EXPLORING DOOR COUNTY
A sunset view at Ellison Bay Bluff County Park.
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Wisconsin is Door County. I'm embarrassed to say I haven't explored it until recently. But now that I've spent some time there, I'm definitely looking forward to returning again and again. And in different seasons.
My first trip to The Door was on a rainy early November weekend in 2022. Though it rained most of the time I was there, I was able to get out and enjoy some of the areas spectacular beauty. I returned again in early June, 2023, to enjoy more of it heading into summer. Both seasons are worthy of the trip.
I've profiled each of the following listings on my blog, and on their own pages, but I wanted to provide a quick guide as well. If you're considering visiting Door County, whether for a day trip, a weekend, or more, check it out.
My first trip to The Door was on a rainy early November weekend in 2022. Though it rained most of the time I was there, I was able to get out and enjoy some of the areas spectacular beauty. I returned again in early June, 2023, to enjoy more of it heading into summer. Both seasons are worthy of the trip.
I've profiled each of the following listings on my blog, and on their own pages, but I wanted to provide a quick guide as well. If you're considering visiting Door County, whether for a day trip, a weekend, or more, check it out.
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A FEW TIPS FOR PLANNING A DOOR COUNTY TRIP
Lodging: During peak seasons (summer, fall), many lodging locations require a minimum of a two-night stay, even a three-night stay may be required. Visiting during weekdays, and off-season can reduce those requirements. They may vary by location. I have stayed at Motel57 in Sturgeon Bay on both trips so far. The pricing was reasonable. It was a minimum two-night stay. The rooms were cute, and clean, and it was a good base location. Driving north to the tip of The Door takes about an hour or so from Sturgeon Bay (one way). There is a wide variety of lodging available within Sturgeon Bay. And lots more as you explore the area. I highly recommend you make reservations. Especially in peak seasons. You can find a variety of details on local accommodations on the Destination Door County website. There are several state parks in the area with camping available, but they are generally booked a year in advance. So be sure to check that as well. If you're planning to visit during peak seasons, try to book your lodging at least 3 months out, for best options, even earlier, if you can. Food & Drink: There are restaurants and coffee shops by the dozens in Door County. Restaurant and coffee chains are rare. They were just about ready to open the first Starbucks in Sturgeon Bay when I visited in early June. But if you need coffee, there are so many great coffee shops throughout the county, you will not go without. Restaurants typically don't stay open really late, so you'll want to make sure your dinner plans are in place, if that's a favorite part of your vacationing schedule. And, if wineries or distilleries are of interest, there are plenty of them throughout the county as well. Check out my special feature Tasting Door County for some highlights of the establishments I enjoyed during my adventures. |
On the road through Potawatomi State Park in Sturgeon Bay.
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STATE PARKS
I've visited three of the five state parks residing in Door County. Each one has its own special features. All are beautiful, and offer hiking trails, scenic views, and much more. Wisconsin State Park stickers are required for entrance. Potawatomi State Park is located in Sturgeon Bay. At 1200 acres along the Lake Michigan shoreline, just the drive through the park is scenic. Take some time to hike some of the trails. There are 9 miles of them available. Other activities include boating, fishing, kayaking, bicycle trails, and more. Even in November some fall color remains, creating a moody vibe. There are 123 campsites available for rental. Peninsula State Park - Located in Fish Creek, there are several scenic views within the park you'll want to put on your list. Sven's Bluff, Eagle Tower, and Eagle Bluff Lighthouse. The drive through the park is gorgeous in its own right, but if you make these stops you'll get to see an amazing view of the Green Bay waters and coastline, stellar views of the surrounding islands, and a view of Ephraim from the top of a 60-foot observation tower. The tower features a 100-step climb to the top, or you can take the new all-accessible boardwalk ramp, which leads you to the observation deck via a walk among the treetops. Like stairs, take them. But the ramp is a truly unique experience. There's a 2-mile looped nature trail that begins next to the ground level of Eagle Tower, called the Sentinel Trail. It's an easy walk, and definitely a pretty one. Last, but not least, is the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse. First operational in 1868 (and now a museum), it sits above the lakeshore on a 76-foot high bluff. Newport State Park is the only Dark Sky Park in the Wisconsin State Park system. If you're looking for amazing views of the outer galaxies, northern lights, or meteor showers, you'll want to visit Newport State Park. Other activities here include hiking, birdwatching, swimming, and fishing. Backpack camping is a feature here as well. Special programs are often held for stargazers throughout the year. |
Traveling the road through Potawatomi State Park.
A view of the ramp to Eagle Tower from below at Peninsula State Park.
A curving shoreline view at Newport State Park.
