Events, News and Feature Stories on Door County, Wisconsin's Hospitality Industry

Winter Festival in Fish Creek is Next Weekend!

 

Friday

• 12-5pm Blood Drive at Northern Door YMCA
• 1-4pm Ice Carving at Clark Park
• 6:30-10pm- Rock & Roll Art Night @ Hands On Art Studio (21+)

Saturday

• 10-12pm Ice Sculpture Carving
• 10-5pm- Winter Wine & Cherry Fest @ Orchard Country Winery
• 10-3pm Live Chainsaw Carving Demonstrations
• 10-5pm Human Foosball Tournament
• 10:30am- PARADE
• 10-5pm- Winter Fest in the tent @ Clark Park
• 11-3pm- “Soup!” benefit @ Pen. Art School
• 11-5pm- Free Trolley Rides through town
• Noon- Chili Cook-off @ the Tent
• 5:30pm Fireworks Display
• 5:30-8pm- Candlelight Ski @ Peninsula State Park
• 7-9pm- Peninsula Players “Baby Wants Candy” at DC Auditorium
• 9pm-12am- Big Mouth @ Alexander’s

Sunday

• 10:30am Fish Creek Fruit Loop Fun Run
• 11am Winter Fest Grand Prize Drawing of $2,500 cash
• Stay for the Super Bowl! Many businesses will be open!

If you are looking for a place to stay this weekend, we’ve got your back!

Glidden Lodge Beach Resort has suites of all kinds available and a restaurant on site so you can take in the Super Bowl.

Eagle Harbor Inn has suites available in the heart of Ephraim. They are just minutes from all the activities in Fish Creek for the Winter Festival.

Coachlite Inn has rooms and Suites available, some include double whirlpools and fireplaces and all include a complimentary breakfast.  The Inn is conveniently located Inn between Sister Bay and Ephraim

The Lodgings at Pioneer Lane, a small country inn nestled in the heart of Ephraim, creates the perfect setting for a romantic getaway anytime of the year.

Birchwood Lodge has a few Premier Suites available, perfect for a couple or family with small children. The Lodge is very centrally located near downtown Sister Bay.

Applecreek Resort at the top of the hill in Fish Creek has some Whirlpool Suites and Hotel Rooms available just footsteps from the festivities downtown.

Door County Winter Packages

Door County is well known as a summer destination, but the Winter Season is one of the best kept secrets around. Whether you are seeking a kid friendly vacation or a romantic getaway for two, Door County has much to offer.

Door County has always been known for its beautiful summers and colorful falls, but its winters are rarely mentioned. The snow opens up a whole new world of possibilities. With miles of trails to explore, Door County is a great place to spend time getting away from all the craziness of our fast paced lives these days. For all the latest ski reports and winter activities, check out Winter in Door County.

If you are looking for a way to slow down and reconnect with someone special, take a walk or cross country ski through a snow covered forest. The serenity found deep in the woods is so relaxing. These slow paced activities offer a way to experience nature’s true beauty. Frost sparkles on barren branches like little diamonds and the heavy snow weighs down cedar boughs after every storm. Some great places to take advantage of this are any of the state parks, Toft’s Point or Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor or Cave Point south of Jacksonport.

If you prefer something a bit faster paced, we’ve got lots to offer you. Door County is home to some great snowmobiling. There are trails from Sturgeon Bay all the way to Gills Rock making every town accessible. Peninsula State Park opens its borders to snowmobilers for miles of perfectly groomed trails.

Are you looking for a romantic weekend for two? Door County prides itself for winter getaways. You can plan a whole weekend of activities or stay at a lovely B & B and not leave your suite. This place has so many options to choose from such as wine tastings, moon lit sleigh rides thru snow covered fields, romantic dinners, sightseeing and so much more. Many of our members offer winter specials for romantic retreats!

The Fish Creek Winter Games are held every year to showcase Door County’s festivities including a parade, cherry pit spitting contest, ice sculptures, live music, candlelight ski through the state park and so much more. This year the festival takes place on Feb 4th -6th. The locals all come out to enjoy the festival so you’re sure to see some real characters! Take a trolley ride to a local winery and other stops along the way. This is one weekend you must come to Fish Creek.

