Door Community Auditorium & Link Gallery
Door Community Auditorium has played a very important role in supporting and encouraging Door County’s arts for twenty years. Featuring everyone from nationally known artists like John Hiatt to Gibraltar’s elementary school concerts, it has always been a pillar of our community.
“This year, the Door Community Auditorium celebrates its twentieth season with one of its most inspired and varied seasons yet…Performances on the roster will transport audiences all over the world. From the craggy hills of India, to the rough islands of Great Britain, and the iconic sound stages of Hollywood’s Golden Age, the DCA will bring a truly unique cultural experience to the Door Peninsula.”-www.dcauditorium.org
Saturday, July 31 8:00pm
The Machine/Pink Floyd
Tribute to a Classic
Internationally acclaimed band The Machine travels the world carrying on the legacy of English rock band Pink Floyd, while at the same time creating a legacy of their own. The Machine’s knack for recreating Pink Floyd’s music is remarkable (The Village Voice calls them “dead-on”), and their innovative jamming and elaborate light displays lend a new, contemporary edge to Pink Floyd’s classic repertoire. $30/$26/$22
Sunday, August 15 8:00pm
Gaelic Storm
A Modern Celtic Phenomenon
From their modest beginnings as a pub band in California, Gaelic Storm has grown into an international phenomenon, playing their unique blend of Celtic music to millions of people in just over ten years. Ever since being featured as the steerage-class band in the blockbuster film Titanic, Gaelic Storm has wowed fans with their dynamic live performances, including upbeat vocals, rousing dance tunes, haunting Celtic ballads, and infectious madcap humor.$35/$28/$22
Sunday, August 22 8:00pm
Brandi Carlile
A Voice of Fiery Grace
Since releasing her debut album in 2006, Brandi Carlile has been wildly successful in the U.S. and beyond, winning countless fans with a voice that swings gracefully between the gentle twang of Patsy Cline and the ragged fire of Janis Joplin. A young songwriter with lyrical and vocal depth beyond her years, Carlile has collaborated with musicians like T Bone Burnett, the Indigo Girls, and Elton John, making her one of the fastest-rising stars on the American folk-rock scene. $44/$38/$30
Sunday, September 5 7:00pm
The Redneck Tenors
A Rollicking Musical Adventure
Join Billy Bob, Billy Joe, and Billy Billee as they mix NASCAR with Beethoven, lite beer with Puccini and even kick up a little dust with “Ave Maria Dixie.” You’ll travel with our three redneck cousins from their modest beginnings in Paris, Texas (where they discover that belting out a high C causes pigs to move faster) all the way to their triumphant debut at New York’s Carnegie Hall. $40/$33/$28
Friday, November 26 7:00pm
The Lettermen Christmas
A Stroll Down Memory Lane
This holiday season, the legendary Lettermen will take audiences for a lovely stroll down memory lane without ever having to go out in the cold! Featuring their trademark three-part harmonies, The Lettermen will treat listeners to a heartwarming performance of their biggest hits of the past 40 years, as well an enchanting array of holiday tunes, new and old. $40/$33/$28
The Link Gallery
“The auditorium believes in the importance of community involvement and outreach education. To that end, the DCA works side-by-side with local schools and youth programs to give students an opportunity to be heard on stage or represented in the Link Gallery.” – www.dcauditorium.org
This month the Link Gallery is showcasing “Barbara’s Farm by Daniel B. Anderson” from July 5th to August 8th. Come see this photographic project taken of a local farm family’s homestead. As a boy, Anderson played with his childhood friend, Duane Logerquist, on this very farm. He grew up watching these buildings weather and faces change from one summer to the next. In years past, the Logerquist farm was a thriving cherry orchard which brought migrant workers in every summer to harvest the crops.
“These iconic migrant sheds have seen an incredibly rich history, housing workers from many places in the world. There have been Native Americans, workers from the Caribbean, African Americans from the south, Hispanic Americans from Texas, Caucasians from the Appalachian mountain regions and other southern states. They all would come to Door County for the cherry harvest season in late July and August during their itinerant life following and harvesting the crops throughout the United States. During the latter years of World War II, German POW’s were brought from a Wisconsin POW camp to the Logerquist farm to pick cherries and were housed in these sheds during the cherry harvest. Today, time has taken a hard toll on the migrant housing structures throughout the county and now, these four sheds are some of the last and best examples of them still standing.”- Daniel Anderson
These buildings represent the old Door County way of life, a lifestyle rarely seen in today’s society. We still have thousands of migrant workers in every summer, just not to pick cherries. I once heard the old Door County disappeared when National Geographic published the article “A Kingdom So Delicious”in 1966. This article showed to the world what locals had known all along, Door County was a beautiful place to spend time. The cherry business is still booming but tourism is now our main industry.
These images will tug at your heart strings as it takes you 60 years into the past to a simpler time in a peaceful place that still exists today.
