I've been visiting Door County every summer since I was a child. Picking their signature tart cherries and watching the famous fish boils were always highlights for me. Now, as a dog lover with a growing pack, my trips to Door County are even more fun, though they require a bit more planning. Every visit, I discover something new that makes the experience even better.
Door County is an incredibly dog-friendly destination with plenty of accommodations, dining options, and activities that welcome you and your four-legged family members. Here’s a guide to help you and your pup have the best time in this beautiful part of Wisconsin. For the most up to date Door County spots, check out my list on Flaire or my full Door County Guide for more recommendations!
A Little Bit About Door County
Door County is a peninsula located in the northeast corner of Wisconsin, surrounded by Lake Michigan and Green Bay. The area is known for its charming small towns, absolutely stunning natural landscapes, and delicious food. It's a popular tourist destination for those looking to unwind and relax in a quaint and picturesque setting. And now, with more and more people traveling with their furry companions, Door County has become an ideal spot for pet-friendly vacations.
When to Visit Door County with Your Dog
Door County is a very popular summer destination, especially during the cherry picking season, but the spring and fall months offer cooler temperatures and less crowds. This is a great time to explore the numerous hiking trails with your pup or take a scenic drive along the coastline. If you’re looking for a winter wonderland experience, Door County also offers plenty of snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and dog sledding opportunities. Just keep in mind that many businesses and attractions may have limited hours during the off-season.
Where to Stay
Holiday Music Motel - Sturgeon Bay
A great budget choice in Sturgeon Bay is the Holiday Music Motel. Like Snug Harbor, it permits up to two dogs at $10 each per night. This retro-themed motel offers a unique and comfortable stay, and often has music events along with a simple breakfast that is included. When I used to only have one dog, I would often stay at this motel and the staff loved having her. Their pricing varies between peak season and off-season, so be sure to check their website!
Snug Harbor Inn - Sturgeon Bay
Another budget-friendly option located in Sturgeon Bay, the Snug Harbor Inn allows two dogs for just $10 each per night. It's a cozy spot perfect for travelers looking to stay near the water without breaking the bank.
Fresh Coast Motel - Fish Creek
For those wanting to stay a little further up the peninsula, the Fresh Coast Motel is an affordable option allowing one dog for a flat rate of $50 per stay. It’s a great base for exploring the central part of Door County.
Somerset Inn & Suites - Ephraim
Located in Ephraim, Somerset Inn & Suites is another excellent choice. It’s affordable and allows two dogs for $35 per dog per stay, making it ideal for visitors who want to experience the northern parts of the county.
Pro Tip: If you’re traveling with more than two dogs, consider checking out options on Airbnb or VRBO for pet-friendly rentals. Now that we have 4 dogs and friends with their own dogs, we always get an airbnb with plenty of space and land for our dogs to hangout.
Where to Eat
Breakfast Spots
Summer Kitchen Restaurant: Start your day right with a hearty breakfast at this welcoming spot. Located in Ephraim, they offer outdoor seating and a dog-friendly patio, and have great vegetarian options
Blue Horse Beach Cafe: A perfect spot to grab breakfast or a sandwich to go before heading out for a day on the beach. The Blue Horse Beach Cafe in Fish Creek has a great outdoor space that allows dogs.
Carroll House: This classic breakfast and brunch spot in Sister Bay has outdoor seating where you can enjoy a delicious meal with your pup by your side.
Lunch Destinations
Bluefront Cafe: This cute cafe in Sturgeon Bay has delicious sandwiches, burgers, and more. The patio is small, but it is dog friendly! I got the authentic bahn mi and it was so good!
Village Cafe: Relax with a delicious lunch in a dog-friendly environment. This restaurant in Egg Harbor offers outdoor seating and a dog-friendly patio.
Loft: Enjoy a variety of lunch options with your furry friend by your side. This spot in Fish Creek also has a good amount of gluten free options!
Grasse's Grill: A great stop for a midday meal, offering a pet-friendly atmosphere. Located in Sister Bay, they have a great selection of burgers and sandwiches.
Harbor Fish Market and Grille: This waterfront restaurant in Bailey's Harbor has a dog-friendly patio and serves up fresh seafood options.
