There’s something magical about Door County. The way the light hits the water at sunrise, the vibrant autumn hues, the endless horizons over Lake Michigan—this peninsula was practically made for photos. Whether you're chasing the perfect sunset selfie or looking to build an envy-inducing Instagram reel, Door County delivers jaw-dropping backdrops at every turn. So grab your camera, charge your phone, and pack a snack (because chasing beauty is hungry work). Here are the best spots to snap the most stunning photos in Door County—just minutes from your stay at Bridgeport Waterfront Resort.
📸 Pro tip: Use a long exposure for a silky water effect. Or just hold really still and pretend you're Ansel Adams. Cana Island Lighthouse – Classic Charm It’s not a Door County photo tour without a lighthouse--and Cana Island delivers. Walk the iconic causeway (wear waterproof shoes!) and capture this 19th-century beauty from every angle. The climb to the top? Worth every step for panoramic shots of the peninsula. 📸 Must try: Capture the reflection of the lighthouse in the surrounding waters for a double dose of coastal charm. Ellison Bluff – High Drama, No Hiking Required Not in the mood to trek? Ellison Bluff State Natural Area gives you serious elevation without a serious workout. The viewing platform sits high above Green Bay, giving you cinematic views without needing a carabiner. 📸 Pro tip: This spot is underrated for fall foliage shots. Come October, it’s pure color therapy.
The Shoreline at Bridgeport Waterfront Resort We’d be remiss not to include our very own backyard view. Walk out the back door and you’ll find the Ice Age Trail, a peaceful waterfront path with endless opportunities to snap photos of the harbor, boats, and occasionally, an audacious seagull trying to steal someone's sandwich. 📸 Don’t miss: Early morning mist on the water for a soft, ethereal shot—or stick around for the glow of the city lights at night reflected on the bay. Door Bluff Headlands – The Hidden Gem This one’s a bit off the beaten path, but Door Bluff Headlands County Park offers secluded views and a peaceful forest setting. It’s a great place to channel your inner landscape photographer or take dreamy engagement photos without a crowd. 📸 Nature whisperer tip: Go just after a rain for moody, misty forest shots that look straight out of a fairytale.
Be sure to tag @BridgeportResort in your photos and use the hashtag #BridgeportViews so we can admire your stunning shots (and maybe feature you!). And don’t forget--the best way to explore these places is with a cozy room to come back to. Book your stay at www.bridgeportresort.net and start planning your photo safari today. Bonus: Get Stunning Door County Photos Without Lifting a Finger If your photography skills are more “accidentally blurry thumb pic” than “Ansel Adams masterpiece,” don’t worry--DoorCo Photo has you covered. Our friends at DoorCo Photo specialize in capturing the very best of Door County, from iconic lighthouses to moody shoreline sunsets and everything in between. Whether you’re looking for a professional print to hang at home or just want to admire the beauty you almost caught on your phone, their work is guaranteed to impress. 🖼️ Stop by their gallery on 3rd Avenue in Sturgeon Bay to browse breathtaking prints in person or visit DoorCo Photo to order online and bring a piece of Door County magic home with you.
📸 Pro tip: Their photos make fantastic gifts, unless you're trying to outdo them with your own pictures. In that case… good luck.
