Things to Do in Door County
Door County, Wisconsin offers a variety of activities that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the best activities you can enjoy in Door County:
- Explore Peninsula State Park: This scenic state park covers over 3,700 acres and offers opportunities for hiking, biking, camping, swimming, and picnicking. The park also has an 18-hole golf course and stunning views of Lake Michigan.
- Visit the charming towns: Door County is known for its picturesque small towns. Stroll through the streets of Fish Creek, Ephraim, or Sister Bay, where you can browse art galleries, and boutiques, and enjoy local cuisine.
- Take a ferry to Washington Island: Hop on a ferry and visit Washington Island, located just off the tip of the Door Peninsula. Explore its beautiful beaches, visit the lavender fields, and learn about its unique history and local culture.
- Go cherry picking: Door County is famous for its cherry orchards. During the cherry season (usually in July), you can pick your own cherries or purchase freshly picked ones from local orchards. Don’t miss the opportunity to try delicious cherry pies and other cherry-infused treats.
- Take a scenic drive: Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Door County by taking a scenic drive along Highway 42, also known as the “Door County Coastal Byway.” You’ll encounter stunning views of the shoreline, lighthouses, and charming villages along the way.
- Visit lighthouses: Door County is home to several historic lighthouses. Some notable ones include Cana Island Lighthouse, Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, and Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal North Pier-head Lighthouse. Climb to the top for panoramic views and learn about their fascinating histories.
- Go wine tasting: Door County has a growing wine industry, and visiting the local wineries is a popular activity. Sample a variety of wines, including fruit wines made from cherries and apples, and enjoy the vineyard settings.
- Enjoy water activities: Door County’s proximity to Lake Michigan provides ample opportunities for water-based activities. Go boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, or fishing. You can also take a scenic cruise to see the shoreline from the water.
- Attend local festivals and events: Door County hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing local art, music, and culture. Check the event calendar to see if there are any festivals or special events happening during your visit.
- Experience local cuisine: Door County is known for its fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and unique culinary offerings. Try the fish boils, Door County whitefish, cherry-infused dishes, and other local specialties at the many restaurants and eateries in the area.
Remember to check the availability and operating hours of attractions and activities, as they may vary depending on the season and current circumstances.
Places to Eat
Door County, Wisconsin, offers a wide range of dining options to suit various tastes and preferences. Here are some of the best places to eat in Door County:
- The White Gull Inn (Fish Creek): Known for its famous Door County cherry-stuffed French toast, this historic inn offers a delightful breakfast and lunch menu in a charming setting.
- Wild Tomato Wood-Fired Pizza and Grille (Fish Creek): Enjoy delicious wood-fired pizzas, fresh salads, and gourmet burgers made with locally sourced ingredients. They also offer gluten-free and vegan options.
- Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant (Sister Bay): This iconic restaurant is famous for its traditional Swedish fare, including Swedish meatballs, lingonberries, and Scandinavian ambiance. Don’t miss the goats grazing on the grass-covered roof.
- The Cookery (Fish Creek): A local favorite, The Cookery features a diverse menu with seafood, steaks, sandwiches, and vegetarian options. They also have an extensive wine list and a cozy atmosphere.
- Fred and Fuzzy’s Waterfront Bar and Grill (Sister Bay): Located right on the water, Fred and Fuzzy’s offers a casual dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood, sandwiches, and tasty appetizers. Enjoy beautiful views of the bay while dining.
- Harbor Fish Market and Grille (Baileys Harbor): This waterfront restaurant specializes in seafood dishes, including fish boils, fresh catches of the day, and sushi. They also have a selection of steaks and vegetarian options.
- PC Junction (Egg Harbor): A family-friendly restaurant designed like a train depot, PC Junction serves up comfort food favorites like burgers, sandwiches, and homemade pies. Kids will enjoy the train-themed atmosphere.
- Chives Restaurant (Baileys Harbor): Chives offers a refined dining experience with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The menu features
innovative dishes, and the restaurant has an extensive wine list. - Shoreline Restaurant (Gills Rock): Situated near the ferry to Washington Island, Shoreline Restaurant serves fresh seafood, including its renowned fish boils, as well as other traditional American dishes. The waterfront views are an added bonus.
- Door County Creamery (Sister Bay): Indulge in artisanal cheeses, freshly made gelato, and delicious sandwiches made with local ingredients. They also have a shop where you can purchase their dairy products.
These are just a few of the many excellent dining options available in Door County. Whether you’re craving local specialties, international cuisine, or casual comfort food, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your palate in this vibrant culinary destination.
