If you’re craving a holiday escape that feels like stepping inside a snow globe, Door County, Wisconsin delivers. I know because this Georgia girl went there searching for a little winter wonderland and found it the very second I landed. With its twinkling lights, snow-dusted pines and small-town charm, this peninsula has everything you need to get into winter mode.
The quiet of winter is the perfect time to imbibe in some of Door County's locally made wine, spirits and brews or do a little holiday shopping at local galleries and boutiques. Here’s how to experience it like the leading character in your own Hallmark movie:
Where to Stay: Cozy Inns That Glow with Holiday Spirit
Whether you're craving modern Scandinavian design like The Dörr Hotel in Sister Bay or a cottage-like lodging hugging the shoreline, like my favorite, the Edgewater Resort, Door County has it all. Although the Edgewater Resort is packed in the summer, during the winter, their snow-drift-decorated porches will have you feeling like you're on the set of a film!
Where to Eat: Candlelight, Coffee and Holiday Feasts
At The White Gull Inn, dinner by candlelight transports you to a simpler era, and for a morning or daytime indulgence, be sure to stop by the Door County Coffee Company - their cherry crème latte tastes like Christmas in a cup! And if you’re lucky enough to visit during Julbord at the long-time Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant, you’ll be treated to a traditional Scandinavian holiday buffet. To taste and sip some local creations, be sure to stop by the Wisconsin Cheese Masters, Scaturo's Baking Company, Bridge Up Brewing (most eclectic decor winner for sure!) and Anchored Roots Vineyard & Winery.
Where to Witness Nature: Winter’s Quiet Beauty
Nature is where Door County truly sparkles during winter. At Bjorklunden, you’ll find a small stave church built in traditional Norwegian style, its wooden beams framed by frosty birch trees - so picturesque you'll have to remind yourself you're in the US, not Scandinavia! For a more active adventure, you can hike or snowshoe through The Ridges Sanctuary, a 1,600-acre preserve with rustic bridges and a stunning frozen shoreline. Or, if you prefer a little thrill, try an e-bike tour to Cave Point and Whitefish Dunes State Park.
Small towns like Door County come alive with traditions that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Be sure to stop by the Door County Maritime Museum and Edgewood Orchard Galleries - it's a MUST visit for a swirl of artwork, art pieces (including jewelry!), all housed in a converted old barn.
Door County in winter is more than just a destination; it’s a seasonal mood maker and experience that blends tradition, nature, food and festivity into a single shimmering package. It invites you to slow down, sip something warm and step into scenes so charming they almost feel scripted. And while we all know the snow will eventually melt, the memory of this holiday wonderland will linger long after the last twinkle light fades.
With its twinkling lights, snow-dusted pines and small-town charm, this peninsula has everything you need to get into winter mode.
The Ridges Sanctuary, a 1,600-acre preserve with rustic bridges and a stunning frozen shoreline. Or, if you prefer a little thrill, try an e-bike tour to Cave Point and Whitefish Dunes State Park.