Door Community Auditorium
3926 Hwy. 42 • PO Box 397 • Fish Creek, WI 54212-0397
Phone: (920) 868-2728 • Fax: (920) 868-2590
Box Office Hours:
Summer/Fall:
Monday – Friday, 12 – 5 pm
Show Days, 12 noon – show time
Email: boxoffice@dcauditorium.org
Los Lobos is coming to Door Community Auditorium July 23!
Friday night is always a great night to get out on the town. Why not take in a concert at the Door Community Auditorium in Fish Creek? Nationally acclaimed Los Lobos is taking the stage Friday at 8pm to rock the night away with their “Tradition with a Twist” musical talents.
“Ever since they began playing music together in their East Los Angeles high school, the five members of legendary band Los Lobos have blended traditional Mexican folk music with elements of blues, rockabilly, and jazz to create a sound entirely their own. Thirty years and three Grammys later, Los Lobos remain as compelling as ever, staying firmly rooted in tradition even as they find ways to break new and fertile musical ground.”-www.dcauditorium.org Tickets are $60/$50/$45 and available at the box office.
Door Community Auditorium
3926 Hwy. 42 • PO Box 397 • Fish Creek, WI 54212-0397
Phone: (920) 868-2728 • Fax: (920) 868-2590
Box Office Hours:
Summer/Fall:
Monday – Friday, 12 – 5 pm
Show Days, 12 noon – show time
Email: boxoffice@dcauditorium.org
Door County Salmon Fishing with Silver Strike Charters
As I walked to the Baileys Harbor Yacht Club Marina, the Silver Strike came into sight. A beautiful 31’ Tiara Open, the Silver Strike is quite a sight to see. After some quick introductions, the twin 454 engines roared to life and the mate began picking out lures for the days catch. We pulled away from the dock and were on the way to the fishing grounds.
The ride out was beautiful, couldn’t have asked for better weather. The mate was busy putting brightly colored lures on the 12 rods that lined the back and sides of the boat. Captain Jason Peggar took us to the spot they had been fishing the day before. Once the mate got the lines set, we began trolling up and down the shores north of Baileys Harbor. After only a few minutes, we got our first fish on. It hit on one of the down riggers and felt like a big fish. Half way in, Jason jumped to the other side of the boat and began reeling in one of the rods. Another fish! He handed off the rod and began pulling in the rods of either side. The morning bite had begun. Within the next ten minutes we had five fish on. There was only three of us plus the captain and first mate so everyone was reeling.
After only being out for an hour and a half, we had our fifteen fish limit plus two for the crew and were on our way in. Not a bad day on Lake Michigan at all, beautiful weather and great fishing. One member of our group, Don Coury owner of St. Paul Flatbread Company, was leaving Door County that afternoon and wanted to take his five fish with him so Don filleted them up and prepared the rest to be processed at Hickey Bros. Fish Market. If you don’t want the hassle of packaging up your catch, Capt. Jason said that Hickey’s will freeze and hold your catch for the length of your trip for a very minimal cost. We arrived back at the dock and hung up the twelve remaining fish for pictures. We had to show off our catch!
I have talked to Capt. Jason since we went out last week and he said the fishing is phenomenal with their biggest catch pegged at 33 fish this morning. He says it’s because the lake flipped and conditions are good: cold water, south wind, fronts moving in.
The guys on Silver Strike don’t fish because it’s their job. They fish these waters year round which gives them the advantage of knowing what’s hot, where the fish are and what they’re biting on. This year, Captains Andy (below on right) & Jason(on left) took 2nd place in the Brown Trout Tournament in April with a monster 19lb brown caught with less than one hour left of the tournament. First Mate Don brought in the 3rd place fish. These guys know their fishing!!!
Silver Strike runs 3 trips a day to accommodate the demand for salmon fishing out of Baileys Harbor. They offer two options when booking charters: basic trip or mid day special. The basic trip is a 5 hour sunrise/sunset trip. You can request a private boat or an individual rate, which includes other fisherman up to 6. The mid day special is a 3.5 hour private boat.
The charter fishing season in Door County consists of 4 types of fish. Brown trout & Rainbow trout seem to bite early in the Spring with an occasional Chinook & Coho Salmon. Salmon fishing goes into full swing in June and lasts through the end of October.
Crew:
- Capt. Andy Isaacson
- Capt. Jason Peggar
Mates:
- Don Petersilka
- Sid Johnson
- Spencer Johnson
www.doorcountycharterfishing.com
920.854.6069
Door County celebrates Independence Day!
Door County is buzzing with activities as spring eases into summer. The first official weekend of our summer season is 4th of July. Both visitors and locals flock to towns around the peninsula for the Independence Day festivities which include fireworks, parades, arts & crafts fairs and the First Annual Renaissance Fantasy Faire Festival.
