Some of our best friends are heading to the cabin this weekend and as long as I’m putting together my favorite tips for their getaway, I figured I might as well make it a resource to everyone! There’s a common misconception that Door County shuts down in the winter and while it’s true that things slow down, that’s precisely what I love about it. Winter weekends in Door County are some of my favorite because the crowds and busyness that summer tourism can bring disappear and it’s this winter wonderland with some amazing things to do and see!
Where to stay:
First, if you need a place to stay, I have to recommend our cabin The Bay on Clark Lake. It’s this cozy place with a pellet stove to snuggle up by, two-story windows looking out onto the lake to enjoy the views and sunsets and the sunroom is just the perfect spot to put on your favorite music, grab a drink and good conversation with those you love.
Enjoy ice fishing or ice skating on the lake and hike to The Point (our other cabin, not open for rental in the winter but guests are able to walk down the road and hike the trails there when they stay at The Bay!)
You can check out all of the details right here if you’d like to stay!
Must-see spots:
Cave Point: Just a couple miles up the road is Cave Point, one of the most photographed spots in all of Door County. In the summer you can jump off the cliffs and it’s truly a beautiful spot no matter the season. If you’re an early bird, sunrise here is magical. A winter photo of Cave Point is the middle photo below.
The windy road: If you want breathtaking views, take a drive up Hwy 42. Stop by Anderson dock with some paints and leave your signature on the historic building there (3rd photo below). Next, at the very end of Hwy 42 you’ll come to the famous windy road. Legend has it that landscape architect Jens Jensen who believed in the power of nature to enrich our lives influenced the design of this road. They say he created the curves of the road to symbolize slowing down and always keeping nature in view. It’s a pretty remarkable road to drive! We’d recommend stopping at Wickman house on the way home for dinner or at a minimum a drink – their cocktail menu is unique and our favorite!
Favorite things to do:
Peninsula State Park: There are miles and miles of trails at Peninsula State Park whether you’re into snowmobiling, hiking, snowshoeing or cross country skiing. We love to stop by the number 17 fairway at the park golf course to take the kids sledding and we promise even the adults will have a blast (it’s pretty steep but there is an area with a smaller hill at the bottom if you have little kids!). We also always stop by Eagle’s Bluff for some phenomenal views. It’s not open right now, but the nature center has some really tame chickadee’s you can feed (our kids absolute favorite!) we hope this will be back soon! Check out all the details on their site here.
Hands on Art Studio: Crafts for kids and adults alike, this place has so many options for you! From spin painting to jewelry making, pottery painting and mosaics – you’ll be sure to find something fun to create! It’s open year round and our kids beg us to go every single year. It’s a great option for a rainy day or winter activity. You can check out more details right here.
Here’s a great resource compiling winter festivals and events to check out as well!
Where to eat + drink:
We absolutely love Stone’s Throw Winery and Door County Brewing, Co. and suggest carving out time to visit one or both! There are wine tastings at Stone’s Throw (our favorite: Big Mouth Red) and often live music at Door County Brewing, Co.!
And finally, a few favorite dinner spots include:
Chives – the truffle fries are to die for and worth going here for these alone.
Chop – we’ve been a dozen times and love every single thing on the menu
Harbor Fish Market & Grill – famous for their lobster boil and amazing seafood, this place is a treat!
Donny’s Glidden Lodge – if you’re looking for a supper club vibe with an amazing view of Lake Michigan, this is your spot!
PC Junction – Our kids LOVE it here – a train delivers food if you get a spot at the bar (which can be a long wait in summer so winter is a good time to go!)
Wickman House – a great stop if you’re heading all the way up the Peninsula, amazing drinks and great atmosphere.
Wild Tomato Pizza – hands down the best pizza you’ll have maybe ever – there can be long lines in summer so winter is a great time to go!
There you have it, our favorite things to do in Door County in the winter. Door County has something special to offer throughout all 4 seasons and winter is one of our favorites. We hope you’ll visit and see for yourself!
