Explore the Charm of Door County, Wisconsin
On a drive up the eastern shore of Wisconsin, the road ends in Door County, a charming 75-mile peninsula sandwiched between Lake Michigan and Green Bay that attracts more than 2 million visitors each year. Door County is often referred to as ‘The Cape Cod of the Great Lakes’ due to its laid-back coastal charm and the historic small towns that dot its peaceful shores.
Despite being one of the premier destinations in the Great Lakes, Door County retains a slow pace of life and rural vibe that make it feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle of Chicago or Milwaukee. This breathtakingly beautiful county features 300 miles of shoreline, 53 public beaches, 16 communities, 11 historic lighthouses, eight wineries, and five state parks – not to mention 19 county parks, three microbreweries, and a distillery.
Making Your Way North
Most visitors enter Door County from the south, and, in general, towns get smaller the further north you travel. First, you will pass through the comparatively gritty Sturgeon Bay, famous for its maritime history, including ship-building in WWII. Continue northward until you reach Egg Harbor. Visit the popular Shipwrecked Brew Pub and enjoy cocktails and flaky whitefish tacos at the adjacent Harbor View Grill before stretching your legs at the nearby Harbor View Park to enjoy your first full view of the shimmering blue waters of Green Bay.
A bit farther north is Fish Creek, with a delightfully walkable downtown lined with shops, bars, and cafes, like the renowned Wild Tomato pizzeria and the frozen custard purveyor Not Licked Yet. Take scenic cruises along the bay with Fish Creek Boat Tours, viewing historic lighthouses and luxury mansions of ‘Millionaire’s Row.’ Fish Creek is also home to Peninsula State Park, featuring an 18-hole golf course.
Discover the Other Side
On the more laid-back Lake Michigan side of Door County, find Bailey’s Harbor, home to the rustic Door County Brewing Co. Tap Room & Musical Hall. Enjoy a pint of Little Sister Witbier or Polka King Porter while participating in lawn games. A visit wouldn’t be complete without stopping by the legendary Blue Ox, famous for its burgers and vibrant atmosphere.
Just north of town is Gordon Lodge, a hip spot with a summer-camp vibe, where visitors can hang out by the water or hike through the woods. Enjoy drinks by the fire pits before heading to the lodge’s excellent Top Deck Restaurant, offering splendid views of Lake Michigan and some of the freshest fish around.
Ice Cream, Fish Boils, and Rooftop Goats
On the Green Bay side, the town of Ephraim is exceptionally charming, featuring Scandinavian flair and beautiful waterfront parkland. Wilson’s Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlor serves treats that embody summer on the lake. Rent a pontoon boat at South Shore Pier Boat Rentals to explore nearby bluffs and beaches or simply relax under the sun. Experience a Great Lakes tradition at the Old Post Office Restaurant, known for its dramatic fish boils.
Continuing northward, Sister Bay emerges as an excellent base for exploring the less developed section of Door County. The formerly sleepy town has transformed, now hosting a German-style beer hall and a vibrant outdoor Swedish beer garden. Don’t miss Al Johnson’s, famous for its ‘goat cam’, which captures the live goats grazing on the restaurant roof.
If you’re in a hurry, Grasse’s Grill offers delightful to-go fare, perfect for a picnic on Sister Bay Beach, the largest waterfront park in Door County. Paddle boats and canoes are also available for rent. Cap off your visit with a bratwurst at Fred & Fuzzy’s Waterfront Bar & Grill. Savor the sunset and sip on a refreshing cherry margarita.
Peaceful Parks and Dramatic Views
Traveling through the hamlet of Ellison Bay, you will reach Gills Rock, the northernmost town on the peninsula. Although small, it contains a few shops, a maritime museum, and one of Door County’s finest dining experiences, The Shoreline, known for its fresh-boiled whitefish and stunning views. Celebrate the 4th of July here for a lively fireworks display.
A key highlight of this area is Newport State Park, featuring serene beaches that contrast with the busier trails of Peninsula State Park. Take the time to relax on the sand, or discover the secluded charms of Europe Bay Beach, a hidden gem known primarily to locals.
Island-Hopping Adventures
Once you’ve reached the northernmost tip of the peninsula, there’s still more to explore. One of the best activities in Door County is riding the ferry from Northport (just north of Gills Rock) across the famed Death’s Door strait, known for its shipwrecks from early French explorers. Nowadays, the journey is safe and simple – just load your car and embark on your adventure.
The ferry will drop you off at Washington Island, a quaint area where the majority of its 700 residents live. The main attraction here is the world-renowned Schoolhouse Beach, offering mesmerizing views from its limestone-pebble shores. However, remember that taking rocks from this beach is illegal.
Just a short ferry ride away lies Rock Island State Park, where the only accommodations are campsites by the water. No vehicles are allowed on this primitive island, which is home to the oldest lighthouse in Wisconsin, the 1836 Pottawatomie Lighthouse, along with a few historic stone structures.
For most visitors, this concludes their journey. However, with dozens of additional islands located off Door County’s coastline, the adventure certainly doesn’t have to stop here.
Plan Your Visit
The rise of the automobile brought tourism to Door County, and it remains the best way to explore this rural gem. April to October is the ideal time to visit, allowing you to make the most of what Door County has to offer.
