going clockwise are slightly better along with the lack than counterclockwise. But either direction will result in a great hike.

The main trailhead is located near the Eagle Panorama Lookout. And whether or not you park here, make sure to climb up the Eagle Panorama for some fantastic views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding shoreline.

The Eagle Trail is a popular hike, so if you are planning on hiking it during the busy season, plan for many fellow hikers and start your hike early AM or late afternoon.

Fern and Lynd Point Loop – Newport State Park

Distance: 2.4 miles | Difficulty: Easy | Elevation Gain: 42 feet | Time: 1.5 – 2.5 hours

Newport State Park located on the eastern side of the Door County peninsula has a hiking trail for just about every level of hiker.

There is relatively no elevation gain throughout the park so you can make your hikes as difficult as you want by adjusting the length.

The Fern and Lynd Point Loop is a great loop to include in your Newport State Park hiking adventure as it offers some stunning views from the bluffs hovering over the shores of Lake Michigan. And when you aren’t along the lakeshore, this hike takes you through an enchanted forest full of green beauty.

If you want more distance to your Newport State Park hiking experience you can combine this hike with more trails in the park such as the Europe Bay Loop or the Hotz Trail.

Hotz Trail and Europe Bay Loop – Newport State Park

Distance: 2.9 miles | Difficulty: Easy | Elevation Gain: 55 feet | Time: 1.5 – 2.5 hours

Lakeshore view from the Europe Bay Loop in Newport State Park. Image shos sandy beach and forested lakeshore.

Our campsite host recommended this loop, and it did not disappoint. It’s a relatively easy hike with a few rolling hills to get the heart pumping.

The hike takes you through a beautiful forest between Europe Lake and Lake Michigan where you often feel like you are hiking through a tunnel of trees. This hike is especially beautiful in fall when the leaves are turning colors.

At points along the trail, you will experience the beauty of the shores of Lake Michigan and the serene nature of Europe Lake. It’s a great hike to get “lost” in nature.

Tower Trail – Potawatomi State Park

Distance: 3.9 miles | Difficulty: Easy | Elevation Gain: 167 feet | Time: 2 – 3 hours

Want to hike a bit of the Ice Age Trail while exploring a beautiful Wisconsin State Park? Then the Tower Trail in Potawatomi State Park is for you.

The Eastern terminus of the Ice Age Trail is in Potawatomi State Park. And if you complete the Tower Trail you will get the chance to walk along a portion of this iconic hiking trail.

The Tower Trail is a beautiful forest hike that takes you around Potawatomi State Park. Along the way, you’ll get a few views of Sturgeon Bay and travel to a tower that provides a great view of the surrounding area.

The trail can be both muddy and buggy so be prepared for both especially if there has been a lot of recent rainfall.

This trail is one of the many great things to do in the Sturgeon Bay area .

Old Baldy Loop Trail/Red Trail – Whitefish Dunes State Park

Distance: 2.8 miles | Difficulty: Easy | Elevation Gain: 118 feet | Time: 1.5 – 2.5 hours

Hiking the Old Baldy Loop in Whitefish Dunes State Park is a great way to experience one of the amazing geological features of the shores of Lake Michigan – sand dunes.

On this hike, you’ll walk over sand dunes and get to climb the highest sand dune in the park, Old Baldy, at 93-feet. At the top, you’ll get a great view of Lake Michigan and its picturesque colors.

Cave Point Lakeside Trail

Distance: 1.6 miles | Difficulty: Easy | Elevation Gain: 32 feet | Time: 1 – 2 hours

Image of authors hiking along the shore of Lake Michigan at Cave Point County Park

This trail isn’t so much of a hike, but instead a rugged stroll along one of the most stunning lakeshores in Wisconsin.

While this trail is relatively easy, there are plenty of roots and rocks to watch out for that make this trail a moderate one. But if you are in the area and up for dodging a few roots and rocks, this is a hike that is not to be missed.