There is no shortage of fun no matter what age you are! Traveling with a family might seem stressful but when coming here, it’s well worth it. Many of our hotels are kid friendly and feature suites with multiple rooms to make your vacation that much more relaxing. Some have indoor pools which can keep the kids occupied all day long if the weather is not cooperative. If you are looking for kid friendly activities, we have tons! Sledding on Hill 17 was a must do when I was growing up. Located just inside Peninsula State Park on the 17th hole of the golf course is a hill that will make everyone’s trip! This gigantic sledding hill is fun for everyone and a sure way to guarantee you have sleeping children when you return to the hotel.

Door County winters have endless possibilities for people of all ages. Start planning your trip now for your weekend getaway! Check out the latest activities and events at Winter in Door County. If you are looking for a great chance to get away and save money in the process, Door County Lodging Members are offering these great packages.

Glidden Lodge Beach Resort’s Winter Specials are numerous to say the least. Spend your weekend on the shores of Lake Michigan just north of Sturgeon Bay. With packages ranging from Winter Wonderland Trolley to Family Affair to Tranquil Spa Retreat, there is something for everyone.

Settlement Courtyard Inn just outside of Fish Creek offers both a great place to stay, but also the onsite Lavender Spa for your relaxation. For a relaxing winter escape, enjoy the spacious and luxurious Coach House.  Winter rate for 2 people $229 and $259  for 4 people. To take advantage of the spa, check out the winter couples spa package  $676 which includes 2 nights and Refresher Couples Massage or Create your own package-tell us what you want. Nov. 6-March 31, 2012

Bay Shore Inn minutes north of Sturgeon Bay has great specials for the off-season. Check out their Quiet Time Special which gets you a free night when you stay two nights. If that’s not enough,  check out the Winter Wonderland Trolley Tour Package- December 2-March 31 includes a Friday and Saturday night stay in one of our beautiful one bedroom water view suites and includes a free $25 Door County Visitor Bureau Gift Certificate. The Trolley will pick you up Saturday morning at Bay Shore Inn at 9:45am for a tour of two award winning wineries, followed by a cozy sleigh ride and topped off with a fireside lunch at the White Gull Inn. Weekend packages for one couple start at $318+tax, packages for 2 couples sharing a two bedroom suite start at $468+tax. This trolley tour is only offered on Saturdays.The indoor pool, hot tub and fitness room are open year round, so call us today to make your reservation!

Lodgings at Pioneer Lane is offering a great special for the offseason. Midweek nights start at $109 and Friday- Saturday starts at $139.Lodgings at Pioneer Lane is a small country inn, nestled in the heart of Ephraim, Door County Wisconsin’s most picturesque vacation destination. The inn is just steps from Ephraim’s shopping and dining district.

 

When choosing your perfect vacation, start by finding the best place to stay. We have contacted our properties to find which places are staying open through the winter.  You are sure to find the perfect place to make memories this year in Door County.

Coachlite Inn has rooms available year round in this conveniently located Inn between Sister Bay and Ephraim.

Country House Resort stays open year round. This resort is perfect for a romantic getaway located high atop the bluff just south of Sister Bay.

Applecreek Resort at the top of the hill in Fish Creek is just steps from downtown Fish Creek.

Birchwood Lodge will remain open this winter. The Lodge is very centrally located near downtown Sister Bay.

Open Hearth Lodge at the bottom of Little Sister Hill has availabilities throughout the winter.

Bay Shore Inn on the shores of Green Bay waters is located minutes from Sturgeon Bay. There are many activities to choose from both on the property and in town.

Scofield North in Baileys Harbor has two rental cottages available situated along 300 feet of spectacular Lake Michigan shoreline.

The Lodgings at Pioneer Lane, a small country inn nestled in the heart of Ephraim, creates the perfect setting for a romantic getaway anytime of the year.

Settlement Courtyard Inn has the Coach House Suite available through the winter. Located just outside bustling Fish Creek, this is a great spot to begin any adventure.

