Itinerary: 48 Hours of Fall Fun

Door County is the perfect place for an autumn getaway with cooler weather, plenty of outdoor space, thriving food and arts scenes, and award-winning fall colors. If you’re looking for things to do, this fall itinerary will guide you through a relaxing weekend in Door County, where you can soak up Wisconsin’s best fall foliage.

Friday Night

When it’s fall in Door County, you have to start your trip off right and find those fantastic fall-color views. Local marinas, waterfronts, and community parks are perfect places to sneak a preview of the fabulous fall colors to come. 

Once you’ve had your fill of breathtaking sights, stop in The Fireside Restaurant for dinner for a fresh take on classic comfort food. Executive Chef Blake Schar blends hearty Midwest dishes with the Southwest, incorporating ingredients like chipotle peppers and cilantro for a subtle, flavorful twist. From sampling local favorites like the Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned at the bar to indulging in one of the chef’s signature creations, every meal here is served with a dash of elegance. 

If you prefer to eat with a view, dine at Mezzanine. This innovative restaurant with a rooftop patio offers incredible views of Harbor View Park and sunsets over Egg Harbor Marina. The simple and sophisticated menu features panko-breaded shrimp baskets, po’boys, burgers, and more. The drinks like Yolando, Be Cool (strawberry-infused Blanco Tequila, lime, cane sugar, orange liqueur, habanero tincture) and the lemon rhubarb daiquiri are almost too pretty to sip. If you’re not ready to call it a night, opt for a nightcap to celebrate your first day in Door County by stopping by  The August Club. The supper club offers a cocktail lounge and live entertainment. 

Saturday Morning

Wake up early and head to the eastern side or northern tip of the peninsula — or one of these picture-perfect sunrise locations — to catch a harvest sunrise. Then, be sure to fuel up with some food and coffee or tea at a locally-owned cafe or breakfast joint before gearing up for some outdoor adventures like these.

At Klaud’s Kitchen, this family-run gem brings a European twist to Door County with an impressive bakery case featuring treats from France, Italy, Belgium, and their homeland of Moldova. Breakfast classics include hearty sandwiches, breakfast pizza, breakfast burritos, and more. With specialty drinks named Klauds Maple Latte, Campfire Mocha, and Almond Joy, to name a few, you know you’re in for a real treat.  

If you’re looking for a boozy breakfast, stop in at Sip, where the full bar offers mimosas and cocktails to accompany your morning meal. Bright, fresh flavors are the focus of every menu item, with delicious dishes including crab eggs benedict, vegan breakfast hash, brioche french toast and a donut sandwich, to name a few. After breakfast, explore their charming home décor retail section upstairs.

Saturday Afternoon

Spend your Saturday outdoors surrounded by the gorgeous fall landscapes. The Peninsula State Park Golf Course is what many consider the most scenic 18 holes of golf in Wisconsin. This breathtaking course was established in 1921 and winds through majestic oak, maple, and birch trees. As you play, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Green Bay’s sparkling waters and the charming villages along the shoreline. 

Those who’d like the colors to come to them can go on a Door County Trolley tour. Climb aboard the "Old Time" Trolley for an unforgettable scenic tour of the area. This one-and-a-half-hour journey winds through breathtaking vistas, picturesque bluffs, and charming villages, offering stunning views of the islands and land. Expert local guides will share fascinating legends and insider tips on the best places to wine, dine, and explore Door County. 

Head to One Barrel for a relaxing lunch in their expansive beer garden. Sip on a refreshing One Barrel beer, cider, or seltzer while enjoying delicious pizza from Pizza Bros, conveniently served right inside the tap room. With a family-friendly vibe and even a spot for your furry friends outdoors, it's the perfect place to unwind and refuel in Door County.

You’ll want to spend some time in the bustling waterfront community of Egg Harbor. Its beautifully tree-lined main street is dotted with specialty shops filled with treasures. If you don’t get your fill, stop by Fish Creek. Not only is it one of the Midwest’s top shopping destinations where you’ll find one-of-a-kind treasures, artisan goods and souvenirs, but it also has a flourishing arts scene. Make sure you stop in Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market so you can take the taste of Door County home with you. The market is filled with a wide selection of locally made products, including wines, ciders, jams, and specialty foods crafted from their estate-grown fruits.

Top off your afternoon excursions with a toast at Harbor Ridge Winery. The log cabin tasting room offers a warm, inviting space to sample a diverse selection of wines, from dry, oak-aged varieties to fruity and sweet favorites. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious beginner, there’s something for every palate. After tasting, browse their extensive market filled with wine accessories and unique gifts to complete your visit.

Saturday Evening

As the afternoon winds down, the night is revving up at Door County Boardwalk. The self-proclaimed “Ultimate Entertainment Destination” has something for everyone, from axe throwing to a virtual golf course to live entertainment. You don’t have to go far for dinner; you can order from their extensive menu packed with family favorites, including smash burgers, sandwiches, pizzas, salads and wraps, as well as pasta and steak. The full bar offers whiskey flights, too. 

For a classic dinner experience with a lot of added fun, head to the family-owned Sister Bay Bowl, a beloved supper club that offers hearty meals and friendly service. Roll a game on the vintage bowling lanes and enjoy some friendly competition. When hunger strikes, their generous portions of award-winning fish fry and Old Fashioneds will satisfy, or go for beer and pizza. 

Sunday Morning

Start your Sunday at Shiny Moon Cafe, a cozy and inviting spot for specialty coffee and delicious breakfast fare. Located just above the Fish Creek Market, this charming cafe serves a variety of seasonal single-origin drip coffees, cold brews, and perfectly balanced espressos. Pair your coffee with a breakfast biscuit sandwich, skillet, or freshly baked pastry (cookies, scones, biscuits, and bread are made fresh daily). Committed to sustainability, Shiny Moon Cafe proudly supports local farmers, bakers, and cheese makers, making it the perfect place to enjoy a flavorful, locally sourced start to your morning.

Sunday Afternoon

With a full belly, it’s time to walk off those calories hiking at The Ridges Sanctuary. Founded in 1937, The Ridges Sanctuary is Wisconsin's first land trust and safeguards the state's most biologically diverse ecosystem. Its unique ridge-swale complex creates a wide range of habitats, from open beaches to shaded conifer forests, where 500 plant and 60 bird species thrive. It also supports 12 threatened or endangered species like the Hine's Emerald dragonfly.

Cap off your Door County adventure with a visit to Wood Orchard Market. This third-generation family farm is known for growing a wide variety of fruits, including their famous Honeycrisp and new SweeTango apples, and it is a must-stop for fresh, locally grown produce. In addition to the bountiful fruit, you’ll find a delightful selection of gifts, specialty foods, and bakery treats.