On a calm day, you’ll experience the clear blue-green waters and gorgeous cliffs along the shores of Lake Michigan.

And if it’s a windy day, you’ll experience the wonders of Lake Michigan as it furiously crashes against the shore. But watch out as you hike, as some of those crashes can topple over the cliffs and soak innocent bystanders.

Related Post: Things to Do in Sturgeon Bay – Our Top 15 Must-Sees

Tips of Hiking in Door County

Door County has some great hiking trails for you to enjoy during your stay. Here are a few tips for making the best of your hikes.

Wear Sturdy Shoes

Many of the hiking trails in Door County are lined with tree roots and rocks. In our experience, having a good set of hiking shoes or boots makes hiking these trails a lot safer. Tennis shoes will likely work for the trails, but it’s been raining be prepared to get them a little dirty.

Pack a Small Backpack with Hiking Essentials

The quickest way to ruin a great hike is by not having what you need a mile into your hike.

It’s often hard to predict what you will encounter on your hike, so bring a backpack with hiking essentials.

Here are some things to make sure to have in your pack:

Rain Ponchos
Small first aid kit
Fully charged cell phone

Door County is a popular destination, especially in the summer.

For a more intimate hiking experience, consider going first thing in the morning. This will help you get a parking space at the trails as well as minimize the traffic you’ll see on the trail.

15 Great Kayaking Spots in Door County and Green Bay, Wisconsin

W isconsin is a beautiful state and with each trip back we find new, fun things to do. Kayaking in Door County and the Green Bay area are great activities for spring through fall. The peninsula of Door County , along with the city of Green Bay, contains endless nature sights to be enjoyed from the viewpoint of a kayak. Calm waters, lots of wildlife, and breathtaking coastlines are just a few of the many reasons that loyal paddlers continue to visit every year. And lighthouses, but you probably know that’s why I fell in love with Door County.

Ideal for families and novice paddlers, this northern section of Lake Michigan is perfect for any kayaker looking for a memorable day on the water. To get you started, we’ve compiled the fifteen best kayaking spots in Door County, Green Bay and nearby State Parks. If you’re looking for a week of paddling or just a fun afternoon on the water, this list is guaranteed to have something to make your trip to Green Bay or Door County one to remember. We’re confident that you won’t regret making this pristine section of Lake Michigan your next kayaking destination.

If you have any questions or want to shout out your own recommendations for kayaking in Door County, please leave a comment or send us a note . We’ve got lots of tips for the best food in Door County , Wisconsin road trips and more, so are always happy to share a little extra!

Best Kayaking Spots in Door County

The peninsula of Door County, dividing the waters of Lake Michigan and Green Bay, has recently adopted a reputation amongst paddlers as one of the most peaceful kayaking destinations around. The region hosts many interesting and exciting features that paddlers can spend days exploring. With caves, shipwrecks, cliffs, wetlands, and hidden swimming holes, Door County is quickly becoming a kayaking hotspot.

Cave Point for Intermediate Kayaking

After conquering the open waters of Lake Michigan, Cave Point rewards paddlers with a unique opportunity to explore some stunning sea caves. You’ll quickly understand why the geographical features at Cave Point have attracted so many kayakers. For paddlers with little open water experience, we recommend that you join one of the many Cave Point tours offered at the park in order to safely navigate the crossing.

The reason this is considered an intermediate kayaking spot is because of the nature of open water kayaking on Lake Michigan. The winds and currents can be surprising, including the waves that are often created. Summertime storms can also present a challenge.

Launch Site:

Cave Point County Park

Bailey’s Harbor for Shipwrecks

For kayakers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Bailey’s Harbor is a mandatory stop in Door County. While paddling throughout the waters of the harbor, kayakers can witness some of the 250 shipwrecks littered throughout the bay. Numerous outfitters offer clear-bottom kayaks for rent as well as guided tours to point out some of the best wrecks.