 

 

The Granddaddy of Festivals: Fall Fest in Sister Bay!

As Sister Bay gears up for another Fall Festival, we look forward to the weekend’s activities. The Schedule of Events is jam packed for the “Granddaddy” of all Door County Festivals. Be sure to check out all the live music, fish boil, Classic Auto Show, mechanical bull, the parade and much more. Fall Fest is just a week away so start planning now.

One of the highlights of Fall Fest is the music. The streets of Sister Bay become a stage as all types of music can be heard. The headliners Happy Schnapps Combo Band play on the main stage set up between the Husby’s and Sister Bay Bowl on Saturday. An afternoon of polka true Wisconsin style with green & gold cut off overalls and electric guitars makes for an amusing time. Live music will be happening throughout the weekend at local bars and restaurants.

If you are here with children, have no fear; Fall Festival is fun for the whole family. The Parade on Saturday is amusing for even the youngest children. A dog show will be held at the Downtown Park. There are games and blow up toys at the new waterfront park and the adjacent lot across the street. Let’s not forget the famous ping pong ball shoot that thrills every child in Sister Bay. Watch as your kids scramble to get the little white balls falling all around them. Your fall fest experience is not complete without catching one of these!

In years past, thousands of ping pong balls were dropped over the crowd by a hovering helicopter. Due to recent FAA restrictions, the helicopter will no longer be spotted in the skies above town. Thanks to the volunteer fire department, we were able to continue the tradition without it. If you have never attended one of these events, the idea is to grab as many balls as you can. Some have things written on them, some are blank. If you’re lucky enough to get one with a local business name on it, bring it there to redeem them for various prizes.

If you are looking for arts & crafts, this is the last weekend of the year you can find them. A side street has been turned into a collection of tents to please every shopper’s dreams. Artisans from all over the state bring their goods for one last chance to give you that perfect gift or decoration.

Fall Fest

Friday, October 14

• 9am-5pm: Classic Auto Show – Waterfront Park
• 10am-5pm: Arts & Crafts Show – Mill Road
• 10am-5pm: Concessions 
• 4pm-7pm: Modern Day Drifters @ Husby’s
• 5pm-8pm: Fish Boil – New Fire Station on Mill Road
• 6pm-7pm: Children’s Cake Walk – Village Hall, Downtown
• 10pm-Close: Hoi Polloi @ Husby’s

Saturday, October 15

• 7am-11am: Pancake Breakfast – Village Hall
• 9am-5pm: Concessions - 
• 9am-5pm: Classic Auto Show – Waterfront Park
• 9am-5pm: Mechanical Bull @ Sister Bay Bowl
• 9am-4pm: Inflatable Games/Bouncers, Bungee Jumping & Clowns All Day
• 10am-5pm: Arts & Crafts Show – Mill Road
• 11am: Parade 
• Volunteer of the Year, Parade Marshal
• 1pm-3pm: Randy Peterson (Children’s Entertainer) – Gazebo by Village Hall
• 1pm-4pm: Happy Schnapps on the Husby’s/Sister Bay Bowl stage
• 3pm: Hat Contest on the Husby’s/Sister Bay Bowl stage
• 1pm: Dog Show – Downtown Park Tent
• 9pm-1am: Hoi Polloi @ Husby’s
• 9:30pm-Close: Whiskey Ditch @ Sister Bay Bowl

Sunday, October 16

• 9am-2pm: Classic Auto Show – Waterfront Park
• 10am-3pm: Concessions – Various places in Village
• 10am-3pm: Arts & Crafts Show – Mill Road
• 10am-3pm: Bungee Jumping
• Noon-3:30pm: Polka Man Dale with Bellows & Strings – Gazebo by Village Hall
• 2pm: Ping Pong Ball Shoot 

If you are looking for a room, you are in the right place. Check out these last minute rooms from our members!

Birchwood Lodge has openings for a studio suite for the weekend with a three night minimum. The Lodge is very centrally located near downtown Sister Bay.

