Gills Rock:
Door County’s
Historic Fishing Village

1. Get your “winding road” photo. The winding road at the tip of the peninsula might be one of the most-photographed sites in Wisconsin. Drive up and get your version.

2. Speaking of photos, this small village is full of photo ops that scream Americana. Quirky roadside displays, historic schoolhouses, the rustic fishing piers, jaw-dropping countryside, and spell-binding sunsets could keep a photo buff busy all day.

3. Catch the sunrise at Death’s Door. Head to the end of the road at the Washington Island Ferry dock to catch the sun as it rises over spooky waters. This is also a great spot for watching the Northern Lights when they come out to play.

4. Kayak the bay. It’s not always easy, but your paddle will scarcely be interrupted in this tranquil bay.

5. Hike at Door Bluff Headlands. Free from crowds, this park is a secret favorite of Northern Door locals who love its rocky shore.

6. Visit Newport State Park. This park features tranquil hiking trails, off-road biking, kayaking, backcountry camping, and a sand beach. Newport State Park is the state’s only formally designated wilderness park.

7. Check out our maritime history. If you're on the brink of Death’s Door, you’ve got to check out the Door County Maritime Museum’s northern location. Learn the history of the fishing and shipping industry and find shipwreck markers on sublimely canopied shoreline roads.