27 Best & Fun Things to Do in Sturgeon Bay (WI)

In search of the best and fun things to do in Sturgeon Bay, WI?

Sturgeon Bay is a charming town and the county seat of Door County, Wisconsin, United States. Sturgeon Bay and its surrounding communities rest between Green Bay and Lake Michigan in Door County, Wisconsin.

The nature-loving city is locally known for its Bridge, and the time of its opening in 1931 for the second across the bay & to carry WIS 17 (currently WIS 42 & WIS 57/78.

Explore all the fantastic things Sturgeon Bay offers, including shopping, waterfront lodging, and other fun, family-friendly activities. Below are the best things to do in Sturgeon, Bay.

Things to Do in Sturgeon Bay

1. Whitefish Dunes State Park

Whitefish Dunes State Park was originally established to preserve and protect the Dune ecosystem in Door County.

It is a wonderful place for walking near Lake Michigan. Clark Lake is also a great place to enjoy leisure activities in the State Park.

Enjoy fishing, watching the waterfalls, or just walking around the wetlands while at the park.

There are more than 14 miles worth of trails in the park, which run through the forested and sand dunes.

To protect rare species of animals and plants, the dunes cannot be climbed.

There are also many displays, geology and ecology exhibitions, programs, as well as historical events that are held throughout the year at this park.

A visit to the Whitefish Dunes State Park is one of the best fun things to do in Sturgeon Bay, and it is worth adding to your checklist of places to visit in Sturgeon Bay, WI.

2. Door County Maritime Museum

Every city has its own cultural and historical impact upon a traveler when he arrives at his destination.

Door County Maritime Museum in Sturgeon Bay is one example of a place that could make a significant impact on your life.

This museum was established in 1969 and had four galleries, lighthouses, models of ships, boats, and shipwrecks. It also houses shipbuilding companies.

The Maritime Museum is different than a regular museum because it has an indoor exhibit that includes water.

A submarine periscope is also available at the museum. This can be used to view the nearby views and take a look at Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding.

Door County Maritime Museum is open to individuals of all ages and provides a lot of information about the shipbuilding industry.

Address: 120 N Madison Ave, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, United States

3. Cave Point County Park

Cave Point County Park opens every Monday through Sunday from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm.

Cave Point County Park is a well-known area to visit for sightseeing and tourists who know the place to stop and explore. Cave Point County Park features underwater caves and wave-worm limestone cliffs by fishers, photographers, scuba divers, and nature observers.

If you’re searching for a place to plan a family of friends picnic, you should go to the Cave Point County Park as it has picnic tables, fire rings, grills, and neatly kept restrooms.

The road to the Cave Point County Park is blacktopped, and the trails have had gravel put down for easy access/walking.

The Park looks fantastic and bears a picturesque view, especially when the winds and the seas are from the East. During the times of winter, for those who are strong-hearted, you can watch the waves, currents, and freezing weather had coated the rocks and trees with a picturesque coat is brilliant sparkling ice.

Address: 5360 Schauer Rd, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235-8266

4. Door County Historical Museum

Door County Historical Museum is a fascinating historical museum that consists of memorabilia from the past and other current items.

The Door County Historical Museum staff welcomes you immediately you walk into the museum; they will also give you a quick orientation about the museum and the things you need to know.

Take a self-guided tour in the Door County Historical Museum to discover several exhibits as it offers an expansive introduction to the history of Door County.

In the Door County Historical Museum, you will find a retired historical fire station with actual fire trucks, sleighs, newspaper clippings, and pictures of businesses. You will also discover military memorabilia, commemorative plates, and many other unique antiques and artifacts you will find.

You will learn many things when you explore Door County Historical Museum. Visit the hidden gem in Sturgeon Bay as it is worth your time.

Address: 18 N 4th Ave, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235-2423

5. The Garden Door

One of the best things to do in Sturgeon Bay for nature lovers is visiting the Garden Door, and it is worth adding to your checklist.

The beautiful garden was opened in 2005 at the University of Wisconsin Peninsular Agricultural Research Station. It is just off Highway 42.