Coachlite Inn has rooms available in this conveniently located Inn between Sister Bay and Ephraim. There are rooms for Thursday and Sunday nights and one room available for Thursday through Sunday with a three night minimum.

Door County Lake House Rentals offers a three bedroom cottage on the shores of Europe Lake. This cottage sleeps up to nine people and has a two night minimum.

The Ashbrooke in the heart of Egg Harbor has one room with king bed, fireplace and in-room two-person whirlpool available for the Fall Fest weekend. Three night minimum starting Thursday. October 13th or Friday, October 14th.

Settlement Courtyard Inn has two bedroom whirlpool suites available with a two night minimum. Located just outside bustling Fish Creek, this is a great spot to begin any adventure.

This Weekend is Pumpkin Patch Festival in Egg Harbor!

Pumpkin Patch Festival in Egg Harbor is Door County’s celebration of all things fall. Come out to take in all the family fun including arts & crafts, food, carnival rides, inflatable bouncers and much more.  Scarecrows & Pumpkin Displays are just some of the sights to be seen during this two day family friendly festival with face painting, storytelling, and a magician. Make sure to check out the great live music all week long. Be sure to take in some of the magnificent colors up while you’re up here.

Schedule of Events:

Saturday, October 8

• 9am-4:30pm Silent Auction
• 10am-2pm Modern Day Drifters
• 10am-4pm Carnival Rides & Inflatable Bouncers
• 10am-4pm Face Painting
• 10am-5pm Juried Arts & Crafts Vendors
• 11am-1pm Children’s Musician Randy Peterson
• 11am-3pm Roaming Magician Bruce Hetzler
• 1pm-4pm Storyteller Carol Johnson
• 2pm-5:30pm Mango Brothers | Jimmy Buffet Tribute

Sunday, October 9

• 10am-1:15pm Mighty Mouth | Rock & Blues
• 10am-4pm Carnival Rides & Inflatable Bouncers
• 10am-4pm Face Painting
• 10am-5pm Juried Arts & Crafts Vendors
• 12pm-3pm Storyteller Carol Johnson
• 1:15-1:45pm UW-Madison Marching Band performs
• 1:30pm-4:30pm Big Mouth & The Power Tool Horns | Rock & Blues

　

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 for a studio suite for the weekend with a three night minimum. The Lodge is very centrally located near downtown Sister Bay.

Coachlite Inn has rooms available for Thursday and Sunday in this conveniently located Inn between Sister Bay and Ephraim.

Door County Lake House Rentals offers a two bedroom cottage on the shores of Europe Lake. This cottage sleeps 4-5 people and has a three night minimum.

Bay Shore Inn on the shores of Green Bay waters is located minutes from Sturgeon Bay. They have a 3 bedroom/2 bath cottage available.

The Fall Festival Season is upon us: Door County Awaits

The Fall Season in Door County is a spectacular sight to behold. Whether it on a quiet country road with the sun setting over the tops of corn field or a tree line bursting with color as the sun light strikes it, every scene is like a painting. The leaves are beginning to show splatters of reds and oranges amid the greenery as we ease our way through September. Evenings are pleasantly cool while the early morning sometimes reveals a wispy fog in the fields. Geese vacationing on our beaches during the day fly overhead to the nearby cornfields at dusk.  Make sure you check out A Leaf Watcher’s Guide to Door County for all the best places to see the fall color changes!

The last of the cherries have been picked and the apple harvest is just around the corner. Everything’s changing but the most apparent change is in the volume of people mid week. There are no more Monday morning traffic jams in downtown Sister Bay or a corps of waitresses in Al Johnson’s rushing to keep everyone’s coffee cups full. The fall migration has begun, not the migrating birds but rather that of people. Families have returned home. Summer kids and locals are now in school, leaving beaches deserted. The days are getting shorter and the nights more peaceful.

So many people find the summer beauty of Door County, but the year ’round residents know that the fall is one of the best seasons to enjoy this beautiful peninsula. There is a sense of tranquility that one can’t find in the summertime. Fall brings crisp nights sitting at the fireside with a cup of apple cider, hiking through a forest filled with trees in a blaze of color, stacking wood, getting ready for the winter ahead.

