Family-Friendly Winter Fun in Door County, Wisconsin

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Family-Friendly Winter Fun in Door County, Wisconsin

Door County, Wisconsin, is a magical destination year-round, but it truly shines during winter. Whether you’re looking for festive holiday activities, outdoor adventures, or cozy indoor experiences, Door County offers many family-friendly options. Here are some of the best ways to make the most of your winter visit to this charming peninsula.

Boardwalk at The Ridges Sanctuary

Shop for Holiday Gifts

Looking for some fun decor or a unique gift for a loved one? Door County offers the best shops in the state!

If you are visiting during the holiday season make a stop at St. Nick’s Tree Farm located in Sturgeon Bay. Yes, they sell Christmas trees (snag one on your way out of town), but they also offer a huge collection of Christmas decor. Make a visit or drive by at night and take a look at their fun light display.

St. Nick’s Tree Farm

Edgewood Orchard Galleries located in Fish Creek is home to many artists. While you browse the fun collection you will notice all types of artwork, jewelry, paintings, and more at all different price points. You will not leave without a gift for a loved one or yourself.

Go on an Outdoor Adventure

Door County transforms into a snowy paradise during winter, and families can enjoy the outdoors together by exploring the area’s numerous trails. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities, with spots like Peninsula State Park and Whitefish Dunes State Park offering groomed trails and stunning views. If you’re new to these activities, rental equipment and beginner-friendly paths make it easy to start.

For a unique experience, take the kids on a hike along the Eagle Trail to see frozen waterfalls and ice formations. Be sure to bundle up and wear sturdy boots with good traction!

A visit to The Ridges Sanctuary is a must during winter. This natural gem in Baileys Harbor offers a network of trails perfect for snowshoeing and winter hiking. The sanctuary’s trails wind through picturesque forests and ridges, providing a serene escape into nature. Families can stop by the Cook-Albert Fuller Nature Center to learn about the sanctuary’s unique ecosystem through interactive exhibits and displays.

The Ridges Sanctuary

During the holiday season, The Ridges Sanctuary hosts special events like the Natural Christmas, where visitors can enjoy festive crafts, holiday treats, and guided hikes through the beautifully decorated trails. It’s an excellent way for families to celebrate the season while connecting with nature.

Enjoy the Most Festive Activities

Winter in Door County wouldn’t be complete without holiday cheer. The peninsula’s charming small towns light up with festive decorations and events. In Sturgeon Bay, families can enjoy the annual Christmas by the Bay celebration, which includes a holiday parade, a tree lighting ceremony, and visits with Santa Claus. Don’t miss shopping for unique gifts at local boutiques and holiday markets.

One of the highlights of the holiday season is Door County’s Christkindlmarket, a traditional European-style Christmas market held in Sister Bay. Families can browse handcrafted gifts, enjoy festive food and drinks like mulled cider and roasted nuts, and enjoy live holiday music. The Christkindlmarket’s warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a must-visit for creating lasting holiday memories. You can also get some holiday shopping done too!

Warm Up with Indoor Activities

When it’s time to escape the cold, Door County’s indoor attractions provide plenty of family-friendly entertainment. The Door County Maritime Museum in Sturgeon Bay offers interactive exhibits that teach visitors about the area’s rich maritime history. Kids will love exploring the ship models and learning about life on the Great Lakes. You can also take in an incredible view like no other from the top!

One level of the Door County Maritime Museum

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry!

You will not go hungry in Door County! A winter visit to Door County wouldn’t be complete without sampling some of the region’s culinary delights. Warm up with a bowl of hearty chili or soup at a local café, and don’t forget to try a traditional Door County fish boil. Pick up some fresh bakery items from Scaturo’s Baking Co. & Café or order one of their amazing pizzas for lunch.

Fresh pizza from Scaturo’s Baking Co. & Café

The White Gull Inn is famously known for its fish boils, but if you are visiting during the Winter months make a reservation for a candle-lit dinner. They serve amazing dishes and have even better wines available. You may not see goats on the roof of Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant Butik, but they are still open for breakfast. If you plan your visit just right, make sure you make a reservation for their annual Julbord where you can enjoy traditional Scandinavian foods and drinks in a buffet setting.

A cozy table at the White Gull Inn

You cannot leave Door County without stopping at a cidery or winery on the peninsula. Door County is home to many and a couple of my favorites include Anchored Roots Vineyard & Winery and Island Orchard Cider (try their Pear Cider!).

Local cider samples at Island Orchard Cider

Snuggle in for a Cozy Stay

After a day of winter adventures, relax and recharge at one of Door County’s family-friendly accommodations. Many resorts and cabins offer amenities like fireplaces, hot tubs, and indoor pools to keep everyone comfortable. Consider booking a stay at The Dörr Hotel located in Sister Bay. This modern hotel inspired by the Scandinavian history of Door County offers amazing amenities, beautiful views of the bay, and cozy beds.

The lobby at The Dörr Hotel that overlooks the bay

Erin Huiatt

Erin is a reliable resource and stepping stone for women and families to find support and make connections within our community. She wants families to feel confident to reach out and ask for help and advice to get pointed in the right direction. She enjoys traveling and exploring with her two children in tow!

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