Dinner Venues
Old Post Office Restaurant: This historic spot offers an inviting setting for a dog-friendly dinner. They host one of my favorite fish boils, and you can come 30 minutes before their seating time with your pup to learn about the history and watch them cook the dinner. They also serve ribs if you don't like seafood, and a delicious cherry pie a la mode.
Waterfront Mary's Bar & Grill: This waterfront restaurant in Sturgeon Bay is known for its delicious food and pet-friendly outdoor seating. Their seafood chowder is the best one in my opinion.
LURE: Savor an exquisite meal at this elegant restaurant that welcomes dogs. Located in Sister Bay, they offer outdoor seating with stunning waterfront views. Their outdoor patio is super cute and cozy, and they have a great fine dining menu. We got a great table on the patio with our dogs and
Pro Tip: Many restaurants in Door County have dog-friendly patios, but it's always a good idea to call ahead and confirm their policy on pets. Some may only allow dogs during certain hours or have specific rules regarding pet behavior.
What to Do
State Parks & Hiking Trails
Door County is home to five state parks, all of which are pet-friendly as long as your furry friend is kept on a leash. Hike through forests and along the coastline at Peninsula State Park, Newport State Park, Potawatomi State Park, Whitefish Dunes State Park and Rock Island State Park. Just be sure to clean up after your pet and respect the park’s rules. Ellison Bluff State Natural Area and Europe Bay Woods are also a great places for hiking and are not technically a state park.
Pro Tip: If you plan on visiting more than 2 of the parks or coming back another time within the year, purchase a Wisconsin State Parks Annual Pass for $28. This will save you money in the long run.
Beaches
Door County is known for its beautiful beaches, and many of them allow dogs. One of the most popular is Whitefish Dunes State Park Beach, which offers a designated pet-friendly area. Other dog-friendly beaches include Cave Point County Park and Newport State Park.
Wineries & Breweries
Many wineries and breweries in Door County allow well-behaved dogs on their outdoor patios. Door Peninsula in Carlsville has some fantastic wines along with an extensive list of cocktails from their distillery next door. Inside, they offer 5 free tastings (dogs are only allowed outside on their outdoor patio/bar area) and they have a large giftshop with olive oil, fudge, souvenirs and more. If it's raining or particularly hot out, Lautenbach's Orchard is another great option that allows dogs inside their tasting room, as long as it's not too crowded. Other pet-friendly options include Anchored Roots Vineyard & Winery, Twelve Eleven Wine Bar, and Door County Brewing Co. Taproom & Music Hall.
Dog Friendly Shopping in Door County
Want to do some shopping with your furry friend by your side? Many boutiques and stores in Door County allow leashed dogs. Downtown Fish Creek is a great place to start, with several pet-friendly clothing and gift stores.
Pro Tip: If you're planning on doing some shopping in downtown Fish Creek or Sister Bay, be sure to check out the Farmers Markets held weekly during the summer months. These markets are dog-friendly and offer a variety of local products and treats for your furry friend.
Unique Activities
Looking for something a little out of the ordinary to do with your dog? Check out some of these other ideas!
Cherry Picking at Robertson Orchards: Participate in this beloved Door County tradition. Your pup will love exploring the orchard. Just make sure they are well behaved and friendly with other dogs since the owner's have their own dogs running around as well. I love getting a big bucket of cherries and making my own cherry jam with them.
Watch a Drive-In Movie at Skyway Drive-In Movie Theater: A nostalgic experience you and your dog can enjoy together. Make sure to keep your pup on a leash and bring some foldable chairs or blankets and pillows for snuggling. They have a pretty stacked concession stand with really good buttered popcorn, but they don't sell alcohol so if you're planning on drinking, make sure to bring a cooler in your car!
Visit the Cana Island Lighthouse: Dogs are not allowed in the lighthouse itself, but you can still explore the beautiful grounds and take a walk along the beach with your furry companion.
Go on a Boat Tour: Many boat tours allow well-behaved dogs, so be sure to check out options like Sister Bay Scenic Boat Tours or rent your own boat from Door County Boat Rentals.
Door County offers a wealth of activities and accommodations that make it the perfect getaway for you and your dog. From cozy inns to dog-friendly parks, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy your time together. Ready to plan your trip? Book your stay, pack your bags, and get ready to discover the dog-friendly delights of Door County!
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