Fall seems to be the time of many festivals. This weekend, September 17, Harvest Festival and Harvest Moon Celebration in Sturgeon Bay as well as Autumn Fest and Ridges Recycle Extravaganza- Flea Market in Baileys Harbor.  The Inside/Outside Sale in Fish Creek takes place September 22-25. October has Pumpkin Patch in Egg Harbor, Fall Fun Fest and Cider Pressing Party on Washington Island, Townline Art Fair in Ephraim, Fall Festival in Sister Bay and Jack O’Lantern Days in Fish Creek. For a full list of events, check out the Festival & Events Calendar.

Door County Lodging members have tons of fall specials for you to choose from. Packages range from romantic getaways to family fun and everything in between.

Glidden Lodge Beach Resort is found south of Jacksonport on the beach. They are offering a great WINE LOVERS PACKAGE- Are you a wine connoisseur?  Maybe just dreaming of becoming one?  Well this package is for you!  We have teamed up with the BEST wineries Door County has to offer!  Upon check-in you will be given $50 worth of gift certificates to be used at one or more of the following:  Door Peninsula Winery, Orchard Country Winery, Red Oak Winery, Simon Creek Winery, and Stone Throw Winery.  WOW what a line-up!  Cheers. Call for Package Price

The Cookery located in downtown Fish Creek is offering midweek specials for its two rental units. Starting September 5, we are offering two night packages: Hanson Cottage – 2 nights for $250 and the Hanson Suite – 2 nights for $395. These rates are available Sunday – Thursday. This special is not valid Sunday, October 9.

Egg Harbor Lodge sits atop the bluff overlooking the waters of Green Bay. Starting October 18, they are running a “Stay two nights, get the third one free” special.

Birchwood Lodge is very centrally located near downtown Sister Bay. They are offering a Midweek Special for September & October. If you stay 2 nights in one of our Premier Suites, you can get 50% off the 3rd night; all other types of rooms are 20% off the 3rd night. This special is valid Sunday through Thursday only….to receive this special, it must be mentioned at the time of making a reservation.

Coachlite Inn between Sister Bay and Ephraim has an amazing special for the adventurer in you. Fall So Delicious Package is a two night package including a unique, not so scary, haunted sightseeing tour on a Door County Trolley, drive through the canopy of colored leaves on your way to a segway tour through the Seaquist orchards, and grab a caramel apple while you’re there or to take along, and a fish boil dinner for two at the Old Post Office in Ephraim. You will also receive a $25 gift certificate that you can use to treat yourself at one of the many Door County Visitor Bureau Members! We’ll keep the jack-o-lanterns on for you.

Settlement Courtyard Inn located just outside bustling Fish Creek, is a great spot to begin any adventure. Check out these great specials to help you get the most for your money.

• BFF Escape Package $268 ($134 ea) For our Sept. Midweek Special take the best girlfriend for an over-nighter with massage in our spa. Includes 1 night in a Courtyard Room, 1-hour massage each and Continental Plus Breakfast.
  Valid through 9/30/2011
• Autumn Ghost Tour Package $321 (midweek)
  Now-Oct. 31 (Wknd $397.00) Includes 2 nights-Courtyard Room, 2 seats on the Trolley Ghost Tour, a Bottle of Simon Creek Wine with glasses, Lunch at Blue Horse Bistro and Continental-Plus Breakfast each morning.
  Valid through 10/31/2011
• Winery Tour & Spa Package $700
  Now-Oct. 22 ($624 Mid-week special).  Includes 2 nights-Courtyard Room, 2 Trolley Winery Tour w/lunch, 2 “Refresher” Massages, Dining Gift Card, Bottle of Wine & glasses, Continental-Plus Bakst. (Whirlpool Suite: $792)
  Valid through 10/22/2011
• Fall Midweek Special $115 August 14-October 20 $115/night Sunday-Thursday Courtyard Room (Excludes Columbus Day and Fall Festival Weekends).
  Valid through 10/22/2011

