Local Recommendations

I'll guide you to amazing places

One of the best parts of traveling is discovering the places that locals genuinely enjoy and recommend. We've put together this guide to share some of our favorites throughout the area. Whether you're looking for a memorable meal, a relaxing afternoon at a vineyard, a craft beer with friends, or a beautiful trail to explore, these are some of the spots we think are worth adding to your itinerary.


Our goal is to help you experience the region beyond the typical tourist attractions and enjoy some of the places that make this area so special. We hope these recommendations help you make the most of your stay and create lasting memories during your visit.


If you're looking for something specific or would like additional recommendations, please don't hesitate to reach out. We're always happy to share more local favorites and help you find activities, dining options, and hidden gems that match your interests.

Contact Us!

There’s no shortage of incredible spots to grab lunch, dinner, drinks, or a quick bite while you’re here. Whether you’re looking for a casual sandwich on the lawn, craft cocktails with a waterfront view, or a memorable fine dining experience, you’ll find it all just minutes from The Fancy B.


This is far from a complete list of Door County favorites, but these are a few of the places we

find ourselves coming back to again and again.


The Cupola Café – Perfect for a quick coffee, a relaxed breakfast, or a lunch that feels a little

more creative and unexpected. Their menu has a way of turning simple ingredients into

something special. Dinner service is offered only on select occasions and reservations must be made in advance through their Instagram account, @CupolaCafe. If French onion soup is on the menu, order it. Trust us.


Fireside& Ember – A little taste of New Orleans right here in Door County. The menus change from time to time, which keeps every visit interesting, but the experience is always top-notch. Fireside is an easy walk from The Fancy B, while Ember offers one of the best bay views around. Each location has its own unique menu and personality. Reservations are recommended for groups of 5 or more.


Casey’s – Located directly across the street and serving guests since 1936, Casey’s is a local staple for smoked meats, comfort food, and laid-back Door County vibes. Their slow-smoked brisket is packed with smoky flavor while still staying tender and juicy. We’re also big fans of the smoked chicken wings and fried green beans… although honestly, it’s hard to go wrong here.


MacReady’s Artisan Breads – Yes… that amazing smell in the air when you step out back probably is fresh bread baking. MacReady’s makes some of the best breads you’ll ever have, baked fresh daily. Beyond the loaves, their cookies, pastries, and made-to-order sandwiches make this an absolute must-stop for lunch. Whether you go hot or cold sandwich, you’re in for a good one.


Pizza Bros – In our humble opinion, this is the best pizza in Door County. Sure, you can build

your own pie, but we highly recommend trying one of their signature combinations. They do an incredible job layering flavors in a way that turns pizza night into an experience. Bonus points: you can pair it with a fantastic craft brew from One Barrel at the same stop.


Alexander’s – Ideal for a special night out, celebration dinner, or simply treating yourself to an

unforgettable meal. Their menu changes often and features many locally sourced ingredients,

creating a dining experience that feels both elevated and uniquely Door County. The cocktails

are excellent, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, and reservations are highly recommended — especially on busy weekends.

Experience Door County

Fun for All Ages – Timeless favorites that are just as enjoyable today as they were the first time around.


Red Putter – Located between Ephraim and Sister Bay, this is the kind of mini-golf location you probably grew up with. It's a classic setup with affordable pricing and plenty of nostalgia. Make sure you take a picture with the lady on the way out. 


PC Junction – Just a short 5-minute drive, you’ll find yourself at the corner of county roads A & E which is considered the Peninsula Center. A favorite for families, you'll see food (and even toys) delivered by train.



Rainy Day Adventures - While many guests discover these on a rainy day, they're the kind of experiences you'll be glad you made time for regardless of the forecast.


Maritime Museum – Whether you're climbing the Jim Kress Lighthouse Tower in Sturgeon Bay or discovering the story of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald at Death's Door Maritime Museum, you'll come away with a greater appreciation for the waterways that have shaped Door County's history and culture. You can also visit one of the iconic lighthouses at Cana Island.


Door County Trolley – Just north of Egg Harbor and a great access point to tours all over Door County. They offer specialized tours for ghost hunters and wine enthusiasts alike. These tours also work great when the weather is nice.


The Gnoshery – This gaming café has everything you need to enjoy some time playing classic or new games with friends. 


Edgewood Orchard Gallery – This gallery features inspiring works that rotate monthly across many different media, all set within a beautifully restored barn. When the rain lets up, take a stroll in the sculpture garden to see some larger than life reflections in the woods.


Woodwalk Gallery – Just a short 10-minute drive south of Egg Harbor, this transformed dairy farm beautifully blends practical craftsmanship with works from both emerging and established artists.


