Victoria Lupascu 
Door County is an amazing peninsula in Wisconsin, located between Green Bay and Lake Michigan. The area has become a super popular holiday destination for people around the US as well as international travelers, so people are constantly asking about where to stay in Door County!
If you’re also wondering about the top places to stay in Door County, you’re in the right place! I’ve compared all the towns in Door County and carefully selected the 7 best spots for your stay in this amazing place.
When visiting for the first time, the best place to stay in Door County is Fish Creek, ideally located for exploring the surrounding nature and boasting a couple of great beaches.
To make this that much easier for you, I also went through the available Door County lodging and handpicked the best hotels, inns, and resorts in each price category. So whether you’re looking for luxury or trying to budget your trip, there’s an option for you!
As I mentioned, Door County is quite a popular spot, so accommodation is quick to sell out. Make your reservations in advance to secure your spot and ensure you’re getting the best deals!
Let’s hit the road!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Here’s a list of the best Door County hotels, all situated in Fish Creek:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Fish Creek – where to stay in Door County for the first time
- 2. Sister Bay – where to stay in Door County for families
- 3. Ephraim – where to stay in Door Country for history
- 4. Egg Harbor – where to stay in Door County on a budget
- 5. Sturgeon Bay – where to stay in Door County for couples
- 6. Baileys Harbor – best place to stay for outdoor enthusiasts
- 7. Ellison Bay – where to stay in Door County for tranquility
- FAQs about where to stay in Door County
- Final thoughts on the best places to stay in Door County
Check out this map of Door County, Wisconsin, showcasing the best places to stay:
- FISH CREEK: for first-timers
- SISTER BAY: for families
- EPHRAIM: for history lovers
- EGG HARBOR: for budget travelers
- STURGEON BAY: for couples
- BAILEY’S HARBOR: for outdoor enthusiasts
- ELLISON BAY: for tranquility
1. Fish Creek – where to stay in Door County for the first time
Fish Creek is a quaint village, situated on the Western shore of the peninsula and overlooking Green Bay. This village has a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for people looking to escape the city noise, couples, and nature lovers – basically, anyone who’s visiting Door County for the first time.
The village of Fish Creek is also a great choice if you like spending time outdoors and engaging in all sorts of activities on foot or by bicycle in Peninsula State Park (map).
But don’t hurry to the Park so fast. Fish Creek has 2 fabulous beaches from which you can admire the best views of Lake Michigan. Sunset Beach Park (map) is, as you might have guessed, the best spot to catch a sunset, and Fish Creek Beach (map) is a great place to observe the boats as they come into the harbor.
There are also plenty of amazing places where you can try the local cuisine and the trademark fish boil, a traditional Door County dish that consists of whitefish, potatoes, and onions cooked in a pot over an open fire. Pelletier’s Restaurant & Fish Boil (map) has nightly fish boils, and I highly recommend you try it out while in Fish Creek.
TIP: although this is the best place to stay in Door County for first time visitors, the county has plenty to offer, so you should plan a few days to explore the rest of the peninsula. If you didn’t drive here, it’s a good idea to rent a car and drive to some of the other towns and villages featured in this post! The scenic drives will convince you it was the right thing to do!
Enjoy the harbor views from the comfort of your room, which has a flat-screen TV and air conditioning. You will also find a terrace and an outdoor fireplace where you can gather at night!
Other accommodation options in Fish Creek
Featuring both an indoor and an outdoor pool, this Fish Creek hotel offers a game room and a library
This motel is located near the beach, and it has a garden, family rooms, and private parking
An elegant studio that has a balcony with a seating area and a kitchen, plus offers free parking
Things to do in Fish Creek
- Explore the Peninsula State Park and visit the Eagle Tower (map)
- Catch a sunset at Sunset Beach Park
- Visit the Alexander Noble House Museum
- Enjoy the lake views at Fish Creek Beach
- Try the fish boil at Pelletier’s Restaurant & Fish Boil
- Book a tee time at the Peninsula State Park Golf Course
- Go wine tasting at Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery (map)
2. Sister Bay – where to stay in Door County for families
Are your bags packed? Because you’ll want to leave ASAP once you see how awesome this tiny village in Door County is! Sister Bay is located 9 miles (14 km) Northeast of Fish Creek, and offers incredible scenery, plus great restaurants, boutique stores, and many resorts, making it the best town to stay in Door County for families.
