Ellison Bay, Wisconsin

A Haven for Artists, Nature Lovers, & Explorers

Art & Nature Collide in Ellison Bay

For decades the tiny village of Ellison Bay, which is in the town of Liberty Grove, has attracted artists, writers, and dreamers whose influence you’ll witness strolling Main Street today. Quirky public art, galleries where the artist answers the door, and eclectic shops showcasing foreign culture all call Ellison Bay home.

This hamlet is also home to craft cocktails and classic diners, revered storekeepers, old-school supper clubs, and some of the most stunning views in the county.

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Restaurants in Ellison Bay

Ellison Bay is a tiny town with a stunningly diverse restaurant scene. Find a hearty diner-style breakfast, a veteran fish boil master, hip upscale dining, and old-school supper-club fare. You can even hone your skills at a cooking school here.

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Ellison Bay Lodging

Lodging in Ellison Bay includes charming old hotels on the water, beautiful rental homes on the bluff or on the water, roadside inns, and wooded cottages. Ellison Bay is the destination for those who want to get away from it all, yet still be a short, beautiful drive from the action.

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Things to Do in Ellison Bay

Take a class on the beautiful grounds of The Clearing Folk School, Jens Jensen’s folk school north of town. Shop for unique gifts and art in Ellison Bay’s galleries, take a class at the cooking school, or simply explore two county parks that offer some of the most awe-inspiring, secluded vistas in the county.

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Take a Deeper Dive into Ellison Bay

Splendor & Solitude at County Parks

One of the area's best-kept secrets for escaping crowds and finding peace in nature is heading to these 19 county parks spread throughout the peninsula and Washington Island.

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5 Must-Dos in Ellison Bay

1. Ellison Bluff Overlook

This overlook in Ellison Bluff County Park will awe you as you embark to the edge of the Niagara Escarpment for a view from hundreds of feet above the water.

2. Meet the dreamers

The famed writer Norb Blei escaped to Ellison Bay from Chicago in 1972 and found no shortage of like-minded creatives to call neighbors. Blei is gone, but the creative juices remain strong among the potters, painters, clothiers, writers, and collectors of Ellison Bay.

3. Find a story

Pull up a stool, catch a boil over, or hang in a shop for more than a few minutes in Ellison Bay and you’re likely to catch a taste of local lore and flavor.

4. Take a beach to yourself

The beaches of the northern tip of Door County don’t get the publicity that others do, but that may just be why they’re so great. Sand Bay, Europe Bay, and Europe Lake are all favorite getaways for locals avoiding the crowds.

5. Hit up Newport State Park

Hike in Wisconsin’s only designated wilderness park and enjoy the solitude, backcountry campsites, forested trails, stunning water views, and sand dunes.

Ellison Bay Annual Events

June

Liberty Grove Art Stroll

Opportunity for Artists and Artisans to showcase their talent in their studio, gallery or place of business.

June

Ellison Bay Day & Pollinator Event

Celebrate community and family fun at Ellison Bay Day. Enjoy a family-friendly parade, beach games, swimming, kids’ activities, food, drinks, live music and plenty of prizes. It’s a full day of small-town fun for all ages.

July

Liberty Grove Historical Society Antique Tractor & Arts Festival

Enjoy a family-friendly day on the beautiful grounds of the Liberty Grove Historical Society. Explore vintage tractors, local artisans, community organizations and historic buildings. The festival also features live music, family activities, food, drinks and raffle prizes.

August

Blues on the Bay

Enjoy performances by national and regional musicians at Door County’s only blues festival. Food and drinks will be available, and guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or a picnic. Admission is free, with donations benefiting a local nonprofit organization.

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