Stonehedge Golf Simulators – If you need to swing the clubs but Mother Nature isn't cooperating, this is a great option. Along with one of our favorite executive courses, they offer two beautiful golf simulator bays and a great selection of food and beer. While a tee time isn’t needed for the course, it is recommended for the Trackman simulators.


Sister Bay Bowl- This classic bowling alley takes you back in time. You'll actually see the ball return, keep score on paper, and enjoy a slower pace that's hard to find these days. After a few games, head to the restaurant for an outstanding meal. We recommend pairing a Brandy Old Fashioned with a steak and crispy hash browns for a true Wisconsin Supper club experience.



Perfect Bookends - When the day starts winding down, these experiences are the perfect way to enjoy a Door County evening.


Skyway Drive In – A classic way to enjoy a great first run movie from the comfort of your car (or seats outside your car). They typically show 2 movies each night and the first feature starts just after sunset.


Sunset Sail with Sail Door County – Enjoying the sunset from the water while also enjoying some beautiful views of the shoreline is a great way to cap off a day.  There are several options, but this one is our favorite because of the full sailboat experience. Departure times and routes may vary based on weather conditions, so make sure to watch closely. 


Peninsula Players –  Set among towering cedars along the shoreline, this theater offers the kind of professional productions you'd expect in a major city, all in one of the most beautiful settings in Door County. Arrive early for the opening act—the sunset over the water is worth the price of admission all by itself.


Northern Sky theater – Featuring entirely original productions with deep Door County roots, Northern Sky has become a local tradition. Whether you catch a performance under the stars in Peninsula State Park or at their indoor theater just 8 miles away, expect plenty of laughs, memorable music, and references that locals and visitors alike will appreciate.



Make a Day of It - Some adventures are worth slowing down for. Set aside the day and discover a few of Door County's most memorable destinations.


Visit Washington Island – Even the road is a fun experience as you go to Northport. Once on the island you’ll want to make sure to check out the Lavender Farm, the Svartvik Church, grab a burger at the Albatross Drive-In, and get your bitters shot at Nelsen’s Hall. During peak season, ferries depart every 30 minutes, though waits are common, so arriving early is recommended. For even more adventure, take the passenger ferry from Jackson Harbor to Rock Island and explore the island's roughly five-mile trail system, including the beautiful white sand beach on the south shore.


Heritage Trail – History enthusiasts will love the Heritage Trail. With nearly 50 historic buildings, museums, lighthouses, and landmarks to explore, you'll never run out of places to discover. Participation is free, and you can even earn your own Door County map along the way.


Hands On Art Studio – The opportunities here are limited only by your imagination. Whether you're creating fused glass, painting ceramics, designing jewelry, or trying your hand at metalworking, you'll find plenty of ways to bring home a one-of-a-kind Door County souvenir. Don't worry if you're not an artist. There's plenty of guidance along the way. Most glass and ceramic projects are fired and ready for pick up the next afternoon. The toughest decision is choosing where to start.


Door County is home to quite a few wineries—and for good reason. The surrounding

water helps moderate temperatures, enhancing the growing season, while the peninsula sits right around the ideal 45° north latitude for winemaking. Add in mineral-rich soil and a passionate community of makers, and it creates a setting that’s perfectly suited for amemorable tasting experience.


You really can’t go wrong, but if you’re looking for a thoughtfully curated afternoon, here

are a few of our favorites:


For a beautifully curated wine experience (just next door):

Tucked inside the Cupola House, Daughters and Co. offers a globally inspired selection

of wines in an intimate, welcoming setting. What truly sets them apart is their depth of

knowledge. They have a knack for guiding you to something you’ll genuinely love, whether you’re exploring or know exactly what you’re looking for.


For a classic winery setting with a refined feel:

Stone's Throw Winery is just an easy 8-minute drive west on County Road E and feels

like a quiet retreat into the countryside. They craft their wines on-site using grapes

sourced primarily from California, resulting in a more traditional wine profile. Tastings

are well curated, and while pricing is slightly elevated, the quality and setting make it

well worth the visit. If the weather is nice, we recommend lingering a bit. Vino! Vino!

offers a lovely outdoor space with small plates designed for pairing.


For a relaxed, approachable tasting experience:

Harbor Ridge Winery, located just about a mile south on Highway 42, is an easy stop to

work into your day. They offer a mix of wines made from locally grown grapes as well as

those sourced from other regions. The atmosphere is easygoing and

unpretentious—perfect for discovering something new without overthinking it.


For something a little unexpected (in the best way):

Located inside Hatch Distilling Company, Mixed Meadia offers a creative take on what a

“winery” can be. Originally known for mead and honey-based spirits, they’ve expanded

into non-traditional wines that are playful, inventive, and a great option if you’re in the

mood to try something different.

It’s often said that Wisconsin has three main food groups: beer, brats, and cheese.

