Head to Door County, Wisconsin for Some Seriously Fun Fall Activities! Your Guide to the ‘Cape Cod of the Midwest’
Lighthouses, fish boils and scenic hiking make this Wisconsin destination ideal for autumn escapes
Key Takeaways
- Door County offers lighthouse tours, fish boils and scenic fall hiking trails.
- Visit Uncle Tom's Candy Store and waterfront restaurants for delicious treats.
- Spot bald eagles, explore vineyards and enjoy harvest festivals this autumn.
Fall in love with the “Cape Cod of the Midwest”! Located on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, this welcoming Wisconsin county is known for its lighthouses, charming coastal towns and fish boils. But this time of year, there’s even more to appreciate: harvest festivals and scenic hiking.
Treat yourself to homemade candy
Begin your visit at Uncle Tom’s Candy Store in Ellison Bay. This former schoolhouse now houses a small museum highlighting candy-making traditions and a gift shop filled with plenty of delicious treats like brittle, fudge and chocolate bark. Afterward, fill up on even more delicious food at the Shoreline Restaurant. Enjoy whitefish dip, the catch of the day, sesame-crusted salmon and other tempting seafood dishes.
Admire stunning landscape views
As dusk approaches, visit the iconic Eagle Tower in Fish Creek. This observation tower offers spectacular views of the water, colorful treetops and, if you’re lucky, soaring eagles!
Visit the Cana Island Lighthouse
Built in 1869, the impressive 89-foot-tall structure also features an, oil storage house and lighthouse keeper’s home.
Spy majestic bald eagles
The birds of prey thrive in the state parks and along the shoreline.
Relax at one of the county’s scenic vineyards
You’ll have a chance to enjoy fantastic wine tastings and even local cider.
Bonus: Experience the Wisconsin destination at home!
Get whisked away to Door County with a cocktail inspired by Alexander’s in Fish Creek and a heartwarming romance novel set in the area.
Cherry Sangria
Ingredients:
- 4 cups Grenache
- 1/2 cup apple juice
- 1/4 cup brandy
- ⅓ cup pitted frozen cherries
- 1 orange (sliced)
- 1 lime (sliced)
- 2 (12 oz.) cans cherry cola
Mix first six ingredients in a pitcher and chill. When ready to serve, add cola and pour over ice. Serves 6.
Book to read
The Simplicity of Cider by Amy Reichert
In this cozy love story, a cider-maker’s life is turned upside down when a handsome single dad starts working at her family’s Door County apple orchard.
This story first appeared in the September 21, 2026 issue of Woman’s World magazine.
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