Cana Island Lighthouse
By Sherra Meyers
Visiting Door County, Wisconsin, for a wedding is an experience that celebrates love and the breathtaking beauty of one of the Midwest’s most cherished destinations. Nestled between the calming waters of Lake Michigan and Green Bay, the 70-mile-long peninsula of Door County is a sanctuary of natural beauty, brimming with activities and sights that promise to make any wedding trip unforgettable.
The allure of Door County in the fall is unmatched. The landscape transforms into a tapestry of vibrant colors, with sugar maples and white birches painting the trails of Peninsula State Park in hues of gold and crimson. It’s the perfect backdrop for a wedding, offering guests a celebration of love and an immersion into nature’s grandeur. For those seeking a bit of adrenaline, biking along the Niagara Escarpment provides stunning views of Green Bay’s lively waves, while the historic Eagle Bluff Lighthouse offers a glimpse into the area’s rich maritime heritage.
Door County is not just about its natural beauty; it’s also a hub for local artisans and a testament to the area’s vibrant arts scene. The waterfront villages are bustling with creativity, home to potters, painters, and glass blowers whose work adds a unique touch to the local galleries. This presents a wonderful opportunity for wedding guests to explore and take home a piece of Door County’s artistic legacy.
Woodwalk Gallery
The culinary scene in Door County is equally impressive, with a focus on local produce that captivates the palate. Fall is apple season, and visiting family-run orchards like Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery and Market in Fish Creek offers a delightful taste of local flavors. From Honeycrisp to Sweetango, the apples here are fresh off the trees, turning into ciders, pies, donuts, and butter that are simply irresistible. Seaquist Orchards further enriches this experience with its exceptional cherries and apples, making it a must-visit for anyone attending a wedding in the area.
Seaquist Orchards
Anchored Roots Wineyard & Winery
For those looking to extend the wedding celebration, Door County offers several charming venues for rehearsal dinners or welcome parties. With its eclectic beer garden and live music, Cherry Hut offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for guests to mingle and enjoy local brews from Bridge Up Brewing. Similarly, Door County Brewing Co. and Wild Tomato Wood-Fired Pizza provide delightful dining experiences that showcase the best of local cuisine, from classic barbeque to wood-fired pizzas.
Door County offers many group outings and activities, ensuring that wedding guests have plenty to explore. Renard’s, a full-service deli bistro and cheese store, is a haven for cheese lovers, offering tastings of over 100 cheeses made at Rosewood Dairy. Nature enthusiasts will find solace in The Ridges Sanctuary, Wisconsin’s oldest non-profit nature reserve, where the beauty of native birds and wildflowers can be enjoyed along the trails.
Renard’s Artisan Cheese
Wild Tomato Wood-fired Pizza and Grille
For those seeking adventure, Maxwelton Braes offers an award-winning 18-hole golf course, while the iconic Cana Island Lighthouse provides a unique experience with its hay wagon rides and stunning views from atop the tower. Island Orchard Cider in Ellison Bay is perfect for hard cider enthusiasts, offering tastings of Normandy-style ciders in a cozy taproom. Sister Bay, the largest village of the Northern Door, is ideal for guests looking to explore local restaurants, shops, and unique coffee spots, all within walking distance of the marina and beach. And for those interested in hiking, Whitefish Dunes State Park presents a stunning range of forests and dunes, including “Old Baldy,” the highest sand dune in Wisconsin.
Whitefish Dunes
Peninsula State Park
Nestled in the heart of Ephraim, Wisconsin, the Hillside Waterfront Hotel stands as a beacon of luxury and history. This boutique hotel, reminiscent of a quaint house by the bay, offers breathtaking views of Wisconsin’s charm. With its five elegant bedrooms and two cozy cottages, the hotel promises a stay that combines comfort with the allure of Door County’s offerings. Whether you’re here to explore the scenic beauty or to celebrate your special moments, Hillside Waterfront Hotel is your gateway to an unforgettable experience.
Just a short drive away, Sturgeon Bay reveals one of nature’s spectacular scenes at Cave Point County Park. The park is famed for its stunning limestone sea caverns and panoramic views of Lake Michigan. It’s a sought-after venue for intimate weddings, where the beauty of sunrise and the romance of the evening moon create picture-perfect moments. Imagine exchanging vows against the backdrop of nature’s grandeur, making your special day truly magical.
For those who appreciate the fusion of art and nature, Woodwalk Gallery offers an unparalleled setting. This historic barn, transformed into an enchanting art gallery, showcases the works of over 100 regional and Wisconsin local artists. The gallery is not just a feast for the eyes but also a vibrant venue for weddings, live music events, dining, and workshops. Getting married in the serene gardens of Woodwalk Gallery, surrounded by art and natural beauty, promises a unique and memorable celebration.
Burnt Bluff Stone and Glass
No visit to Door County would be complete without experiencing the local cuisine. Scaturo’s Baking Co. and Café, a staple in Sturgeon Bay, welcomes visitors with its homely vibe and delicious, locally sourced fare. From seasonal dishes and pizzas to delectable baked goods, the café offers something for every palate. Moreover, for those planning a small wedding, Scaturo’s catering service ensures your celebration is adorned with mouth-watering flavors.
Macready Artisan Bread Company
Door County, Wisconsin, emerges as an enchanting destination, especially during the fall when it’s cloaked in vibrant hues and the air is filled with the promise of adventure and relaxation. From the lush trails of Peninsula State Park to the historic Cana Island Lighthouse, from the cozy charm of local orchards to the bustling energy of Sister Bay, this region offers a mosaic of experiences that cater to every kind of traveler. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of outdoor activities, the rich tapestry of local arts and crafts, or the simple joy of tasting the season’s bounty right from the source, Door County invites you to fall in love with its unique splendor. As the leaves begin their colorful dance, consider this your invitation to explore, taste, and revel in the autumnal magic of Door County.
