Things to do in Door County, Wisconsin: A Guide to Art, Adventure, and Attractions

Located between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County, Wisconsin, captivates visitors with its scenic beauty, rich history, vibrant arts scene, and myriad outdoor activities. This 70-mile-long peninsula, once called the “Cape Cod of the Midwest” by National Geographic, is home to 34 islands, over 300 miles of shoreline, and dozens of charming communities.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, history buff, outdoor adventurer, or foodie, Door County offers diverse experiences to suit every taste. Here’s an in-depth guide to exploring the best of what Door County has to offer.

Table of contents: (Hide)

• A Glimpse into Door County’s Rich History
• Outdoor Activities: Adventure Awaits
  • Peninsula State Park
  • Scenic Boat Tours
  • Death’s Door Boat Tour
• Art in Door County
  • Popelka Trenchard Gallery & Glass Studio
  • M. Anderson Gallery
  • Edgewood Orchard Galleries
  • Cappaert Contemporary Gallery
• Where to Eat in Door County
  • Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant
  • Wild Tomato Wood-Fired Pizza
  • Skip Stone Coffee Roasters
  • Hill Street Cafe
  • Wilson’s Restaurant and Ice Cream Parlor
• Wine and Spirits
  • Anchored Roots Winery
  • Hatch Distilling Co.
• Door County at Night: Live Theatre and Music
  • Northern Sky Theater
  • Peninsula Players Theatre
  • Midsummer’s Music
• Where to Stay In Door County
• Getting to Door County
• Conclusion: Explore Door County’s Charm

A Glimpse into Door County’s Rich History

Native American tribes, including the Potawatomi and the Menominee, originally inhabited the area. European settlement began in the 19th century with Scandinavian immigrants, particularly Norwegians and Swedes, drawn to the region’s fertile lands and abundant fishing opportunities. The county’s Scandinavian heritage is still evident today. In Sister Bay, you’ll find traditional Swedish cuisine. Ephraim was founded in 1853 by Norwegian Moravians and was a dry town until 2016.

Door County’s history is deeply intertwined with its geography and surrounding waters. Until 1910, the length of the Door Peninsula was not accessible by road, only by the water. Its dangerous currents and hidden shoals led to numerous shipwrecks. The waters of Door County have claimed nearly 240 ships, making it a significant part of the region’s maritime history.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Door County became known for its thriving shipbuilding industry, especially in Sturgeon Bay. In World War II, the Navy built wooden minesweepers there. The area is still active in ship repairs, especially in winter.

Outdoor Activities: Adventure Awaits

Door County’s diverse landscape offers endless outdoor opportunities, catering to thrill-seekers and those looking for a more relaxed experience.

Peninsula State Park

Peninsula State Park is one of the crown jewels of Wisconsin’s state park system. This park has over 3,700 acres and offers various recreational activities, including hiking, biking, boating, and golfing. One of the park’s highlights is the newly rebuilt Eagle Tower, a 60-foot observation tower that provides panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the sparkling waters of Green Bay and the lush forests that blanket the peninsula. For those interested in a leisurely nature hike, the Sentinel Trail offers an easy walk through the woods, where you can learn about Wisconsin’s forest ecology.

For a more adventurous experience, head to Cave Point County Park. This park is famous for its limestone cliffs and underwater caves, which the relentless waves of Lake Michigan have carved out. The best way to experience this natural wonder is by kayak. Door County Kayak Tours offers guided trips along the shoreline, where you can explore the caves and coves only accessible from the water. 

Scenic Boat Tours

To explore Door County from the water, consider a scenic boat tour around Sister Bay, such as the Sister Bay Scenic Boat Tours. These tours offer a relaxing way to enjoy the area’s stunning coastline, with live narration that provides insights into the region’s history and natural features. You can learn which house used to house a pipe organ where the owner would serenade the neighborhood or learn how white cedar trees that line the shore were used by the native tribes as a source of vitamin C to prevent scurvy.

The tours include views of the towering Dolomite cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment, a geological formation stretching from Wisconsin to New York.

Ephraim’s Anderson Dock

Learn how the area’s many shipwrecks created a graffiti tradition. Sailors would write their names on boat houses indicating the last time they were seen above the water… in case they would later disappear under it.

Death’s Door Boat Tour

One of the most unique water activities in Door County is the Death’s Door boat tour. This tour takes you through the infamous strait between the Door Peninsula and Washington Island, providing a close-up look at the lighthouses, shipwrecks, and islands that make this area so fascinating. The tour is on a rigid, inflatable boat, allowing for an intimate and adventurous exploration of the waters.

