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How to Welcome In the New Year in Door County

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As we kick off the new year, these slower, calmer months of winter are the perfect time to slow down and take part in a refreshing activity that renews the spirit. 

From time outdoors becoming one with the elements to quiet time in a museum or enjoying some self-care, these wintertime activities can help you reflect on the previous year and enter the new one in a positive mindset.

As always during the winter months, double check that a business or attraction is open before visiting and be prepared with a back-up plan.

Re-inspire Your Creative Side

One sure-fire way to enliven your spirit in the wintertime is to visit artists’ studios or art galleries. Not only can you spend an afternoon among local artists’ creative works of all mediums and styles, often you can meet the artists themselves and get an insider’s perspective on the creative process.

An artist paints a ceramic vase in his studio

Or, take in the action at a play, concert, or other live performance. Seeing actors and musicians performing their art, in their natural settings, is a great way to inspire your own creative endeavors.

Reset in Nature

Venture out to your favorite park or trail for a solo hike in the woods or along the frozen shoreline

There’s nothing quite like forest-bathing in the wintertime to re-inspire your passion for the outdoors. The peace and quiet, the solitude, the frozen trees and landscapes—Door County’s plethora of outdoor attractions and scenic wonders are often even more stunning when encased in snow and ice.

Two people cross country skiing in a snowy forest on a sunny day

Just don’t forget: if there’s ice or snow on the ground, be sure to bring (or rent) the proper gear, such as snowshoes, microspikes, and/or hiking poles for stability.

Refresh Your Personal Style

Whether a haircut, a massage, or clothes shopping makes you feel brand new, you can do some self-care time in Door County.

Find multiple salons, stylists, and spas throughout the area as well as plenty of boutiques and shops selling apparel, jewelry, and more.

Reimagine Your Space

Visit Door County’s array of antique shops, arts and crafts stores, home-furnishings stores, collectible and gift shops, and other purveyors of local goods to find artisan goods both large and small to give your personal space a little refresh.

 Reinvigorate Your Mind

The Stavkirke Norwegian-style church in wintertime

Use winter’s chill and slower pace of life to your advantage and hit up indoor activities like historical museums, community libraries, or bookstores. Or go on a snowy tour of local architectural and historical landmarks.

Recommit to Care for Door County

Commit—or recommit—to helping us preserve and protect the region’s natural and cultural resources by reviewing the Door County Pledge. If you haven’t already, please sign the pledge to signify your promise to explore this incredible place safely and sustainably.

Ready to plan your wintertime getaway to Door County? Here are even more ways to experience this special time of year and enjoy a quieter and less busy trip to the Door:

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