RV Parks Near Door County
There are several highly rated RV parks and campgrounds in Door County, Wisconsin, offering amenities and scenic locations for a comfortable stay. Here are some of the best and most highly-rated RV parks in Door County:
- Peninsula State Park (Fish Creek): Peninsula State Park offers RV camping with electric hookups and access to amenities such as showers, restrooms, and a dump station. It’s known for its beautiful scenery, proximity to the water, and numerous recreational activities within the park.
- Wagon Trail Campground (Ellison Bay): This family-friendly campground provides spacious RV sites with full hookups, as well as amenities like a
heated pool, game room, playground, and laundry facilities. It’s nestled in a peaceful woodland setting. - Fish Creek Campground (Fish Creek): Located within walking distance of downtown Fish Creek, this campground offers full hookup RV sites with access to showers, restrooms, and a camp store. It’s a convenient base for exploring the area.
- Tranquil Timbers Camping Resort (Sturgeon Bay): This resort-style campground provides full hookup RV sites, along with amenities like a swimming pool, mini-golf, basketball court, playground, and a clubhouse. It offers a relaxing atmosphere and is pet-friendly.
- Door County Camping Retreat (Egg Harbor): Nestled in a wooded area, this campground offers full hookup RV sites and amenities such as showers, restrooms, a heated swimming pool, and a game room. It’s conveniently located near Egg Harbor and its attractions.
- Egg Harbor Campground and RV Resort (Egg Harbor): This well-maintained campground offers RV sites with full hookups and access to amenities like showers, restrooms, a camp store, and a heated swimming pool. It’s a short drive from downtown Egg Harbor.
- Harbor Campground (Baileys Harbor): Harbor Campground provides RV sites with electric and water hookups, as well as facilities including showers, restrooms, a playground, and a camp store. It’s situated near the water and close to Baileys Harbor attractions.
- Frontier Wilderness Campground (Egg Harbor): This family-oriented campground offers spacious RV sites with full hookups, along with amenities like a heated pool, playground, game room, and camp store. It’s set in a wooded area for a tranquil experience.
- Quietwoods South Camping Resort (Brussels): Located near the Brussels area, this campground offers full hookup RV sites, along with amenities such as showers, restrooms, a swimming pool, mini-golf, and a camp store.
- Apple Creek Campground (De Pere): While not directly in Door County, Apple Creek Campground is a popular choice for those looking for a base outside the peninsula. It provides RV sites with full hookups, amenities like showers, restrooms, a swimming pool, and a camp store. It’s about a 30-minute drive to Door County.
These RV parks offer various amenities and locations, so consider your preferences and desired proximity to attractions when choosing the one that suits you best. It’s advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
Theaters and Movie Houses in Door County
Door County, Wisconsin offers a few theaters and movie houses where you can catch live performances and cinematic experiences. While the region is known more for its live theater productions and natural beauty, there are still a couple of venues where you can enjoy movies. Here are a few notable theaters and movie houses in Door County:
Peninsula Players Theatre (Fish Creek): Although primarily a live theater venue, Peninsula Players Theatre occasionally hosts film screenings as part of their programming. This historic theater, founded in 1935, is one of the oldest professional resident summer theaters in the United States and is renowned for its high-quality productions.
Door Community Auditorium (Fish Creek): Door Community Auditorium is a versatile performing arts venue that hosts a wide range of events, including live theater, concerts, and occasional movie screenings. This state-of-the-art facility brings in both local and touring acts, providing a diverse array of entertainment options.
Sky way Drive-In Theatre (Fish Creek): Located in Fish Creek, the Sky way Drive-In Theatre offers a classic movie-watching experience. Drive-in theaters have a nostalgic charm and provide a unique way to enjoy films.
You can relax in your car and watch movies on the big screen while enjoying snacks from the concession stand.The Francis Hardy Center for the Arts (Ephraim): While not primarily a movie theater, The Francis Hardy Center for the Arts occasionally hosts film screenings as part of its art and cultural events. This community-focused center promotes various forms of artistic expression and offers an intimate space for gatherings and exhibitions.
It’s important to note that the availability of movie screenings may vary throughout the year, and it’s advisable to check the schedules and events of these venues to see if any movies are being shown during your visit. Additionally, the region’s emphasis is more on live theater, concerts, and other cultural events, so the options for traditional movie theaters may be limited. However, the unique experiences offered by drive-in theaters and occasional movie screenings in cultural venues can still provide an enjoyable cinematic experience in Door County.