Art in Door County

Door County’s natural beauty has long inspired artists, making it a cultural haven with over a hundred galleries, studios, and exhibits. Virtually every artist I talked to in Door County said they could not find a more supportive art community anywhere else in the country.

Popelka Trenchard Gallery & Glass Studio

Popelka Trenchard Gallery & Glass Studio is a fine art gallery and working hot glass studio in the heart of Sturgeon Bay owned by nationally recognized artists Stephanie Trenchard and Jeremy Popelka. Trenchard and Popelka are founding members of Sturgeon Bay’s Steel Bridge Creative District. The gallery features Trenchard’s cast glass sculptures and Popelka’s blown glass works.

The studio also features a variety of handcrafted jewelry, oil paintings, pendant lights, and other gift items. This creative hub is not just a gallery but an interactive space where visitors can witness the artistry and skill of glass blowing. Public demonstrations are held most Saturdays from noon to 1 pm during summer.

Beyond its role as a gallery, Popelka Trenchard Glass is committed to art education and community engagement. It offers a range of individual and group classes throughout the year, welcoming beginners and experienced artists to explore the art of glass blowing. 

M. Anderson Gallery

Marc Anderson is a newer Door County artist whose gallery is also part of Sturgeon Bay’s Steel Bridge Creative District. Established in 2023 by Marc and Anna Anderson, the gallery features Anderson’s oil paintings, which tend to be landscapes. Many of Anderson’s works were painted as part of plein air competitions.

Anderson began as a caricature artist and freelance illustrator. Whether he is painting the rocks of the Niagara Escarpment, a local fishing boat, or an old barn, I love how he depicts light in his work. It feels like you could set your watch to the time the image was created.

Edgewood Orchard Galleries

Edgewood Orchard Galleries is located in a historic stone fruit barn outside Fish Creek, surrounded by a lush orchard. The gallery features works from over 150 artists and offers diverse media, including paintings, sculpture, glass, clay, wood, and jewelry. It was started in 1969 by artist Irene Haberland and is now run by her daughter Nell and son-in-law J.R.

Edgewood Orchard Galleries is particularly known for its outdoor sculpture garden, where visitors can stroll among large-scale sculptures set against the backdrop of Door County’s natural beauty. The gallery hosts several exhibitions throughout the year, often featuring solo shows for individual artists or themed group exhibitions, and it has become a cornerstone of Door County’s vibrant arts community.

Cappaert Contemporary Gallery

Cappaert Contemporary Gallery in Egg Harbor is housed in an 1873 log home built by the town Doctor. It features contemporary works focusing on painting, sculpture, and glass. The gallery is open from May through October. In the winter months, artist-in-residence Ginnie Cappaert opens her gallery in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Ginnie Cappaert finds inspiration for her oil and wax minimalist abstract landscapes in nearby Peninsula Bay State Park. If you get a chance, peek into her studio outback, where you can see how she builds up her paintings layer after layer (often more than 40) over several weeks.

OneEighty Petals is a charming, family-owned flower farm and floral studio just outside Fish Creek. John and Sara Lancaster moved to Door County in 2015, intending to start a pottery studio. The 180 (degrees) in the name of the flower farm comes from their change of plans to the flower business. They have  “cut-your-own” flower fields and curated grab-and-go bouquets at their self-serve farm stand. Open seasonally from mid-May through October, OneEighty Petals provides visitors with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of a blooming flower field.

OneEighty Petals also offers various services, including field-to-event floral design for weddings and special occasions. The farm is also known for its creative farm gatherings and community-focused events.

The dream of opening a pottery studio is starting to come true. OneEighty Petals has purchased kilns and partnered with a local potter to move his studio to their farm. At the time of my visit, the kilns were still just a pile of bricks waiting to be assembled.

Where to Eat in Door County

Door County’s culinary scene is as varied as its landscape, offering everything from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.

Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant

 A trip to Door County wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant in Sister Bay. Known for its traditional Swedish fare and charming atmosphere, the restaurant has been a beloved destination for locals and tourists since it was founded in 1949.

The restaurant’s most famous feature is the goats that graze on its grass-covered roof. This whimsical tradition began in 1973 as a practical joke and has since become a symbol of the restaurant. Visitors flock to the restaurant for the goats and its authentic Swedish dishes, such as Swedish pancakes with lingonberries and meatballs, offering a taste of Scandinavian heritage in the heart of Wisconsin. The lines outside can get long during the busy season, but the service is quick. There is an outdoor space that was originally just a place for people to wait but has now become a beer garden.

