Spring in Door County 2025: A Local’s Guide to the Perfect April Weekend Getaway

Spring in Door County is seriously underrated. The crowds haven’t arrived yet, the air is crisp and fresh, and nature is waking up in the best way-wildflowers popping up, trees budding, and the lakeshore looking extra dreamy. If you’ve never experienced the peninsula in April, you’re in for a treat. Here’s our go-to itinerary for a spring weekend in Door County, packed with insider tips to make the most of the season. Spring in Door County 2025

Day 1: Settle In & Ease Into Vacation Mode

Afternoon: Check In & Get Your Bearings

First things first-drop your bags at your rental. If you’re staying somewhere central like Egg Harbor, Fish Creek, or Sister Bay, you’ll have easy access to everything. Prefer a quiet escape? A lakefront cottage in Jacksonport or Baileys Harbor is perfect for morning coffee with a view.

Evening: Classic Door County Dinner (Without the Summer Waits!)

Spring is the best time to grab a table at spots that get packed in the summer. If you’ve never done a fish boil, now’s the time. It’s part meal, part show-fresh whitefish, potatoes, and onions boiled over an open flame before getting doused in a dramatic fireball. (Try White Gull Inn in Fish Creek if they’re open for the season.)

Not feeling fish? Head to Chop in Sister Bay for a cozy steakhouse vibe or Barringer’s in Fish Creek for amazing seafood and craft cocktails.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures & Small-Town Charm

Morning: Peninsula State Park-The Local Favorite

If there’s one thing you have to do in Door County, it’s explore Peninsula State Park. This place is massive (3,700 acres!) and has everything-hiking, biking, scenic overlooks, and even a lighthouse.

Pro tip:

• For an easy, scenic walk, head to the Eagle Panorama lookout-breathtaking views, especially in the early morning light.
• Want a longer hike? Try the Eagle Trail-just be ready for a bit of climbing and some rocky terrain. Totally worth it.
• Biking? Rent one in Fish Creek and take the Sunset Trail, a flat and scenic ride through the park.

Midday: Lunch & Exploring Fish Creek

After a morning in the fresh air, head into Fish Creek-it’s one of the best towns to wander. For lunch, we love Blue Horse Beach Café (good coffee, great breakfast sandwiches) or Pelletier’s for a classic Door County diner-style meal.

Then, take your time strolling through local shops. Lautenbach’s Orchard Market is great for cherry goodies (get the cherry salsa!), and Plum Bottom Gallery always has unique local art.

Afternoon: Springtime Sightseeing

April and May are prime time for lighthouse touring without the crowds. The Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Pierhead Front Lighthouse is an iconic Door County staple and worth a visit.

If you’re up for a drive, head to Cana Island Lighthouse-one of the most iconic spots in Door County. The tractor ride across the causeway might not be running yet, but on a calm day, you can walk across (wear waterproof boots just in case!).

Evening: Sunset & a Cozy Night In

Spring sunsets in Door County are chef’s kiss. Catch the view at Anderson Dock in Ephraim or the Fish Creek waterfront.

For dinner, go casual with Wild Tomato (wood-fired pizza, always a win) or elevate your evening at Barringer’s. If you’re lucky enough to be here when Northern Sky Theater has a show, it’s totally worth it for a fun, uniquely Door County experience.

Day 3: A Slow Sunday & A Final Adventure

Morning: The Ridges Sanctuary-A Hidden Gem

One of my favorite spring spots is The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor. It’s quiet, peaceful, and a great place to spot early wildflowers. Take the boardwalk trail and keep an eye out for sandhill cranes—they start showing up in April.

Midday: One Last Meal & A Scenic Drive

Before heading home, grab brunch at Al Johnson’s (yes, the place with the goats on the roof-they might not be up there yet, but the Swedish pancakes are still worth it).

On your way out, take the Door County Coastal Byway for one last dose of lakeshore beauty. It winds along Hwy 42 and 57, giving you those classic Wisconsin water views.

Spring in Door County: Why It’s Worth the Trip

• No crowds, no stress-everything is just more peaceful before the summer season kicks in.
• Cool mornings, sunny afternoons-perfect for hiking and exploring.
• Early blooms & wildlife spotting-nature is waking up, and you’ll see it everywhere.
• Best chance to snag a last-minute reservation at top restaurants and rentals.

Spring is one of Door County’s best-kept secrets-so why not make it your new favorite time to visit?

Want more curated travel inspiration? Check out 8 Pet-Friendly Gems to Explore in Door County, WI. for local activities, accommodations and dining options that welcome your furry friends with open arms. Check out a full list of our Door County rental properties here. Happy Vacationing!