things to do in door county
Door County, located in northeastern Wisconsin, is a beautiful destination known for its natural scenery, outdoor activities, and charming small towns. Here are some things to do in Door County:
Outdoor Activities:
- Beachcombing and Swimming: Door County has 30 miles of shoreline with numerous beaches, such as Peninsula State Park, Whitefish Dunes State Park, and Baileys Harbor.
- Hiking and Biking: Explore the many trails in Door County, including the Door Peninsula Trail, Peninsula State Park, and the Ridges Sanctuary.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Rent equipment and explore the waters of Door County, including the Door Peninsula and Green Bay.
- Fishing: Door County is renowned for its fishing, with species like salmon, trout, and walleye.
- Skiing and Snowshoeing: Enjoy winter sports at resorts like Ridges Sanctuary and Peninsula State Park.
Food and Drink:
- Cheese Tasting: Door County is famous for its cheese, with many local farms and wineries offering tastings.
- Fish Boils: Experience a traditional Door County fish boil, where whitefish is cooked in a large kettle with potatoes and onions.
- Wineries and Breweries: Visit local wineries and breweries, such as Door Peninsula Winery and Peninsula Brewery.
- Farmers’ Markets: Visit the Door County Farmers’ Market in Fish Creek or the Baileys Harbor Farmers’ Market for fresh produce and local goods.
- Dining: Enjoy Door County’s renowned cuisine, including fish, cherries, and local specialties like cherry pie and cheese curds.
Culture and Attractions:
- Peninsula State Park: Explore the park’s many trails, beaches, and scenic overlooks.
- Ridges Sanctuary: Visit this nature preserve, which features over 1,600 acres of forest, wetlands, and wildlife habitats.
- Door County Maritime Museum: Learn about the region’s maritime history and the importance of shipping and trade.
- Ephraim and Fish Creek: Visit these charming small towns, which feature shops, restaurants, and galleries.
- Door County Folk Festival: Attend this annual festival, which celebrates local music, food, and culture.
Events and Festivals:
- Door County Folk Festival: Celebrate local music, food, and culture in July.
- Door County Cherry Festival: Enjoy cherry-themed events, including a cherry pie-eating contest and cherry-themed crafts.
- Door County Wine and Cheese Festival: Sample local wines and cheeses in October.
- Peninsula Music Festival: Attend this summer music festival, which features classical music performances.
- Door County Christmas Parade: Celebrate the holiday season with a festive parade in December.
Other Activities:
- Golfing: Tee off at one of Door County’s many golf courses, such as the Peninsula State Park Golf Course.
- Horseback Riding: Explore the countryside on horseback with a guided tour.
- Cycling: Rent a bike and ride the many scenic routes in Door County.
- Photography: Capture the region’s stunning natural beauty and charming small towns.
- Relaxation: Unwind at a local spa or resort, such as the Ridges Sanctuary or the Peninsula State Park.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Door County. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, food and drink, culture and attractions, or relaxation, Door County has something for everyone.