Accessible Travel Guide to Door County, Wisconsin

Door County sits on a narrow peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, with more than 300 miles of shoreline stretching along the Great Lakes. The landscape here feels different from much of Wisconsin with rocky coastlines, bluffs shaped by the Niagara Escarpment, and small towns spaced out along scenic highways rather than clustered around one city center.

Much of Door County revolves around its natural setting. Five state parks protect large sections of shoreline and forest, while theaters, markets, and museums are woven into towns like Sturgeon Bay, Egg Harbor, and Sister Bay. The area draws visitors year-round, with summer bringing lake activity, fall focused on foliage and festivals, and winter quieter but still active with performances and local events.

This guide focuses on wheelchair-accessible places to stay and things to do across Door County. The locations included here have been assessed and measured when verified, so you can review accessibility details ahead of time and plan with clearer expectations.

Getting to and Around Door County

The region is spread out, with towns, parks, and attractions connected by highways and scenic local roads rather than a central urban core. Whether you are driving or flying, we'll provide options.

Getting to Door County

If you are not driving directly, the closest major airport is Green Bay–Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB), located about 1 to 1.5 hours south of most Door County towns, depending on where you’re staying. From the airport, renting a vehicle is the most convenient way to not only reach Door County, but experience it as well.

MobilityWorks operates a location in Green Bay, offering wheelchair-accessible vans for rent, purchase, or service. Make sure to inquire with them in advance to ensure they have availability.

Door County Connect

If you're not planning on driving, there are a couple local transportation options. Door County Connect offers two transportation programs, both of which require advance scheduling and operate as shared-ride services rather than fixed bus routes.

• Door 2 Door Rides (D2D) serves most of Door County using a zone-based taxi system. Service days, hours, and fares vary depending on where you’re traveling. Wheelchair-accessible vehicles are available, but rides must be scheduled in advance by phone. Schedule a ride: 920-746-6948 or 888-337-9485.
• Door County Connect Van Service (formerly known as the ADRC Bus/Van Service) operates within the City of Sturgeon Bay and up to about 10 miles outside the city. This service runs Monday through Friday during daytime hours and also requires advance booking. Schedule a ride: 920-746-6944.

Sunshine Resources

Another option is Sunshine Resources, a local nonprofit that provides transportation support and wheelchair-accessible group travel as part of its services for people with disabilities and special needs. Sunshine Resources operates in parts of Door County and may be able to assist with scheduled trips; contact them directly to confirm service details and availability.

Because Door County does not have centralized public transit and many parks, waterfront areas, and attractions are outside village centers, travelers using mobility devices often find that having a personal or rented vehicle offers the most flexibility.

Where to Stay in Door County

Door County is a peninsula made up of small towns rather than one central hub, so where you stay can shape how your trip feels. Some areas place you closer to year-round services and dining, while others offer quieter settings near shoreline parks and open space. Below are a few of the best areas to stay, along with verified accessible lodging options in each.

Sturgeon Bay

Sturgeon Bay is the largest city in Door County and serves as a practical base for exploring the peninsula. It has the highest concentration of services, including museums, restaurants, grocery stores, and transportation options, which can make trip logistics easier. Staying here can reduce drive times if you plan to explore both the northern and southern parts of the county.

The Dörr Hotel is a modern boutique property located near downtown Sturgeon Bay and the waterfront. The hotel has a clean, contemporary layout with open common areas and on-site dining. Verified accessible rooms include roll-in showers, grab bars, and adequate turning space in both the bedroom and bathroom. Its location works well for accessing the Door County Maritime Museum, dining, and everyday services.

Lodgings at Pioneer Lane offers apartment-style accommodations near the Sturgeon Bay waterfront. These units include kitchenettes and more living space than a standard hotel room, which can be helpful for longer stays. Verified accessible units have step-free entry and accessible bathroom features, making this a flexible option if you prefer a more residential setup.

Ephraim / Northern Door County

Northern Door County includes villages such as Ephraim, Sister Bay, and Fish Creek. This area places you closer to Peninsula State Park, shoreline parks, and many of the region’s most scenic viewpoints. It’s a good option if your trip centers around outdoor attractions and waterfront scenery rather than town-based services.

Edgewater Resort sits directly on the shoreline in Ephraim, overlooking Eagle Harbor. The property offers a quieter, resort-style setting compared to Sturgeon Bay while still being close to village amenities. Verified accessible units include step-free entry and accessible bathroom features. Staying here keeps you close to Peninsula State Park and many northern Door County attractions without being in a busy commercial area.

Near Parks and Open Space

If being close to nature is the priority, staying near one of Door County’s parks can offer a quieter experience with direct access to shoreline views and open space.

An accessible cabin at Potawatomi State Park places you directly within a large state park overlooking Sturgeon Bay. This option offers a more secluded stay, with park roads, shoreline views, and open space immediately outside. It works well if you want a nature-forward experience while still being a short drive from Sturgeon Bay services.

Top Accessible Things to Do in Door County

Door County’s attractions are spread across the peninsula and focus heavily on shoreline access, parks, small cultural venues, and local food producers. The sites below highlight a mix of outdoor landmarks and indoor stops that work well for wheelchair users.

Visit Eagle Tower at Peninsula State Park

Eagle Tower is one of Door County’s most recognizable landmarks and sits within Peninsula State Park near Fish Creek. The tower was rebuilt with accessibility in mind and includes a ramped walkway that leads to elevated views over Green Bay without requiring stairs.

From the top, you can see the shoreline, surrounding forest, and nearby islands. The structure is wide and open, allowing room to pause and take in the view without crowding. Paved park roads and designated accessible parking make it possible to reach the tower without navigating rough terrain.