If you are looking to take a step back in time, stop out at the Door County Renaissance Fantasy Faire, just north of Carlsville. Door County locals and visitors alike will be taking in all of the beauty of our very first Renaissance Faire both Saturday and Sunday. There will be jousting, belly dancing, food, drinks and many demonstrations to take in. Check out the website for more information and tickets. The Kaheena Belly Dance Troupe will be performing on Sunday so be sure to check it out!
Baileys Harbor boasts one of the best parties of the summer with live bands, a parade, arts & crafts show and a fireworks show the town saves for all year. The parade starts at 10 am and includes the Scottie dog rally, old cars and tons of floats. Fireworks will start at dusk and can be seen from anywhere in the harbor.
Egg Harbor celebrates the holiday early with food and refreshments starting at 3pm, live music starting at 5pm & fireworks on Saturday. The parade is held on Sunday at 1pm and the First Annual Hot Dog Eating Contest will be starting at 2:30pm
Gills Rock starts its party off at 5pm with live music and food. At 6:30pm, a boat regatta starts and leads into the fireworks display at dusk. The best seating is around the Shoreline restaurant and surrounding docks.
Fish Creek hosts the annual 5K Hairpin Run/Walk on the 4th. It starts at 8 am at the Fish Creek Town Hall. To get registered, visit www.hairpinrun.com. All proceeds go to Gibraltar Area School to enrich art & environmental programs for the students. 
Downtown at Clark Park, a Venetian boat parade will be held at dusk followed fireworks over the bay. Fish Creek is also home to the Fishstock Concert series housed the legendary Fishstock Concert Barn on Cty F. Music will include Unity, a nationally known reggae band on Saturday and Karen Mal on Sunday.
Ephraim celebrates with the Family Regatta/Flying Scot Saturday Series Race all weekend long. This fun event starts at 10am on Saturday and is fun for everyone to watch the boats sail around Eagle Harbor.
Jacksonport is home to Art on the Quiet Side. Set at Lakeside Park, there will be an arts & crafts fair, refreshments and family fun during the day.
Sturgeon Bay has a ton of activities to do. Festivities start at 7pm with music, food & beverages, an old-fashioned ice cream social. Peninsula Symphonic Band starts at 8pm and fireworks close out the night at dusk. Chicago Fireboat Cruises provide a water view seat of the fireworks. The cruise starts at 8:30 pm and lasts until the fireworks end, this is a great way to take in the show.
Washington Island lights off fireworks from the ball park after a day filled with a pancake breakfast, fish boil and homecoming picnic.
Before festivities kick off on Sunday, take the family to a local Door County League baseball game, which start at 1:30 pm on Saturday. Games are Kolberg @ Institute and Baileys Harbor @ Sister Bay. Sunday’s games are West Jacksonport @ Maplewood and Washington Island @ Egg Harbor (2:30pm start).
If you are looking for a place to stay but don’t want to check a hundred websites, you’re in the right place. We have the most current Last Minute Room Availabilities right here. When booking, don’t forget to mention Door County Lodging!
- Birchwood Lodge has openings all weekend long. It is very centrally located near downtown Sister Bay.
- Egg Harbor Lodge sits atop the bluff overlooking the waters of Green Bay. They have vacancies for water view suites this week.
- Four Seasons Barn House is a rental guest house comfortable enough for 8 in a relaxing country atmosphere.
- Coachlite Inn has rooms available for the weekend. This resort is located between Sister Bay and Ephraim.
- Open Hearth Lodge at the bottom of Little Sister Hill has availabilities for one or two night stays.
- Glidden Lodge Beach Resort has 1 and 2 bedroom condos available. This resort is found south of Jacksonport on the beach.
- Eagle Harbor Inn has a 1 and 2 bedroom whirlpool suites available. They are located near the water in Ephraim. Be sure to mention Door County Lodging’s blog when booking and receive a 5% discount!
- Nelson’s Lakeview Suites is on the water in the heart of Baileys Harbor. They have several rooms available with water views.
- Country House Resort has all types of rooms available with a three night minimum at this adult retreat located on the water just south of Sister Bay.
- Settlement Courtyard Inn has courtyard or two bedroom suites available for a two night minimum. Located just outside bustling Fish Creek, this is a great spot to begin any adventure.
- Ashbrooke in Egg Harbor has a couple of whirlpool suites with king bed and fireplace available with a two or three-night minimum.
- The Parkside Inn across the street from the Ellison Bay public beach has suites availabilities for one, two or three night stays.
- Baileys Harbor Ridges Resort just outside Baileys Harbor has availabilities for stays of two nights or more.
- Nordic Lodge located at the north end of Ephraim’s art district has rooms available with a 2 night minimum
- Applecreek Resort at the top of the hill in Fish Creek has a few rooms left.
Door County Lodging welcomes three new members!
Door County Lodging has welcomed some new members this spring. Panorama Guest House, Four Seasons Barn House and Scofield House have all been added to our Homes, Cabins & Cottages page. These three vacation rentals are perfect places to hold special events or house large families or groups.