Open Hearth Lodge at the bottom of Little Sister Hill has the  So Delicious….. So Door County package. The fall harvest brings an abundance of products to the farm markets in the area. Enjoy the changing of seasons, with flavors unique to Door County. Spend 2 nights at the Lodge. Dine at Julie’s Park Café. Try some local products -including Door County coffee, hot chocolate, chocolate covered dried cherries, your choice wine or cherry juice . A $25 Door County gift certificate with a keepsake tote will allow you to add your own favorites to take home. Play a round of mini golf. Return to Relax at the Lodge, swim, soak in the whirlpool, watch a DVD movie, or take a walk to Pebble beach. Package for 2 People: $270 Friday-Saturdays; $230 Sunday-Thursday. Valid September 5 thru October 31st, 2011

The Lodgings at Pioneer Lane, a small country inn nestled in the heart of Ephraim, creates the perfect setting for a romantic getaway anytime of the year. The rates for all rooms drop November 1^st so plan accordingly.

There’s Still Time to Help Program the 60th Season of Peninsula Music Festival

One of the most popular fundraising events of the Peninsula Music Festival is “Help Program the Season”. For the second year in a row, Conductor Victor Yampolsky has given the Festival audience a chance to pick the overture that will open the season. The 2011 season opened with Verdi’s Overture to Nabucco. Now it is time for Festival friends to cast their vote for the overture that will open the 60th season in August 2012.

Maestro Yampolsky has designated five different overtures to choose from. Voting began on opening night, August 2, and will continue through September 30 when the winner will be announced. This is one election that you can actually ‘buy’. You can vote for the overture you would most like to hear on Opening Night, Tuesday, August 7, 2012. Each vote costs $1.00 and there is no limit to the amount of votes you cast as long as each vote is accompanied by $1.00.

The five overture choices to open the 60th season of the Peninsula Music Festival are: Smetana’s The Bartered Bride; Zampa by Louis Joseph F. Herold; Semiramide by Gioacchino Rossini; Phedre by Jules Massent; and Mozart’s The Magic Flute. The Festival’s website has the current totals so you can see where your favorite overture stands and cast votes to make sure it wins.

All proceeds raised by the “Help Program the Season” fundraising event are used to support the Peninsula Music Festival’s media broadcasts.

Votes can be cast at the Peninsula Music Festival Office on Cedar Street in Ephraim, by calling the Festival Office at 920-854-4060 or on the Festival’s website at www.musicfestival.com. The Peninsula Music Festival is a professional symphony orchestra presenting nine different concerts in three weeks each August at the Door Community Auditorium in Fish Creek.

Escape to Door County for one last getaway for Labor Day Weekend!

Labor Day is one of the last weekends of the Summer Season. Why not make time to get away from it all for that final summer vacation? Door County is offering tons of activities for all ages.  Marina Fest, YMCA Labor Day Run, and Newport Wilderness Days are just some of the great things going on.

Marina Fest is coming! Sister Bay’s new waterfront park opens up for a weekend of activities on Saturday. Live music includes Replica and River City Six….  Food & Beverages will be available from numerous food stands. An “All you can eat Great American Pancake Show & Breakfast” begins at 8am. The Sister Bay/Liberty Grove Library is hosting its annual used book sale.

Make sure you catch one of the many events such as the Wooden Boat Show, Classic “Woody” Car display, Horse and Wagon Rides, and Coast Guard displays taking place in the downtown area throughout the day. Raffle tickets will be available all day and the drawing for Grand Prize will be at 8pm.  The Viking Ship has become the iconic symbol of Marina Fest. Get your pictures taken in front of the replica that represents Door County’s Norwegian heritage. The Waterboard Warriors will be showing off their talents on the waterfront throughout the afternoon. At dusk, a boat parade kicks off with boats vying for prizes like “Best in Show” and a fireworks show at 8:30pm. After the fireworks, dance the night away to live music at the village dance.

Gills Rock is going all out for ArtFest at Charlene’s Gallery Ten on Saturday at 10am. Be sure to stop there to check out local Door County artwork at its finest.

