Where to Stay for Comfort, Charm, and Unforgettable Views
Door County is one of the Midwest’s most charming destinations. With its historic towns, scenic coastlines, and peaceful natural preserves, it draws visitors from all over the country. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family vacation, or a quiet solo escape, where you stay plays a major role in shaping your experience. Thankfully, Door County has an incredible variety of lodging options that reflect its warm character and natural beauty. From boutique hotels to rustic cabins and everything in between, there’s something for every traveler.
If you’re wondering where to book your stay, this guide will help you explore some of the best lodging accommodations across the peninsula.
Boutique Hotels and Upscale Stays
For those looking for something special with modern amenities and a personalized experience, Door County’s boutique hotels are the perfect fit. Many of these properties are located near popular downtown areas like Fish Creek, Sister Bay, and Ephraim. One of the most popular adult-only options is The Ashbrooke Hotel in Egg Harbor. With suites that include fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and plush bedding, it’s a favorite for couples seeking a quiet, refined retreat. Its central location makes it easy to walk to shops, restaurants, and the shoreline.
In Sister Bay, The Dörr Hotel combines clean, Scandinavian design with cozy elegance. It’s one of Door County’s newer accommodations, and it offers a perfect mix of style and comfort just steps from the Sister Bay Marina. Guests appreciate the sleek, minimalist décor, balconies overlooking the village, and access to both local events and nature-based excursions.
If you’re staying in Fish Creek, the Water Street Inn is a waterfront favorite with a rich history and a reputation for its location. The inn sits right along Green Bay, offering stunning views of the water and direct access to the village’s dining, shopping, and entertainment scene.
Charming Bed and Breakfasts
For a warm, personal touch, Door County’s bed and breakfast inns provide the kind of intimate lodging experience that turns first-time visitors into regulars. These properties often reflect the region’s charm and history, with antique furnishings, beautiful gardens, and homemade breakfasts that rival anything on a restaurant menu.
In Fish Creek, the White Gull Inn is iconic. It’s one of the oldest continually operating inns in the area and has become famous for its fish boils and hearty breakfasts. With a blend of historic character and modern comforts, it offers a peaceful escape just a short stroll from Sunset Park and Peninsula State Park.
Thorp House Inn & Cottages is another Fish Creek gem, combining literary history with cozy, cottage-style lodging. Its Victorian architecture, welcoming hosts, and thoughtful details create an environment where you feel more like a guest in a friend’s home than a traveler passing through.
If you find yourself in Ephraim, Eagle Harbor Inn provides classic charm with the added bonus of private whirlpools, fireplaces, and kitchenettes in its suites. The property also includes a garden, gazebo, and easy access to nearby galleries, shops, and waterfront paths.
Family-Friendly Resorts
Traveling with kids or a larger group? Door County is known for its welcoming resorts that cater to families looking for space, amenities, and a variety of activities. These properties offer the convenience of on-site pools, game rooms, playgrounds, and even dining, allowing you to relax while your family stays entertained.
The Landmark Resort in Egg Harbor is one of the largest and most well-equipped resorts in the county. Offering one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites with full kitchens, the resort provides incredible flexibility for families or friend groups. There are both indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, a fitness center, and scenic hiking trails right on the property. Its location near the bluffs of Green Bay offers sweeping sunset views and easy access to the villages of Fish Creek and Sister Bay.
In Baileys Harbor, Gordon Lodge offers a combination of cabins, lodge rooms, and private homes on a sprawling 130-acre property. With an on-site restaurant, private beach, kayaks, and walking trails, it’s ideal for families who want to blend lakeside adventure with relaxation. The lodge also includes a complimentary breakfast buffet and free use of bikes and other amenities.
Scandinavian Lodge in Sister Bay is a family-friendly resort offering spacious condo-style accommodations with full kitchens, whirlpool tubs, and fireplaces. The lodge features indoor and outdoor pools, a sauna, tennis courts, and a game room, making it ideal for travelers seeking both relaxation and recreation in a central location. Its convenient proximity to Sister Bay’s downtown area means you’re just minutes from the waterfront, restaurants, and shops, while still enjoying a peaceful, residential-style retreat.
Cottages and Cabins for a Rustic Escape
Some visitors to Door County prefer to escape into nature entirely. If you’re drawn to the idea of waking up surrounded by trees, listening to waves lap against the shore, or watching a sunset from your deck, a rustic cottage or cabin might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Cliff Dwellers Resort in Sturgeon Bay offers a blend of wooded privacy and waterfront access. Each of their individually decorated cabins includes a kitchen, making them ideal for longer stays or travelers who prefer to cook in. The resort features a small marina, picnic areas, and beautiful views of the water.
DC Cabin Collective offers a newer take on the rustic cabin experience. These cabins blend Scandinavian-inspired minimalism with rustic wood finishes and modern amenities. Their cabins are perfect for couples, small families, or remote workers looking for peace and WiFi in equal measure. Located close to the shorelines and trails, they provide the perfect home base for outdoor exploration.
For a more traditional lakeside cottage experience, Baileys Sunset Motel & Cottages is located just outside Baileys Harbor and offers comfortable, affordable stays with access to walking trails, picnic areas, and dark skies perfect for stargazing.
Pet-Friendly Lodging
Bringing your dog along? Door County is surprisingly pet-friendly, and many lodging properties welcome your four-legged companions. From open parks and dog beaches to trails and patios, there’s no reason to leave your pet behind.
Open Hearth Lodge in Sister Bay is a favorite among dog owners. With a large green space, walking paths, and a dog-friendly attitude, it’s ideal for travelers who want their pets to be just as welcome as they are. The lodge includes indoor pool access, continental breakfast, and proximity to Sister Bay’s main attractions.
Beachfront Inn in Baileys Harbor offers pet-friendly rooms that open directly onto the beach, allowing your dog to run and splash in Lake Michigan with ease. With fire pits, a beachside deck, and walkable access to town, it’s perfect for a casual, no-fuss getaway.
Camping and Outdoor Adventures
For those who want to immerse themselves completely in nature, Door County offers outstanding camping options. From rugged hike-in sites to well-equipped family campgrounds, you can choose your level of adventure.
Peninsula State Park is one of the most popular campgrounds in the Midwest. Its sites accommodate tents and RVs, and many are located near the water or forest trails. The park includes miles of hiking and biking trails, a golf course, a beach, and a historic lighthouse.
Newport State Park offers hike-in only campsites for a truly back-to-nature experience. Known as Wisconsin’s only designated wilderness park and a certified dark sky park, it’s a favorite for backpackers, stargazers, and those who want solitude.
Wagon Trail Campground in Ellison Bay offers a more structured experience with cozy yurts, cabins, and traditional tent or RV campsites. The campground features clean facilities, nature trails, and a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere.
No matter what kind of traveler you are, Door County has lodging that fits your needs.
Whether you’re drawn to the modern comforts of a boutique hotel, the quiet charm of a bed and breakfast, or the natural beauty of a rustic cabin in the woods, this peninsula delivers hospitality with heart.
The best part of staying in Door County is that your accommodations are never far from adventure. You can hike the bluffs at Peninsula State Park in the morning, browse art galleries in the afternoon, dine under the stars in the evening, and return to a place that feels just like home—or even better.
Booking early, especially during peak summer and fall weekends, is highly recommended. With so many beautiful places to stay, it’s not a matter of if you’ll find a place you love, but which one you’ll fall in love with first.