While there’s some truth to that, the craft brewing scene—especially over the past

decade—has added a whole new layer to the experience here in Door County.

If you enjoy discovering a great local pour, here are a few of our favorite spots to

explore:


For a laid-back taproom just steps away:

One Barrel Brewing Company Taproom is located just a couple blocks south and is an

easy, go-to stop. They typically offer 10–12 beers on tap, along with rotating options like

seltzers and house-made root beer. While the beer is brewed in Madison, this taproom

has a great local feel. The range—from hop-forward IPAs to Door County cherry-

inspired brews—keeps things interesting. As an added bonus, Pizza Bros is located

inside and happens to be one of our favorite spots for pizza in the county.


For a more refined, small-batch experience:

Sway Brewing + Blending has earned national attention, including a James Beard

Award nomination in 2026—and it’s well deserved. Their approach is intentional and

detail-driven, with a smaller, thoughtfully crafted selection that leans toward unique and expressive styles. In addition to their beer, they offer exceptional bakery items and one of our favorite lunch stops when you find yourself in Baileys Harbor.


For a classic Door County patio + live music:

The Cherry Hut is a great place to settle in and enjoy the afternoon. They feature beers

from Bridge Up Brewing company (Sturgeon Bay), offering a well-rounded lineup with

something for just about everyone. The outdoor patio is one of our favorites especially

when there’s live music. It’s an easy place to relax and stay awhile. Before you head

out, it’s worth taking a look inside at their selection of locally made jams, sauces, and

other treats.


For a tucked-away farmhouse brewery experience:

Peach Barn Farmhouse & Brewery is a bit of a hidden gem just south of Sister Bay.

Their tap list can vary, but the focus is always on fresh, thoughtfully crafted beer with a

clean, balanced finish. You’ll often find a mix of traditional and non-traditional beers

(Belgian, Sours, etc.) which makes this a great stop if you’re in the mood to try

something a little different.

State Parks: (entry sticker required)

Eagle Trail- Peninsula State Park. (2 mi loop) Best way to see the Niagara escarpment

that runs through Door County. Hike begins by Eagle Panorama (enter through the

Ephraim entrance) and winds its way through a Beech\Maple forest and descends down

towards the harbor. Trail has a fairly significant uphill climb and is rocky is some areas.


Fern\Europe Bay Trail-Newport State Park. (1.2 mi loop) Walk the extensive boardwalk

though a sea of beautiful ferns. Then return on the wide Europe Lake trail back to the

parking lot. (Hike can be extended by adding in the Lynd Point trail. Adds 2.5 miles to

hike and takes you along Lake Michigan shoreline)


For the truly adventurous:

Thordarson Loop Trail- Rock Island State Park. (5.2 mi loop) Truly an adventure to get

here, but so very unique and beautiful. Do as a day trip from Egg Harbor. Requires 2

ferry trips, one to Washington Island (with car) and one to Rock Island (walk on only).

Recommended to leave early to catch early ferry to Washington Island so you can then

get first ferry out to Rock Island. If you hike starting to your left as you disembark from

the ferry dock, you will have a gradual climb to the historic Pottawatomie

Lighthouse—the oldest in Wisconsin. (it is about 1.5 mi hike to lighthouse) Continue on

to the most remote side of the island, see historic water tower and circle along the

beach before returning to the Boathouse.


Other nature conservancy trails: (free)


Black trail-Cave Point County Park. (approx. 1.2 miles one way) Take this trail from the

parking lot at Cave Point along the water and into Whitefish Dunes State Park. Enjoy

one of Door County’s most scenic views at Cave Point—beautiful in any season. Hike

though cedars along Lake Michigan and enjoy the cool breeze. Must return on same

trail. (note, if you park at Whitefish Dunes State Park, you will need a park sticker)


Walking trail- Ellison Bluff County Park. (1.2 mi loop) Trail departs from the parking lot

taking you through the woodlands of northern Door County—particularly stunning in

autumn as the leaves turn. In June, be sure to look for the yellow Lady Slipper orchids

which grow here. Trail ends at beautiful lookout with a stairway that looks out over

Green Bay. Great sunset spot!


Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Nature Preserve trail- Door County Land trust property.

(2.5 miles of trails) Be sure to take the trail along the Sturgeon Bay ship canal that

allows a view of two historic lighthouses that are on the other side of the canal by the

Coast Guard Station.


Nature Trail- Toft Point State Natural Area. (approx. 2 miles out and back) Take Ridges

Road out of Baileys Harbor about 1.4 miles to this site on the left. (Address: 2301

Ridges Road) Property has a fairly long gravel driveway and is owned by the University

of Wisconsin-Green Bay which has a small parking lot at trailhead. Hike along Moonlight

Bay, passing several historic buildings and a circular kiln. Enjoy the stretches of

limestone cobble beaches with many fish and bird habitats.