If you are looking for some physical activity, grab your family and head out early on Saturday for the Annual Door County YMCA Labor Day Run.The Duathalon starts at 8am, the 5k run at 9:45am and the kids run at 10am. This event includes a 5k run, a youth 1/2 mile fun run and for the third year in a row, a Duathalon with a 2 mile run/12 mile bike/2 mile run. There will be door Prizes, free use of the Aquatic Center, refreshments and family fun for everyone. All who pre-register will receive a t-shirt and awards will be given to the top three finishers in each age group and all the participants of the 1/2 mile youth fun run.

Newport State Park is gearing up for its 21^th Annual Wilderness Days. Friday’s programs include the September Butterflies & Insects at 10am, and Who’s Hiding? at 1pm. These kid friendly classes are meant to raise awareness and interest in Door County’s wildlife. Saturday’s programs include Flowers of the Sandy Shore at 10am and Smokey Bear’s Kids Conservation Camp at 1pm. All programs begin at the Visitors Center.

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!

Coachlite Inn has a variety of rooms available at this quaint hotel conveniently located between Sister Bay and Ephraim.

Four Seasons Barn House is a private guest house located on 7 acres between Baileys Harbor and Ephraim. It sleeps up to eight people and allows dogs.

Birchwood Lodge has openings all weekend long. The Lodge is very centrally located near downtown Sister Bay.

Egg Harbor Lodge sits atop the bluff overlooking the waters of Green Bay. They have a Balcony Double Queen Suite with a great view of the water with a three night minimum.

Bay Shore Inn on the shores of Green Bay waters is located minutes from Sturgeon Bay. They have a three bedroom two bathroom cottage for Thursday and Friday.

Stone Harbor Resort located on the canal in Sturgeon Bay has rooms available.

Door County Beaches

While the rest of the state is scorching, Door County has wonderfully comfortable beach weather. Lake Michigan waters regulate our temperatures so grab your beach bag and escape to Door County for a few days. With over 300 miles of shoreline, we have no shortage of beaches. Although every town has a public beach, there are some that lie off the beaten path.

Schoolhouse Beach is a popular haven for hot afternoons on Washington Island. The cool water is the perfect escape from the summer heat. A raft anchored off shore is an easy sunbathing spot popular with visitors and locals alike. The smooth limestone pebbles that line this beautiful beach are only located on four other beaches in the world and are protected so please don’t take any.

If you’re not headed to Washington Island, you can spend the daylight hours at the numerous beaches around the county. Every town has a public beach so make sure you check them out.

Sister Bay Beach is fun for everyone. With a shallow swim area for the little ones and a dock for the older kids to jump off, you can relax. Come on Wednesdays to listen to concerts in the park all summer long. The beach is located in the heart of the town so you can walk to get lunch, shop, or run errands while your family enjoys the beach. The park offers a nice sized playground to occupy even the littlest kids.

Ellison Bay’s Women’s Club Beach is a popular destination for the pristine view of downtown and the Ellison Bluff which provides amazing sunset views. A park is just footsteps away and a massive grassy area perfect for picnics. Sand Bay County Park on the Lake Michigan side offers a serene and secluded side. Shallow warm waters give way to views of commercial fishing vessels crossing the harbor.  Europe Bay Beach lies on the edge of Newport State Park and has white sandy beaches.

Ephraim Public Beach is located on the south end of town just footsteps from many hotels, shopping and restaurants. You could spend the whole day and not get in your car. South Shore Pier rents out various types of watercraft for you.

Peninsula State Park has multiple beaches to suit anyone’s needs. Nicolet Bay Beach offers kayak rentals and is a popular spot for boaters. The wide shallow bay is perfect for rafting with fellow boaters in order to and hop from boat to boat. There are a couple more beaches in the Park offering seclusion and more natural beach experience.

Fish Creek Public Beach is in the heart of Fish Creek’s downtown district. The Marina and moorings provide a great day for boaters and the warm shallow waters are perfect for children of all ages.