This Door County Panorama Guest House, on the shores of the Bay of Green Bay, is your special get-away. Relax in a private bay side summer house with 100 feet of beachfront in the heart of Door County offering up sparkling blue waters and picturesque sunsets. Let the waves lull you to sleep. With a million-dollar water view from every room and a spacious living room with two sliding, glass doors opening to a wide deck overlooking the water, the Panorama is a perfect setting to make lasting memories. With 2 bedrooms plus sofa with hide-a-bed, 1 bath, sleeps 4-6. Air conditioning and central heat, satellite TV and WiFi. Contact Peg, your Door County hostess at 920.743.6641 or email: panoramaguesthouse@gmail.com.
Romantic for two, yet spacious enough for eight, the Four Seasons Barn House is available the year ’round! This cozy country setting is located near Baileys Harbor on German Road and in warm weather, features a safe spot for a backyard campfire with picnic and grill facilities. Enjoy an on site tennis court, frisbee and horseshoe pit with an adjacent sauna. Inside amenities include Wi-Fi, whirlpool bath, a fireplace, large kitchen and dining areas. Dogs are welcome. Contact Dave at 920.854.5192 or email: fourseasonsbarnhouse@gmail.com.
Down quiet little Chapel Lane in Baileys Harbor… Scofield North Waterfront Rentals are situated along 300 feet of spectacular Lake Michigan shoreline, reminiscent of the Atlantic coast of New England. Two distinctly different year ’round lodging opportunities await you, the old and the new. All linens, towels and bedding are provided at The Log Home and the Stone Cottage. Each is beautifully furnished. Sorry, smoking is not permitted in either of the properties but, well-behaved pets are welcome. 920.839.1503
Door County comes alive with Olde Ellison Bay Days & Renaissance Fantasy Faire!
This weekend is jam packed with great activities for all ages. Door County Lodging has your weekend guide and last minute rooms to go with it. Whether it is watching belly dancing at the Renaissance Fantasy Faire or singing your heart out in the talent show at Olde Ellison Bay Days, there is something for everyone.
Olde Ellison Bay Days is here once again in the northern end of the county. Join in the festivities by participating in the talent show, attending the grand parade or browsing the arts & crafts vendor tents at the Ellison Bay Women’s Club. The weather isn’t looking too bad for this weekend so make sure you bring your suits and cool off in the sparkling water at the public beach.
Schedule of Events:
- Friday-
- 12-2pm – Pie Baking Contest
- 6:30pm – Amateur Talent Show, Ice Cream Social and Third World Market Place at Shepherd of the Bay church
- 9pm – Live music by “Dirty Deuce” at the Mink River Basin.
- Saturday
- 10am- Art Fair
- 10am-4pm
- Food & Drinks in the park
- Paul Imhollte String man performing at Fair Grounds
- 11:30-3:00pm- Strawberry Shortcake!!!!
- 11am- Grand Parade – starts at the Shepherd of the Bay Church to Fitzgerald Park
- 12-4pm
- Music by “Copper Box” in the gazebo at the park
- Prize winning pie by the slice
- Water Golf on the pier
- Peter Hamon Balloon Clown
- 3pm- Parade Prizes
- 9pm- “Karstan Stora” at the Mink River Basin- Jamaican Music, Reggae, Calypso & Jazz
- Sunday
- 10am-4pm
- Art Fair
- Food & Drinks in the park
- 12pm-3pm
- Paul Imhollte String man performing at Fair Grounds
- Water Golf on the pier
- 1pm-2pm- Peter Hamon Juggler Magician
- 1pm-3pm- Children’s Art Activities & Games
- 2pm-4pm- “Julian Hagen” bluegrass camp
- 3pm- Drawing for Grand Raffle
- 10am-4pm
If you are looking to take a step back in time, stop out at the Door County Renaissance Fantasy Faire, just north of Carlsville. For the next two weekends, Door County locals and visitors alike will be taking in all of the beauty of our very first Renaissance Faire. There will be jousting, belly dancing, food & drinks and many demonstrations to take in. Check out the website for more information and tickets. The Kaheena Belly Dance Troupe will be performing on Sunday so be sure to check it out!
If neither of these events sounds good to you, have no fear. Door County is hopping this weekend! Check out these other great things to do. Little Sturgeon Days Weekend celebrates with a parade at 11am on Sunday. The annual Parade of Ponds will be showing off decorative ponds at private homes throughout the County. Last but definitely not least, Running Green for Crossroads is beginning a new tradition by putting on its very first event at Crossroads at Big Creek.
If you are looking for a place to stay but don’t want to check a hundred websites, you’re in the right place. We have the most current Last Minute Room Availabilities right here. When booking, don’t forget to mention Door County Lodging!
Shallows Resort on the water south of Egg Harbor has rooms available for Friday night only so you don’t have to worry about a two or three night minimum if you’re looking to make a quick getaway!
Birchwood Lodge has openings all weekend long. It is very centrally located near downtown Sister Bay.