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Whether you’re a hop-head chasing the next big IPA, a casual patio sipper, or someone just here for the pizza and live music--Door County has a brewery that’s calling your name. With scenery, creativity, and good Midwestern hospitality baked in, the local beer scene is a must-sip part of your vacation. Let’s explore every craft brewery in and around Door County—with detailed info, insider recs, and everything you need to plan a perfect tasting tour. Here’s your Bridgeport-approved guide to the best breweries in Door County. Grab your pint glass—it’s time to explore. 🍻 Complete Door County Brewery Guide
Must-Try:
Vibe: Lively, family- and dog-friendly, great for groups Pro Tip: On select weekends, they host food trucks and live bands—check their event calendar. Hacienda Beer Co. – Attached to Door County Brewing Hacienda is the cool sibling who listens to vinyl, grows herbs on their windowsill, and hands you a saison that tastes like sunshine and surprise. They focus on small-batch, modern American beers—think hazy IPAs, barrel-aged wild ales, and brews with funky yeast strains. Must-Try:
Vibe: Artsy, adventurous, for beer geeks and flavor-seekers Pro Tip: Their limited releases are often only available at the taproom—snag them when you can! One Barrel Brewing Company – Egg Harbor Born in Madison, One Barrel’s Egg Harbor outpost is a hit with tourists and locals alike. The taproom is bright, casual, and welcoming with indoor and outdoor seating and plenty of spots to chill with friends. They’re known for drinkable, crowd-pleasing beers, with a rotating selection that covers all the styles. Must-Try:
Vibe: Chill and family-friendly, good food (Wild Tomato Pizza), shaded beer garden Pro Tip: Try the “Crowler of the Day” for a fun surprise to-go. Shipwrecked Brew Pub – Egg Harbor Claiming the title of Door County’s first microbrewery, Shipwrecked has a storied history—literally. It’s located in a historic building that once hosted mobsters and survived a fire. Inside is a classic brewpub feel with a full-service restaurant and bar. It’s great for lunch, dinner, or simply parking yourself at the bar with a cold one. Must-Try:
Vibe: Historic, casual, good for families and history buffs Pro Tip: This is a great rainy-day stop—good food, indoor space, and beer to-go. Bridge Up Brewing Company – Sturgeon Bay A short walk or drive from Bridgeport Resort, Bridge Up is one of the smallest on this list—but big in heart, hops, and personality. The taproom is located below Sonny’s Italian Kitchen and Pizzeria and features an elevated view of the canal. The brewmaster is passionate about unique flavors, and the menu rotates frequently. Must-Try:
Vibe: Laid-back, tucked-away gem with great views Pro Tip: Order a pizza downstairs, grab a pint upstairs, and sit on the deck to watch boats pass through the canal bridge.
Vibe: Sophisticated, small-group focused, wine-drinker approved Pro Tip: Flights are a must. Ask your server what’s rare or nearly sold out. Peach Barn Farmhouse & Brewery – Sister Bay New on the scene but already a fan favorite, Peach Barn is part beer garden, part community hangout. The taproom is casual, with a wide lawn, live music stage, and family-friendly space. Bring the dog, bring the kids, bring the snacks. Their beer list is clean and easygoing, and there’s always something fresh. Must-Try:
Vibe: Backyard summer party, great for groups and families Pro Tip: Check their events calendar—they host yoga, farmers markets, and themed nights. Starboard Brewing Company – Sturgeon Bay They are Door County’s first nanobrewery, producing small, fire-brewed batches that frequently rotate. It's not uncommon for two new beers to hit the taps in the same week. Their taproom is located at 151 N. 3rd Avenue in downtown Sturgeon Bay and is known for its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a continuously rotating selection of original craft beers, play board games, or simply hang out. Must-Try:
Vibe: Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The taproom is a cozy space where visitors can enjoy board games, bumper pool, and sample fresh Wisconsin cheese alongside their beers. Pro Tip: Given the brewery's small-batch approach, popular beers can sell out quickly. If you find a brew you love, consider purchasing a growler to take home. 🚗 Tips for Touring Door County’s Breweries
🍒 Door County Beer Festival – Baileys Harbor Held every June, this is the main event for craft beer lovers in the region. Live music, food trucks, and over 150 beers to sample from around Wisconsin and the Midwest. 🍂 Fall Brew Weekend – Sturgeon Bay Celebrate Oktoberfest vibes with local brews, brats, and live music. Keep an eye out for pop-up events and seasonal brewery releases. 🎃 Door County’s Halloween Pub Crawl – Sturgeon Bay A spooky, beer-soaked tour of local watering holes. Costumes encouraged. Puns expected. 🏖️ Weekly Summer Music Series Many breweries—like Door County Brewing, Peach Barn, and One Barrel—host recurring live music events. Bring a lawn chair, grab a pint, and enjoy.
Door County isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling. It’s the scent of fresh coffee and cherry pastries, the sound of waves lapping against a marina, the glow of a lakeside sunset, and the joy of discovering something new in a place that feels like home. Nestled in the heart of Sturgeon Bay, Bridgeport Waterfront Resort captures all of that magic—and more. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo escape with nothing but a good book and your flip-flops, here’s why Bridgeport is the perfect home base for your Door County adventure. Spacious Suites Designed for Real Life Say goodbye to cramped hotel rooms and hello to room to breathe. Bridgeport’s condo-style suites give you the space you need to relax, unwind, and settle in. Enjoy fully equipped kitchens (yes, with full-size appliances!), living rooms with cozy fireplaces, private bedrooms, whirlpool tubs, and balconies with views of the water or the charming cityscape.
