A Guide to Making Dad Feel Celebrated
Father’s Day is the perfect time to step away from the everyday routine and spend meaningful moments with the man who taught you how to fish, grill the perfect burger, or simply be present. If you’re lucky enough to be in Door County for the holiday, you’ll find it offers the kind of relaxing, memory-making experiences that dads really appreciate. Whether he’s the adventurous type, a foodie, or someone who simply wants to take it easy, Door County has something special in store for Father’s Day weekend.
Start the day with breakfast at Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant in Sister Bay. The iconic goats on the roof might get the kids excited, but the hearty portions of Swedish pancakes, lingonberries, and thick-cut bacon will be what Dad remembers. If he prefers something more low-key, Blue Horse Beach Café in Fish Creek offers great coffee and a front-row seat to the bay.
After breakfast, take to the water. Charter a fishing boat out of Ephraim Harbor or Sister Bay Marina and spend a few hours casting for smallmouth bass or walleye. If Dad would rather sit back and take in the scenery, a cruise with Sail Door County or a lighthouse tour with Door County Boats will give him a chance to enjoy Lake Michigan in style.
Prefer something on land? Head over to Peninsula State Park for a morning hike or bike ride. The Eagle Trail offers stunning shoreline views and a bit of a workout, while the Sunset Bike Trail is a more relaxed ride through forests and meadows. You can also rent bikes from Nor Door Sport & Cyclery if you didn’t bring your own.
When lunchtime rolls around, treat Dad to burgers and craft brews at Door County Brewing Co. in Baileys Harbor. Their music hall vibe is laid-back and family-friendly, and there’s often live music on weekends. Or, head to Wild Tomato in Fish Creek for wood-fired pizzas and local beer. Their outdoor patio is a summer favorite.
In the afternoon, consider stopping by a local distillery like Door County Distillery for a tasting of vodka, gin, and bourbon made right in Sturgeon Bay. For something lighter, the Door County Wine Trail offers several spots where you can enjoy a glass of wine with scenic views. If you’d rather stay active, a round of golf at Peninsula State Park Golf Course or Stonehedge Golf Course might be just the ticket.
As the day winds down, make dinner a special affair. Chop in Sister Bay serves some of the best steaks in the county, while The Fireside in Egg Harbor offers modern comfort food with a twist. If your family prefers a casual evening, a sunset picnic at Waterfront Park with takeout from Not Licked Yet or Julie’s Park Café hits the spot.
And of course, no Father’s Day is complete without a spectacular sunset. Head to Sunset Park in Fish Creek or Anderson Dock in Ephraim to watch the sky light up in orange, pink, and gold as the day comes to a close.
Father’s Day in Door County isn’t about elaborate plans or expensive gifts. It’s about time together, the fresh air, the lake breeze, and the chance to celebrate everything Dad means to your family. Whether your day is packed with adventures or simply spent watching the boats go by, it’s sure to be one he’ll never forget.