Beyond its playful exterior, Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant has remained dedicated to its roots, celebrating Swedish culture through its menu and décor. Inside, the restaurant is adorned with traditional Scandinavian woodwork and design, creating a warm and cozy environment for diners. The adjacent Butik (gift shop) further enhances the cultural experience, offering Swedish goods, from hand-woven textiles to imported food items. 

Wild Tomato Wood-Fired Pizza

Wild Tomato Wood-Fired Pizza in Sister Bay is a beloved local pizzeria known for its delicious, hand-tossed pizzas made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant prides itself on using organic produce, locally raised meats, and cheeses from nearby farms, baked in a wood-fired oven, giving each pizza a distinct, smoky flavor. Alongside its signature pizzas, Wild Tomato offers a variety of salads, sandwiches, and seasonal specials, catering to diverse dietary preferences, including gluten-free and vegetarian options.

Known for its tagline, “You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy pizza, which is pretty much the same thing,” Wild Tomato creates a welcoming environment where guests can enjoy high-quality food in a relaxed setting. You can choose from various pizzas, such as a classic Margherita, a Medditerean with olives and artichoke hearts (my current favorite), or one with local cheese curds.

Skip Stone Coffee Roasters

Skip Stone Coffee Roasters is a cozy café in Sister Bay known for its inviting atmosphere and commitment to serving high-quality, locally sourced food and drinks. The café offers a carefully curated menu of coffee beverages, teas, and light bites. Skip Stone is particularly renowned for its signature Pican Latte, which is made with locally roasted coffee beans from Kickapoo Coffee Roasters and house-made syrups. Skip Stone was purchased in May 2024 by its general manager, Lilli Orozoco, and her husband, Juan. Lilli is the creator of the house-made syrups.

In addition to its coffee offerings, Skip Stone hosts special events such as wine and dessert pairings during summer evenings, creating a relaxing and indulgent experience for guests.  Whether stopping in for a morning coffee, an afternoon snack, or a cozy evening event, visitors to Skip Stone can expect a warm, welcoming environment and delicious, thoughtfully prepared offerings.

Hill Street Cafe

Hill Street Cafe in Fish Creek, Door County, Wisconsin, is a lively, year-round destination that brands itself as a “sometimes cozy, sometimes raucous bar.” Located in the heart of downtown, this bar and eatery features two full bars—one inside and one outside—making it a good dining spot, no matter the weather or the season. Known for its no-nonsense approach, the cafe serves a menu of delicious comfort food with a refined touch, highlighted by its rule of “no ketchup and no substitutions.” Whether you’re stopping by for a meal or enjoying the late-night menu from 9 PM to midnight, Hill Street Cafe awaits.

The cafe’s menu offers a variety of salads, sandwiches, and snacks. Favorites like The Kurgan burger, Banh Scott sandwich, and Hangover Noodles keep regulars coming back. I liked the Harry Dean hot fried chicken sandwich. The “Hangover Noodles” hark back to Hill Street’s start as a noodle bar.

MacReady Artisan Bread Company

MacReady Artisan Bread Company, located in the charming village of Egg Harbor, is a beloved local bakery known for its handcrafted, artisanal breads and sandwiches. Founded with a passion for traditional baking methods, MacReady specializes in slow-fermented, naturally-leavened bread made from high-quality ingredients. Each loaf is baked fresh daily, offering various options like sourdough, multi-grain, and French baguettes. The bakery’s commitment to using simple, wholesome ingredients results in bread with exceptional flavor, texture, and aroma, making it a favorite stop for locals and Door County visitors since 2011.

In addition to its renowned breads, MacReady Artisan Bread Company offers a selection of gourmet sandwiches, soups, and salads, all made with fresh, local ingredients. I loved their signature chicken salad sandwich with cranberries on freshly baked bread. My mom made her chicken salad with walnuts, but MacReady is a no-nut bakery. People with nut allergies can order anything on the menu without worry. Made without preservatives, even some people who normally can’t eat gluten can eat their bread.

MacReady is a family business. Michael MacReady makes the bread, and Jenny MacReady makes the sweets. Mom is at the cash register. They moved to Door County from Detroit, where Jenny was a domestic violence attorney, and Michael was a chef who taught the developmentally disabled. They take two months off in the winter to “hibernate” from the hard work of running a bakery. 

The cozy atmosphere of the bakery, combined with the friendly service, creates an inviting experience for those looking to enjoy a delicious meal or pick up a loaf of bread to take home. My favorites include any bread, especially the cranberry and cherry bread. For the sweets, check out the cherry pie and the carrot cake. Yum.

