Door County, Wisconsin
Time Needed: multi-day
Experience Type: scenic drive, scenic views
Situated on a scenic peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County is a charming escape known for its quaint towns, scenic shoreline, and maritime heritage. Enjoy outdoor adventures, local culinary traditions, and waterfront views.
MUST-DO CHECKLIST
- Drive the Door County Coastal Byway – Travel this scenic 66-mile loop along Green Bay and Lake Michigan, stopping in charming waterfront towns like Ephraim and Sister Bay.
- Attend a Traditional Fish Boil – Experience this classic Door County culinary tradition featuring freshly-caught whitefish, potatoes, and onions boiled over an open fire.
- Climb the Tallest Sand Dune – Hike to the top of 93-foot “Old Baldy” at Whitefish Dunes State Park in Sturgeon Bay for sweeping views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding shoreline.
- Pick Fresh Cherries – The region is renowned for its cherries, and a dozen orchards welcome visitors to pick their own during harvest season, typically from mid-July to mid-August.
- Visit a Lighthouse – Door County is home to 11 lighthouses and range lights, including the 89-foot-tall Cana Island Lighthouse. Climb its 97 steps for sweeping views of Lake Michigan.
Itinerary Idea: Paddle along the shores of Whitefish Dunes State Park and Cave Point County Park for a fresh perspective on Door County’s cliffs, caves, and clear waters. Book a guided kayak tour for scenic views you can’t fully appreciate from land.
Photo Credit: Elvis Kennedy/Flickr