2023 Guide: A Weekend In Door County, WI
Being born and raised in Wisconsin, I have spent many family vacations and long weekends in Door County. It’s one of those places that no matter how many times I visit – Door County never gets old and I never run out things to do and see.
Below I have compiled a complete guide to help plan out your weekend in Door County.
Is Door County Worth Visiting?
Door County is a unique destination in Wisconsin, where you can kayak or fish from its long shoreline and enjoy one of the many parks that have magnificent views of the water. The forests here seem almost ancient as they tower over green landscapes with rocky cliffs visible far off into distant futures—a perfect place for nature lovers!
All-in-all, Door County is definitely worth visiting!
11 Best Things To Do During A Weekend In Door County
1. Check Out Gills Rock – Jen Jensen Road
This might seem like “just a road” to some but it is truly unique and once you experience it yourself, you will understand why. Known as one of the most picturesque roads in Wisconsin, Jen Jensen’s Winding Road is unlike anything else. Stop for a photo and take in the unusual, yet magnificent sight (pictured in the cover photo).
2. Visit The Orchards In Door County
Door County is known for it’s many orchards! You can expect to find roads lined with apple or cherry orchards! Here are some of the common orchards in Door County:
- Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market – Fish Creek
- Seaquist Orchards Farm Market – Sister Bay
- Wood Orchard Market – Egg Harbor
3. Take A Trolley Tour
One of the easiest ways to see all that Door County has to offer is by taking a trolley tour with Door County Trolley, Inc. – they offer tours specific to your interested such as: scenic tours, wine tours, lighthouse tours, spring blossom tours, pub crawls, and more.
4. Go Shopping
Door County offers many unique shopping opportunities whether you are looking for a souvenir or a one-of-a-kind piece, chances are you will find it here. Check out the Destination Door County Stores & Shops Directory to find unique shopping near you.
5. Check Out The Many Lighthouses
There’s a total of 11 lighthouses on the peninsula of Door County, some of which are accessible and some are not. Check out 4 Can’t Miss Lighthouses in Door County to plan your visit to some the lighthouses.
6. Spend Time At The Beach
Door County has many great beaches for you to enjoy some time in the sunshine and dip your toes in the cool Lake Michigan waters. Listed below are several Door County beaches with Google maps links attached for ease:
- Fish Creek Public Beach
- Whitefish Dunes State Park – there are two beaches. One for people and one specifically dedicated to dogs.
- Nicolet Beach in Peninsula State Park
- Egg Harbor Beach
7. Explore Peninsula State Park
Peninsula State Park offers over 460 campsites and countless activities to keep you busy all day long. From it’s golf course and lighthouses to the beautiful views from the Eagle Tower and some of Wisconsin’s finest hiking or biking trails – this park offers everything nature lovers could ask for!
8. Go Hiking
Door County is home to many wonderful state and county parks, which offer scenic hiking opportunities and Lake Michigan views. Check out these favorites:
- Deathdoor Bluff Trail – 2.2 mile trail located in Door Bluff County Park (free)
- Old Baldy Loop – 2.8 mile trail in Whitefish Dunes State Park (state park pass required)
- Fern and Lynd Point Loop – 2.4 mile trail in Newport State Park (state park pass required)
- Ridges Loop – 1.6 mile trail located in The Ridges Sanctuary State Natural Area (entry fee)
- Eagle Trail – 2 mile trail in Peninsula State Park (state park pass required)
- Cave Point Lakeside Trail – 1.6 mile trail in Cave Point County Park (free)
9. Take A Day Trip To Washington Island
Take a trip to Washington Island, Wisconsin and visit this north-easternmost point of the state. The residents have been preserving this piece of history since before it was even incorporated as an island, and now you can explore what remains among its picturesque lavender farms on foot, by bike, or take your vehicle with you on the ferry ride over!
10. Go Kayaking
Enjoy the beautiful blue waters of Lake Michigan while exploring Door County by kayak. However, do to Lake Michigan’s size, you may want to take a guided tour for your own safety and to be shown some of the best Door County gems. Don’t miss out on this fun adventure – book a tour here.
11. Visit Cave Point County Park
The various amenities at Cave Point County Park make it a great getaway for nature lovers! You can explore underwater caves, hike along scenic trails and cliffs lined with limestone rock formations; not to mention, because this park is a county park – there is no entrance fee!
Weekend In Door County – Commonly Asked Questions:
Things To Do In Door County This Weekend
To help plan your weekend in Door County, visit the official Destination Door County website to view this weekends festivals and events here.
What Food Is Door County Famous For?
Door County is most commonly known for it’s cherries – cherry everything! Wine, salsa, desserts, and so much more. You can’t visit Door County without trying something with delicious Door County cherries in it!
Best Time To Visit Door County
Trying to decide what time of the year will allow for the perfect weekend in Door County? The best time to visit Door County is typically in the late spring, summer and early fall months (May-October).
The area is a haven for visitors in the spring when apple blossoms and cherry trees are at their fullest. The summer months bring an influx of people to enjoy beautiful beaches with blue skies, and waters perfect for fishing, kayaking or swimming all day long!
Fall provides colors that change quickly and also means cooler breezes coming through town it makes way for quiet streets lined by colorful buildings – prepared, once again until next year’s arrival of visitors.
During the winter months – many stores, restaurants, and even some hotels close as this time is typically the “off-season” for them and less visitors make their way to Door County. Being located on Lake Michigan, the weather tends to be unruly and winter storms move in quickly.
Is Anything Open In Door County?
During the busy summer months, you can expect to find almost all of the shops and restaurants to be open. If you plan to visit during the shoulder season or winter months, make sure to do your research to see if the businesses you hope to visit will be open by going to their website.
How Do I Spend My Day In Door County?
Since Door County is known for it’s cherries, Lake Michigan views, and cute downtown shops – I would highly recommend marking all 3 of these off your list to get a true Door County experience if you only have one days time.
Free Things To Do In Door County
- Visit one of Door County’s many free county parks – remember to leave no trace
- Check out the Anderson Dock (pictured below)
- Go to the beach
- Explore downtown
Door County Hotels
Looking for a place to stay during your weekend in Door County? Look no further. Here are some of my favorite places to stay including hotels, as well as my favorite airbnb!
- Julie’s Park Cafe & Motel – located in downtown Fish Creek and right next to the entrance of Peninsula State Park, Julie’s Motel is the perfect place to stay. The cafe is attached to the motel and it is absolutely delicious! The motel rooms are clean, simple, and tastefully updated (and dog-friendly).
- Door County Cabin Collective’s Port Haven Property – Situated on Lake Michigan, this property is within walking distance to the Washington Island Ferry and offers luxurious amenities. Porte Haven is the perfect size for a family vacation, couples getaway, or anyone looking for a relaxing and secluded stay. Learn about my stay at Porte Have here.
Overview: Weekend In Door County, WI
If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that will let you relax and have some fun, Door County is the perfect spot.
With plenty of things to do, great hotels to stay at, and beautiful scenery, it’s no wonder this area is a popular tourist destination. So be sure to put it on your list of places to visit, and start planning your trip today!