Egg Harbor Lodge sits atop the bluff overlooking the waters of Green Bay. They have vacancies for water view suites this weekend.
Baileys Harbor Ridges Resort just outside Baileys Harbor has availabilities for stays of all lengths.
Ashbrooke in Egg Harbor has a couple of rooms with king bed, two adults, two-night minimum and whirlpool rooms with king bed and fireplace available for a one-night stay.
Coachlite Inn has rooms available for the weekend. This resort is located between Sister Bay and Ephraim.
Country House Resort has all types of rooms available at this adult retreat located on the water just south of Sister Bay.
Settlement Courtyard Inn has courtyard or two bedroom suites available. Located just outside bustling Fish Creek, this is a great spot to begin any adventure.
Panorama Guest House is located on the waters of Green Bay between Egg Harbor and Sturgeon Bay. It is a rental cottage comfortable enough for six.
Four Seasons Barn House is a rental guest house comfortable enough for 8 in a relaxing country atmosphere.
Eagle Harbor Inn has a 1 and 2 bedroom whirlpool suites available. They are located near the water in Ephraim.Be sure to mention Door County Lodging’s blog when booking and receive a 5% discount!
Nelson’s Lakeview Suites is on the water in the heart of Baileys Harbor. They have several rooms available with water views.
Open Hearth Lodge at the bottom of Little Sister Hill has availabilities for one or two night stays.
Pine Grove in downtown Ephraim still has all types of rooms available.
Stone Harbor Resort is located on the canal in Sturgeon Bay. They have availabilities all weekend and do not require a minimum length of stay.
Parkside Inn in Ellison Bay still has some rooms available for Friday night.
Door County Lodging Has Your Summer Vacation Packages!
Door County is a beautiful place to visit any time of year but it truly is amazing in the summertime. Our lodging members are offering great summer specials to help you create the best summer vacation ever. We have something for everyone with specials like the “Hole-in-one Golfer’s Dream Package” to a “Honeymoon Package” and all things in between. Be sure to mention Door County Lodging when booking!
Glidden Lodge Beach Resort
Horseshoe Bay Hole-In-One Package teams up with Horseshoe Bay Golf Club to give you the best golfer’s package yet! Stay two nights at beautiful Glidden Lodge Beach Resort, and play 18 holes of golf with cart at the Horseshoe Bay Golf Club. This is definitely a win-win experience! Price includes fee for one golfer, but it’s only $99 for each additional golfer. Valid thru Nov. 1, 2010
Eagle Harbor Inn
Honeymoon Package- Establish your own tradition for your annual getaway to Door County! Two nights in our elegant whirlpool Suites, Champagne and Homemade Truffles upon arrival; Bath Amenities and Robes, Homemade Breakfast Baskets delivered for Breakfast in Bed and two half-hour Swedish Massages at the Spa! Call or e-mail for the pricing on your specific dates. Package includes sumptuous dinner for two at the renown Inn at Kristopher’s, Sister Bay.
The Ashbrooke
Stay two or more nights between June 16th and August 28th and receive two tickets to an American Folklore Theater show as well as a $50 gift certificate for dinner at Alexander’s in Fish Creek.
Stay two nights receive the third night free through the end of June.
Romance Package-A two night stay with complimentary a beautiful flower arrangement, a specialty gift basket (wine and cheese) as well as a $60 certificate for a gourmet meal at one of Door County’s finest restaurants—The Inn at Kristofers, The Mission Grill, or the English Inn of Fish Creek.
Spa Package- Complimentary couples massage at The Spa at Sacred Grounds, A $40 certificate for dinner at The Shoreline restaurant, and champagne to enjoy while relaxing in the whirlpool at the Inn.
Experience Door County Package- This two night package includes a unique sightseeing tour on a Door County Trolley, tickets to Fish Creek’s drive-in movie theater, a one day pass to explore Peninsula State Park, and a fish boil dinner for two at the Old Post Office in Ephraim.
Door County Arts & Heritage Package- A two night stay in a room or suite with a $50 Restaurant/Pub gift card, a 30 minute Horse-drawn carriage ride, a pass for two to the Maritime Museum and a pass for two to the Door Peninsula Winery.
Family Fun Package- A two night stay in a room or suite with a $50 Restaurant/Pub gift card, a Family Welcome Gift Basket and a Day Pass for two adults and two children to the Farm or the Maritime Museum.
Romance Package- A two night stay in a room or suite with a $50 Restaurant/Pub gift card, a Family Welcome Gift Basket and a Champagne, chocolates and a long-stem rose, a 30 minute carriage ride and two Stone Harbor wine glasses.
Birchwood Lodge- June 10th usually marks the start of the Peak Season Rates but now through the end of June, stay in a premier suite and get the reduced off-season rate!
Steel Bridge Songfest comes to Door County once again June 10-13!