Wilson’s Restaurant and Ice Cream Parlor

Wilson’s Restaurant and Ice Cream Parlor, located in the heart of Ephraim, is a beloved, family-owned establishment that has delighted visitors since 1906. This iconic restaurant is known for its nostalgic charm, complete with a vintage soda fountain, red-and-white striped awnings, and old-fashioned jukeboxes at each booth. Bring your quarters so you can put on your favorite Buddy Holly song on the jukebox.

Serving classic American fare, Wilson’s offers a menu of comfort foods, including burgers, hot dogs, and homemade chili, all complemented by their famous house-made root beer. However, what truly sets Wilson’s apart is its wide variety of ice cream treats, featuring generous scoops, sundaes, malts, and shakes, all made with rich, creamy Wisconsin ice cream. I want to underline that they have malts and not just shakes. If you are a fan of this increasingly rare but delicious dessert-for-dinner item, you know why I point this out.

A visit to Wilson’s is as much about the experience as the food. Its scenic location overlooking Eagle Harbor adds to its charm, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a meal or a sweet treat while taking in the views of the water from the outdoor seating. Indulge in a classic banana split, savor a cone after a day at the beach, or enjoy a family meal. Be aware that the ice cream portions are generous, and plan your meal accordingly. My best advice is to bring a good friend and take a day off from your diet.

Wine and Spirits

Anchored Roots Winery

For wine lovers, Anchored Roots Winery is an interesting visit. Anchored Roots, located in Egg Harbor, was founded in 2020 by Eric and Amy Gale after spending over a decade in the Washington State wine industry. The couple, Wisconsin natives, returned to their roots and established their vineyard on a picturesque 38-acre property just off Highway 42.

The Gales are balancing two different efforts. They are making traditional wines from popular grapes grown in Washington State and pioneering wines based on locally grown cold-hardy grapes, many of which were developed by the University of Minnesota. Anchored Roots’ wines offer a blend of bold, dry reds from Washington and aromatic whites grown in Wisconsin, designed to highlight the best characteristics of each grape. 

Their wines from Washington State grapes make it clear that winemaker Eric knows his craft. Their local wines are still a work in progress and are currently a better choice for those who like more acidity.

They are working with other wineries to standardize and brand some wines from local grapes. For example, “Ledge Blanc” is a wine crafted exclusively from one or more of the following five white grape varieties: Frontenac Blanc, Frontenac Gris, Itasca, La Crescent, and St. Pepin. All grapes used in its production must be grown within the Wisconsin Ledge AVA.

Eric is also experimenting with other production methods, such as replacing oak barrels with stainless steel containers and oak slats. As it turns out, most of the wood in a barrel never comes into contact with the wine.

Their vineyard, which began with a modest 3-acre planting, now covers 6 acres and includes 11 varieties of cold-hardy grapes, such as Marquette, Frontenac, Itasca, and Petite Pearl. Visitors to the winery can enjoy tastings in the welcoming tasting room.

Hatch Distilling Co.

Hatch Distilling Co., located in Egg Harbor, bridges Door County’s rich agricultural heritage with its bustling tourism scene. Founded by Chris, whose journey began in the commercial poultry industry, Hatch Distilling was born out of a passion for agriculture and sustainability.

After transitioning from raising hens to beekeeping, Chris discovered the potential to distill spirits from raw Wisconsin honey. This idea grew into a distillery that creates exceptional spirits. With a focus on local sourcing, Hatch works closely with nearby farmers to select heirloom varieties of corn and rye.

The distillery specializes in small-batch vodkas, whiskeys, brandy, limoncello, and gins, offering visitors a taste of Door County’s natural bounty through handcrafted products. I was particularly a fan of their limoncello. 

Hatch also has Mixed Media, where they offer traditional wines and meads, all locally sourced. We sampled a half-dozen of their wines, including their Ledge Blanc and their Vikings Blood & Honey (mead with tart cherries). I did have some second thoughts about where one locally sources Vikings Blood.

Door County at Night: Live Theatre and Music

Northern Sky Theater

Northern Sky Theater’s outdoor amphitheater in Peninsula State Park is a local treat.  I saw Hell’s Belgians, the “long-awaited” prequel to Belgians in Heaven, penned by local Frederick Heide. It was about two stubborn local Belgian farmers in Door County and their would-be guardian angel.

