Explore History, Art, and Local Culture in the Heart of the Peninsula
When most people think of Door County, they picture the breathtaking shoreline, lighthouses, cherry orchards, and the charming harbor towns that dot the peninsula.
But tucked between all the natural beauty are some incredible museums that tell the stories of Door County’s rich past, vibrant art scene, and maritime heritage. Whether you’re looking to connect with local history, introduce your kids to something educational, or simply explore a new indoor space on a rainy day, Door County’s museums deliver insight, inspiration, and fun.
From interactive maritime exhibits to art galleries in historic buildings, Door County’s museum scene is surprisingly diverse for a small region. Each museum offers something unique and reflects the heart and soul of the communities that built them.
Door County Maritime Museum in Sturgeon Bay
Start your museum journey in Sturgeon Bay with a visit to the Door County Maritime Museum. Located on the working waterfront, this modern and interactive museum brings the county’s rich nautical history to life. You’ll learn about the area’s storied shipbuilding industry, the role Door County played in the Great Lakes’ commercial trade, and the legacy of the men and women who made a living on the water.
The highlight of the museum is the ten-story Jim Kress Maritime Lighthouse Tower. From the top, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the harbor and the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal. Inside, each floor features exhibits dedicated to topics like shipwrecks, lighthouse keeping, ice fishing, and the lives of early mariners. It’s one of the best ways to understand Door County’s strong ties to the water.
Ephraim Historical Foundation Museums
The lakeside village of Ephraim is home to several beautifully preserved historical buildings that together form the Ephraim Historical Foundation. Visitors can tour homes, a schoolhouse, and a museum that showcase Ephraim’s Norwegian-American roots and the simplicity of 19th-century life.
Guided tours are available, where you can step inside the Anderson Barn History Center, the Pioneer Schoolhouse, and the Goodletson Cabin. Each space offers a hands-on look at how early settlers lived, worked, and built the charming community that still exists today. Children especially enjoy the old-fashioned games and school activities, while adults often linger in the gardens or enjoy the rotating exhibits inside the barn.
Peninsula School of Art in Fish Creek
Though not a traditional museum, the Peninsula School of Art in Fish Creek serves as one of Door County’s most dynamic cultural institutions. The on-site gallery features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, with a focus on Midwestern artists and themes that reflect the natural and cultural landscape of Door County.
Visitors can explore works in a wide range of mediums including painting, sculpture, ceramics, and photography. The school also offers adult and youth workshops year-round, making it a perfect stop for travelers looking to get creative. It’s peaceful, inspiring, and just a short walk from the heart of Fish Creek.
Liberty Grove Historical Society in Ellison Bay
Set on a scenic parcel of land in Ellison Bay, the Liberty Grove Historical Society features restored farm buildings and homes that offer a glimpse into Door County’s rural past. The grounds are open to the public during the summer, and special events such as historical reenactments and blacksmithing demonstrations bring the exhibits to life.
The buildings have been lovingly restored and filled with artifacts from Liberty Grove’s earliest families. The museum also features a historic chapel and one-room schoolhouse, creating a full picture of 19th-century life in northern Door County. It’s a serene place to wander and reflect, with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Washington Island Farm Museum
A short ferry ride from the tip of the Door Peninsula takes you to Washington Island, where the Washington Island Farm Museum preserves the agricultural heritage of the island community. This collection of restored barns and outbuildings displays antique farm equipment, household tools, and handmade crafts from early island settlers.
Volunteers often dress in period clothing and demonstrate everything from butter churning to rope making. The museum is especially fun for kids who enjoy seeing the animals and trying their hand at old-fashioned chores. The rural setting, with open fields and historic buildings, makes it one of the most memorable stops on Washington Island.
The Miller Art Museum in Sturgeon Bay
Located in the heart of downtown Sturgeon Bay, the Miller Art Museum is a cultural gem that celebrates Wisconsin art through rotating exhibitions and a permanent collection. The museum focuses primarily on two-dimensional visual art, featuring everything from landscapes to abstract work.
The permanent collection includes works by local and regional artists, and temporary exhibitions introduce visitors to emerging and established creators. Admission is free, and the intimate space allows for a quiet and thoughtful exploration of each piece. It’s a great spot for art lovers looking for a mix of tradition and innovation.
Alexander Noble House Museum in Fish Creek
The Alexander Noble House stands as one of the oldest homes in Fish Creek and offers a window into upper-middle-class life in the late 1800s. The home belonged to one of the town’s founders and has been preserved with original furnishings, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Fish Creek’s evolution from a lumber and fishing village to a tourist destination.
Visitors can explore the parlor, bedrooms, and study, as well as rotating exhibits that highlight local customs, businesses, and residents. The museum often hosts special programs during the summer season that bring deeper historical context to the area.
Baileys Harbor Range Lights and Historical Society Museum
Baileys Harbor’s Range Lights are a must-see for lighthouse enthusiasts. Part of the Ridges Sanctuary, the lights were used to guide ships safely into the harbor and are among the oldest lighthouses still standing in Door County. While visiting the sanctuary, you can tour the lower and upper range lights and learn how lighthouse keepers once maintained them.
Nearby, the Baileys Harbor Historical Society offers small but informative exhibits about the town’s history, including its fishing, shipping, and logging industries. The peaceful surroundings and unique architecture make this museum stop well worth your time.
Belgian Heritage Center in Brussels
In southern Door County, the Belgian Heritage Center in Brussels honors the contributions of the Belgian immigrants who settled in this area during the 19th century. The site includes a chapel and historical displays that illustrate Belgian customs, language, and agricultural life.
Many of the exhibits focus on rebuilding after the devastating fire of 1871, which destroyed much of the Belgian settlement. Guests will find interpretive panels, personal stories, and a deep sense of pride in preserving this unique part of Door County history. It’s a fascinating look at a community that often goes under the radar.
Stavkirke on Washington Island
While not a museum in the traditional sense, the Stavkirke on Washington Island is one of the most iconic structures in Door County. Modeled after medieval Norwegian churches, this hand-built wooden church is surrounded by forest and offers a tranquil space for contemplation. Inside, the woodwork is intricate and symbolic, and visitors often remark on the sense of peace the space provides.
It is maintained by the local Lutheran church, and while it hosts worship services during the summer, visitors are welcome to walk the wooded path and explore the interior. It stands as a testament to the Scandinavian roots that still influence much of the culture in Door County.
Door County’s museums are more than places to pass time. They are spaces that tell stories, preserve memory, and celebrate the people and places that define this beloved region. Whether you’re stepping into a restored farmhouse, climbing a lighthouse tower, or studying regional art, you’re connecting with the heart of Door County.
These museums reflect the creativity, perseverance, and spirit of the communities they represent. No matter the season, no matter your interests, there’s always something waiting to be discovered behind their doors.
So the next time you visit Door County, set aside some time for a museum or two. It’s a meaningful way to deepen your experience and come away with more than souvenirs — you’ll leave with stories, insight, and a deeper connection to the place.