Every year, thousands of people make their way to our lovely peninsula for a music festival called Steel Bridge Songfest. It boasts a roster of nearly 150 musicians this year with names like James McMurtry, Todd Carey, Purgatory Hill, Little Marsh Overflow and Geri X. Concerts are held both indoors and out throughout the city of Sturgeon Bay.
“Take It Inside”, the first phase of Steel Bridge Song Fest, is taking place from June 10-12th at 15 venues around the city offering an array of music by the 150 musicians attending the festival. “Take It to the Bridge” on June 12-13th is the final phase of SBSF when the headlining acts take the main stage at the foot of our historic bridge. Donations are raised through ticket sales, volunteer donations and sales of the Compilation CD created during the Construction Zone and CD Project. The SBSF began June 11th, 2005 with a free concert that drew in 3,000 people. In the last five years, it has grown to be a must see event known throughout the Midwest.
The Construction Zone and CD Project are a major source of donations to the Bridge with proceeds going towards the Michigan Street Bridge Fund and raising national awareness and promoting historic preservation. The Holiday Music Hotel, which is mere steps from the Michigan St. Bridge, opens its’ doors to the musicians invited to participate in the CD Project and becomes headquarters for the operation. Boasting two sound studios as well as on-staff engineers, musicians can create music 24/7. The musicians collaborate to create great original songs to be performed on the main stage during “Take it to the Bridge” and featured on the Steel Bridge CD sold at the festival. 
The Michigan St Bridge was opened on July 4th, 1931 as the only overhead-truss Scherzer-type double leaf rolling-lift bascule bridge in the state of Wisconsin. At that time, it was the largest spanning bridge in the state reaching 809 feet across. In 2005-2006, after close inspection, the State of WI agreed to build a sister bridge to the east of the Michigan St. Bridge in an effort to reroute some of the traffic and slow the breakdown of the bridge. Before the rehabilitation began in 2008, the bridge was deemed unsafe for vehicles over five tons. The Oregon St. Bridge was completed and opened to traffic in late 2008. It is listed on both the Wisconsin Register of Historic Places and the National Register of Historic Places and has become a landmark of the Sturgeon Bay horizon.
For more information, check out http://www.sbsf5.com/
Door County: A Child’s Paradise!
Door County has always been known as a family friendly destination. With plenty of year round activities to do, there is never a shortage of fun. There are thousands of acres of hiking and 300 miles of shoreline just waiting for you to explore.
The spring is the best time of the year for hiking. The forest floor is exploding with hundreds of wildflowers and scurrying wildlife. The trails along the shores of Lake Michigan offer an amazing water view that is not visible the rest of the summer due to heavy leaf cover.
Door County has gotten some new forms of tours in the last couple years. Segway the Door Tours brings a new angle on taking a guided tour of areas of interest using segways instead of bikes or trolleys. Gravity Trails lets you take flight above the ponds, sand dunes and forests surrounding Wagon Trail in Rowley’s Bay using their zip line. If your family is not especially interested in nature and wildlife, there is still plenty to do. The mini golf courses and go-cart track are always a hit. Sister Bay, Ephraim and Egg Harbor all have fun parks offering a variety of activities.
The summer is the most popular time to come to Door County. Our many beaches, water sports and balmy weather provide the 
ultimate summer vacation. You can rent boats in Sister Bay or Ephraim as well as Nicolet Bay in Peninsula State Park.
Every kid loves playing with animals. Door County is home to multiple petting zoos and riding stables. Spend a lovely summer day feeding baby goats and kittens or stroll along a forest trail on horseback.
Rainy days don’t have to be spent staring out the window of your room during your vacation. There are plenty of fun things to do if the weather decides it doesn’t want to cooperate. Bowling is always a hit for all ages at the Sister Bay Bowl. Otherwise, there are places that offer do-it-yourself art and workshops at local art galleries.
Fall brings changing leaves, hiking, and frosty mornings. Take a stroll through any of Door County’s many hardwood forests to see an eruption of colors amongst the barren branches and evergreens. It also seems to be the best time to go to some of the many farm markets to sample all of Door County’s cherries, apples and other local fruits. You can spend an entire day wandering around tasting the latest batch of apple butter or cherry pie filling.
Fall is when Door County’s festivals kick into high gear. It seems like every weekend in the fall brings some kind of festival or event. The grand daddy of festivals takes place in Sister Bay late in October. Fall Fest is a 5,000+ person block party complete with activities, live music, ping pong ball drop and parade. Children of all ages enjoy racing to catch a flying ping pong ball to win a prize at a local business. 
Other festivals include Pumpkin Patch in Egg Harbor and Marina Fest in Sister Bay which are both very family oriented event.
Winter time may seem like the wrong time to go on vacation but there’s fun for all ages to enjoy on those frosty days. Ice skating at the Theresa K Hilander ice rink in Sister Bay is a great way to spend an afternoon. Didn’t bring your skates? The warming house is open all weekend long as well as afternoons during the week for equipment rentals and a concession stand for hot treats to warm you up. All ages and levels are welcome.
