Snow turns Door County, Wisconsin, into a winter wonderland, making it look like the set of a Hallmark Christmas movie. Whether you’re looking to explore nature or hunker down next to a fire with hot chocolate, our guide will walk you through the best Door County winter activities. Put on your parka and snow boots, because there are plenty of things to do in Door County, WI!

Explore Door County, Wisconsin

Introverts, rejoice! The quiet months January through May are the off season in Door County, meaning fewer crowds at these attractions.

Door County Maritime Museum

Seasoned sailors and simply curious visitors alike should visit the Door County Maritime Museum. Aptly located along the shores of Lake Michigan, this museum takes visitors on a journey through our region’s rich nautical history. It has a diverse collection of exhibits about ships, lighthouses, and sailors. Visitors can explore interactive displays of restored vessels, virtually steer a ship through a storm, or look at the tugboats they occasionally take out. There is something for everyone here.

Open Door Bird Sanctuary

The Open Door Bird Sanctuary is a non-profit that rehabilitates and houses birds that cannot return to the wild. In addition to hands-on experiences, guests can join guided hikes through their 34 acres of beautiful wetlands and woods. Public tours are available, but we recommend guests schedule a private tour for the full experience at this incredible wildlife sanctuary. They sometimes close temporarily for maintenance and animal care, so call ahead before you visit.

Hardy Gallery

Located along the shoreline of Eagle Bay, Hardy Gallery is a non-profit that exhibits works from all the peninsula. The stunning location is worth the visit alone, but visitors can also browse through the collections to learn about the culture of the area. Finish your visit with a walk along the pier to take in the sunset.

Miller Art Museum

If you want to see more local art, The Miller Art Museum showcases a variety of work from regional artists. The exhibits cover a wide range of styles, from contemporary art to classic pieces, so there’s something suited to everyone’s tastes. The museum’s main gallery regularly rotates through different exhibitions, so there is always something new.

Popelka Trenchard Glass Fine Art Gallery & Studio

Catch a free glass blowing demonstration at Popelka Trenchard Glass Fine Art Gallery & Studio. While seeing owners Jeremy and Stephanie work together is the highlight, it is still absolutely worth your time to browse through their gallery. Who knows, maybe one of those gorgeous pieces belongs on a shelf at home?

Visit Peninsula State Park for Outdoor Winter Activities in Door County, Wisconsin

Just because the ground freezes doesn’t mean you should too! All winter getaways in Door County, WI should include some time outdoors.

The views of Green Bay at Peninsula State Park will take your breath away (if the hiking doesn’t). Choose your own adventure on over 20 miles of hiking trails, ranging from leisurely to difficult. Visitors up to a challenge can try Eagle Tower, which offers gorgeous views of the surrounding cliffs and lake.

Peninsula State Park is your one-stop shop for Door County winter activities. When snow conditions are right, cross-country skiers can explore 16 miles of groomed trails, with six miles also open to skate skiing. Snowshoers have six miles of designated trails winding through serene park areas. For thrill-seekers, the park provides 17 miles of scenic snowmobile trails and a popular sledding hill on the golf course’s 17th fairway. Anglers can try ice fishing for perch, walleye, and trout, though caution is advised due to variable ice conditions.

Dining in Door County, Wisconsin

Thyme Restaurant

Established in 2017, Thyme Restaurant is a new addition to Door County’s food scene. They are known for serving classic fare with new and inspired twists. This establishment has a wine bar, stylish dining room, and live music next door.

The Fashionable

Old-fashioned hospitality is always in style at The Fashionable. Inclusivity is the goal of this establishment, and boy are all the flavors included! The menu features elevated versions of local favorites, like their whitefish diavolo and crispy potatoes.

Sip

This colorful and cheery restaurant is open daily (7am to 8pm) year-round. Sip breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus are all made with fresh ingredients. In addition to the delicious menu, locals love this place for their rotating beer and wine list and specialty coffee drinks. This establishment serves an impressive variety of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Located in North Ephraim, WI.

Bad Moravian

What do Midwesterners love more than beer? Pizza with their beer! Even the biggest pizza snob will admit that the Detroit style pizza here is outstanding. Great hospitality and the best curated craft beer selection in Door County— from Belgians to Sours to IPAs of all shades to Lagers and Pilsners to non-alcoholic beers, have cemented Bad Moravian as a local favorite. Hours are limited to Tue, Wed. and Saturday 5 to 8:30.

Where to Stay in Door County

Spend your winter along Centrally located in Ephraim, Wisconsin, right in the heart of the county, Edgewater Resort is the perfect base for all your Door County winter activities. This all seasons resort offers rooms and condos with terrific views of the water.

Book winter getaways in Door County, WI at Edgewater Resort. We can’t wait to help you plan the perfect winter adventure! Also you can call us directly at: 920-854-2734.