Baileys Harbor Town Marina or Baileys Harbor Ridges Park

Kangaroo Lake for Fall Colors

Nearby Bailey’s Harbor, paddlers can find the beautiful inland Kangaroo lake. For a quiet paddling experience, we recommend exploring the north end of the lake as it is a designated “no motor zone”. The calm waters provide the perfect conditions for exploring the lake and its wildlife.

*SUP Friendly Paddling

Kangaroo Lake Public Boat Launch

Gills Rock (Difficulty: Novice)

If you only have time to visit one spot in Door County, we recommend the historic area of Gills Rock. This spot has everything. Starting from an old fishing village, kayakers have the opportunity to see jaw-dropping bluffs, forgotten shipwrecks, incredible caves, and historic pictographs believed to be over 350 years old!

This is a bucket list kayaking spot for the State of Wisconsin, and is best in early summer before summer storms really start up and before Door County tourism is at its annual peak.

Weborg Dock and Boat Ramp

Moonlight Bay to Rieboldt Creek

Perfect for beginners, this area between Lake Michigan and Mud Lake is the ideal spot for wilderness exploration. The waters contain an assorted collection of wildlife and waterfowl that can be seen while paddling throughout the passage’s calm, tranquil waters.

There’s also the Cana Island Lighthouse just to the east, so paddling around the small peninsula will not just show off the beautiful shoreline and wildlife, but adds a historic stone lighthouse.

Bues Point Boat Ramp

Best Kayaking Spots in Green Bay

One of the best spots to start exploring the western arm of Lake Michigan is the city of Green Bay itself. Many of the rivers branching off of Lake Michigan offer calm waters and rich scenery while paddling throughout the city’s downtown area. In addition to the urban landscape, every river features a magnificent collection of remote wilderness to be discovered. And, after exploring the calm creeks and rivers, paddlers can either venture into the open waters of the Bay or challenge themselves with some exciting nearby whitewater runs.

Kayaking on the Calm Fox River

Located in the heart of downtown Green Bay, Fox River is an urban paddler’s dream come true. Since Fox River extends all the way from Lake Winnebago up to Green Bay, kayakers are in for a combined urban and rural paddling treat. In some areas, you’ll be surrounded by dense woodlands while other parts of the river will drop you right in the heart of the historic city. This is great, SUP friendly water to paddle on in Green Bay.

Kayakers Point, east side of river

Green Bay’s East River Kayaking

Often overlooked, even by local paddlers, the East River offers another fantastic opportunity to combine urban and rural kayaking. With so many launch sites, paddlers can pick the exact type of adventure they want. Launching in the city of Green Bay will feature many of the same urban sights as the Fox while putting-in further South in Allouez allows for complete immersion in Green Bay’s wilderness. Some of the many species of birds known to live in the area include blue jays, cardinals, and kingfishers.

Green Isle Park or Riverview Park

Easy Paddling at Deerfield Docks Park

For a great all-around family day-trip, Deerfield Docks Park is one of the best spots for kayaking in the Green Bay area. This 3-acre park features a boardwalk trail, picnic area, and offshore fishing. Also, from the boat launch, kayakers can access both the marshy Duck Creek and the gorgeous Peats Lake. Countless smaller passages and ponds make this kayaking launch a great place to explore.

*SUP Friendly Paddling BUT this area has a lot of lake weeds so your fin may drag a bit from time to time.

Deerfield Docks Park

Peshtigo River (Difficulty: Experienced)

For paddlers looking for the best whitewater run in all of Wisconsin, that’s gonna be the Peshtigo River. This exciting 5-mile run features continuous rapids ranging from Class II to Class IV with lots of fun waves, chutes, holes and eddies. During the calm parts of the run keep an eye out for beavers, otters, and white-tailed deer that live in the area. This is NOT for novice paddlers and it’s HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you plan to go with a guide or another experienced kayaker.