Sledding is always fun and Peninsula Sate Park opens its borders to the public for Hill 17. As a child growing up here, many afternoons were spent climbing the giant hill towering above the golf course. Every year, we would climb farther up until at last we were brave enough to go to the top. Once we were there, adrenaline kicked in and we would all jump on the sled and shove off. The ride seemed to last forever as we sped down the hill rivaling some ski slopes I’ve seen. At the end, we would either roll off or slide into the straw hay bales lining the boundaries. If you have young children, have no fear, there is a bunny hill that is provides enjoyment for even the youngest toddlers.
No matter what time of year it is, there are always great kid friendly activities to do in Peninsula State Park and the other State Parks. They offer acres of hiking trails open year round, paved roads for bike riding or walking, visitor centers to learn about local wildlife and some of the best beaches in Door County. These beaches are great for walking along the water or finding seashells. These 
beautiful beaches lie vacant until mid June when the swimming season begins. Even if it’s too cold to swim, which many times throughout the year it will be, these amazing beaches are still great places to take hikes and explore the shoreline.
Door County Lodging’s Members are great destinations for the whole family. Here are just a few descriptions of kid-friendly members.
Beachfront Inn in Baileys Harbor boasts over 100’ of shoreline along Lake Michigan that is both kid and pet friendly. Terry, one of the owners, often creates treasure hunts on this amazing sandy beach for any interested kids digging in the sand. A bonfire ring on the beach provides a great way to spend the evening with s’mores and popcorn provided. It also has a wonderful indoor heated swimming pool with toys and floats provided. Bring your kids and your pets to bask in the summer sun or go hiking through the Ridges Sanctuary, just minutes from the hotel. The Beachfront Inn is within walking distance of the Public Beach, Town Marina and Kendall Park as well as an array of locally owned restaurants.
Coachlite Inn is located next to some of the most kid-friendly attractions in Door County. It lies right next to endless amounts of mini golf, arcade games and best of all Go-Karts! Coachlite Inn is just minutes from Sister Bay’s downtown shopping district and beautiful new Waterfront Park. There is a very nice bike/walking trail lining the property that is perfect for getting downtown. Spend your afternoons relaxing at the Public Beach or renting a boat and discovering Door County by water. The Concert in the Park series plays on Wednesdays in Sister Bay which provides great background music as you bask in the sun or splash around in the crystal clear blue water. Start your day off right with complimentary breakfast of baked goods, fresh fruit juice and coffee. After exploring everything Door County has to offer, relax in the Inn’s outdoor whirlpool-hot tub.
Eagle Harbor Inn is located in Ephraim’s bustling downtown area but holds on to that Door County beach atmosphere. It lies one block north of the beautiful sandy public beach and is within walking distance to some of the best shopping in Door County. Although it has the peacefulness of a quaint B&B, it was designed so parents can enjoy its’ romance while staying at a place that it is kid-friendly. Some of the suites come with a 6’ whirlpool and a spiraling staircase that intrigues kids of all ages. Kids 4 and under stay for free. The indoor current pool turns into the perfect wave machine for children swimming against the current. There is a large playground on site as well as a bike room for you to safely store your bikes between rides. Evenings mean meals outdoors using grills and picnic areas keeping you focused on your family. Perhaps most inviting of all is the Inn’s food! Opt to have Breakfast in Bed ($18) with a delivered Homemade Breakfast Basket or partake in afternoon treats served in the main Inn, 3-5pm, offering the best double chocolate brownies & fresh lemonade from the Inn’s kitchen!
Glidden Lodge Beach Resort lies off the beaten path near Whitefish Dunes State Park and Cave Point Natural Area. There are miles of hiking and exploring just minutes from the resort as well as an amazing beach on the property. Glidden Lodge is offering a Family Affair package between Oct.19, 2010 and April 19, 2011. This package includes tokens for the game room, unlimited movies and board games from our front desk, popcorn, and a 16” deluxe pizza with soda/juices delivered to your door. You’ll also be able to choose one of the following: a one-day family-pass to the Maritime Museum, the YMCA, or the Door County State Parks.
Shallows Resort on the shores of the Bay is a perfect place for families to come this year. They offer free kayaks, canoes & rowboats, bikes, Internet. There are two fire pits and have firewood on site for an evening campfire. Shallows Resort is very well known for its’ wonderful beachside activity area which includes sand play area and Rainbow Play set on the shore and a nearby pool and hot tub. Between now and June 10th, mention Door County Lodging’s kid-friendly blog and your kids stay free when you book a room in the Shore Side Motel & Gatehouse Suite accommodations.
Come celebrate Mother’s Day in Door County!
Mother’s Day is only a few days away, so what have you gotten your mom? How about treating her to a relaxing getaway in beautiful Door County? Door County Lodging Members are offering some great spring specials for the month of May.
