There’s a reason Door County has earned its spot as one of the most beloved summer (and fall!) destinations in the Midwest. There’s an incredible array of things to do in Door County, WI, and it’s a region that offers jaw-dropping scenery around every bend. Tucked between the sparkling waters of Green Bay and Lake Michigan, the charming Door Peninsula in northeastern Wisconsin offers small-town charm, outdoor adventure, arts and culture, and that unmistakable Midwest warmth you crave from your getaways.
Whether you’re here for a quiet lakeside escape, scenic drives through rolling cherry orchards, or sun-soaked afternoons on the water, summer in Door County is filled with possibilities. Kayak along the bluffs of Cave Point County Park, hike through Peninsula State Park, tour a local winery, or browse art galleries in towns like Fish Creek and Ephraim. Families will find plenty of things to do in Door County with kids, from visiting animal farms and ziplining to biking, hiking, and capping off days with plenty of ice cream. Couples planning a romantic getaway will discover endless ways to unwind, from sipping wine on a terrace to watching the sun dip below the horizon in Sister Bay.
Each town has its unique personality, adding depth to the various things to do in Door County, Wisconsin. From the industrial but old-fashioned gateway to the Door Peninsula, Sturgeon Bay, to the charming shops and places to eat in Egg Harbor, outdoor adventures in Fish Creek, and the charming village of Ephraim with unforgettable sunsets on the lake, you’ll find endless reasons to visit each town as you dive deep into what makes Door County one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin.
Wherever your summer adventures take you, the Midwest Association of Independent Inns is your go-to travel resource for planning the perfect Midwest getaway. Representing a curated collection of locally owned inns and bed and breakfasts across the Midwest, the association makes it easy to find exceptional lodging, personalized hospitality, and insider recommendations across Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Nebraska, and Iowa. Book your Door County lodging, and get ready for a warm, high-quality stay that feels like home.
Discover the Best Things to Do in Door County
The sometimes-sleepy small towns of Door County turn into a bustling hub of activity and adventure during the summer and fall months. It’s one of the most popular travel destinations in Wisconsin, let alone the Midwest, and it’s easy to see why. There are tons of things to do in Door County, a region offering a little bit of something for everyone, from solo travelers and couples to families with kids in tow.
The Door Peninsula is home to 300 miles of shoreline, jutting out like a finger into the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan. Among the many things to do in Door County, WI, you’ll find vibrant small towns, historic lighthouses, and more than a dozen state and county parks to explore. With so many things to do on the Door Peninsula, it’s easy to see why people return year after year. Even as it gained popularity as a destination, Door County hasn’t lost its charm. Here, you’re just as likely to strike up a friendly conversation at a roadside farm stand as you are to find an uncrowded beach or scenic overlook all to yourself.
Our Bed and Breakfast association offers plenty of great options for places to stay in Door County, all of whom would love to share their little slice of paradise with you, and share a few favorite personal (and lesser-known) recommendations. In the meantime, here’s a curated list of some of the best things to do in Door County, Wisconsin!
- Peninsula State Park is one of the crown jewels of Wisconsin’s park system and a “must-see” when you come to Door County. Peninsula State Park is considered one of the most complete Wisconsin State Parks, offering many activities for families and couples alike. Hike and bike the trails, swim on the sandy beach, paddle along the 8 miles of park shoreline, check out the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, or tee up for a round of golf. Peninsula State Park is also home to the Northern Sky Summer Theater. For some of the best views at the park, hike the Sunset Trail.
- Kayaking along the shorelines is one of the top things to do in Door County. Though there are plenty of self-guided trips to take, including at Peninsula State Park, we also recommend a kayak tour at Cave Point County Park, where you’ll paddle along limestone cliffs and explore sea caves.
- Door County is also the gateway to Washington Island, just a ferry ride away at the tip of the Door Peninsula. Washington Island is a peaceful island with a Scandinavian flair. There are plenty of things to do on Washington Island, but a favorite spot is Schoolhouse Beach, where the smooth limestone rocks make for a picture-perfect spot to take a dip. We also recommend taking in the views from the Mountain Park Lookout Tower and enjoying the blooms at Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm.
