The holiday season is a magical time to be in Door County, and Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day are no exceptions.
From the slower, quieter pace and less-crowded outdoor attractions to festive events and a lively wintertime dining scene, there are countless ways to experience the magic of a late-December trip to Door County.
If you’re headed up here for a little end-of-year celebration, consider these ideas for welcoming in Christmas and New Year’s with open arms.
Experience Christmas, Door County Style
Before enjoying your New Year’s festivities, don’t forget to slow down and embrace the entire holiday season. From iconic annual Christmas events like tree lightings, parades, concerts, and festivals to newer, can’t-miss events like the Christkindlmarkt and Ridges Natural Christmas, Door County is a fantastic place to spend time around the holidays.
Attend a New Year’s Event
With 19 communities within the county, there’s no shortage of New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day celebrations, including parades, holiday shows, NYE parties, and traditional cold-water swimming events.
Treat Yourself to a Cabin, Resort, or Hotel
Door County has dozens of log cabins for rent this time of year as well as plenty of luxurious and winter-friendly accommodations. Find a cozy cabin, a quaint bed-and-breakfast, or a posh condo or resort, or an amenity-rich hotel, motel, or inn to relax and recharge after a busy holiday season.
Enjoy World-Class Food, Drink, & Hospitality
Although some restaurants and businesses are closed by late December, there’s a group of simply fantastic restaurants, cafes, bars, and coffee shops that stay open year-round to welcome our wintertime visitors.
Visit a Winter Winery or Brewery
Red or white, IPA or stout, hard cider or fruit wine—whatever your favorite concoction, sampling the wares at local wineries or breweries that are open year-round is a must-do when you’re up here this winter.
Recover at a Spa or Salon
If weeks of parties, socializing, delicious food, and endless Christmas cookies have you in need of some rejuvenation, head to a salon or spa for a massage, a facial, acupuncture, yoga, or whatever marks you feel calm and collected.
Take In Some Winter Beauty
Above all else, don’t forget to stop at a park, preserve, or even just a roadside overlook to take in the beauty and splendor of winter in Door County. Or, bring your camera and hit a hiking trail to get up close and personal with the seasonal scenery.
