GILLS ROCK, WISCONSIN
This authentic fishing village lies at the northernmost tip of the peninsula — known as the ‘top of the thumb.’ Island ferries, weathered fishing sheds , and an old fishing boat that sits on dry land reflect its historic maritime heritage. Go fishing!
A fine restaurant with panoramic views, a few souvenir shops, and cottages occupy old buildings along the village’s only street and waterfront. Scandinavian imports, nautical items, jewelry, locally made jams, jellies, and pies can be found here.
Watch the incredible sunsets over Porte des Mortes (Death’s Door), go fishing, take a scenic boat ride, or take a drive on the county’s famous ‘winding’ road.
Points Of Interest
Door County Maritime Museum
There are exhibits on shipwrecks, lifesaving techniques, and the Ted Berch model collection — twenty Great Lakes vessels, including one of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald. Tour a 1930s tug boat and watch a film of its last fishing trip.
4th of July
Celebrate the 4th with music, food & drink, a fish fry fundraiser for the Deaths Door Maritime Museum and fireworks. Festivities begin around 5pm. Boat parade about an hour before sunset, fireworks begin at dusk. (July 4).
Newport State Park
Wisconsin’s only formally designated wilderness park — 2,373 acres of forests, wetlands, and meadows. Fern Trail has interpretative panels to guide visitors through the forest. There are miles of hiking and off-road biking trails, cross-country skiing paths, beaches, and campgrounds.
The Winding Road
The last few miles of highway 42 curves and zig-zags through fields and forest and ends at Northport Pier. It is one of the country's most beautiful and photographed sites -- especially in autumn when maple trees are in full color. A must see.
Door County Sea Kayak Symposium
20th anniversary! Join Rutabaga Paddlesports in classes, tours, and a community of sea kayakers for a few days at a beautiful Rowleys Bay Resort. Registration required: rutabaga.com/dcskspage (July 7-9).
More Info: doorcountynorth.net