The Garden Door was created by associates of Door County Master Gardener’s Association.

The garden is currently maintained by the same people, and it contains a small fairy garden, a children’s play area, and decorative grass with strangely-grown bottle trees.

There is also a pond with koi, kaleidoscopes, and a memorial tunnel in the garden. There are also natural beds for seasonal and perineal purposes.

The garden has many other areas. It also features a community garden that is the hub for volunteers and researchers.

This area of the garden can be used to harvest summer crops and serves as an extension plant for the U.W.

It is a beautiful place to visit, whether you are traveling with your family, friends, or a loved one.

Address: 4312 WI-42, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, United States

6. Simon Creek Vineyard & Winery

Simon Creek Vineyard and Winery provides its visitors with the complete winery experience, from the magnificent tasting room and the gift/retail area to the impressive vineyard.

Simon Creek Vineyard and Winery feature free winery tours that cover an excellent review of the wine-making process from the harvest period down to the bottling.

Tours stop at the tasting room, which overlooks the beautiful vineyards, the wine cellar, and the incredible pond. There is an outdoor setting in the winery that permits visitors to relax and enjoy the scenic view while enjoying a glass or a bottle of their award-winning wines.

Simon Creek Vineyard and Winery have produced some of the finest fruit and grape wines in the United States of America and have each received recognition and medals.

The great winery and vineyard have become one of Door County’s premier attractions as it hosts more than 60,000 guests in a year. You will enjoy the free live music of several genres like county music, jazz, rhythm and blues, old rock time rock and roll, and lots more in the outdoor deck.

Address: 5896 Bochek Rd, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235-8256

7. Third Avenue Playhouse

For some Theatre time, add a visit to the Third Avenue Playhouse to your checklist of things to do in Sturgeon Bay.

Third Avenue Playhouse, a highly acclaimed and high-quality professional theatre in Sturgeon Bay, is an integral part of Sturgeon Bay’s art and cultural life.

In 1950, the theatre was renamed the “Donna Theater.” It was later transformed into a performing arts center in 1990.

In June 2012, the playhouse area was moved into the new space. It provides a unique artistic experience for visitors, allowing them to share powerful stories.

Since its inception, the theatre has produced more than 50 professional plays and concerts, as well as short films, staged readings, and other events.

It is also well-known for its many educational opportunities that focus on history and culture.

Third Avenue Playhouse is an attraction worth visiting for anyone who loves fine arts or wants to be a part of an emotional, intense story.

Address: 239 N 3rd Ave, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, United States

8. Heritage Village by the Creek

If you’re interested in learning more about the history and development of the city, Heritage Village at Big Creek should be added to your list of things to do in Sturgeon Bay.

The area is comprised of nine buildings that are historical landmarks. The historic eminence is not the only thing offered at the site.

There are also demonstrations and a tool museum as well as special events throughout the year.

To allow residents to live an organic and simple life, the village was created. The present village was established in 1991 and is currently managed by 350 volunteers from Door County Historical Society.

Address: 2041 Michigan St, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, United States

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9. Sturgeon Bay Farmer’s Market

Sturgeon Bay Farmer’s Market welcomes several friendly vendors with different items, including furniture, flowers, fresh produce, arts and crafts, vegetables, baked goods and fruit, cheese, and lots more.

You will also find toys for your kids in Sturgeon Bay Farmer’s Market. Food trucks offer delicious foods in the Farmer’s Market, and you will love them; they serve BBQ, fruit Crepes, coffee, Chinese food, etc.

You are sure to purchase some of the best things in Sturgeon Bay Farmer’s Market, Winsconsin.

Sturgeon Bay Farmer’s Market is at Michigan St & N 4th Ave Sturgeon Bay, WI.

The market is accessible from June through October from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon. The Farmer’s Market is a place you need to explore.

10. Inn at Cedar Crossing

The Inn At Cedar Crossing is a beautiful, well-decorated inn that is only a short walk from all the main attractions of the city.

