Thank you to Door County for sponsoring our trip to the region. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are entirely our own.
Door County, Wisconsin was made for family vacations. This heavenly slice of the Midwest transports visitors to the beautiful basics: freshly caught local fish, family-owned restaurants and hotels, a strong sense of community, and lots of outdoor adventures for the whole family. Located on a peninsula that juts out between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County has over 300 miles of coastline to explore and 30,000 locals who want to show you the way. The best part about the area is that there are so many things to do in Door County with kids.
Exploring Lautenbach’s Orchard
Located on a rugged peninsula between Lake Michigan and Green Bay, Door County is one of the most beautiful parts of the United States. It’s laidback yet filled with adventure. It’s a place where you can find the tastiest fried cheese curds or opt for fine dining. Most of all, it’s an area where you can feel the LOVE of community and the depth of character that this darling destination possesses. Door County is one of those destinations that is so warm and welcoming that you feel right at home from the moment you arrive. That is…if home had 300 miles of shoreline, beautiful white sand beaches, and countless charming villages. If you’re looking for things to do in Door County with kids, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s explore…
Where to Eat in Door County, Wisconsin
Pelletier’s: Fish boils date back to when the Swedish settlers first arrived on the shores of Door County. Now as a Door County tradition, fresh Lake Michigan white fish is boiled up with sides of corn on the cob and potatoes. For an exciting dinner in Door County with kids, a fish boil at Pelletier’s is an absolute must!
White Gull Inn: The White Gull Inn has been an icon of Door County since 1972. Set in a beautiful white mansion near Green Bay, this historic bed & breakfast is a great place to stay in Door County. Plus, the White Gull Inn serves tasty breakfast, lunch, and dinner in addition to hosting traditional fish boils.
Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant: Come for the goats and stay for the delicious Swedish pancakes! This Door County staple serves tasty Swedish pancakes & other Swedish specialties. The restaurant is most famous for the GOATS on its roof!
Sip Coffee: Sip has the best espresso drinks in all of Door County – all set in an expertly decorated and deliciously charming coffee shop.
Harbor Fish Market & Grille: This family owned and operated casual fine dining restaurant is in beautiful Baileys Harbor. Set on Lake Michigan, Harbor Fish Market & Grille is an elevated dining experience that serves fresh local fare in a charming lakefront setting.
The goats on the roof at Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant are iconic in Door County
Sip Coffee has the best coffee in Door County
Where to Play in Door County, Wisconsin
One Barrel Brewing: This indoor / outdoor tap room in Egg Harbor is all about the ambiance. One Barrel Brewing serves delightfully refreshing beers in a beautiful beer garden setting. The brewery has plenty of space and offers games to play, making it a great thing to do in Door County with kids.
Make Your Mark at Anderson Dock: This art installation on a dockside warehouse has years of history marked on its Door County walls. Boaters have been making their mark by signing their name and boats’ name on the wall for years. We recommend picking up paint at Harbor Hardware in Egg Harbor or Nelson’s in Fish Creek and adding to the community art installation. This is one of our top picks for things to do in Door County with kids.
Cave Point County Park: Cave Point County Park is located on Lake Michigan and it’s the epicenter for adventure in the area. It’s best explored by kayaking around or hiking along the rugged coastline.
Eagle Tower at Peninsula State Park: For a gorgeous panoramic view of the Wisconsin coastline, and even part of the Michigan coastline, walk up Eagle Tower, an observation deck that sits 253 feet above Green Bay. You can ascend stairs straight to the top or there is an ADA approved / stroller friendly ramp that takes you to the top as well.
The Waterfront Park at Sister Bay: Sister Bay has the best beaches in Door County, and it has a large waterfront playground. If you’re looking for a great thing to do in Door County with kids, head to Waterfront Park at Sister Bay for a laidback beach day.
Painting on Anderson’s Dock is a fun activity in Door County with kids
Exploring Cave Point County Park is a must when visiting Door County with kids
Door County has plenty of family friendly beaches
Wine tasting at Lautenbach’s Orchard: Cherries and apples are staples at local orchards in Door County. If you want to taste local, head to Lautenbach’s Orchard for a wine tasting and enjoy the scenic cherry blossoms at this Door County staple. We highly recommend ordering the local cherry-apple cider, which is made with fruit from the farm. In the autumn months, you can also go apple picking!
Hey Collette, Scott,
This was such a wholesome read, I loved every second of it.
Can the goat pictures be more adorable?? Your baby is so precious and it must be wonderful doing adventure with a toddler.
I have two kids and your article definitely gives me some pointers that I can use when I go on holiday.
Keep sharing.
Love these.