Sister Bay is home to one of the most popular beaches in the area – Sister Bay Beach (map). This wonderful pebbly beach boasts a playground and picnic tables, and it’s the perfect spot for a fun family day at the beach.
I’m sure you’ll also love Pebble Beach (map), especially if you’re looking for a quieter spot under the sun. I highly recommend you stop by Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant & Butik (map) and try traditional Swedish food, as well as check out some shops around town. And if you’re into shopping, I recommend visiting Milwaukee, Wisconsin’s largest city!
Don’t be fooled by its size. Sister Bay is one of the most popular Door County towns and it’s ready to take in a large number of tourists. However, you should book your hotels in advance because this area is super popular, and everything sells out so fast!
Ready to relax on the beach? Before that, let’s check out the hotels in Sister Bay.
Enjoy a quiet morning on the sun terrace of this hotel, which has a fitness center and a bar. For your stay, you can choose from a variety of rooms and suites, many of which can accommodate your entire family. Each room/suite features a spacious balcony and modern in-room amenities.
Other accommodation options in Sister Bay
Every suite at this inn has a private bathroom and air conditioning, while baby cots are provided upon request
Warm up by the fire pit at this lodge, which has an indoor pool, picnic areas, and a children’s playground
This 2-bedroom cottage can accommodate as many as 6 people and features a full kitchen for cooking your own meals
Things to do in Sister Bay
- Have a fun-filled family day at Sister Bay Beach
- Try the go-karts at Johnson’s Park (map)
- Indulge in delicious Swedish food at Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant & Butik
- Visit the Sister Bay Historical Society
- Relax on Pebble Beach
- Spend a fun day at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf
- Go bowling at the Sister Bay Bowl
Subscribe here to get up to 35% off your accommodation for your next trip!
3. Ephraim – where to stay in Door Country for history
Ephraim is a small village situated just an 8-minute drive Northeast of Fish Creek and along the Green Bay shoreline. The village is recognizable for its white buildings, rich history, and serene atmosphere. If you’re a history buff, Ephraim is the best area to stay in Door County!
The Ephraim Moravian Church (map) is one of the most significant buildings in the village; dating back to 1859, this was the first church on the Door County peninsula. Besides the church, there are plenty of other historic buildings in the village, so I suggest you walk around and take some time to admire the architecture.
FUN FACT: the name Ephraim means ‘doubly fruitful,’ and it comes from a character in the Bible, but it’s not known why the first settlers chose this particular name for their town.
You should also go out to the Anderson Dock (map) and catch the most amazing sunset over Green Bay. On your way there, you can also stop by the Ephraim Historical Foundation and book one of their history tram tours – it’s the best way to see the town!
Enjoy your stay at this resort that offers a seasonal outdoor pool, a private beach area, and a lovely garden. During your stay, you’ll also benefit from free private parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, and using the on-site hot tub.
Other accommodation options in Ephraim
Guests will enjoy the indoor pool, the sauna, and the gym while staying a short distance away from the beach
All rooms at the inn are non-smoking and air-conditioned, and guests gain access to a hot tub and a gym
A centrally located condo with a comfy bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and access to a lovely gazebo
Things to do in Ephraim
- Pay a visit to the Ephraim Moravian Church
- Walk around town and snap some photos of the historic buildings
- Have breakfast in a unique environment at The Old Post Office Restaurant (map)
- See the sunset from the Anderson Dock
- Embark on a history tram tour organized by the Ephraim Historical Foundation
- Have a vintage-style soda at the Wilson’s Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlor (map)
4. Egg Harbor – where to stay in Door County on a budget
Welcome to Egg Harbor, Door County’s quietest village! This place is perfect if you want to enjoy some peace and quiet during your trip, and it also offers a wide range of budget accommodations. Located a 15-minute drive away from Fish Creek, Egg Harbor is a great starting point for exploring the rest of Door County.