There are many rooms in the inn that have been decorated with antique furniture and textiles. This gives it a rich atmosphere.

The inn offers a variety of amenities in all rooms. Visitors also have free parking, which is very handy when staying in a big city.

Hot breakfast is available in the morning. It also boasts a bakery, library, bar, shared lounge, and a kitchen.

The restaurant serves delicious food at affordable prices and is open daily to the public.

Address: 112 N 3rd Ave, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, United States

11. Door County Fire Company

For a memorable dining experience, add a visit to Door County Fire Company to your list of things to do in Sturgeon Bay.

Door County Firehouse Company was established in 1907 and is a well-known, family-friendly restaurant in Sturgeon Bay.

This restaurant’s story is unique.

The original restaurant was started from a functional firehouse. After the departure of the firemen from the firehouse, the restaurant was later renovated and completely remodeled.

It was abandoned for over seven years but was reopened in 2017. The restaurant currently operates at two locations.

The old garage houses the dining room and bar, while the banquet area is located in what was once the town hall and firehouse offices.

This restaurant serves American classics and is worth adding to your list of things to do in Sturgeon Bay.

Address: 38 S 3^rd Ave, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, United States

12. Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal North Pierhead Light

Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal North Pierhead Light rest at the operational United State Coast Guard station on the Lake Michigan end of Sturgeon Bay ship canal.

Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal North Pierhead Light was built in 1882; the station was erected with a tower light in 1899, reconstructed in 1903, and automated in 1972. The lower level breakwall of the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal North Pierhead Light is the only section of the area accessible to the public.

The Pierhead Light is an exciting place you need to discover as it is beautiful and fun to walk around to learn new things. You will also enjoy a scenic view of Lake Michigan sunrise.

Enjoy watching ships go in and out of the canal with your friends or family. If you love to hike or view the area from a different angle, you will also find a nature preserve on the opposite side of the canal.

This is one of the top things to do in Sturgeon Bay, WI, have fun taking some pictures in the picturesque Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal North Pierhead Light.

 13. Crossfit Armati

If you wish to keep fit while in Sturgeon Bay, add a visit to the Crossfit Armati to your checklist of things to do in Sturgeon Bay, WI.

The gym has the finest equipment and supportive coaches that will help you grow your fitness community.

There are many programs offered at the facility, but the most popular is the strength and conditioning program.

This program is popular among police academics, military personnel, martial artists, and other athletes around the globe.

It is designed to promote a healthy attitude and overall fitness in participants. This program can be used to improve your life skills, such as rescuing, combat, survival, and basic sports, and how to live a healthy lifestyle.

Address: 185 E Walnut St #140, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, United States

14. Potawatomi State Park

Among the many places to visit in Sturgeon Bay for some fun time, Potawatomi State Park is one worth adding to your checklist.

Potawatomi State Park, which covers almost 1200 acres of land in Door County, is a stunning park.

The park is surrounded by beautiful scenery that can help you forget all your worries and sadness.

You can spend your entire day there and still be fully engaged in the different activities. This park is ideal for walking, fishing, and other activities.

Address: 3740 Park Dr, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, United States

15. The Lighthouse Festival

There are many lighthouses in Sturgeon Bay that are more than just massive structures.

The lighthouse plays an important role in the city’s history. There are only three major lighthouses in the city.

Cana Island Light House is one of the most famous and beautiful lighthouses in Door County, built in 1869.

Another famous lighthouse is the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal North Pier Head Light House. The lighthouse, which is red in color, is operated by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Old Bailey’s Harbor Lighthouse, also known as the “Birdcage Lighthouse,” is well-known for its unusually shaped lightroom. It was founded in 1852, but it was only used for a brief time till 1869.

Door County Lighthouse Festival is the ideal event for all those who love lighthouses. This event takes place in June, the summer month.

The event is held every year and gives insight into the history and journeys of the lighthouses.

The festival takes visitors to different islands where lighthouses can be found. You can only get a closer look at some of them because they aren’t generally open to the public.