- There are several beautiful lighthouses dotting the Peninsula. One of our favorite things to do in Door County, WI, is to climb the Cana Island Lighthouse. You’ll walk across the narrow causeway, keeping in mind that it can get wet, and climb to the top for panoramic views of Lake Michigan.
- Don’t miss a nighttime visit to Newport State Park, one of the hidden gems when it comes to things to do in Door County, Wisconsin. Not only is this park the only wilderness-designated park in Wisconsin, meaning it’s more wild and untouched than most, but it’s also a designated International Dark Sky Park, offering exceptional stargazing opportunities.
- Bike the Backroads of Egg Harbor, or hit one of the many fantastic Wisconsin Bike Trails on the Door Peninsula. Wind through cherry orchards and rolling farmland, stop for pie or a cherry soda at a roadside stand, and enjoy a quintessential afternoon in Door County.
- Take a break from all the outdoorsy things to do in Door County, and head out for an afternoon sipping wine along the Door County Wine Trail. Sip through local wineries like Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery or Door Peninsula Winery. Many of these Wisconsin wineries offer tastings with outdoor seating and live music on summer weekends.
- Paddling is one way to get out on the water in Door County, but how about a sunset sail? Set sail from Sister Bay and enjoy golden hour from the water on a sailboat or pontoon cruise. It’s one of the most romantic things to do in Door County for couples.
- For more charming things to do in Door County for couples, head to the streets of Ephraim and Fish Creek. These two iconic Door County towns are known for their boutiques, galleries, and harbor views. It’s also where you’ll find some of the best ice cream and coffee shops.
- Hike the trails at The Ridges Sanctuary, one of the Midwest’s most diverse ecosystems. This nature preserve near Baileys Harbor features rare wildflowers, peaceful boardwalks, and a beautiful range light. It’s a quieter Door County activity perfect for nature lovers.
- One of the most authentic things to do in Door County is to seek out a classic Fish Boil. It’s a quintessential Door County experience in the summer! Follow it up with a signature cherry pie, and you have the summer feast of your dreams.
- Hike to the Niagara Escarpment Overlooks. This lesser-known activity offers stunning views of the rocky cliffs that define the Door Peninsula and is an excellent pick for those seeking off-the-beaten-path Door County activities.
From iconic landmarks to hidden corners, there’s no shortage of things to do in Door County, Wisconsin. Whether you’re in it for the outdoor adventure, the small-town charm, or just a good slice of cherry pie, this beloved Peninsula is a Midwest destination that lives up to the hype.
The Best Places to Stay in Door County
We have no doubt you’ll love all the incredible things to do in Door County. We’ve barely scratched the surface. As fun as Door County is in the summer, it’s even more dramatic and beautiful in the fall, as it’s home to some of the best fall foliage in Wisconsin. Whenever you visit the Door Peninsula, it’s an experience that will stay with you for years to come. Whether you’re kayaking along limestone cliffs, exploring the charming streets of these small towns in Wisconsin, or catching a lakeside sunset in Sister Bay, every day brings something fresh and memorable.
Add in a bit of local flavor, and you’ll quickly understand why Door County continues to be one of the most popular places to visit in Wisconsin. As you plan your summer escape, where you stay matters just as much as what you do. The Midwest Association of Independent Inns connects travelers with exceptional places to stay in Wisconsin and beyond.
Our member properties are independently owned and deeply rooted in their communities, offering a personalized level of hospitality you simply won’t find in large hotel chains or impersonal vacation rentals. You’re greeted like a guest, not a booking number, and are often welcomed by innkeepers who know the area well and are happy to share local insight to help shape your stay. When you choose to stay at one of our Bed and Breakfasts, you’re choosing comfort, charm, and authenticity.
Though we are one association of Inns, you’ll find each property to be unique, thoughtfully designed, well-maintained, and committed to providing a relaxing and memorable experience. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a romantic couples getaway, or a home base close to your favorite Door County activities, these Bed and Breakfasts offer a dependable alternative to the cookie-cutter accommodations you’ll find elsewhere.
When your travels take you beyond Door County, the association continues to be your trusted guide to exceptional places to stay throughout the Midwest. Summer is nearly here. Book your Door County getaway today!