Step Out the Door and Onto the Trail Did you know you can literally step out our back door and straight onto one of the most legendary trails in the country? That’s right--the Ice Age National Scenic Trail passes right behind Bridgeport Waterfront Resort! Whether you’re up for a brisk morning hike, a peaceful nature walk or just want to say you walked part of a 1,200-mile trail carved by glaciers, it’s all just steps away. No driving. No planning. Just lace up and go.
While you're there, check out a few of Bridgeport Resort’s business partners located right on Third Avenue:
Amenities for Every Type of Traveler You’re here to relax—but also to have fun. Good news: Bridgeport has amenities for every kind of traveler.
And just a short walk from the resort is Otumba Park, a fantastic public space with picnic shelters, restrooms, a beach, tennis courts, basketball courts, playgrounds, grills, and a walkway that connects right to the waterfront. Bring the family, pack a lunch, and enjoy the perfect Door County Day just steps from your suite. Walkable to Dining, Shopping & Entertainment One of the best things about staying in Sturgeon Bay is that you’re within walking distance of so many great places. From Bridgeport, you can stroll to:
Family Friendly... and Date-Night Approved At Bridgeport, we pride ourselves on being kid-approved and romance-ready. Traveling with the whole family? You’ll find everything from cribs and highchairs to family-friendly amenities and activities. Planning a couples’ weekend? Enjoy peaceful evenings, cozy accommodations, and private spaces to reconnect. There’s something for every age and every stage—plus, our friendly staff is always ready to help with suggestions for outings, dining, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries. Four-Season Fun Sure, Door County shines in the summer—but Bridgeport is a year-round destination. In spring, enjoy blossoming cherry trees and fresh starts. In summer, soak up the sun and shoreline. In fall, get swept away by the color and charm of harvest festivals and apple picking. In winter, cozy up by the fire after a snowy hike or a day of boutique holiday shopping. Every season in Door County has its own magic—and we’re ready for all of them. The Warm Welcome You Deserve What truly sets Bridgeport apart? Our people. From the moment you book to the moment you (reluctantly) check out, we’re here to make your stay stress-free, fun, and unforgettable. We’re local experts, hospitality pros, and big fans of helping you have a really, really good time. Need extra towels? Got 'em. Want a dinner recommendation? Absolutely. Looking for the best hidden beach or sunset spot? We’ve got a list. Don’t Just Visit Door County--Experience It with Bridgeport Your vacation shouldn’t feel like work. Let Bridgeport Waterfront Resort be your basecamp for comfort, relaxation, and adventure. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, we’re honored to be part of your story. Visit Us: Bridgeport Waterfront Resort
50 W Larch Street, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 📞 920-746-9919 📧 [email protected] 🌐 www.bridgeportresort.net If Door County had a greatest hits album, lighthouses would be track one. With over 300 miles of peninsula and island shoreline, Door County is home to 11 historic lighthouses—each with its own story, charm, and Instagram-worthy view. Some stand tall and proud at the edge of the lake; others are nestled deep in nature preserves or perched on remote islands. But every one of them represents the spirit of Door County: resilient, beautiful, and just a little bit romantic.
These historic structures have guided ships, saved lives, and sparked countless love stories (and Instagram posts) for generations. Tips for Your Lighthouse Tour Across Door County
From the viewing area near the Coast Guard station, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the canal and lake. The lighthouse is especially magical at sunrise, when golden light reflects off the water and the lighthouse glows against the morning sky. While you can’t enter the tower, the setting alone is worth the visit—and your camera will thank you. Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Light (Coast Guard Station) Location: East side of the Ship Canal Access: Limited – viewable from outside the gates Not to be confused with the North Pierhead Light, this white cylindrical tower is located inside the active Coast Guard station. While access is restricted, you can get a great view from nearby paths or during the Door County Lighthouse Festival. It’s one of the few remaining staffed lights on the Great Lakes. Sherwood Point Lighthouse Distance from Bridgeport: ~20 minutes Location: West of Sturgeon Bay Access: Limited – public only during special events Located on the western shore of Sturgeon Bay, Sherwood Point Lighthouse offers one of the most peaceful and tranquil views in the area. Built in 1883 and perched on a wooded point, this charming brick lighthouse is notable as the last manned lighthouse on the Great Lakes, and it's still used as a residence by the U.S. Coast Guard today. Because it’s an active property, public access is limited to occasional open house events—but don’t let that stop you from visiting. The nearby shoreline offers excellent views of the building, especially at sunset when the sky turns pastel and the waters shimmer with fading light. It’s an ideal stop for those who want to soak in the quieter side of Door County’s lighthouse lore.