Farmdam Lane Loop

Pick-up Site:

Boat Landing 12 or Boat Landing 11 Loop

Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve (Difficulty: Novice)

One of the coolest spots for kayaking near Green Bay and Door County is Dead Horse Bay. Here you can launch and paddle south to Long Tail Point Beach and then continue by checking out the Long Tail Point Lighthouse . Built in 1847 and since abandoned and all but destroyed, the lighthouse ruins stand on the sandbar in the lake, perfect to see from a kayak. It’s pretty cool

After kayaking visit the 920-acre Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve which is located on the western shore of Green Bay and has some of the best wildlife viewing in the area. The Park features over nine miles of hiking trails throughout wetlands, forests, and meadows creating an unparalleled wildlife viewing experience. You can’t kayak within the preserve, but you can go birdwatching from the platforms, which is just a different sort of enjoyment.

West Shores Boat Launch

Wisconsin State Park Paddling

Wisconsin State Parks are beautiful, and you’ll find such different sights than other state parks in places like Florida parks or in Washington State . Here, you’ll find cliffs and freshwater bays, with wetlands, historic structures and so much more.

Peninsula State Park

In the heart of Door County, Peninsula State Park is not only beautiful but also easily accessible. During a trip to Peninsula, paddlers can make day trips to a number of popular spots including Chambers Island, Horseshoe Island, Eagles Cave, and the Eagle Bluff lighthouse. Kayakers should also be on the lookout for bald eagles as there are many nests throughout the park.

My favorite thing to do at Peninsula State Park isn’t actually kayaking, but it’s going up on the skywalk. This incredible boardwalk leads to the treetops and brings you to an awesome view of Lake Michigan / Green Bay. There’s a ton to do at Peninsula State Park, so after kayaking explore more!

Nicolet Bay Boat Launch

Newport State Park

Also in Door County, Newport is another park that can keep paddlers busy for days. The park is located on the border of the Mink River Estuary, Lake Michigan, and Europe Lake offering countless spots to explore. Many of these spots can be easily tackled in a day-trip but for the more adventurous kayakers, the availability of campsites and world-renowned stargazing at Newport makes the recipe for an incredible multi-day adventure.

Newport State Park Beach or Liberty Grove Park

Peshtigo Harbor State Wildlife Area

Found on the western side of Green Bay, Peshtigo Harbor State Wildlife was established in order to, “enhance wildlife habitat, protect natural communities, and provide nature-based recreation”. Kayakers can explore this rich wildlife area on their own or choose to follow one of the many established self-guided water trails.

Following established paddling trails is a very good way to ensure that you’re having a minimal impact on the wildlife and environment when paddling. Also, if you’re new to kayaking in an area, following the set kayaking routes ensures you have a more safe experience.

Peshtigo River Ramp

High Cliff State Park

For paddlers searching for a calm day of kayaking away from the waters of Lake Michigan, High Cliff State Park is a must-visit. On the calm waters of Lake Winnebago, kayakers can spend a few hours leisurely exploring the lake at their own pace. Features of High Cliff include a 40-foot lookout tower, 200-foot bluffs, and incredible cliff ledges.

Beach at High Cliff State Park or High Cliff State Park Marina

Potawatomi State Park

One of the larger state parks with a staggering area of 1200 acres, Door County’s Ponawatomi State Park is an optimal spot for wilderness lovers. The park is known for its mighty limestone cliffs, rolling hills, and diverse collection of wildlife. While on the water, kayakers could spot herons, bald eagles, deer, raccoons, and much more.

Shoreline Boat Launch

Tours for Kayaking in Door County and Green Bay

Even though many of the best places to kayaking Door County and Green Bay are pretty mellow, there are some more technical paddles, and also routes that can confuse unfamiliar visitors, especially in wetland areas. Booking a kayaking tour is a great idea if you’re not well versed in a region, even if the difficulty level is appropriate for beginners.

Cave Point Kayak Tour

This is the perfect tour for kayakers who want to experience the majestic cliffs and caves at Cave Point but might be uncomfortable with the open waters of Lake Michigan. Paddle with confidence as experienced guides navigate the crossing and lead you to the famous spot.

Book the Cave Point Kayak Tour here!