Egg Harbor is not as popular as the other villages in Door County, so you should note that you might not find as many facilities. But when you’ve got access to so many natural spots, what else would you need? Yep, this village is great for nature lovers – you can sunbathe on Egg Harbor Beach (map) or hike around and explore the surrounding green surfaces.
One of the very best things to do here is relax with a good beer, and there’s no better place for that than the One Barrel Brewing Company (map). Here, you can try a variety of beers, ciders, seltzers, and even sodas; plus, there’s something called Breakfast Beer (although it’s not always available). Better still, people traveling with dogs are welcome, too!
And if you’re more of a wine lover, head out to the Harbor Ridge Winery (map), where you can sample a wide selection of award-winning wines.
If you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss out on the Egg Harbor Fun Park; you’ll find a variety of cool activities, from mini golf to arcade games.
Lastly, I want to point out that this is one of the best places in Door County to stay if you’re traveling without a car. The town is extremely walkable, but you can also rent a bike for free! The Eggy Bike Share Program is a green initiative created to encourage people to get out of their cars – you can find more info about it here.
NOTE: there are no luxury hotels in Egg Harbor, which makes it the ideal destination for budget travelers. However, if you want to indulge in some luxury, check out my recommendations for nearby Fish Creek.
Other accommodation options in Egg Harbor
Relax by the fireplace or use the complimentary bikes to explore around at this resort with a heated outdoor pool
A great Egg Harbor resort that offers a children’s play area, barbecue facilities, and 2 swimming pools
A spacious and comfortable condo offering a private bathroom, a Queen-sized bed, free parking, and access to a shared pool
Things to do in Egg Harbor
- Sunbathe on Egg Harbor Beach
- Buy some fresh produce from the Wood Orchard Market (map)
- Grab a beer at One Barrel Brewing Company
- Go wine tasting at Harbor Ridge Winery
- Enjoy a stroll around Heritage Lake (map)
- Take the kids to Egg Harbor Fun Park
- Explore the Frank E. Murphy Park (map)
5. Sturgeon Bay – where to stay in Door County for couples
Located 23 miles (37 km) South of Fish Creek, Sturgeon Bay offers the most amazing views and a wide range of activities and dining options. You’ll always find something to do in this lively city, seeing as it’s the largest of all Door County cities and the county seat. These are just some of the features that make it a great choice for couples on a romantic getaway.
There’s a picturesque lighthouse (map) from where you can enjoy the most stunning river views. I also recommend exploring the historic district, also known as the Third Avenue district. The district abounds with historical buildings, art galleries, dining spots, and specialty shops, so it’s definitely worth taking a stroll around the streets of this historic place.
If you’re a museum buff, Sturgeon Bay, WI, is an excellent match for you! Pay a visit to the Door County Maritime Museum to learn more about the area’s maritime history, or explore the artifacts on display at the Door County Historical Museum. With a wide range of accommodations and places to dine, you can even attend a live music show at places like Waterfront Mary’s (map) or enjoy the unique ambiance of Door County Fire Company (map), a laid-back eatery situated within a former fire station. With all of this and more, I’m sure Sturgeon Bay will become one of your favorite spots in Door County!
I love the vintage decor of this B&B, where each of the suites features a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom, while some have seating areas and even a spa tub. During your stay, you can also use the free Wi-Fi and complimentary parking space.
Other accommodation options in Sturgeon Bay
This adult-only accommodation offers rooms with private bathrooms and many off-site activities
Gather up by the fire and make new friends at this Sturgeon Bay hotel that has free private parking
A super cozy cottage perfect for 2 guests, with a kitchen, dining area, and a shared backyard
Things to do in Sturgeon Bay
- Snap some photos of the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Pierhead Lighthouse
- Visit the Door County Maritime Museum
- Explore downtown Sturgeon Bay and its historic district
- Listen to live music at Waterfront Mary’s
- Learn more about the town’s history at Door County Historical Museum
- Enjoy a delicious meal in a unique spot at Door County Fire Company
- Visit Potawatomi State Park (map) near Sturgeon Bay
6. Baileys Harbor – best place to stay for outdoor enthusiasts
Located only 9 miles (15 km) East of Fish Creek, Baileys Harbor is perfect for those who like going off the beaten track and engaging in outdoor activities. This is a peaceful town overlooking the harbor, and if you were wondering where to stay in Door County, Wisconsin, to connect with nature, then there’s no better place for it than Baileys Harbor.