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COMMUNITY PARKS
There are fantastic community parks located throughout Door County. Some more well-known than others. If the larger, more populated parks are too busy for your taste, check out some of these local/community parks. They are gems worthy of attention. Anclam Park - located in Bailey's Harbor, this quaint lakeside park features a cozy, sandy beach, swimming, and a short peninsula surrounded by Lake Michigan. Just perfect for a quiet wander. It's a beautiful spot to watch the moon take to the sky. Sunset Beach County Park - Aptly named for its amazing sunset views of Sturgeon Bay, this 41-acre park features a small sandy beach area, walking/jogging/biking loop, a boat launch, 9-hole frisbee golf, and shoreline fishing. It's clearly a favorite of locals, and a quiet spot to gather your thoughts after a busy day. George K. Pinney County Park - Located along Bay Shore Drive in Sturgeon Bay, this park is the perfect spot for a quick rest while traveling, and features a great view of the lake. Sunset views here are popular as well. Located next to a large limestone and gravel quarry, the tall stone walls remain part of the landscape. Other features include a public boat launch and fishing pier, restroom, and an open-air shelter with picnic tables. Ellison Bay Bluff County Park - If you're looking for fabulous sunset views, you'll definitely want to put Ellison Bay Bluff County Park on your list. I nearly missed it, and I'm so glad I turned around to go back and check it out. It turned out to be one of the highlights of my early summer trip to The Door. The park is 174-acres and includes a 1.2-mile looped walking trail. Positioned along the migratory flyway, it's a good spot for bird watching during spring and fall migration season. But it's a great spot to view the sun setting over the bay any day of the year. Take the stairway down to the bluff overlook for an amazing view of the lake and the tall bluffs rising above it. Cave Point County Park - One of the most popular community parks in Door County, Cave Point County Park, is a must-see. Whether you visit on a gloomy, rainy day, or a bright and sunny one, the cliffs and ledges here are a sight to experience! Its tall cliffs are part of the Niagara Escarpment, and on a day when the waves are crashing to shore, and roaring high over the 20-foot cliffs, the drama is turned up high, and the experience is spectacular. The park also features a short walking trail, picnic tables, and a charming gazebo. 
Walk the peninsula at Anclam Park for great lake views.
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The view from shore of the skyline at Sunset Beach County Park.
A view of open water from George K. Pinney County Park.
Spectacular sunset views at Ellison Bay Bluff County Park.
Waves crashing along the cliffs of Cave Point County Park.
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NATURE PRESERVES & GARDENS
There are many nature preserves located throughout Door County. I managed to visit two on my summer journey. I also made a stop to The Garden Door - a fabulous garden in bloom near Sturgeon Bay. The Ridges Sanctuary - The Ridges features one of the states most biologically diverse ecosystems. Founded in 1937, in Baileys Harbor, if you're looking to revel in the peace and beauty of nature, this is the place to wander. The Hidden Brook Boardwalk is a quiet trail through different habitats. The boardwalk, which is wheelchair accessible, will take you past wetlands, boreal forest, and to views of two different lighthouse structures. A nature center is on-site, too. Regular nature programs and tours are hosted here as well. Crossroads at Big Creek - located in Sturgeon Bay, is a 200-acre nature preserve, learning center, and heritage history museum. The nature preserve includes a variety of hiking trails, and a learning center. The museum features historic buildings curated locally to present the history of the area. Another highlight here is the Leif Everson Observatory and Star Garden, another dark sky experience within Door County. They host stargazing events throughout the year. There's plenty to do and experience here. The Garden Door - heading north from Sturgeon Bay, step through a big wooden arbor and enjoy 15 different gardens of blooming flowers, gorgeous plants and trees, and the song of birds filling the air. Meander the brick and crushed gravel paths and enjoy the natural beauty designed and maintained by members of the Door County Master Gardeners Association. Whether you garden or not, you'll find inspiration here. 
Afternoon light dapples across the boardwalk at The Ridges Sanctuary.
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A resting spot along the walking trail at Crossroads at Big Creek.
Blooms of inspiration await at The Garden Door in Sturgeon Bay.
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WASHINGTON ISLAND
Get on board the Washington Island Ferry and head over to Washington Island for a day or two. There are plenty of sights to see on the island, hiking trails to be hiked, beaches, book stores, and museums to be explored. I had just a few hours on the island, and barely scratched the surface. I spent a brief time admiring the smooth stones along the shore at Schoolhouse Beach, took in the artistry of the Stavkirke, and its tribute to the islands' Scandinavian heritage, and managed to stop by The Red Cup for a cold latte, and Fair Isle Books for a browse. I'll plan better next time, giving myself more time to enjoy some of the nature preserves, eateries, and other shops and galleries as well. Schoolhouse Beach - This is not your typical sandy beach. Here you'll find a beach laden with smooth limestone rocks, the result of glaciers thousands of years ago. Beyond the rocks, swimmers enjoy the lake along the shore. Paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes are enjoyed here, too. Stavkirke - 1991 saw the beginning of the building of the Stavkirke - a church in the style and tribute of the islands' Scandinavian heritage. Step inside for a view of its ship-like construction. The church is fully operational, and offers services for many occasions to local members, and is open to the public for visitation and quiet meditation as well. It's handsomely framed by a forest grove, beautiful in every season. The Red Cup Coffee House / Fair Isle Books - in the heart of town, shortly after exiting the Washington Island Ferry, drive straight ahead and you will find The Red Cup Coffee House. Delicious coffee beverages, tasty treats, and even some local artisan shopping can be found here. Stop next door to Fair Isle Books, and browse an eclectic selection of books and other artsy items. Local authors are often featured. The staff here are welcoming and knowledgeable. 