Death’s Door Bluff Kayak Tour

With scenic bluffs, shipwrecks, rock cairns, and historic pictographs, this combined hiking and kayaking tour offers a fantastic adventure in Door County. In addition to certified guides, the tour includes everything from meals to paddling gear.

Book the Death’s Door Bluff Kayak Tour here!

Door County’s Wetlands Tour

This family-friendly paddling tour will guide paddlers throughout the wetlands of Door County led by an expert guide with knowledge of the area’s wildlife. There are many species of wildlife to see in the area including swans, bald eagles, and blue herons. Overall, a great trip for learning about the wetland ecosystem.

This tour is only bookable when the season starts: Door County Wetlands Kayaking Tour

Weather and When to Visit Door County / Green Bay

Like most of the paddling spots in the Great Lakes, the best time of the year to plan your kayaking trip is in the warmer summer months. However, the waters take a while to warm up with temperatures still ranging between 40-50º F in June. That means hypothermia can still represent a serious risk if submerged for extended periods of time. On the other hand, July and August are the warmest months of the year with water temperatures in the 60s.

While planning paddling trips in the area, it is always important to check wind speed and direction before every launch. Offshore winds can make it difficult to paddle back and high speeds can whip up potentially hazardous waves. Kayakers should always wear their PFD in case of changing weather conditions. 11

Annual Door County Sea Kayak Symposium

To join one of the most inclusive kayaking communities in Wisconsin, don’t miss the Sea Kayak Symposium in Door County. This year marks the 19th annual Symposium and on the weekend of July 8th, paddlers from all over convene to experience these majestic waters as a family. With tours, classes, group seminars, and evening bonfires, the weekend’s events have been designed to provide an unforgettable paddling experience for kayakers of any experience level. Click the link below to learn more about joining a kayaking community like no other.

Website: https://www.rutabaga.com/dcskspage

With Green Bay and Door County quickly gaining popularity through word of mouth in kayaking circles, it’s only a matter of time before the waters are filled with paddlers from all over North America. Don’t wait for another season to take advantage of these extraordinary paddling opportunities. There are few places in the world where you can find shipwrecks, pictographs, urban river paddling, and whitewater runs all in the same place. We can’t wait to be back out on the water and we hope to see you there!

The best places for kayaking in Door County and Green Bay range from state parks to wetlands on the shores of Lake Michigan. Top spots for kayaking with wildlife, seeing lighthouses and beautiful fall colors in Northeast Wisconsin.

IMAGES

Door County Road Trip • Lakeshore Magazine
Door County Road Trip Tips
The best places to see the fall colors in Door County
Best Road Trips for Fall Foliage in Wisconsin
Door County Weekend Road Trip (July 10-12, 2020)
Curvy Road

