Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Door County
Door County is famous for its peaceful atmosphere, scenic beauty, and welcoming small towns. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting at local vineyards, take a ferry to Washington Island, or explore one of the area’s many scenic hiking trails. The region features a mix of charming villages, secluded forests, and waterfront escapes. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or an action-packed getaway, Door County has the perfect place to stay.
Where to look for an Airbnb in Door County
Fish Creek
Fish Creek is one of Door County’s most popular destinations, offering a perfect mix of outdoor recreation and cultural attractions. Vacation rentals here include waterfront homes, historic cottages, and modern condos. Visitors can explore Peninsula State Park, enjoy shopping and dining in the charming downtown, and experience local theater performances. This area is ideal for travelers looking for a balance of nature and entertainment.
Egg Harbor
Egg Harbor is known for its vibrant arts scene, boutique shopping, and stunning waterfront views. Airbnb options include lakeside retreats, cozy cabins, and stylish townhomes. Visitors can explore the Egg Harbor Marina, visit local wineries, and enjoy live music at the Peg Egan Performing Arts Center. This area is great for those seeking a lively yet relaxing Door County experience.
Sister Bay
Sister Bay is a favorite destination for families and food lovers, offering some of the best waterfront dining and beach activities. Vacation rentals here range from beachside cottages to luxury condos with harbor views. Visitors can enjoy Swedish pancakes at Al Johnson’s, relax on Sister Bay Beach, and take boat tours along Green Bay. This neighborhood is perfect for families and those looking for a fun coastal atmosphere.
Sturgeon Bay
Sturgeon Bay, the gateway to Door County, blends historic charm with modern amenities. Airbnb options include charming B&Bs, stylish apartments, and lakeside cabins. Visitors can tour the Door County Maritime Museum, explore historic lighthouses, and stroll along the scenic waterfront. This area is ideal for history buffs and travelers looking for a mix of culture and outdoor beauty.
Baileys Harbor
For a quieter and more nature-focused stay, Baileys Harbor offers serene lakeside escapes and access to some of Door County’s best outdoor activities. Vacation rentals include secluded cabins, rustic lodges, and cozy lakefront homes. Visitors can explore Cana Island Lighthouse, hike in The Ridges Sanctuary, and enjoy stunning sunrise views over Lake Michigan. This area is great for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
What to do if you spend a vacation in Door County
Peninsula State Park
Peninsula State Park is one of Wisconsin’s most beautiful natural areas, featuring hiking and biking trails, scenic overlooks, and sandy beaches. Visitors can climb Eagle Tower for breathtaking views, rent kayaks for a peaceful paddle, and camp under the stars. The park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.
Washington Island & Schoolhouse Beach
A short ferry ride from Door County, Washington Island offers unique natural beauty and historic charm. Visitors can relax at the famous smooth-stone Schoolhouse Beach, explore lavender farms, and visit the historic Stavkirke Church. The island’s peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect day-trip destination.
Cana Island Lighthouse
Cana Island Lighthouse is one of the most iconic landmarks in Door County, offering stunning views of Lake Michigan from the top. Visitors can walk across a scenic causeway, tour the historic lighthouse, and learn about maritime history. It’s a great spot for history lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Door County Wine Trail
Door County is home to some of Wisconsin’s best wineries, offering a delightful wine-tasting experience. Visitors can explore the Door County Wine Trail, stopping at local favorites like Door Peninsula Winery and Stone’s Throw Winery. Many wineries also offer vineyard tours and local cheese pairings. It’s perfect for couples and wine enthusiasts.
Cave Point County Park
Cave Point County Park is a must-see for its dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking coastal views. Visitors can hike scenic trails, watch waves crash against the cliffs, and even go kayaking through sea caves. This natural wonder is one of the most photographed spots in Door County.
Where to find a vacation rental near Door County
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Green Bay, located about an hour from Door County, offers a mix of big-city attractions and waterfront beauty. Vacation rentals here include stylish downtown apartments, cozy suburban homes, and scenic lakeside retreats. Opting for an apartment in Green Bay allows visitors to tour Lambeau Field, explore the Green Bay Botanical Garden, and enjoy riverfront dining, making it perfect for travelers looking for a city escape near the peninsula.
Manitowoc, Wisconsin
Manitowoc, about an hour and a half from Door County, is a waterfront city offering a mix of history, outdoor activities, and maritime attractions. Vacation rentals range from stylish downtown lofts to lakefront homes with stunning views. Staying in an apartment in Manitowoc gives visitors access to the Wisconsin Maritime Museum, ferry rides to Ludington, and local breweries, making it a great option for those wanting a coastal city stay.
Sheboygan, Wisconsin
Sheboygan, about two hours from Door County, is known as the “Malibu of the Midwest” for its great surfing and sandy beaches. Airbnb options include beachfront condos, modern townhomes, and cozy lake cottages. Choosing a lake cottage in Sheboygan lets visitors surf at North Beach, explore the John Michael Kohler Arts Center, and enjoy local seafood, making it perfect for beach lovers and art enthusiasts.
Appleton, Wisconsin
For a cultural and artsy getaway, Appleton provides a lively downtown, museums, and local markets. Visitors can explore the Trout Museum of Art, visit the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, and walk along the scenic Fox River. A vacation rental in Appleton includes charming lofts, stylish apartments, and family-friendly homes. It’s an excellent location for those looking to explore both city attractions and Door County’s natural beauty.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
For a big-city experience before or after a trip to Door County, Milwaukee offers world-class museums, breweries, and a lively waterfront. Visitors can explore the Milwaukee Art Museum, tour the Harley-Davidson Museum, and enjoy craft beer at historic breweries. Staying in an airbnb in Milwaukee includes luxury high-rises, historic townhouses, and lakefront condos. It’s a perfect stop for travelers wanting to explore Wisconsin’s largest city along with Door County’s serene landscapes.
Explore inspiring towns and natural getaways across the United States
The natural beauty of majestic Door County, with its picturesque landscapes and serene environment, extends beyond its borders. Discover enchanting natural wonders by exploring the scenic beauty of rentals in Outer Banks, famous for its stunning lighthouses like the Bodie Island Lighthouse, and protected sand dunes. Or, immerse yourself in the heart of Yosemite by choosing holiday rentals Oakhurst, where the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias will leave you in awe. Experience a blend of history and nature with a stay at airbnb Pinehurst, where the lush greens of the Pinehurst Resort meet the charm of a quaint village.
For lovers of coastal charm, the quaint coastal vibes invite you to explore other captivating shorelines. Unwind by the waterfront with Beaufort airbnb rentals and savor the historic elegance of its antebellum homes and the scenic beauty of the Spanish moss-draped oak trees at the Hunting Island State Park. Venture to the Great Lakes and find a place in Manistee, where you can enjoy its Victorian architecture and the vibrant cultural events that reflect its rich maritime history.