One of the top natural attractions in the area is The Ridges Sanctuary, a nature preserve with many hiking trails, educational programs, and exhibits. This sanctuary is open year-round, so even if you visit in winter, you can still explore the magnificent nature (but it closes at dusk, so don’t get there too late).
If you’re visiting in summer, you can also hit the beach! Anclam Town Park (map) is a swimming beach, so you cool off with a swim in the lake after a long day of hiking. And if you’re up for an adventure, go out to the Lakeshore Adventures Zipline and try the treetop canopy zipline tour, the longest one in Door County!
Baileys Harbor also hosts Wisconsin’s most famous brewery, the Door County Brewing Co., where you can go to have a delicious beer and listen to some live music as well! That’s if you’re not out there exploring the woods.
Now, one of the most unusual things to do in Door County – a visit to Cana Island. I know it doesn’t sound like much, but hear me out – the island is connected to the mainland by a causeway, and the only way to cross is in a haywagon! The island welcomes visitors from May to October, and the haywagon departs from the Cana Island Lighthouse Parking (map).
My last recommendation for you is to make the 10-minute drive South of Baileys Harbor, down to Cana Island. From here, you can continue on to explore the Whitefish Dunes State Park (map), a great place for an easy hike, and Cave Point County Park (map), where you can see some amazing underwater caves.
NOTE: luxury seekers won’t find any options to fit their preferences in Baileys Harbor, but there are many excellent lodging options in the other price categories. If you want more upscale accommodation, both Fish Creek and Ephraim are great choices.
Other accommodation options in Baileys Harbor
A beachfront accommodation that offers a lot of water sports facilities on-site and a heated outdoor pool
Relax in the indoor heated pool at this resort, which has family rooms and a picnic area
I like the whole design of this house, which offers lake access, 4 rooms, a kitchen, and a backyard
Things to do in Baileys Harbor
- Explore the hiking trails at The Ridges Sanctuary
- Go for a swim at Anclam Town Park
- Enjoy delicious seafood at Harbor Fish Market & Grille (map)
- Try ziplining at Lakeshore Adventures Zipline
- Have a beer at Door County Brewery Co
- Admire the nature at the Toft Point State Natural Area (map)
- Take the haywagon to Cana Island
- Drive to Jacksonport to visit Whitefish Dunes State Park and Cave Point County Park
7. Ellison Bay – where to stay in Door County for tranquility
Situated a 20-minute drive North of Fish Creek, Ellison Bay is a tranquil village along Green Bay. Surrounded by water and lush forests, this is the best place to stay in Door County, Wisconsin, if you want to relax and unwind. It’s also an amazing base if you feel like taking some day trips to other parts of the county or the nearby islands.
You won’t find too many landmarks in Ellison Bay, but I highly suggest you spend at least a day at Ellison Bay Community Park & Beach (map). In the evening, make sure you stop by Island Orchard Cider (map), a cider bar offering a variety of flavors from fruits grown on nearby Washington Island.
And as long as we’re talking about Washington Island, I wanted to encourage you to visit it, at least on a day trip. What you’ll need to do is rent a car (in case you didn’t drive when arriving in Door County) and make the 10-minute drive out to Northport (map). Then, you need to purchase a ticket for the Washington Island Ferry that will take you to the island.
PRO TIP: tickets for the Washington Island Ferry are sold at the port on a first-come, first-served basis. Make sure to arrive at the port at least 15 minutes (half an hour is even better) before your desired departure time to ensure you get a ticket.
A must-see on Washington Island are the lavender fields; they are in full bloom between mid-June and mid-August, so that’s the ideal time to visit the island. However, even if you visit in the fall, there’s still plenty to be enjoyed; the Fall Fun Fest and Cider Pressing Party takes place in October, and it’s plenty of fun!