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16. Destination Door County

Destination Door County is an excellent place for tourists to visit as it is a Welcome Center for visitors to stop as they start their fun vacation experiences.

In Destination Door County, you will find friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful staff who will guide and inform you on the things you need to know about the city and the incredible places to explore.

You will get local insight and trip planning assistance, brochures, and guide books that will help you to discover areas of attractions, lodging, and so on.

You will get to know places to watch the sunrise and the sunset, art galleries, great restaurants, wineries, water fun activities, lighthouses, and others.

Destination Door County opens every Monday through Sunday from 12:00 am to 11:59 pm.

Address: 1015 Green Bay Rd, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235-3816

17. Go Fishing

Fishing is one of the best ways to have fun while vacationing in Sturgeon Bay. Visitors can fish in the city’s surrounding areas.

There are many service providers that can help you make your fishing trip memorable, in addition to the natural opportunities.

There are also a variety of fishing tournaments throughout the year that offer prizes for the winners.

This tournament will allow you to not only earn some money but also help you get to know the local fishing culture. Open Bass Tournament is the most well-known fishing tournament. It is held in May.

This answers what to do in Sturgeon Bay, WI, for a fun time with friends, do add to your list of Sturgeon Bay activities.

18. Popelka Trenchard Glass

Popelka Trenchard Glass is a unique place to find spectacular and affordable glassworks.

The place is clean, and you will find the production area open from the viewing floor. The staff in Popelka Trenchard Glass are friendly and nice.

The owners are kind and helpful as they will love to explain the glassworks and other things in the store; they can also help you choose the perfect piece as there are unique selections of works.

Address: 64 S 2nd Ave, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235-2526

19. Tour the City

Sturgeon Bay is the perfect spot for those who love adventure and are interested in activities like kayaking or paddleboarding.

Bay Shore Outfitters is the most well-known service provider and will offer you the best equipment and opportunities to enjoy kayaking and feel the adrenaline rush in the body.

You can also enjoy the beauty of D.C. by taking the D.C. Adventure Centre zipline. Enjoy the beautiful views from the zip line.

Segway The Door is a great option for those who feel lazy or unable to move or are not motivated to do any kind of physical activity.

This tour covers all the main attractions of the city and many more.

20. Shopping in Sturgeon Bay

There are many options when it comes to shopping at Sturgeon Bay. The Third Avenue District is home to many specialty shops, museums, and art galleries that offer artistic products at affordable prices.

The Greater Westside is the best place to go if you’re looking for something truly unique and custom-made.

The Bay Farmer’s Market is also available for fresh, organic produce, as well as vegetables and fruits.

There are many vendors on the market that can help you make the right choice and choose the right product for you.

21. The Farm

The Farm was established in 1965 and is a wonderful place to visit with your family, especially children.

This attraction represents American rural and agricultural life. You can enjoy many activities at the Farm that will allow you to connect with nature and all its beauty.

Bottle feeding goat calves are allowed on the Farm, as well as milking grown-up cows, goats, and other animals.

Learn the basics of gardening, including how to plant and harvest crops. There are also a few trails that can be walked, and they are often surrounded by greenery.

The Farm is a great place to spend time with yourself or make memories that will last a lifetime.

Address: 4285 WI-57, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, United States

22. Door Peninsula Winery

Wine connoisseurs should add a visit to Door Peninsula Winery to their list of things to do in Sturgeon Bay.

Door Peninsula Winery is one of the most well-known wineries in the region. It’s perfect for relaxing indoors and enjoying high-quality wines with family and friends.

The winery offers a wide range of wines, vodkas, and brandies. Some of these have won awards for their exotic flavor.

Wine tasting events are also offered by the winery. The winery also has a variety of tasty snacks like jellies and fudges, and it also has its own distillery.

Door Peninsula Winery offers a wonderful combination of exotic drinks at reasonable prices. It is the perfect place to go if you are looking for a quiet night out with the kids.

Address: 5806 WI-42, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, United States

23. George K. Pinney County Park

Are you searching for a beautiful place to relax and have a good time with your friends or family? It will be fun if you visit George K. Pinney County Park.

