As you’re about to see, there is SO MUCH that makes up the best of Door County. At least in our eyes. These are OUR favorites. And we think you’ll like them, too. Planning a vacation isn’t always easy. Add the kids into the mix, and it gets even more complicated. Let Northern Door Vacations take some of the stress out of your next getaway to Door County. From the best burgers to the best ice cream, from date night to family time, we’ve got you covered. Bookmark this one for your next trip up to the Peninsula.
The best… BURGERS!
Destination Door County recently reached out to its Facebook following to ask about their favorite burgers. Coming in at the top, is also one of our favorites. Our local friends were the ones to tell about the burgers at Mink River Basin. We went wiht the Original Smash Burger and washed it down with a Bloody Mary. Is there any other way?
One Star Burgers gets five stars from us. And if you’re okay with sloppy, no substitions, but over the top flavor… then get yourself to Hill Street for the Kurgan Burger!
Chives has a great burger deal on Thursdays in the offseason. It’s a “Bun & Brew” for $20 and the burger changes weekly. But always on the menu is their DoCo Burger with Bacon Jam and a Fried Egg. It’s fantastic. Husby’s makes our list for their gravy burgers available during Fall Fest and the triple sliders (Mexican style) served outside at the Garage bar!
The best… FINE DINING!
We have had some great meals in 2026. Shoreline in Gills Rock has fantastic food with a fabulous view. La Sirena in Ephraim for when you want to try food prepared by a Michelin Star Chef. It’s an experience! Chives in Baileys Harbor is warm and cozy and has the best Whitefish, mussels and oysters. Alexander’s in Fish Creek for old school fine dining. The dishes are still around for a reason! And Chop in Sister Bay if you love a good steak and the look of rich velvet.
And the list goes on… Lure in Sister Bay for fish lovers and those looking for a sushi fix. Thyme for when you want to eat Al Fresco. It’s right next to Twelve Eleven, where you can sip wine while you wait. Osteria Tre Tassi in Ellison Bay for Italian. Fireside in Egg Harbor for food with a Cajun flair. Think Jambalaya, Shrimp & Grits, Chicken and Waffles. And while we haven’t been there yet, word on the Peninsula is that Fireside’s sister restaurantr, Ember at The Landmark, has the best views.
The best… ICE CREAM!
We’ll start wth a hidden gem — Charlie’s Smokehouse! It secretly has the best water view of any ice cream shop in all of Door County. Guess the secret’s out now!
Wilson’s is the closest you’ll get to an old fashioned ice cream parlor, with it’s red and white awnings, draft root beer and classics playing on the jukebox. The lines are often long, but it’s worth the wait. If you like custard, and also don’t mind the lines, bring the family to Not Licked Yet. Also in Fish Creek, you’ll find italian-style ice cream at Sara’s Gelato. And in Sister Bay the gelato is made with goat’s milk (for real!) at Door County Creamery. It’s also a great place for cheese, and sandwiches and wines and gifts and…
Another great option for homemade ice cream is Door County Ice Cream Factory at the north end of Sister Bay.
The best… BREAKFAST!
Hopefully you’re staying in Door County for five days, so you can try each of these fantastic breakfast spots. And these are just the iconic ones. Al Johnson’s for their Swedish Pancakes with Lingonberries and White Gull in for their Door County Cherry Stuffed French toast. We love Sip! for the bright ambiance and healthy options — best avocado toast and mimosas! Then there’s Blue Bear in Ellison Bay with xxxxx and Zero Sum in Sister Bay has…
Shout out to Good Eggs in Ephraim for the biggest breakfast burritos loved by locals, The Big Easy in Egg Harbor, and the sourdough bagels from James Beard nominated Cultured in Sister Bay.
The best… BREWERY/WINE BAR
This was hard to narrow down! So many good choices and we probably forgot a few. We limited the list to those places that are making their own beer and wine. (Even if they aren’t growing their own grapes.) Twelve Eleven has a vibe. No matter the time of year. It’s a great place to escape the cold in winter, with a nice red and a game of cribbage. In the summer, the outdoor space comes alive.We love Peach Barn for that same welcoming vibe. It’s like being in a friend’s backyard, where the kids can run and play. At Door County Brewery — you’re bound to run into someone you know! And check out Sway to find out why the James Beard Foundation took note!
And the list goes on…
The best beer “garden” goes to Stabbur. The best wine “cottage” goes to Pearl. Don’t sleep on One Barrel’s outdoor space. Fun vibe for the whole family with beer, sangria and pizza! If you want to drink wines made in Door County, and with fruit grown in Door County, then the Door Peninsula Winery is a must. If you’re staying closer to Sturgeon Bay, visit Parallel 44 for locally made wines, and Bridge Up Brewing for craft beers.
The best… FAMILY FUN!
Beach time! With miles of shoreline, Door County has plenty of beaches to choose from. If you want to be in the center of the action and close to restaurants and ice cream, set up camp on the sand in downtown Sister Bay! Head to Newport State Park if you’re looking for a quieter beach experience. And if you make it to Washington Island during your visit, check out School House Beach made up of smooth limestone rocks.
On rainy days, Hands on Art Studio will keep the kids busy all day. In mid July, take the kids into the cherry orchards and let them pick their own. Wrap up the day with a theater experience, whether it’s live performances at Northern Sky Theater or the latest blockbusters at the Skyway Drive-In. Grab some blankets and a bucket of popcorn, and you’re in for an experience the kids will never forget.
The best… LODGING!
Northern Door Vacations, of course! We currently have more than 20 luxury rentals to pick from. Find the one that fits your getaway and book it now. See you soon!