Nestled in the woods, the outdoor stage sets a charmingly rustic backdrop for the unfolding story. Was I skeptical of seeing a locally written play? Yes, I was. It was silly in the best possible way. The evening show ran about 90 minutes, with no intermission and a steady stream of witty lines, silly songs, and amusing sound effects by an on-stage sound effect man (who may have been my favorite part of the performance).

Catching a show at Northern Sky Theater is popular. More than half the audience at the show we saw were there for their second show of the day. Large wooden benches are made comfortable by rented cushions. Bring your bug spray.  

Peninsula Players Theatre

The Peninsula Players Theatre offers theater lovers a unique experience of enjoying live performances under the stars. Founded in 1935, it is the oldest professional resident summer theater in the United States. This venue combines artistic excellence with breathtaking scenery. Set in a cedar forest overlooking Green Bay, the theater’s productions range from classic plays to contemporary works.  The 2024 season, for instance, included productions like I Ought to Be in Pictures, The Angel Next Door, Million Dollar Quartet, and Mary’s Wedding.

I saw Mary’s Wedding, which had a cast of two and a running time of 90 minutes. Cast Janyce Caraballo and Jordan Golding were captivating. If you get a chance, see this play… but it won’t be at Peninsula Players Theatre because they will retire a play for 20 years before performing it again.

The theater has become a beloved institution known for its rich history and tradition of producing high-quality performances. Its unique location on sixteen forested acres, called the “Theatre in a Garden,” provides a beautiful and inspiring backdrop for artists and audiences. The theatre company houses its staff and visiting actors on the grounds. The company prioritizes a supportive and inclusive environment, celebrating diversity, equity, and accessibility. Its motto is “Live and be Loved.”

With a beer garden, a modern 621-seat theater, a community of staff, actors, and volunteers, and the quality of the productions I experienced, I must conclude that Peninsula Players is a treasure.

Midsummer’s Music

During my Door County visit, we had a chance to see an open rehearsal for a performance by Midsummer’s Music. Established over 35 years ago, Midsummer’s Music provides a unique opportunity for audiences to experience chamber music in venues that highlight the region’s natural beauty and charm, including historic homes, art galleries, and local churches. We heard this performance in the beautiful Egg Harbor Public Library.

Each summer, Midsummer’s Music hosts around 34 concerts. Their performances feature a rotating ensemble of talented musicians, including members of prestigious orchestras and ensembles nationwide. The programming is carefully curated to balance beloved works by composers like Beethoven and Brahms with lesser-known modern compositions.

Speaking of the Egg Harbor Library, if you get there, don’t miss their collection of eggs and egg-themed art, including a dinosaur egg.

Dörr Hotel in Sisters Bay

Where to Stay In Door County

Door County offers a range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs, from luxury resorts to charming bed and breakfasts. I visited Door County on a press trip, and the group was split across four different accommodations. It seemed like everyone thought they were staying in the nicest place.

I stayed in the Dörr Hotel in Sisters Bay, which was influenced by Scandinavian design. It is a block away from Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant. See my in-depth review of the Dörr Hotel.

Consider the Landmark Resort in Egg Harbor for a cozy and comfortable stay. This resort offers stunning views of Green Bay and easy access to local attractions.

Another excellent option is the Hillside Waterfront Hotel in Ephraim. This historic hotel combines modern amenities with old-world charm, offering guests a unique and relaxing experience. The hotel is just steps from Ephraim’s public beach and several shops and restaurants.

For a more intimate experience, stay at the Edgewater Resort in Ephraim. This waterfront property offers a range of accommodations, from cozy cottages to spacious suites with stunning views of Eagle Harbor. The resort is close to Peninsula State Park, making it a great option for outdoor enthusiasts.

Getting to Door County

Door County is easily accessible by car or plane. The nearest airport is Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB), about an hour’s drive from the heart of Door County. Several car rental companies operate at the airport, making picking up a vehicle easy and starting your journey. Alternatively, shuttle services are available for those who prefer not to drive.

For those driving, Door County is about 5 hours from Chicago or 3 hours from Milwaukee through the Wisconsin countryside.

Sunset from the Peninsula Players Theatre Beer Garden

Conclusion: Explore Door County’s Charm

This was my first visit to Door County, but I found it captivating. Because of the surrounding water, the weather was 10 degrees cooler than nearby Green Bay on hot summer days. The local art scene was surprisingly rich, and the scenery was lovely. Plan your visit today and discover the magic of Door County for yourself. For more information and to start planning your trip, visit DoorCounty.com.

I visited Door County on a press trip run by the tourism board on their dime, but the opinions expressed here are mine.