Museums Near Door County
While Door County itself doesn’t have many museums, there are several noteworthy museums in the surrounding areas that offer fascinating exhibits and insights into the history, art, and culture of Wisconsin and the region. Here are some of the best museums near Door County, Wisconsin:
Door County Maritime Museum (Sturgeon Bay): Located in Sturgeon Bay, just south of Door County, the Door County Maritime Museum provides a comprehensive look at the rich maritime history of the region. The museum showcases exhibits on shipbuilding, lighthouses, commercial fishing, and more. You can explore historic vessels, visit the restored lighthouse tower, and learn about the area’s maritime heritage.
Door County Historical Museum (Sturgeon Bay): Also situated in Sturgeon Bay, the Door County Historical Museum offers a captivating journey through the history of Door County. It features exhibits on Native American heritage, early settlers, maritime activities, and local industries. The museum provides an in-depth understanding of the region’s past through artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays.
Ephraim Historical Foundation (Ephraim): The Ephraim Historical Foundation is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Ephraim, a charming village in Door County.
Their museums, Anderson Barn History Center and Pioneer Schoolhouse, provide a glimpse into the community’s past. You can explore exhibits on early settlers, local industries, and the unique heritage of Ephraim.The Farm (Sturgeon Bay): Situated just outside of Sturgeon Bay, The Farm is a living history museum that showcases rural farm life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can explore historic buildings, interact with farm animals, and learn about traditional agricultural practices.
Miller Art Museum (Sturgeon Bay): For art enthusiasts, the Miller Art Museum in Sturgeon Bay offers a collection of contemporary and historical artwork by local, regional, and national artists. The museum hosts rotating exhibitions that encompass various artistic mediums, providing a diverse range of visual experiences.
The Door County Museum (Sturgeon Bay): While not exclusively focused on Door County, this museum in Sturgeon Bay offers exhibits on the broader history and culture of northeastern Wisconsin. Visitors can learn about Native American history, early European settlement, the logging industry, and the unique aspects of the region.
These museums offer engaging and educational experiences, showcasing the rich heritage and artistic expressions of the area. Whether you’re interested in maritime history, local culture, or art, these museums near Door County provide opportunities to explore and appreciate the diverse aspects of the region’s past and present.
Summary
Door County, Wisconsin is a captivating destination that offers a diverse range of attractions and activities, making it an ideal place to visit. Here is a summation of why you should consider exploring Door County:
- Natural Beauty: Door County is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. With its picturesque coastline along Lake Michigan, charming lighthouses, stunning sunsets, and lush landscapes, the region provides a feast for the eyes. From the verdant forests and rolling hills to the sandy beaches and rocky shores, nature enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.
- Outdoor Recreation: Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, or simply taking leisurely walks in nature, Door County has it all. The area boasts numerous state parks, such as Peninsula State Park, which offers miles of scenic trails, campgrounds, and opportunities for swimming, boating, and golfing. The waters surrounding Door County are perfect for sailing, paddle boarding, and fishing, providing ample excitement for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Charming Towns: Door County is home to several quaint and picturesque towns that exude small-town charm. Places like Fish Creek, Sister Bay, Ephraim, and Egg Harbor offer a delightful blend of art galleries, boutique shops, cozy cafes, and excellent dining options. Exploring these towns allows visitors to experience the warmth and hospitality of the local community.
- Cherry Orchards and Culinary Delights: Door County is famous for its vibrant cherry orchards. During the cherry season, visitors can enjoy the opportunity to pick their own cherries or sample delicious cherry-infused treats like pies, jams, and wines. The region is also a haven for food lovers, with an array of farm-to-table restaurants, fish boils, wineries, and breweries that offer delectable culinary experiences.
- Cultural and Historical Attractions: Door County boasts a rich history and vibrant arts scene. From historic lighthouses and museums to art galleries and live performances at theaters and music venues, there’s something for everyone to appreciate. The Peninsula Players Theatre, one of the oldest professional resident summer theaters in the United States, is a must-visit for theater enthusiasts.
- Festivals and Events: Door County hosts an array of festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing local art, music, food, and cultural traditions. These festivities provide a lively atmosphere and a chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of the community. The Fish Creek Winter Festival, Door County Beer Festival, and Door County Cherry Festival are just a few examples of the diverse events held in the area.
- Hospitality and Relaxation: Door County is known for its warm hospitality and relaxed atmosphere. It offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing visitors to unwind, rejuvenate, and connect with nature. Whether you choose to stay at a cozy bed and breakfast, a charming cottage, or a lakeside resort, you’ll find a tranquil setting that encourages relaxation and peaceful reflection.
In summary, Door County, Wisconsin captivates visitors with its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, charming towns, culinary delights, cultural attractions, and warm hospitality. It’s a place where you can escape the everyday routine and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature, the arts, and the local community. A visit to Door County promises a memorable experience that will leave you longing to return again and again.