Egg Harbor Public Beach seems off the beaten path but is really just a two-minute drive from downtown. It overlooks the brand new marina, as well as a beautiful shoreline. Murphy Park on Cty. Rd. G south of Egg Harbor is an excellent spot to spend the afternoon and watch the sunset.

Sturgeon Bay has many beaches to choose from. Whitefish Dunes on the Lake Michigan side is a massive white sandy beach perfect for big family gatherings. Be careful with small children as currents can be strong and hazardous. The beach lies within Whitefish Dunes State Park and is adjacent to Cave Point County Park.  The three acre Otumba Park on the west side of Sturgeon Bay has a sandy beach, playground and picnic shelter building to provide a great spot for large get-togethers. Sunset Park on the east side has forty-one acres for your family’s use. It offers tennis courts, basketball court, launching ramps and transient slips and much more. This beach is ideal for taking full advantage of our wonderful weather.

Baileys Harbor Ridges Beach is favorite for families because of its shallow warm waters. Out of the wind and on the quiet side, this beach is great for small children as well as pets as one of the only pet-friendly beaches around. Please keep your dog leashed and practice responsible pet ownership to full enjoy your beach experience.

No matter where you choose to stay, there is a beach for you and your family to enjoy. With 19 county and 5 state parks throughout the peninsula, there is no shortage of public water access.

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 4^th 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 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!

Ephraim Motel lies between Sister Bay and Ephraim has a couple of rooms with one queen bed available for the weekend with a three night minimum.

Shallows Resort on the water south of Egg Harbor has Eagle’s Nest cottage available for a three night minimum stay checking out on the 3rd.

Eagle Harbor Inn has three 1 bedroom suites and two 2 bed room suites available with a 3 night minimum. They are located near the water in Ephraim.

Baileys Harbor Ridges Resort just outside Baileys Harbor has availabilities for stays of two nights or more.

Coachlite Inn between Sister Bay and Ephraim has a room available July 1-4th with a 3 night minimum as well as rooms Friday the 1st for one night and Sunday the 3rd for one or more nights.

The Ashbrooke in the heart of Egg Harbor has two whirlpool rooms available for either Friday/Saturday stay or a three-night stay starting Friday.

Beachfront Inn is a pet friendly hotel on the shores of Lake Michigan in Baileys Harbor. They have one night stays for Friday and Monday as well as a condo for the weekend.

Birchwood Lodge has basic studio suites, the Premier Suites available for Friday July 1st, and Sunday, July 3rd and Monday, 4th and Grand One Bedroom Suites available for Friday 7/1 and Mon 7/4. The Lodge is just steps from downtown Sister Bay.

Olde Ellison Bay Days, Renaissance Fantasy Faire & much more in Door County June 24-26

Next 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 at 11am or browsing the arts & crafts vendor tents at the Ellison Bay Women’s Club. This year, they have upped the ante adding a Slow Bike Race, Balloon Buster Bouncer and Children’s Tent. There will be a street dance and fireworks on Saturday evening.  The weather is looking great for this weekend so make sure you bring your suits and cool off in the sparkling water at the public beach.

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.

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!

The Ashbrooke in the heart of Egg Harbor has French Country Rooms with whirlpool and fireplace available for the weekend of the 24^th and 25^th. These rooms are available at the nightly rate of $169 per night with a two-night minimum.

Ephraim Motel has availabilities for this weekend. Be sure to mention you saw it on Door County Lodging to receive a 10% discount on your stay.

Coachlite Inn , between Sister Bay and Ephraim, has a variety of rooms available for this weekend.

Nordic Lodge located at the north end of Ephraim’s art district has several rooms available this weekend. They  have 13 rooms open for next weekend.  They have a mix of 2 double beds or 1 king at $107.00 +tax.

Open Hearth Lodge at the bottom of Little Sister Hill has availabilities for one, two or three night stays.

Door County Lake House Rentals has a 2 bedroom lake house open this weekend.

Shallows Resort on the water south of Egg Harbor has a few Shoreside Motel rooms.

Birchwood Lodge has openings all weekend long. The Lodge is very centrally located near downtown Sister Bay.

« Previous Page — Next Page »