Best Things to Eat, See, & Do in Door County:

I've been wanting to come to Door County, Wisconsin, ever since I read an article a few years ago that listed it as one of the "Top 5 Best Places for Fall Foliage in the U.S.". I haven't done much hunting down fall colors in my lifetime (yet), but I don't hesitate much to say that article was accurate. Autumn in Door County is something out of a technicolor dream. From the crystal clear turquoise waters of Lake Michigan, to the fluorescent orange leaves exaggerated by an Indian summer sunshine, this quiet, off the grid peninsula stole my small-town-loving heart straight away. Even though I've only visited in the Fall, there's no doubt that Door County Wisconsin is the perfect escape for families year round.

First off-- there is so much to see and do here that this list could be exhaustive. I've narrowed down a few of my favorites to share, in the hopes that it might inspire your own visit to this particular part of the midwest. Enjoy! And happy exploring.

Fish Creek Scenic Boat Tours

For views of the most scenic bluffs, beaches, and islands in the surrounding Door County area, check out Fish Creek Scenic Boat Tours. These tours depart multiple times daily during the season, which typically runs from June through mid-October. All cruises are reasonably priced, offer on-board refreshments for passengers, and bonus--they-re pet-friendly! So grab your whole crew, a camera, and a picnic (BYOB/snacks encouraged), and enjoy a day or evening relaxing while you take in some truly breathtaking views. My personal recommendation? Take the Sunset Live Music Cruise!!

Cave Point Paddle and Pedal

Whether you opt to check out ancient pictographs, shipwrecks, sand dunes, underwater caves, or wetlands rife with plants, insects, birds, and other wildlife, you won't want to miss out on this unique way to explore some more of Door County. There are many tour options available (both on land and by water) geared towards all ages and levels of technical ability. Or if you prefer to set out on your own pace you can secure a rental here, too. They're open year round--winter visitors need not cross this spot off your list!

The Hardy Gallery

The Hardy Gallery is a historic pillar of Door County, showcasing work by local and regional artists at all levels of artistic accomplishment. They hold free educational student workshops, silent auctions, and more-- but the art doesn't just happen indoors. The Hardy Gallery (and adjacent Anderson dock) is an ever-evolving work of art itself. Originally constructed as a dockside warehouse in the mid 1800's, sailors at the time would--upon their arrival--write their ship's name and the date on the side of the building to mark their visit. And though the warehouse has passed ownerships and undergone several renovations and transformations over the years, this tradition still remains today. A sign posted in the front of the Hardy Gallery invites visitors to mark their journey here by signing their name on the side of the building, joining the hundreds of other visitors to Door County who have done the same. Though the gallery stays open only during the busy season (May-October), the dock and outbuildings are worth a visit any time of year. Come here for some epic sunset views, or maybe even bring a picnic--just be sure to pack-out whatever you pack-in!

Door Artisan Cheese Company

A visit to Door County just wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Door County Artisan Cheese Company. First off, this place is much more than just a cheese shop. They make several cheeses in house (upwards of 20 different kinds!), and you can observe the cheese-making process here yourself! They also sell a wide range of other domestic and imported cheeses, specialty foods, snacks, and goodies perfect for creating a delicious picnic or cheese board to share with your friends and family. Or if you're keen on letting someone else arrange the plates, stop by the Glacier Ledge and Restaurant Bar, located adjacent to the shop. This inviting bar/eatery features creative, small and shareable meat, vegetable, and seafood dishes--all house made and locally sourced. Bring your crew to enjoy a cozy night on the patio, a drink or two, or check out the cooking classes and specialty dining events offered here a couple times each month! You might be tempted to buy out the whole store when you visit, but rest assured whatever goodies you choose, you won't be disappointed. Without exaggeration, this place makes the best cheese I've ever tasted!! Conveniently located along Highway 42 (just past Egg harbor heading north), this is one stop in Door County that you really don't want to miss.

Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant & Butik

Al Johnson's traditional Swedish restaurant is a hot spot in Sister Bay for good reason. This family-owned establishment is the real authentic deal, serving up generations old family recipes to all of Door County... and I do mean all. You should expect this place to be packed any day of the week--even at 8 a.m. on a Tuesday morning in the off-season! Serving traditional specialties like Swedish meatballs, Pytt I Panna, and Swedish pancakes all day long, this place could be summed up in just one word: delicious! But don't just come here for the food. Al Johnson's also has a Butik that sells traditional Scandanavian clothing, gifts, and other specialty items; a family-oriented outdoor beer garden next to the restaurant, which serves an expansive list of draft beer, wines, shots, and handcrafted cocktails; and goats, who your kiddos will love watching graze on the restaurant's rooftop from springtime through early fall. Truly an attraction in and of itself!

Kick Ash Door County

With paleo-friendly, gluten-free baked treats, artisan granola and small bath coffee, Kick Ash is both a healthy and delicious option for eating in Door County. This local, family-run business was started by a busy mother of four who wanted her kids to eat healthier, and found she had a knack for pleasing even the pickiest of eaters. What began as a familial passion for cooking, has turned into a small kitchen and retail space offering freshly baked goods, yogurt parfaits, soups and salads to-go, and more on the daily. Yet another place in Door County you'll notice stays unsurprisingly busy!

Seaquist Orchards Farm Market

This multi-generational family farming operation has been growing Door County's famous Montmorency tart cherries since the early 1900's. They also grow a small acreage of sweet cherries, over 30 varieties of apples, apricots, pears, and more. Stop by the shop--which is more like a mini farmer's market--for a variety of delicious gifts and goodies; or schedule a 30-,minute farm tour, compete with a drive through the orchards, apple cider tasting, and sampling of farm-made treats (like jams, fudge, mustards, salsas, etc.). Depending on the season, you'll find other events and activities taking place here, too. Be sure to check their website and calendar of events before your visit; they do not stay open year-round.

The Ridges Sanctuary

A 1,600 acre private, non-profit nature preserve since 1937, home to the Bailey's Harbor Range lights, an interactive nature center, and so much more. With a simple mission in mind to connect families with nature, the Ridges Sanctuary offers educational programs and workshops, camps, guided adventures, and other entertainment throughout the year. Consider a stay at the luxurious (adults-only) Ashbrooke Hotel next door, to be within walking distance to this beautifully kept Natural Landmark.

Destination Sturgeon Bay

Sturgeon Bay is easily one of the best stops in all of Door County. From the adorable, historic downtown district and shops, to the picturesque Ship Canal Pierhead lighthouse, it was pretty much love at first sight for me, the first time I set foot in Sturgeon Bay. A few places of note: Door County Candy, an old-fashioned candy shop selling both traditional and the more contemporary treats; Nistebox, a quirky retro-style van turned food truck, serving up inventive north-by-northmex dishes out of a back alley; and Get Real Cafe--see below for more details.

Get Real Cafe

This small, out-of-the-way cafe is hiding a Cordon-Bleu trained chef in their kitchen. Well, not hiding per se. In fact you can watch her (and her team) work in the open kitchen while they prepare your order for you. Head chef and owner Veronica Ripp is a Door County native and 2nd generation restauranteur, committed to bringing healthy, organic food to her community. Her menu--which features all locally sourced, seasonal ingredients--is a lunchtime WIN!

Have you been to Door County? Do you have any personal favorites you would add to this list? Let me know in the comments!