Sturgeon Bay WisconsinATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.
1. Door County Maritime Museum
MARITIME HISTORY EXPERIENCE
The Door County Maritime Museum in Sturgeon Bay offers an engaging exploration of the region's rich nautical heritage, including shipbuilding and Great Lakes history. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, climb the museum's observation tower, and examine maritime artifacts that showcase Sturgeon Bay's essential wartime ship production legacy. This museum provides an immersive way for families and enthusiasts to appreciate Door County's vital connection to the water.
2. Potawatomi State Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Potawatomi State Park is a sprawling natural haven known for its rugged limestone cliffs, wooded trails, and access to the eastern terminus of the Ice Age Trail. The park features hiking, biking, and boating opportunities along with breathtaking views of Sturgeon Bay. It serves as an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers year-round.
3. Cave Point County Park
DRAMATIC LIMESTONE CLIFFS
Cave Point County Park, located near Sturgeon Bay in the Town of Sevastopol, is famous for its striking limestone cliffs and underwater caves carved by Lake Michigan's relentless waves. Visitors flock here to witness spectacular water sprays, enjoy hiking trails, and kayak along the picturesque shoreline. The park is a hotspot for photographers, adventurers, and anyone seeking the dramatic beauty of Door County's natural landscape.
4. The Farm
INTERACTIVE FAMILY FARM
The Farm is a beloved family attraction where guests can experience rural life and interact with a variety of barnyard animals. Focused on education and hands-on learning, visitors can feed goat kids, observe live demonstrations, and explore lush gardens and nature trails. This wholesome destination is particularly popular with children and families wishing for a taste of authentic country living.
5. The Garden Door
HORTICULTURAL SHOWCASE
The Garden Door is an inspiring botanical display garden cultivated by the Door County Master Gardeners in Sturgeon Bay. Visitors will find a variety of themed garden spaces, from fairy and butterfly gardens to unique sculpture installations. This tranquil spot is perfect for leisurely strolls or gathering new ideas for home gardening projects.
6. Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal North Pierhead Light
HISTORIC RED LIGHTHOUSE
The Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal North Pierhead Light is an iconic, vibrant red lighthouse constructed in 1882 at the mouth of the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal. Visitors can walk the pier to get a close view and photograph this picturesque maritime landmark. Its historic presence and lakeside setting make it a favorite stop for those touring Door County's scenic waterfronts.
7. Sunset Park
WATERFRONT GREEN SPACE
Sunset Park is a spacious city park situated along the shores of Sturgeon Bay offering panoramic water views, sports facilities, and a relaxing atmosphere. The park is ideal for picnics, walking, and watching stunning sunsets, with amenities that cater to visitors of all ages. It also provides vantage points to admire local maritime industry landmarks like the Gantry Crane.
8. Third Avenue Playhouse
INTIMATE THEATER VENUE
The Third Avenue Playhouse is a vibrant cultural venue located in the heart of Sturgeon Bay's historic district. Originally a vintage movie theater, it now hosts a variety of live performances ranging from plays and musicals to concerts throughout the year. The playhouse's cozy setting allows audiences an up-close theater experience in a charming small-town atmosphere.
9. Whitefish Dunes State Park
LAKE MICHIGAN BEACHES
Whitefish Dunes State Park, just northeast of Sturgeon Bay in the Town of Sevastopol, is renowned for its expansive sandy beaches and large protective sand dunes along Lake Michigan. The park features nature trails, picnic areas, and educational exhibits about the region's ecology and Native American history. It's a prime destination for swimming, hiking, and wildlife observation.
10. Sturgeon Bay Canal Station Light
LIGHTHOUSE AND GROUNDS
The Sturgeon Bay Canal Station Light is a historic lighthouse established in 1899, located on the Lake Michigan side of the canal. The site is part of an active Coast Guard station, and while access is limited, the lighthouse is viewable from nearby public areas. Its distinctive architecture and lakeside location make it a fixture of Sturgeon Bay's maritime skyline.
11. Sherwood Point Lighthouse
SECLUDED LIGHTHOUSE GEM
Sherwood Point Lighthouse, built in 1883, sits on a wooded bluff overlooking the waters where Sturgeon Bay meets Green Bay. This lighthouse, notable for being one of the last manned in the Great Lakes, is still operational and occasionally opens for tours during special events. Its remote setting offers a peaceful excursion for lighthouse enthusiasts.
12. Door County Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Door County Historical Museum is dedicated to preserving and presenting the rich history of Door County through artifacts, dioramas, and engaging exhibits. Located downtown, the museum offers insights into the region's natural, cultural, and economic development. Visitors of all ages will find fascinating stories about early settlers, local wildlife, and maritime traditions.
13. Popelka Trenchard Glass Fine Art Gallery & Studio
GLASS BLOWING ARTS
Popelka Trenchard Glass Fine Art Gallery & Studio is an inspiring studio where visitors can watch live glassblowing demonstrations and browse an impressive selection of unique glass artwork. The gallery showcases contemporary pieces created by skilled artists, making it a must-visit spot for art lovers. Interactive workshops are occasionally offered for those wishing to try their hand at this intricate craft.
14. Sturgeon Bay's Shopping Districts
UNIQUE LOCAL BOUTIQUES
Sturgeon Bay boasts three distinct shopping districts: West Side, Third Avenue, and Jefferson Street, each offering a diverse array of shops, boutiques, and galleries. Shoppers can browse everything from handmade crafts and vintage finds to fine art and local specialties. The districts' friendly atmosphere and charming storefronts create a quintessential small-town shopping experience.
15. Crossroads at Big Creek
NATURE PRESERVE TRAILS
Crossroads at Big Creek is a multi-faceted environmental preserve featuring miles of hiking and biking trails winding through woodlands, wetlands, and meadows. The site also houses educational centers and offers programs on ecology, astronomy, and local history for visitors of all ages. Its peaceful setting invites exploration and discovery year-round.
16. Stone Harbor Resort & Conference Center
WATERFRONT LODGING & EVENTS
Stone Harbor Resort & Conference Center is a popular waterfront destination in Sturgeon Bay, offering lodging, dining, and event spaces with picturesque views of the bay. The resort features a full-service marina, live music, and on-site amenities that appeal to both leisure travelers and business visitors. Its convenient access to downtown makes it a favored base for exploring Door County.