Crisp air, quiet roads, and vibrant trees make fall one of the best times to visit the peninsula. This season is bursting with things to do in Door County.
You’ll sip cider, stroll scenic trails, browse shops, and still have time to catch the sunset. It’s the perfect 3-day itinerary for an unforgettable Door County fall getaway.
Day 1 in Door County: Nature Walks, Local Sips, & Small Town Shows
Start your trip with fresh air, local flavor, and peaceful stops across the peninsula. This day blends nature, food, and classic Door County activities without feeling rushed.
Morning: Trails, Trees, and a Touch of Art
Begin your morning out in nature on the leaf-covered trails at The Clearing in Ellison Bay. For lakeshore views, head to Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor for boardwalk paths and quiet wetlands. It’s a refreshing outdoor activity to start your weekend.
Prefer to explore indoors? Edgewood Orchard Galleries features paintings, sculptures, and other art in a 1918 stone fruit barn.
Midday: Sip, Snack, and Explore
After your morning outdoors, grab a quick sip and snack to fuel the rest of your adventures. Grab a fall-inspired drink at a local tasting room. You might even catch live music. Anchored Roots and Harbor Ridge are easy favorites for fall-flavored bites and sips. They’re the perfect stop after a trail walk, a small-town stroll, or a midday meal.
Evening: Shows and Small-Town Fun
End the night with live entertainment or something casual. Check for outdoor shows at Peninsula Players, Northern Door, or Door Shakespeare. Skyway Drive-In plays double features and is also a favorite for things to do in Door County. Or catch a free concert in the area. For something simple, Sister Bay Bowl is open for bowling, food, and fun indoor entertainment.
Day 2 in Door County: State Parks, Scenic Paddles, and Local Flavor
This day leans into nature, scenic views, and local tradition. It’s the ideal second day.
Morning: Hike, Bike, and Climb
Start the day at Peninsula State Park, one of the most popular parks in the county. Check out our beautiful biking or hiking trails. Or climb Eagle Bluff Tower for a sweeping view of the bay. On a clear fall morning, the colors stretch for miles.
Midday: Watch Waves or Wander Cliffs
If the wind’s coming from the west or north, head to Gills Rock for the “car wash.” Waves crash over the road when conditions are just right, and it’s a fun, quick stop. If the wind shifts south or east, head to Cave Point or Jacksonport. These spots have rocky cliffs, short trails, and open lake views.
Nicolet Beach is the perfect spot if you want to get on the water. The beach is calm in the fall, and the views are stunning. Rent a paddleboard or kayak if the weather permits. Need a snack? Grab a bite to eat at the old-school hut near the sand.
Evening: Beach Walks and Fish Boil
Wrap up the day with a slow walk along the shore. The shoreline is peaceful, and the views are stunning with fall colors on the trees. If it’s warm, grab a snack at their food trucks.
Then, head back to Edgewater Resort and enjoy a delicious dinner just steps from your room. The Old Post Office Restaurant is on our property and hosts a fish boil nightly (except Sundays). It’s full of local tradition and is one of our favorite things to do in Door County. Note: Call them in advance to book a fish boil reservation!
Day 3 in Door County: Scenic Breakfast, Wine Tasting & Stargazing
It’s the last day, but there’s still time for a few final things to do in Door County. Let’s look at a few stops you won’t want to miss.
Morning: Breakfast and a View
Start your day with breakfast at the Old Post Office Restaurant. It’s delicious, scenic, and right on the Edgewater Resort property. Ask for a table by the window or sit outside if the weather permits. The view across Eagle Harbor is calm and quiet in the morning. It’s a nice way to slow down and soak up your last day here.
Midday: Orchard Stops and Fall Flavors
You don’t want to leave without stopping by a local orchard to enjoy a taste of fall. Lautenbach’s offers apples, cider donuts, and shelves of jams, sauces, and fall snacks to take home. Hyline Orchards is another great option with pies, preserves, and seasonal flavors. These are quick, cozy stops with everything you need for the road — or your pantry.
Evening: Stargazing and Sunset Views
Wrap up the weekend with one last view to remember. Door County is known for its vibrant sunsets. You can enjoy rich, colorful sunsets cascading over the water from the dock at Edgewater Resort. Want to see stellar stars? Head to Newport State Park for stargazing — a certified Dark Sky Park. Bring a blanket and enjoy the view. Both the sunset views and stargazing will take your breath away.
Local Flavors For Your 3-Day Getaway
Every great weekend getaway needs good food. And Door County has plenty of options to match your mood. Here are a few of our favorite places.
Upscale DiningCasual and Family-Friendly |
Pizza FavoritesPub Grub and Local TavernsAfter-Dinner Drinks |
Start Planning Your Fall Door County 3-Day Getaway
There are so many great things to do in Door County, especially in the fall. The air is cool, the views are vibrant, and it’s easy to explore without the summer crowds.
This 3-day itinerary gives you a solid starting point. Use it to plan your trip and see everything Door County offers. Book your stay at Edgewater Resort for an unforgettable fall getaway.
Photo Credit: © JamesBrey from Getty Images Signature via canva.com, © cunfek from Getty Images Signature via canva.com, © rostislavsedlacek via canva.com
