Door County

Wild Tomato

Door County Creamery soup board

Base Camp

Island Orchard Cider

Bearded Heart Coffee

Taco Cerveza

Sister Golden

Door County Brewing

Door County Creamery baby goat yoga

Wickman House

Red Putter

Ready to go back now.

Door County is a must during the few short non-winter months in Wisconsin. The small town charm and absolutely stunning views allow you to take time away from the day-to-day and relax. Reception is spotty, making GPS usage unpredictable, but luckily for those that are technologically inept, Highway 42 takes you through most of the main towns- Egg Harbor, Fish Creek, Ephraim, Sister Bay, and Ellison Bay. Each has their own vibe and each is special in their own way.

When in Fish Creek, my MUST stop at Sister Golden, owned by a mother daughter duo. The store is perfectly curated and I could happily go broke buying everything and anything in the boutique. Last year we discovered the Singing Donut, some of the best donuts I have ever had, but they have since closed shop. I couldn't be more devastated, but, when one door closes, another one opens and this time it's in the form of tacos. Taco Cerveza has purely outdoor seating and is only open Wednesday-Sunday with an hour siesta from 3-4 each day. Simple and not overdone, grab a quick bite or really stuff your face. For a classic Door County stop, go to The Cookery, great for breakfast or brunch. If you find yourself in Fish Creek in the evening, head down to the end of Main Street and watch the sun go down at Sunset Park.

For other evening activities, check out the Skyway Drive-In. You'll feel like you stepped right onto the set of Grease. Plan a picnic or grab popcorn at their snack bar, but come prepared with blankets if you're going to sit outside because the temps do drop. Stay for just one movie, or go the distance and stay for the double feature. Two movies for just $9. The first movie tends to be something family friendly and the second is something more appealing to the late night crowd that can stay awake- we were not part of that crowd.

Sister Bay is home to a few of my favorite stops. For drinks, I always hit up Stabbur Beer Garden next to Al Johnson's, famous for goats roaming their rooftops. Play games and enjoy some adult beverages with the lake in the distance. For dinner, Wild Tomato serves up great za. With two locations, you can now enjoy their food in Fish Creek or Sister Bay. Last but definitely not least, my favorite foodie stop is Door County Creamery. They produce most of their products from goats milk, even their gelato. You can tour the farm, which also includes gelato, a cheese tasting, and lunch. If you want some extra time with the goats, specifically the babies, they now offer baby goat yoga. Yes, baby goats. It was magical and I loved every second. I would happily go again- any takers? 

For those 21 or older (or with a fake), I suggest Island Orchard Cider, which is tucked away in Ellison Bay and offers amazing ciders, as well as food. Door County Brewing is a fun spot to check out in Bailey's Harbor, which is located off Highway 42 on the other side of the peninsula. Door County Brewing has a great space and I love that they collaborate with other breweries and local food trucks.

For coffee and a quick breakfast bite, Bearded Heart Coffee and Base Camp can fulfill all your caffeine and morning hunger needs. Bearded Heart can provide a morning, lunch, or evening pick-me-up, as well as some truly tasty toast. From avocado to raspberry to goat cheese and pesto, their toast hits the spot. Base camp bakes fresh goodies everyday, with their croissants taking home the win. Get the breakfast sandwich for some hearty goodness inside that croissant. 

If wine is more your speed, Lautenbach Orchard provides free wine tastings and pick-your-own fruits, such as cherries and apples. Just outside Fish Creek, I always like to stop at Lautenbach's for the old country market experience. Stone's Throw Winery is also a popular stop, but tastings are not free.

Trying to cut back on the eating and drinking? I guess other activities can be fun too. Rent some kayaks and paddle along the bluffs or grab a putter and play a round of mini golf at Red Putter, a classic and cute place fit for the whole family. For a little light hiking or time at the beach, check out Peninsula State Park. If you're on a budget or just love sleeping amongst the trees, you can camp in the park. 

PIck a weekend and head up north, Door County never disappoints.