COMMENTS

The Full-County Driving Tour
The Full-County Driving Tour: How to Visit the Entire Peninsula & Its Islands. Published January 31, 2021. If the doldrums of winter have you dreaming of packing a bag, hitting the open road, and chasing big-time adventure, Door County should be on your road-trip bucket list. The Door Peninsula has 19 established communities as well as other ...
Road Trip Itinerary: A Long Weekend in Door County, Wisconsin
Time to explore "the quiet side", along Hwy 57. First stop is to indulge in sesame-encrusted Corsica bread from the delightful Door County Bakery . This European-style bakery, cafe, deli and wine shop is surrounded by charming little gardens and is definitely worth a visit. Next stop is Schopf's Dairy Farm.
A summer road trip guide to Wisconsin's Door County, the Cape Cod of
5. Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant in Sister Bay. No road trip through Door County is complete without a meal at Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant, where the region's Scandinavian roots remain on full display. From Swedish pancakes with lingonberry sauce to Swedish meatballs, Al Johnson's offers a true smorgasbord of Scandi fare.
Door County Road Trip Tips
Getting there is half the fun! Door County is beautiful and there are plenty of sights to see as you drive up this gorgeous peninsula.
A Door County Weekend Road Trip
Door County is a great Wisconsin getaway for a short weekend road trip. A weekend in Door County is filled with unique experiences, delicious food and quiet living. We've created our perfect two day itinerary for you to follow in order to get the most out of your trip to Door County. Door County is surrounded on all sides by the majestic Lake ...
25 FunThings to do in Door County, Wisconsin
If you are a runner, one of the best things to do in door county in May is the Door County Half Marathon & Nicolet Bay 5K. These are usually in the first week of May and run through part of Peninsula State Park. 7. Visit the Best Wineries in Door County Wisconsin. Wisconsin winery sunsets are spectacular.
Spend 4 Days on a Road Trip Through Door County, Wis.
A popular peninsula in eastern Wisconsin piercing Lake Michigan, Door County is blessed with 300 miles of shoreline easily explored by car, mostly on two-lane roads that never take you more than a few miles from the water.On this four-day road trip — a memorable mix of coastal and countryside drives — make a scenic loop around this slender jewel, which is 70 miles long and just 18 miles ...
The Ultimate Guide to Door County's Charming Towns and Islands
Sturgeon Bay. The Vibe: The region's gateway has a more industrial feel—but also charming, old-timey storefronts. Eat + Drink: Grab a cherry scone at 5&J Coffee House or a lavender latte at L awlss Coffee and peruse the nearby art gallery. Bluefront Cafe serves the best lunch in town, with indulgent vegetarian options like the Portobello ...
How to Plan the Perfect Long Weekend in Door County
Start your trip to Door County in true Wisconsin fashion with a cheese stop. Just off the highway to Door County is everyone's favorite cheese shop Renard's, along HWY 57. ... Check Out the Picturesque windiest road in Door County. Hwy 42 between Gills Rock and Northport is a fun road to take some pictures on, and it's pretty fun to drive
Door County, Wisconsin, USA Road Trip
A trip from there through the charming village of Fish Creek presents a historic main street, galleries, marinas, scenic overlooks, and beaches. ... There are many more spots to stop and admire along the loop that is the Door County Coastal Byway if a longer road trip is in the works. The area looks small but the experiences here are many ...
Wisconsin Road Trip Adventures: A Week in Door County with Lands' End
For this road trip, we made our way to Door County, which is a small peninsula bordered by Lake Michigan on the western side of Wisconsin. And wow, we were in awe at all the natural beauty in the region time and time again. There is so much to see throughout Door County—a week was not even close to enough time to see it all!
Door County Coastal National Scenic Byway
185 E. Walnut St - Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235. Information: 920-743-3113. Share. View Website Favorite (9) Travel this national scenic byway as it loops 66 miles along the Green Bay bluffs and through the dunes and bays of Lake Michigan. Explore lighthouses, nature preserves, and historic communities.
Door County trip planner: make a Door County itinerary & map
Top destinations in Door County. 1. Sturgeon Bay. Most popular based on reviews. Check out Cave Point County Park, The Farm, and more. 2. Fish Creek. 91% as popular as Sturgeon Bay. Visit Peninsula Players Theatre, Edgewood Orchard Galleries, and more.
Door County Road Trip • Lakeshore Magazine
This Fish Creek favorite claims the best outdoor patio in Door County and invites dogs to enjoy an evening of great food, lawn games and music with their two-legged, bill-paying companions. If you're staying in Fish Creek they'll even pick you in their courtesy shuttle, a six-passenger electric vehicle. Fish Boils.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Door County
Peninsula State Park consists of over 3,770 acres which is the largest state park in Door Co. Visitors can golf the 18-hole course, hike, bike, swim or fish in the warmer months and cross country ski groomed trails or snowmobile or sled in the winter months. There are 472 campsites (165 of those are electric campsites).
The Best Wisconsin Road Trip Includes Door County Cherry Picking
When is Door County Cherry Season. Door County Cherry season is between mid-July and mid-August depending on Wisconsin's weather. This makes a summer road trip the perfect time to spend the day cherry picking. We timed our visit just right! It was cherry season and many of the orchards were open for picking.
THE 10 BEST Door County Tours & Excursions
12. Cave Point Kayak Tour. This kayak tour sets off to see a few of the many precious gems of Door County. You will experience thousand year old …. 13. Sea Kayaking in Door County, Wisconsin. Unique kayak tours that offer a higher level of comfort on the water with luxury kayaks that are stable and easy to paddle….
15 Best Hikes in Door County, Wisconsin
The Nordic Lodge**. Pheasant Park Resort***. County House Resort***. If none of these work for you, please check out my guide on the best resorts in Door County. 1. The Eagle Trail at Peninsula State Park. Length: 2.5 miles.
Best Hiking Trails to Explore Door County
Eagle Trail - Peninsula State Park. Distance: 2.0 miles | Difficulty: Moderate | Elevation Gain: 183 feet | Time: 1.5 - 2.5 hours. The Eagle trail is one of the most loved hikes in Wisconsin in the most loved state park. It's a moderate hike with a slight elevation gain. But what makes it a challenge is all of the rocks and tree roots you ...
15 Great Kayaking Spots in Door County and Green Bay, Wisconsin
W isconsin is a beautiful state and with each trip back we find new, fun things to do. Kayaking in Door County and the Green Bay area are great activities for spring through fall. The peninsula of ...