Explore Cave Point County Park

Cave Point County Park is known for its dramatic limestone shoreline, wave-carved cliffs, and clear views over Lake Michigan. The park sits just south of Whitefish Dunes State Park and is one of the most photographed spots in Door County.

Paved parking areas provide access close to the shoreline, and flat paths allow visitors to reach viewing areas without hiking. While the cliffs themselves are rugged, the main overlooks can be experienced without navigating uneven trails, making this a worthwhile stop for seeing Door County’s Lake Michigan coastline.

Learn Local History at the Door County Maritime Museum

Located in Sturgeon Bay, the Door County Maritime Museum focuses on the region’s shipbuilding, fishing, and Great Lakes maritime history. Exhibits cover commercial shipping, lifesaving stations, and local vessels that shaped Door County’s development.

The museum is fully indoors with step-free entry, open exhibit layouts, and elevators connecting multiple levels. Displays are viewable from a seated position, making it a reliable stop if you want a cultural attraction that doesn’t depend on weather.

Experience Outdoor Preservation at The Ridges Sanctuary

The Ridges Sanctuary is a protected natural area along Lake Michigan in Baileys Harbor and is one of the most ecologically significant places in Door County. It sits along the Niagara Escarpment and preserves rare boreal forest and wetland habitats that support plant species found in very few places in the world.

A network of trails and boardwalks moves through forest, ridge systems, and wetlands. Portions of the main trail are wide, relatively level, and include extended boardwalk sections that allow you to experience the landscape without navigating sand or uneven terrain. Interpretive signage explains the area’s geology, ecology, and seasonal changes, giving context to what you’re seeing.

The Nature Center has step-free entry, indoor exhibits, and accessible restrooms. The Ridges works well if you want a quieter, education-focused stop that still feels distinctly tied to Door County’s natural environment.

Explore Scandinavian Architecture at Bjorklunden

Bjorklunden is a 441-acre estate along Lake Michigan that was once the summer home of Chicago artist Winifred Boynton. Today it is operated by Lawrence University and is known for its Norwegian-inspired architecture and wooded shoreline setting.

The centerpiece is a hand-built stave church modeled after traditional Norwegian designs. The grounds include open lawns, wooded paths, and shoreline access points overlooking Lake Michigan. The main buildings have step-free access, and portions of the grounds are accessible depending on conditions.

Bjorklunden offers a different perspective on Door County. It's less about beaches and parks, more about heritage, architecture, and quiet shoreline views. It’s a calm stop that feels tucked away while still being easy to reach from Baileys Harbor.

Where to Eat in Door County

One of the best parts of any getaway or vacation is the food. Restaurants in Door County range from casual markets and bakeries to waterfront dining and breweries. Below are a few notable places to consider.

Renard’s Cheese – Sturgeon Bay

Renard’s Cheese is one of Door County’s most well-known food stops and a classic first taste of the region. The shop offers a wide selection of locally made cheeses, snacks, and grab-and-go items. It’s an easy stop if you’re driving through Sturgeon Bay or heading north into the peninsula.

Serves: Fresh cheese curds, aged cheddar, specialty cheeses, sausage, dips, and grab-and-go items.

Door County Brewing Co. – Baileys Harbor

Door County Brewing Co. is a popular brewery known for small-batch beers and a relaxed taproom atmosphere. They regularly host rotating food trucks and also allow you to bring in food from nearby restaurants.

Serves: Craft beer, seasonal releases, and rotating taps; food truck fare or outside food depending on the day.

Chop – Sister Bay

Chop is a modern steakhouse in Sister Bay that focuses on high-quality cuts, seafood, and classic cocktails. The interior has a clean, contemporary design with table spacing that allows for easier navigation. It’s a strong choice for a more formal dinner if you want something beyond casual pub fare.

Serves: Steaks, seafood, cocktails, and upscale American dishes.

Harbor Fish Market & Grille – Baileys Harbor

Harbor Fish Market & Grille is a long-standing local spot known for smoked fish and simple, regional flavors. It’s more of a market-style stop than a sit-down restaurant, but it’s worth including if you want something distinctly tied to Door County’s fishing history.

Serves: Smoked fish, whitefish, sandwiches, and regional seafood favorites.

One Barrel Brewing – Egg Harbor

One Barrel Brewing is a smaller brewery with a food menu that includes burgers, sandwiches, and comfort-style dishes. It’s often quieter than some of the larger brewpubs and can be a good option if you’re looking for a lower-key dining experience.

Serves: Craft beer, burgers, sandwiches, and pub-style fare.

Local Events in Door County

Door County’s event calendar follows the seasons closely. Many of the region’s biggest events are tied to fall color, holidays, and summer waterfront celebrations. Crowds and traffic can increase during these times, especially in village centers, so planning lodging and transportation ahead is helpful.

Fall Fest – Sister Bay

Fall Fest takes place each October in Sister Bay and is one of Door County’s most popular seasonal events. It typically includes a parade, live music, food vendors, craft booths, and family-friendly activities spread throughout the village. The event coincides with peak fall foliage, making it a busy weekend in northern Door County.

Christkindl Market – Sturgeon Bay

The Christkindl Market is held in Sturgeon Bay during late November and December and brings a European-style holiday market to the area. Visitors can browse vendor stalls offering gifts, seasonal food, and warm drinks, often set up in a central, walkable area. It’s a quieter, colder-weather event compared to summer festivals but draws steady crowds during weekends.

Egg Harbor Independence Day Celebration – Egg Harbor

The Egg Harbor Independence Day Celebration takes place around July 4th and includes daytime activities and an evening fireworks display over the water. The village becomes busy during the holiday, with events centered near the waterfront and marina. Arriving early is recommended if you want to secure parking or a good viewing area.

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