Once on the island, you’ll be greeted by a beautifully preserved white tower. Climb the 97 winding steps to the lantern room, and you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree view of Lake Michigan that is absolutely breathtaking. The attached keeper’s house has been restored as a museum, offering a look into 19th-century lighthouse life. It’s the kind of place where you’ll lose track of time, surrounded by history and the soothing rhythm of the waves. Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Distance from Bridgeport: ~40 minutes Location: Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek Access: Open seasonally for guided tours Tucked inside the magnificent Peninsula State Park, the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse sits high above the waters of Green Bay, offering a scenic perch from which to admire both water and woods. Built in 1868, this lighthouse has been carefully restored and now serves as a museum showcasing life in Door County during the lighthouse’s heyday. Take a guided tour through the furnished keeper’s quarters, learn about the brave families who kept the light burning, and step out to the bluff for a sweeping view that’s especially vibrant in the fall. The park itself is worth exploring, with trails, beaches, and picnic areas that make it a great day trip destination for couples and families alike. Baileys Harbor Range Lights Distance from Bridgeport: ~35 minutes Location: The Ridges Sanctuary Access: Walkable via nature trails If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path, the Baileys Harbor Range Lights are a unique and fascinating stop. These two small structures, once used in tandem to guide ships safely into the harbor, are located within The Ridges Sanctuary, Wisconsin’s oldest private nature preserve. Unlike tall tower lighthouses, these buildings resemble quaint cottages nestled among the trees. As you walk the wooded trails, you’ll come upon the rear light first, a charming white structure with red trim, and then the front light, set closer to the water. Interpretive signs explain how the range system worked, and the entire walk through the preserve is peaceful, informative, and great for families.
This is the “little sibling” to the rear range light and stands near the shoreline of Plum Island. When lined up, the two lights helped mariners navigate one of the Great Lakes’ most treacherous passages. Tours to Plum Island are available seasonally and are a hidden gem for lighthouse and nature lovers. Pilot Island Lighthouse Location: Just east of Plum Island Access: Boat only – not open to the public This hauntingly beautiful lighthouse is located on an uninhabited island once known for its frequent shipwrecks. Though it’s closed to the public, boat tours during the Lighthouse Festival often cruise past, offering a chance to see its weathered stonework and surrounding wildlife. Chambers Island Lighthouse Location: Off Fish Creek, Green Bay side Access: Boat only Built in 1868, this lighthouse sits in the heart of Chambers Island. It’s a hike once you get to the island, but the reward is worth it—a beautifully restored tower, peaceful surroundings, and the sense of having discovered something truly off the beaten path. Pottawatomie Lighthouse (Rock Island Light) Location: Rock Island State Park Access: Ferry to Washington Island + boat to Rock Island + hike This one’s for the adventurers. Wisconsin’s oldest lighthouse, Pottawatomie Light, sits atop a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan on Rock Island. It takes a ferry and a hike to get there, but it’s a bucket-list stop for lighthouse fans. The beautifully restored building and jaw-dropping view make this a trip you’ll never forget. Don’t Miss: The Door County Lighthouse Festival Organized twice a year by the Door County Maritime Museum, the Door County Lighthouse Festival is the ultimate opportunity to get behind the scenes at many of these normally closed lighthouses. Held in June (Spring Festival) and September (Fall Encore Festival), the event includes guided land tours, boat tours, and even kayak trips to see the lighthouses up close. Some of the tours grant exclusive access to places like Sherwood Point, Chambers Island, and Pilot Island—spots that are otherwise off-limits. Tickets do sell out, so if you’re planning a visit around the festival dates, book early and bring your walking shoes. Learn more at: Door Peninsula Lighthouse Passport Days - Door County Maritime Museum Ready to Chase the Light? Lighthouses are more than just buildings—they’re stories, symbols, and unforgettable sights. Whether you see one or all eleven, your Door County lighthouse journey starts here. Make Bridgeport Your Home Base for Lighthouse Adventures
Located in the heart of Sturgeon Bay, Bridgeport Waterfront Resort is perfectly positioned for your lighthouse-themed getaway. Our spacious suites, stunning water views, and relaxing amenities (hello, whirlpool tubs and indoor pool!) offer a comfortable and convenient launchpad for your exploration. After a day of hiking, boating, and light-chasing, you can kick back by the fireplace, watch the sunset over the bay, or plan your next day’s adventures from your private balcony. |
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