Treat Mom to a vacation she will never forget. Whether it is a family trip or that romantic weekend for two away from the stresses of life with massages, fancy dinners and breakfast in bed, you know that she will love it. Check out these amazing packages from some of our members.
- The Sure Thing Package is a great way to lock in a 10% savings on your reservation!
- Romantic, By Nature includes two romantic nights in a French Country Room with a two person whirlpool, fireplace, and gift certificates for shopping, dinner for two and a day at the Lavender Spa.
- The Enjoy Dinner on Us package is a two night getaway including a $50 gift certificate to one of the finest restaurants in Door County.
- Spring Special (April – June 24th)- Stay any three nights and get the third night at 50% off.
- “Your Glass is Half-Full” 1 Night Package- Visit us one night and receive a FREE $25 gas card as well as a delicious bottle of Door County wine. A great pick me up getaway for only $125!* (Offer excludes Rooms 204 and 206. It includes 2 people per room. Extras are $10. per person.)
- “Your Cup Runneth Over” (April – June 24th)- 2 Night Package
Stay two nights with us and receive a FREE $50 gas card, delicious bottle of Door County wine, wine tasting for two at Stone’s Throw Winery, complimentary wine glasses and a $50 gift certificate for a scrumptious gourmet dinner for two. Call us crazy, but we’re only charging $290!* for this package!
“Fish and Ships” Classic Door County Special $320* plus tax includes:
- 2 Weekdays Sunday-Thursday (excluding rooms 204 & 206) for two people
- Welcome Bottle of Door County Wine
- 2 Fishboil Dinners at the Sandpiper Restaurant in Baileys Harbor
- 2 Tickets for a Boat Excursion with Lakeshore Adventures in Baileys Harbor
- $25 Gift Certificate from DCVB
- Bring your mother to stay with us during the Mother’s Day weekend and receive 20% off our regular rates!! In order to receive the special pricing it needs to be mentioned at the time of making reservation Special is available May 7th and May 8th, 2010 only.
Getaway to Romance Packages
- A two-night stay for two in a water-view room with king bed or 2 queen beds. Candlelight dinner for two at the White Gull Inn, Fish Creek or the Mission Grille, Sister Bay. Choice of a two person massage package at The Spa At Sacred Grounds, Ephraim or a Door County goodies basket, and a $25 Door County Gift Certificate for whatever. $334.
- A two-night stay for two in a water-view Specialty Room with an in-room two-person whirlpool, invigorating 3-way body spray two-person shower and queen size bed. Candlelight dinner for two at the White Gull Inn or the Mission Grill. Choice of the two person massage package or Door County goodies basket, and a $25 Door County Gift Certificate. $434.
- A two-night stay for two in a water-view Suite with a king size bedroom and a great room featuring a two-person whirlpool and fireplace. Candlelight dinner for two at the White Gull Inn or the Mission Grille. Choice of the two person massage package or Door County goodies basket, and a $25 Door County Gift Certificate. $484.
- Winter Magic Package- Dream two nights in feather-down suite luxury, Sparkling Cider and Truffles on arrival, Breakfast Baskets delivered for Breakfast in Bed, Herbal Whirlpools by the fire and Swedish Massage for you and yours… January 1, 2010 – May 13 2010 $398.00 + tax
Rates higher on festival & holiday weekends - Honeymoon Package- Establish your own tradition for your annual getaway to Door County! Two nights in our elegant whirlpool Suites, Champagne and Homemade Truffles upon arrival; Bath Amenities and Robes, Homemade Breakfast Baskets delivered for Breakfast in Bed and two half-hour Swedish Massages at the Spa! Call or e-mail for the pricing on your specific dates. Winter includes sumptuous dinner for two at the renown Inn at Kristopher’s, Sister Bay. January – December 2010 From $385 – $573
- SPRING FLING SPECIAL- Available in May 2010 (Excluding Memorial Day). Similar to our ever-popular Winter Fling, Spring Fling also gives you three nights for the price of two AND extends the deal through the month of May! So enjoy Shipyard Tour Weekend, Mother’s Day, and all the blooms May has to offer while enjoying a FREE night’s stay!
- Between April 25th and June 18th, stay two nights and get the third night free. This includes weekends but doesn’t include Memorial Day.
- Girlfriends’ Getaway in the Coach House is a two night stay for you and your closest girlfriends! The package includes two one-hour spa services for each and dinner at Alexander’s Restaurant.
- Couples Romantic Retreat Package features two nights in the lovely Coach House Suite, a Couples Massage, Bottle of Simon Creek Wine, and Dinner at Alexander’s Restaurant.
- Girls Time Out Package is for you and your best girlfriend! Come stay two nights in the Coach House Suite, 2 massage facials, a bottle of Simon Creek Wine and dinner at Alexander’s.
Although it may be tradition to eat home on Mother’s Day, start a new tradition this year and go out for brunch! Many local restaurants are offering buffets or special items on their menus so be sure to check out Door County Chefs for its’ Mother’s Day blog.
Share your thoughts..