One thing that is for certain, growing up in the landlocked midwest, is that we are lake people. Door County in the northeastern part of Wisconsin is a special place for my family. In addition to frequenting Wisconsin Dells for its tourist traps as a child, my extended family has returned annually in adulthood to a place called Egg Harbor to reunite. Egg Harbor is a serene little spot in Door County with plenty of access to Lake Michigan, charming trollies, shops and restaurants. A great place for a summer getaway to enjoy the trees, wildflowers and water.

EXPERIENCE

This part of the state is more about outdoor activities than attractions. Biking, sailing, swimming, hiking, walking, tennis, volleyball, and boating, are among my family’s favorites. In addition to these activities, visit a cherry farm and do some shopping in While the entire area is easy to navigate and not too large I have a few recommendations. For general information on there area, check here: http://www.eggharbordoorcounty.org/

Nearby Fish Creek is a little larger but also a great place to stay. This town offers more shopping and restaurant options than Egg Harbor: http://www.wistravel.com/cities_in_wisconsin/fish_creek_wisconsin/

Peninsula State Park: a great place to bike or hike, look at the lake, fish and visit the lighthouse: http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/name/peninsula/

House on the Rock is another unusual but interesting attraction to check out if you are in this part of the country. I would ramble on, but I think the photos and website begin to do more justice: http://www.thehouseontherock.com/HOTR_AttractionMain.htm

While here you are also in the heart of Packer Country, so be sure to make a trip to Lambeau Field and the surrounding area, it really is worth it: http://www.packers.com/lambeau-field/index.html

STAY

For nearly five years now, my family has stayed at the Landmark Resort (http://www.thelandmarkresort.com/). This place is great for our family situation where we have many family units with kids and some singles. We usually have a “aunts and uncles” cabin, a “cousins” cabin for the non-breeders, and then my cousins who have families set up in their own spaces. The grounds have great pools, tennis courts, grills, volleyball courts, and the lodges are equipped with dishes and decent size cooking facilities for families like mine who make most of the meals family style for the group. While its nothing over the top, this place has worked out very well for all the adults and young kids. There is plenty to do and easy access to bike paths, the marina, the beach and town.

If I were visiting in another context I would likely camp in Peninsula State Park, or find one of the areas super charming bed and breakfasts.

EATS

While in Door County, you will have little choice but to try some sort of cherry flavored alcoholic beverage, pie, and main course. While the cocktails and cherry wine tend to be overwhelming, I have had some other dishes that are not too bad.

Best and only bar in town, is the Shipwrecked Microbrewery: http://www.shipwreckedmicrobrew.com/ 

The best meal I have had in this region was actually in Fish Creek at a place called the Whistling Swan (http://www.whistlingswan.com/). It is owned by a popular Milwaukee restaurant,The Hinterland (http://www.hinterlandbeer.com/Restaurant_Mil.html). Fantastic beer list and great cheese selection!