Door County is a great Wisconsin getaway for a short weekend road trip. A weekend in Door County is filled with unique experiences, delicious food and quiet living. We’ve created our perfect two day itinerary for you to follow in order to get the most out of your trip to Door County.
Door County is surrounded on all sides by the majestic Lake Michigan. These 300 miles of shorelines make for some amazing views and charming lakeside towns. Therefore, we recommend visiting Door County in the summer for the pleasant weather and the fall for the fall colors (end of June through early October).
Where to Stay?
We love camping in Door County as the county is home to several State and County parks. There are also several private campgrounds to choose from as well. We love camping in Peninsula State Park. If you’re looking to stay in less rustic accommodations, Door County is filled with many adorable Bed and Breakfasts, resorts and AirBnBs. Additionally, you can always stay in a hotel as well but we’d recommend the charm of more local accommodations.
Friday Night
Make your way to Door County on Friday night. Eat dinner in Sturgeon Bay and make sure to stop for drinks at Starboard Brewing Company.
Day 1 – North Island
During your Door County weekend, you can explore the entire island by following the Door County Costal Byway in a circle around the island. We like staying in Peninsula State Park, so we start our weekend with the North side of the County. Depending on where you’re staying the night, you can adjust what you do each day to do eliminate extra driving time. On your first day, complete the top part of the loop.
For your first stop, explore Peninsula State Park. Take in the beautiful views of lake Michigan. We love taking a walk on some of the hiking trails or going for a bike ride through the park. Whatever you decide to do, it’s definitely worth a stop.
Next, stop in Sister Bay for brunch at Al Johnson’s. The Swedish pancakes there are delicious. However, the real treat is stopping to see the goats on the roof. The goats walk and graze on the grass rooftop of the restaurant.
Check out Grand View Park before heading into Ellison Bay. On your way out of Ellison Bay, check out the wilderness of Newport State Park.
Your next stop will be Gills Rock. Continue on to Northport. On your way there, make sure to slow down and snap a picture of the windiest road on the island. This is the famous road that you see in most pictures of Door County and is worth the wait for the perfect picture as you’re heading north. Hop out of the car at Northport and take in the views of Washington Island.
Don’t miss a ride on the ferry to Washington Island. Once on the island, you can visit Schoolhouse Beach. If you want to spend more time here, you can also visit the Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm or continue on to the remote Rock Island for hiking and quiet beaches.
Day 2 – South Island
Make your first stop Fish Creek. Hop out here and take a walk through the cute shops and parks in town.
Next, Head south to Egg Harbor. On your way there, stop for a sampling of local treats at Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market. In Egg Harbor, stretch your legs in the local shops and find something truly Wisconsin.
Continue your loop around the island and head to Jacksonport following the Door County Costal Byway. Detour off the Byway to visit Cave Point County Park and Whitefish Dunes State Park for some more views of Lake Michigan coastline.
On your way back to your accommodations, check out Cana Island lighthouse. Additionally, if you’re looking for a sweet treat for dinner, check out Wilson’s Restaurant and Ice Cream Parlor in Ephraim.
Want to Adjust the Itinerary?
Door County is one of those charming places where time slows down. You could easily spend an entire week in Door County relaxing. If that appeals to you, do it! However, we’d recommend just adding more time to your visit and filling your extra days with whatever you feel like doing and enjoying the slow pace of island life. If you have less time, you could easily spend just one day in Door County. However, we’d recommend just choosing one or two things to do as you won’t be able to drive the complete loop and make all the stops. Instead focus your one day in the specific area you want to spend your time.
