Sturgeon Bay is a charming seaside town where visitors can take pleasure in an array of enjoyable activities. From outdoor adventures and historic lighthouses to amazing wineries, handmade cheese, delectable treats and charming little markets – there’s something for everyone here!
One of the top activities to do in Sturgeon Bay is visiting the Door County Historical Museum. Here, visitors can explore and learn about Door County’s colorful past through educational exhibits.
Door County Historical Museum
The Door County Historical Museum is an undiscovered gem and one of Sturgeon Bay’s top activities. Here you’ll find various exhibits that span Eastern Wisconsin’s history as well as that of other parts of America. Plus, this family-friendly attraction guarantees everyone has a great time here!
The museum provides an array of captivating exhibits and thrilling activities for visitors of all ages. Additionally, there’s a gift shop where you can pick up souvenirs to commemorate your trip.
If you’re a lover of art, this museum is the ideal destination. With over 100 pieces created by local artists, it’s an excellent opportunity to learn about Door County and the talented individuals who call it home. It will surely leave you feeling inspired!
Entrance is free and provides an opportunity to discover local artists. Additionally, they have a small theater where they host shows that highlight Door County heritage.
This museum provides an immersive look into the culture of Sturgeon Bay and is suitable for visitors of all ages. With a vast collection of both traditional and contemporary artwork, you are sure to find something here that satisfies your preferences.
In addition to art, the museum also hosts special events and programs. You can attend lectures and seminars for an in-depth understanding of the area’s culture and heritage.
From May to October, the museum offers plenty of activities for you to discover. You can explore it independently or join a guided tour for an even greater insight.
Once you arrive at the door, staff members will greet and give an informative orientation about the museum and what needs to be done. Plus, they’ll give you a tour of all exhibits so that you can become familiar with them all.
Explore the museum’s historic fire station and learn about their various displays. They even have a small children’s area where they can play.
The Garden Door
No trip to Sturgeon Bay would be complete without visiting The Garden Door, a stunning public garden hidden behind barns at the UW Peninsula Agricultural Research Station and lovingly cared for by members of the Door County Master Gardeners Association.
This free public garden is open daily from dawn until dusk and offers a peaceful haven to unwind. Highlights include the fairie garden, double kaleidoscope, pond with koi, pollinator garden, ornamental grass area, memorial tunnel, winces as well as annual and perennial beds.
Take your family or enjoy a quiet picnic in the gardens. There are paved pathways throughout the grounds and even a gazebo where you can sit on warm summer days and watch the world go by.
The Garden Door was established in 2005 by members of Door County Master Gardeners Association and is maintained by them today. It boasts a fairy garden, double kaleidoscope, pollinator garden, memorial tunnel and ornamental grass area with weird bottle trees. There’s also a rose garden, shade garden succulent garden and gazebo for relaxing.
The Garden Door, situated a few miles north of Sturgeon Bay on Highway 42, is open daily from dawn until dusk. As Door County’s only public garden, it features native plants and flowers in their natural ecosystems.
For plant and flower enthusiasts, The Garden Door is the ideal destination. This garden offers something special for gardeners of all abilities and features an extensive collection of seasonal plants.
There’s also a double kaleidoscope, meditation tunnel and several benches to relax on. The garden is free to explore; donations are appreciated.
Another wonderful free activity in Sturgeon Bay is visiting one of its historic lighthouses. Two that should not be missed are Canal North Light and Ship Canal Pierhead Lighthouse – both worth visiting, especially during the Sturgeon Bay Lighthouse Festival held every June.
If you’re planning a trip to Sturgeon Bay, don’t forget about booking a vacation package. Hotwire has plenty of hotel and flight deals for you to choose from; with these packages, you could save up to 60% on your travel expenses!
Door County Fire Company
Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin is a charming city surrounded by lakes and historic lighthouses. It offers plenty of attractions for visitors and residents alike to do. Plus, there’s an excellent winery as well as numerous restaurants where you can savor delectable delicacies.
One of the top activities to do in Sturgeon Bay is visiting the Door County Maritime Museum. This four-gallery institution displays local maritime history through lighthouses, shipwrecks, model ships and boats as well as information on shipbuilding companies from around the area.
Sturgeon Bay offers plenty of attractions for visitors to enjoy, such as Whitefish Dunes State Park. Established to protect the delicate dunes ecosystem on the eastern Door County Peninsula, the park features 14.5 miles of hiking trails that traverse forest and sand dunes alike.
The best part of visiting this park is that it’s free to enter. Other highlights include a sandy beach and dramatic cliffs at Cave Point as well as waves lapping against the rocky shoreline. If kayaking is more your thing, there are several outfitters nearby who offer guided tours.
Visitors to Wisconsin can also explore The Garden Door, located within the University of Wisconsin Peninsular Agricultural Research Station. This expansive garden boasts a fairie garden, pond with koi, children’s play area, double kaleidoscope, pollinator garden and ornamental grass area.
Visit this spot for a memorable picnic, and bring along some friends for some delicious American cuisine. With plenty of picnic tables to choose from, it’s the perfect spot for everyone.
If you’re a seafood connoisseur, this restaurant offers delicious chowder and prawns dishes made with quality ingredients that are served quickly. Plus, enjoy craft beers and refreshing lemonade at their bar!
At this restaurant, you can try their club sandwiches – and it’s a good idea since they donate $1 to the local firemen’s club for each one sold! In addition to great food, you’ll love the tranquil atmosphere and lovely decor.
Sturgeon Bay offers plenty of activities for visitors to do, one being visiting Red Oak Winery just outside of town. Here you’ll find red, white and cherry wines made from grapes grown in California, Washington and Wisconsin as well as a bistro-style seating area with live music occasionally.
Door Peninsula Winery
Sturgeon Bay is one of Wisconsin’s premier tourist destinations, featuring almost 300 miles of beach, bays and bluffs as well as charming little villages, historic lighthouses, museums, galleries and wineries.
When planning a trip to Door County, don’t miss out on visiting one of the many stunning wineries. Not only are these establishments an excellent opportunity to sample delicious Door County wines, but they offer an incredible range of activities that will make your experience even more unforgettable.
Wineries in this region boast their own distinct tastes and styles, so you’re sure to find the ideal one for your group. Whether you prefer dry, semi-dry, sweet wine, or even a cocktail – you’re sure to find it here.
Red Oak Winery is one of the best wineries in the area and offers an impressive selection. Situated just outside Sturgeon Bay, Red Oak makes for a wonderful destination to visit if you’re searching for an unforgettable experience.
At this winery, you’ll enjoy the tranquil atmosphere with its lovely garden and inviting tasting room. It makes an ideal choice for families and those who appreciate taking time out to appreciate nature.
Simon Creek Winery in Egg Harbor is another worth visiting for its family-friendly atmosphere and wide range of wine varieties.
In addition to an impressive selection of wines, this winery also has an outstanding restaurant that serves delectable dishes. Plus, they provide a complimentary tasting session so you can sample as much as you’d like before making your decision on which items you’ll purchase for yourself.
Since 1965, this farm has been a family-friendly destination. Get away from the hectic city life and experience life on a working farm by taking a leisurely walk around its grounds, interacting with animals, or learning how to plant and harvest various crops.