A Day in Door County: A Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Door County has a way of stealing your heart in just one day. Whether you're here for a quick getaway or scoping it out for future adventures (spoiler: you will want to come back), we've crafted the perfect itinerary to help you experience the best of the area—quaint cafés, stunning waterfronts, local charm, and all. Here's how to spend a magical day soaking in the beauty of Sturgeon Bay and beyond.

8:00 AM – Wake Up with Waterfront Views
Start your morning at Bridgeport Waterfront Resort, where cozy meets classy. Wake up to views of the Sturgeon Bay Canal, enjoy a hot cup of coffee on your private patio or balcony, and breathe in that crisp Door County air. You’re already winning the day, and you haven’t even put on your walking shoes yet.

9:00 AM – Breakfast at The Get Real Café
Let’s get real—breakfast is serious business. Head to The Get Real Café, a local gem just minutes from the resort, known for its wholesome, feel-good food. This is the kind of place where your avocado toast is made with love, your smoothie is blended with fresh, organic ingredients, and your taste buds do a little happy dance. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just into delicious food that doesn’t come out of a box, this café has you covered.

📍 Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9 AM to 3 PM—so  plan your visit accordingly!

10:30 AM – Stroll Through Sturgeon Bay’s Historic Downtown
Take a leisurely walk through historic downtown Sturgeon Bay, where charming shops, art galleries, and boutique stores line the streets. Pop into a few, chat with friendly locals, and maybe pick up a Door County cherry jam or hand-poured candle to remember your trip by. Bonus: everything is walk-able and ridiculously photogenic.

12:00 PM – Explore the Maritime Museum
Dive into Door County’s nautical past at the Door County Maritime Museum. Explore ship models, climb aboard a restored tugboat, and take in panoramic views from the 10-story lighthouse tower. It’s history with a side of wow.

1:30 PM – Lunch with a View
Hungry? Head over to one of the waterfront restaurants nearby for a relaxing lunch. From fresh-caught whitefish sandwiches to artisan flat breads and local brews, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Try Sonny’s Italian Kitchen & Pizzeria if you're feeling saucy (in a pizza-and-pasta kind of way).

3:00 PM – Scenic Drive up the Peninsula
Jump in the car and take a scenic drive north. The route from Sturgeon Bay toward Egg Harbor or Fish Creek is packed with postcard-perfect landscapes. Rolling orchards, rustic barns, and sweeping views of the bay—yes, please. Make a quick pit stop at a roadside farm stand or winery if the mood strikes (spoiler: it will).

4:30 PM – Peninsula State Park Mini Adventure
Stretch your legs with a short hike or bike ride through Peninsula State Park. Whether you go lighthouse-spotting or just admire the bluffside views of Green Bay, the park delivers the kind of natural beauty that has you texting your friends, “Why didn’t we come here sooner?”

6:30 PM – Dinner & Sunset Vibes
Wrap up your day with a waterfront dinner back in Sturgeon Bay or try one of the cozy supper clubs up the peninsula. Time it right, and you’ll catch one of those iconic Door County sunsets that light up the sky in shades of gold, pink, and lavender. It's pure magic. Pair your meal with a local wine or craft cocktail, and savor the view as sailboats drift lazily across the horizon. It’s the kind of moment that makes you want to linger just a little longer.

8:30 PM – Relax & Unwind at Bridgeport
Head back to Bridgeport Waterfront Resort, kick off your shoes, and relax by the fireplace or take a dip in the indoor pool. Whether you're traveling as a couple, with the family, or flying solo, there's no better place to recharge and reflect on your perfect day in Door County.

Ready to plan your own Door County adventure? Start with a stay at Bridgeport Waterfront Resort and let the rest unfold naturally. Just bring your curiosity—and maybe an appetite for cherry pie.