The views from the Washington Island Ferry.
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Towers made from the ancient rocks at Schoolhouse Beach
Stavkirke - Scandinavian heritage and design on display.
Red Cup Coffee House and Fair Isle Books - worth a stop.
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Galleries and shops are part of the fun of traveling Door County.
GALLERIES AND SHOPS
What's a good road trip without a bit of art and shopping? Throughout the entire county you will find a great selection of art galleries, souvenir shops, clothing and home goods boutiques, specialty food markets, wineries, distilleries and more. You'll be hard-pressed not to find something to bring home to commemorate your trip to Door County. And if your gift shopping, there's something for everyone.
Here are some of the galleries, boutiques and markets I enjoyed during my trips to The Door.
Hardy Gallery - True to form, I was too late to view the artworks inside The Hardy Gallery in Ephraim. I did, however, get to see the iconic building it calls home. The tradition of writing visitor names on the exterior walls of the gallery reaches back to the early days, when steamers would arrive to the dock, and sailors would commemorate their arrival (or survival at sea) to Ephraim by signing their names and ship numbers on the walls of the building. This graffiti tradition continued through generations, and the different versions of the building, and continues today.
Plum Bottom Gallery - There are three locations throughout Door County. I opted to check out their original location, situated on 20 acres at 4999 Plum Bottom Road, in Egg Harbor. The natural setting is so peaceful, and displays many of their outdoor art pieces beautifully. Near the entrance is a gorgeous pond and water fountain. Stepping inside the gallery, there is a wide variety of art. Original paintings, jewelry, pottery, glass designs, many with birds and other nature themes. Lots of artful inspiration to be found here.
Wood Orchard Market - Located in Egg Harbor, along Hwy 42, Wood Orchard Market features souvenirs, garden decor, local produce, wine, cheese, homemade jams and other tasty treats . I browsed around for a bit and picked up a couple garden art items. The market appears to be a favorite of both locals and travelers alike.
Top Of The Hill Shops - Located in Fish Creek, it was fun to browse this boutique mall. My favorite shops here were DC Chocolate Design Cafe', where I picked up a tasty iced mocha latte, and some designer chocolates for my husband; and the Lagniappe Wine Gallery & Shop, where I found a sparkly gift for a friend.
Heading further into Fish Creek, I stopped at The Barrel Room to select a few bottles of local wines, and then picked up some great t-shirts and other souvenirs at Beach People Fish Creek.
What's a good road trip without a bit of art and shopping? Throughout the entire county you will find a great selection of art galleries, souvenir shops, clothing and home goods boutiques, specialty food markets, wineries, distilleries and more. You'll be hard-pressed not to find something to bring home to commemorate your trip to Door County. And if your gift shopping, there's something for everyone.
Here are some of the galleries, boutiques and markets I enjoyed during my trips to The Door.
Hardy Gallery - True to form, I was too late to view the artworks inside The Hardy Gallery in Ephraim. I did, however, get to see the iconic building it calls home. The tradition of writing visitor names on the exterior walls of the gallery reaches back to the early days, when steamers would arrive to the dock, and sailors would commemorate their arrival (or survival at sea) to Ephraim by signing their names and ship numbers on the walls of the building. This graffiti tradition continued through generations, and the different versions of the building, and continues today.
Plum Bottom Gallery - There are three locations throughout Door County. I opted to check out their original location, situated on 20 acres at 4999 Plum Bottom Road, in Egg Harbor. The natural setting is so peaceful, and displays many of their outdoor art pieces beautifully. Near the entrance is a gorgeous pond and water fountain. Stepping inside the gallery, there is a wide variety of art. Original paintings, jewelry, pottery, glass designs, many with birds and other nature themes. Lots of artful inspiration to be found here.
Wood Orchard Market - Located in Egg Harbor, along Hwy 42, Wood Orchard Market features souvenirs, garden decor, local produce, wine, cheese, homemade jams and other tasty treats . I browsed around for a bit and picked up a couple garden art items. The market appears to be a favorite of both locals and travelers alike.
Top Of The Hill Shops - Located in Fish Creek, it was fun to browse this boutique mall. My favorite shops here were DC Chocolate Design Cafe', where I picked up a tasty iced mocha latte, and some designer chocolates for my husband; and the Lagniappe Wine Gallery & Shop, where I found a sparkly gift for a friend.
Heading further into Fish Creek, I stopped at The Barrel Room to select a few bottles of local wines, and then picked up some great t-shirts and other souvenirs at Beach People Fish Creek.
All photos, blog posts, and content are copyright (c) 2014-2023 Kimberly Mackowski, unless otherwise noted. |
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