George K. Pinney County Park is a fantastic spot to visit to relax, stretch your legs and enjoy watching the waters or watching the waves during the windy mornings.

George K. Pinney is also an excellent spot for local fishers to access the waters of Green Bay, and it offers the perfect habitat for bass, northern, and perch alongside a modern boat launch.

The exciting park consists of an accessible fishing pier and is an excellent location to watch the sunset over the waters of Green Bay with your loved ones. There is a 6-lane boat launch in the park, harbor of refuge, pavilion, picnic area, pier fishing, and restrooms every year.

George K. Pinney County Park consists of 15 acres with about 1000 feet of water frontage. You will also enjoy taking a walk in the beautiful park.

Address: 4877 Bay Shore Dr, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235-9724

24. Lily Bay Pottery

If you are visiting Sturgeon Bay, one of the best places to visit is Lily Bay Pottery. 

When you step into the building, you will be surrounded by the gorgeous lake glittering at the edge of the property, the marsh marigolds blossoming along the road, and the lovely bluebell littered through the woods. 

This two-storied cedar-clad working studio welcomes you to explore the owner’s work and the process of bringing an idea to life by working into clay, glazing, and turning it into finished pottery. 

This work is beautiful, serene, and thoughtful and shows the color and beauty around Linda, the owner. 

Linda and Bart, her husband, are nice and friendly; you will not regret visiting this place. 

Come inside this building and purchase incredible pottery to remind you of your stay in Sturgeon Bay. 

Address:3450 N Lake Michigan Dr #9512, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, United States

25. Door 44

If you are a wine enthusiast, one of the things to do while vacationing in Sturgeon Bay is to visit Door 44. 

Door 44 is a six-acre vineyard and top-notch facility. Visit and taste their award-winning wines, walk around the 6 acres of vineyard, tour their winery, unwind on their patio, and enjoy the gorgeous view. 

The winery offers wine tasting of their award-winning wines throughout the year in their tasting rooms. 

The price you will pay for wine tasting is 5 dollars, including five wine samples of your picking and a free tasting glass. 

Address: 5464 Co Rd P, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, United States

26. Choice Orchards

Since 1984, Choice Orchards have been growing cherries and apples. During the early 1900s, these orchards were one of the largest Cherry producers worldwide and were handpicked. 

Today, Choice Orchards is an excellent place to come with your loved ones and pick your own apples and cherries. 

You can come with a lunch picnic and enjoy a lovely picnic at their tables outside the market. 

Also, you can take a walk through their tree trees, visit their historical “pickers shack,” and explore their farm market for gifts, tasty treats, produce, and lots more. 

Address: 4594 Co Rd HH, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, United States

27. Starboard Brewing Company

Another fun thing to do in Sturgeon Bay is to drink beer at Starboard Brewing Company. 

Starboard Brewing Company was established in 2014 and has created more than 340 varieties of brews. 

This place is the first Nano-brewery in Door County and is situated in downtown Sturgeon Bay. 

Visit their taproom and taste their exceptional lineup of in-house delicious brewed craft beers. 

You can also complement your drink with their mouthwatering Wisconsin Cheese, smoked salmon, and lots more. 

Starboard Brewing has a family-friendly atmosphere, so head over and enjoy their board games and Bumper Pool. 

Address: 151 N 3rd Ave, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, United States

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Plan Your Trip to Sturgeon Bay

If you love outdoor fun activities, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, is the right place to visit as there are fun and amazing things to do. If you love the waters and enjoy watching nature’s beauty, this city is for you.

You will discover lovely Lakes, historic lighthouses, parks, islands, excellent wineries, handmade cheese, sumptuous delicacies, bars, and restaurants, enjoy kayaking, watching the sunsets and the ships, explore picturesque places, playgrounds, ballgames, and lots more.

The 23 things listed above will guide you to the best places to visit in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, United States of America. So start now to plan your next fun trip to the friendly and beautiful city.