Looking for peaceful lakeside views, local wine, and coastal charm? Head to Algoma! Nestled on the western shore of Lake Michigan, this friendly harbor town is known for its fishing, beaches, galleries, and historic downtown. Whether you’re strolling the boardwalk or sipping wine at a bluffside vineyard, Algoma offers a relaxing, small-town escape with scenic beauty and Midwestern warmth.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Algoma is in the summer and early fall (June–October), when you can enjoy the beach, festivals, and wine tastings. Fall brings gorgeous foliage, harvest events, and crisp lakeside air.
Tips for getting There
- If you are traveling by car: Algoma is located along Highway 42, about 40 minutes from Green Bay and 20 minutes south of Sturgeon Bay in Door County.
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB), about 45 minutes away by car.
- By Bus: Intercity bus service to nearby Green Bay or Sturgeon Bay is available, but driving is the most convenient option.
Where I like to stay
- Hotel Stebbins – Historic boutique hotel in the heart of downtown with unique rooms and on-site dining.
- Algoma Beach Motel – Affordable, laid-back lodging right on the lake with beach access and sunset views.
- At the Waters Edge B&B – Cozy bed & breakfast with lakefront views, homemade breakfast, and warm hospitality.
Top Attractions
1. Wienke’s Market
No visit to Algoma would be complete without visiting Wienke’s Market, where you can buy delicious fresh produce directly from the farm. In addition to a year-round insulated barn and greenhouse which produce fresh fruit and vegetables, Wienke’s Market is famous for their huge range of preserved produce, which includes jams, relishes, pickles and home-made pie fillings. You can buy excellent local honey and there is an onsite bakery which specializes in making fresh Norwegian lefse. Special holiday hampers make ideal gifts to take back home. If you love cherries you should try to visit in mid-July when mouth-watering fresh Door County cherries are being harvested.
Wienke’s Market, 292 County Rd S, Algoma, WI 54201, Phone: 920-743-7014
2. Ahnapee State Trail
If you love spending time exploring the Great Outdoors, the 48-mile Ahnapee State Trail is waiting to challenge you to an exhilarating year-round experience. The multi-use trail is suitable for hikers, cyclists and equestrians in summer, while it provides brilliant conditions for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing in winter. The trail winds its way along the scenic Ahnapee and Kewaunee Rivers and encompasses part of the Ice Age Trail. You can access the trail in Algoma, where parking is available in three locations near the trailhead. There are toilets along the route and the Ahnapee River Trails campground is the ideal place to park your RV or tent.
Ahnapee State Trail, Algoma, WI 54201
Romantic Activities and Attractions:
3. James May Gallery
Art lovers will be pleased to know that the James May Gallery in Algoma hosts year - round art exhibitions, featuring both emerging and established local and national artists. The gallery is owned and curated by local artist Kendra Bulgrin and her partner Jimmy Eddings, and is the ideal place for visitors to pick up an original and unique piece of art or broaden your art knowledge in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Every month there is something new to admire at new exhibition, so visitors are encouraged to pop in to see what is on show each time they visit the area.
James May Gallery, 213 Steele St, Algoma, WI 54201, Phone: 262-753-3130
4. North Water Bakery and Deli
When you need a great breakfast to set you up for an active day of exploring (or fishing) you need look no further than the North Water Bakery and Deli. Although the bakery is famous for their delicious cakes and pastries, they also offer excellent sandwiches and burritos for breakfast. At lunchtime the deli selection of salads and grilled sandwiches take center-stage and on weekends you can pre-order and pick up freshly-made ham rolls to enjoy on the beach. No-one ever leaves without choosing a selection of mouth-watering pastries, donuts and cakes to sweeten their day, and boxed lunches are available when you don’t feel like cooking.
North Water Bakery and Deli, 133 North Water St, Algoma, WI 54201, Phone: 920-487-5306
5. Kinn’s Sport Fishing
Offering a modern fleet of eleven custom-designed fishing boats, Kinn’s Sport Fishing is one of the leading fishing charter companies in Algoma. The company started offering sport fishing charters back in 1969 and have built a solid reputation for their professional services and clean, comfortable fishing craft. Everything you need for an exciting and rewarding day out on Lake Michigan is included in your charter, including fish-finders, GPS and radar, professional guidance and quality rods, reels and other equipment. In addition to their charter fishing service, Kinn’s Sport Fishing own twelve luxury lake-front self-catering condos where you and your family can relax and enjoy preparing your catch of the day.
Kinn’s Sport Fishing, 60 Steele St, Algoma, WI 54201, Phone: 800-446-8605
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- von Stiehl Winery – Wisconsin’s oldest licensed winery with blufftop views, tastings, and cellar tours.
- Crescent Beach Boardwalk – Walk along the scenic Lake Michigan shoreline and enjoy breezy views and sunrises.
- Algoma Pierhead Lighthouse – A charming red lighthouse perfect for photos and sunset backdrops.
- Yardstick Books – A local independent bookstore offering author events and a cozy reading vibe.
Where I Like to Eat
- Skaliwags – Creative cuisine in a casual, intimate setting—known for its bold flavors and ever-changing menu.
- Algoma Pizza Bowl – Pizza, pasta, bowling, and local beer all under one roof—great for families and groups.
- North Water Bakery & Deli – Fresh-baked breads, donuts, sandwiches, and local charm just off the main drag.
My favorite local events:
- Shanty Days (August) – Algoma’s biggest celebration with a parade, car show, live music, food, and fireworks.
- Soar on the Shore (August) – A beach kite festival featuring giant kites, kids’ activities, and live entertainment.
- First Fridays Art Walk (May–October) – Monthly evening event with open galleries, artists, and music downtown.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Algoma, Wisconsin:
- Kewaunee, WI (10–15 min) – Visit another charming lakeside town with a scenic pier, museums, and antique shops.
- Brussels, WI (20 min) – Explore Belgian heritage, historic chapels, and quiet countryside just inland.
- Sturgeon Bay (20–25 min) – Discover Door County’s gateway with a bustling downtown, ship canal, and maritime museum.
- Ahnapee State Trail (0–30 min) – Hike or bike along a rail trail that winds through farmland, forests, and river views.
- Red River Park (15–20 min) – Enjoy birdwatching, kayaking, and scenic picnic spots near the Ahnapee River.
Plan Your Trip