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A summer road trip guide to Wisconsin’s Door County, the Cape Cod of the Midwest

1. Renard’s Cheese

2. Horseshoe Bay Farms

3. Peninsula State Park

4. The Hardy Gallery

5. Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant in Sister Bay

6. Washington Island Stavkirke

7. Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm and Shop

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A Door County Weekend Road Trip

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Day 1 – North Island

Looking for a great place to eat? Check out our list of great food in Door County.

Explore more of the Door County Wine Trail! Check out our full post on all the wineries here.

Want to Adjust the Itinerary?

If you want to add your meal stops to your itinerary, our list of amazing things to eat in Door County will help you plan your weekend.

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A Four-Day Road Trip Through Door County, Wisconsin

​ Day 1: Green Bay to Sturgeon Bay (70 miles)

​ Day 2: Sturgeon Bay to Sister Bay (41 miles)

Day 3: Sister Bay to Baileys Harbor (41 miles)

​ Day 4: Baileys Harbor to Sturgeon Bay (28 miles)

The Ultimate Guide to Door County's Charming Towns and Islands

Village by Village

Sturgeon Bay

Ellison Bay

Baileys Harbor

Island Time

Washington Island

Rock Island

Cana Island

How to Plan the Perfect Long Weekend in Door County

Day 1 in Door County – Mid Penisula

Renard’s Cheese

Fuel Up at Kick Coffee

Visit Ridges Nature Center & Baileys Harbor Lower Rangelight

Door County Brewing Co. Taproom and Music Hall

Climb the Cana Island Lighthouse

Not Licked Yet – Frozen Custard

Anderson’s Dock for Sunset

Have dinner at a Supper Club

Day 2 in Door County – Northern Penisula

Take A Segway Tour

Check Out the Picturesque windiest road in Door County

Ferry to Washington Island

Plum Island Lighthouse

Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant

Peninsula State Park

Sunset Cruise

Dinner at Husby’s

Day 3 – Nature & Adventure in Door County

Cave Point County Park

Whitefish Dunes State Park

Long Weekend in Door County

13 Nov Wisconsin Road Trip Adventures: A Week in Door County with Lands’ End Heritage Tour

Hy-Land Court RV Park and Lands’ End Airstream

Cave Point County Park

Whitetail Dunes State Park

Peninsula State Park

Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Tour

Fish Boil at Pelletier’s

Ellison Bay Fall Art Crawl

Day 1: Green Bay to Sturgeon Bay (70 miles)

Day 2: Sturgeon Bay to Sister Bay (41 miles)

Day 4: Baileys Harbor to Sturgeon Bay (28 miles)