If you still feel like exploring your surroundings after a visit to Washington Island, you can also take the ferry from Northport to Rock Island. But in case you’re not feeling up for island exploration, you can make the 7-minute drive from Ellison Bay to Gill’s Rock, explore the town, and visit the Death’s Door Maritime Museum.
A 5-star hotel featuring an on-site restaurant, a bar, and a tennis court. The rooms are furnished with vintage pieces and offer modern amenities like air conditioning and Wi-Fi, and guests can also benefit from the free private parking and the use of the children’s playground.
Other accommodation options in Ellison Bay
Offering holiday homes and cottages, this 3-star property is situated on the shore of Ellison Bay and provides amazing views
This budget accommodation has rooms with private bathrooms, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi, plus access to an inner courtyard
A 1-bedroom apartment offering scenic tree-top views, a full kitchen, and a den, within walking distance of the waterfront
Things to do in Ellison Bay
- Spend a relaxing day at Ellison Bay Community Park & Beach
- Sample some ciders at the Island Orchard Cider
- Go on a day trip to Washington Island
- Head out to Door Bluff Headlands County Park (map) for some hiking
- Take the ferry to Rock Island
- Plan a day trip to Gill’s Rock and visit the Death’s Door Maritime Museum
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$240 |
| 💵 Mid-range: | US$180 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$100 |
| 📍 Best area: | Fish Creek |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Harbor Guest House |
| 💵 Best mid-range hotel: | Homestead Suites |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Main Street Motel |
FAQs about where to stay in Door County
💯 What is the best town to stay in Door County?
The best town to stay in Door County, especially if you’re visiting for the first time, is Fish Creek. The town is located near the Peninsula State Park, has amazing fish boils, and offers excellent hotels, such as Harbor Guest House and Homestead Suites.
📆 What is the best time to visit Door County?
The most popular time for a Door County visit is May through October. Spring offers the beauty of apple and cherry blossoms and wildflowers.
⏳ How many days should you stay in Door County?
Door County has plenty to offer, so I suggest staying here for at least a week so you can explore a couple of other towns – not just the one where you’re staying – do some hiking and visit some of the most famous landmarks on the peninsula.
🏖️ Does Door County have beaches?
Yes, Door County has a few beaches. Some of the best ones are Sister Bay Beach and Fish Creek Beach.
🚶 What is the most walkable town in Door County?
The town of Ephraim is very walkable; it’s quite a small town, so you can easily navigate its streets and quickly reach all the points of interest on foot.
🛍️ Which town in Door County has the best shopping?
Fish Creek has plenty of shopping opportunities; Founder’s Square in downtown Fish Creek is home to many stores. Here, you can shop for everything from souvenirs to clothes and shoes.
🏙️ What is the biggest town in Door County?
The biggest town in Door County is Sturgeon Bay, which is also the county seat. There are a couple of cool museums here, many dining spots, and great hotels, such as The Foxglove Inn and The Scofield House.
💰 Where to stay in Door County on a budget?
The best town in Door County for budget travelers is Egg Harbor. You won’t find any luxury hotels here, but you can stay in some great mid-range and budget resorts. My top 2 picks are the Newport Resort and The Landing Resort.
👩❤️👨 What are the best places to stay in Door County for couples?
The best town for a romantic getaway in Door County is Sturgeon Bay, and I highly recommend staying at The Foxglove Inn – it’s THE place for couples.
Final thoughts on the best places to stay in Door County
What a stunning location! I hope this post helped you understand more about all the different towns on the Door County map and get a better sense of the area. By now, you’ve probably decided where to stay in Door County and maybe even booked your accommodation.
There are so many hotel options in the post, and it’s so hard to make a decision, so here are my top 2 favorite accommodations, both located in Fish Creek:
- Harbor Guest House – this upscale guest house offers stunning views of the harbor and has comfortable, air-conditioned apartments
- Homestead Suites – this aparthotel boasts a sauna, a fitness center, and classically decorated rooms, some featuring a fireplace
Just remember that these are Door County’s best accommodations, so booking in advance will help you secure the best spot!
Enjoy the views of the Green Bay waters, and if you have any questions, leave me a comment below and I’ll answer it ASAP!
Safe Travels,
Victoria
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