Welcome to Door County, where the land has captured the hearts of so many with its exceptional charm, beauty, and diverse offerings. Door County offers a unique blend of delightful culinary experiences, stunning natural landscapes, and an abundance of activities for all ages. No matter what you’re into, this destination is an ideal setting for a special 24-hour escape. From calming sunrises to vibrant hues of the sunset, each moment in Door County promises to be as enriching as it is delightful. Let’s explore how to make the most out of 24 hours in this one-of-a-kind destination.
Morning
Start your day off by experiencing a Door County sunrise that paints over the Lake Michigan horizon at Cave Point County Park, located in Sturgeon Bay. This view is the perfect start to a perfect day ahead. Early in the morning, enjoy a pleasant and quiet hike before the crowds rush in later in the day.
After soaking in that morning sun, stop by Door County Coffee, where the rich aromas of freshly roasted coffee beans promise the perfect cup. Door County Coffee is not only a great café and gift shop, but it is also a community gathering hub where locals and visitors alike mingle before the day ahead. Start your morning with a hot brew and bright smiles, and treat yourself to a fresh-baked cinnamon roll or muffin.
Next, indulge in a welcoming Scandinavian breakfast at Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant, an iconic Door County breakfast spot in Sister Bay known not only for its delicious pancakes but also for the charming goats that graze on top of the grass-layered roof. After breakfast, check out their butik for traditional Scandinavian goods and gifts.
Once your appetite is satisfied, it’s time to take in the natural beauty of Door County. Check out the Eagle Tower in Peninsula State Park, which offers stunning views of Lake Michigan below. Hike the exciting and beautiful Eagle Trail, which winds around the edge of the park and near the shoreline, keeping you cool with a light breeze off the water.
Midday
Hungry after your big hike? Grab a quick, easy, and on-the-go lunch at MacReady Artisan Bread Company in Egg Harbor. This local bakery and sandwich shop is committed to serving local ingredients in every dish. The delightful aromas and charming setting make this an ideal spot to quickly refuel and get back to your busy day.
Next, head over to Door County Maritime Museum and dive into the history of the area’s rich maritime roots featuring exhibits of local lighthouses, shipwrecks, and the lives of commercial fishermen. This museum offers hands-on activities and interactive displays that capture the attention and fascination of all ages.
Afternoon
To make the most of your 24 hours in Door County, one of the most exciting and unique ways to get to know the peninsula personally and quickly is by hopping on a Door County Trolley tour. These guided tours wind through gorgeous landscapes and historical sites, offering a narrated journey through the county that is both entertaining and informative. Whether you are taking a haunted ghost tour or discovering local wineries, the trolley tours are the perfect way to experience a wide range of the peninsula.
After your exploration, it’s time for a sweet treat! Stop by Wilson’s in Ephraim for an old-fashioned sundae, shake, or malt to cool down and soak in the incredible views of Eagle Harbor. The diner has remained relatively unchanged since its opening in 1906, and it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike for their classic American cuisine and heaping scoops of ice cream!
Evening
At the end of the day, you don’t want to miss one of Door County’s iconic sunsets. As the sun begins to lower on the horizon, head over to Wild Tomato in Sister Bay. Their wood-fired pizzas are made with local ingredients and innovative toppings. Get your pizza to-go near their waterfront patio, where you can sip on a drink or two as your pizza is made to order. Then take a seat at a picnic table or bench near the beach to watch the sun set over the water.
After dinner, your 24 hours in Door County aren’t over yet! Check out a show at the Peninsula Players Theatre, America’s oldest professional resident summer theatre. Located in a beautiful setting by the bay, the backdrop of a beautiful dusk adds a perfect Door County touch to each show. Secure your tickets to a show of your choosing with the Landmark Resort’s Dinner & A Show Package, where you can enjoy not only tickets to a show, but also a discounted rate on your suite and a $50 dining credit to the Carrington to be used whenever you like!
No evening in Door County is complete without taking a moment to admire the beauty of the night sky. Whether you’re at a quiet park or a beautiful shoreline, looking up to see the stars twinkling above gives you the best way to end a busy day full of exploration and enjoyment.
As your 24 hours in Door County come to an end, there’s still so much to see and do that you can’t miss! Each moment on the peninsula is saturated with beauty, excitement, and joy. From the peaceful mornings in nature to the vibrant evenings underneath the night sky, Door County offers an abundance of experiences that cater to all interests and specific tastes. 24 hours isn’t nearly enough to experience everything the peninsula offers, but it can give you a taste of a destination that’s like no other in Wisconsin or even across the country.
Whether you come for the fun activities, scenic views, or delicious local food, Door County is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, as you pack your bags at the end of the day, start preparing for your next getaway that will promise you another great time full of relaxation and adventure!