Things to Do in Fish Creek, Wisconsin

Nestled along the shores of Green Bay, Fish Creek stands out as more than just a small town. It’s a lively hub for art, culture, outdoor adventure, and that signature Door County charm that makes every visit feel special.

The town is full of character, with waterfront views, boutique shops, cozy cafés, and easy access to some of the best parks and trails in the region. From sailing and kayaking in summer to vibrant foliage in fall, on my trip there I found that Fish Creek offers unique experiences all year long.

What I love most is the mix of nature and culture. Walking along the shoreline at sunset, exploring the trails of Peninsula State Park, and ending the day with a traditional Door County fish boil are all unforgettable experiences.

It’s that combination of outdoor beauty and local tradition that makes Fish Creek one of the best and truly my favorite small towns in Wisconsin.

In Wisconsin, produce is everything. While Wisconsin is known for its dairy production, Door County, where Fish Creek is located, also produces a ton of amazing cherries and white fish for the neighboring area.

Located right by Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek delivers one of the best and most unique blends of natural beauty and small-town energy. It's absolutely one of my favorite places to explore in Wisconsin’s Door County.

On my visits, I wandered from lighthouse paths to gallery gardens (my favorite in the spring)! Every moment felt intentional, un-rushed...like the town was reminding me to listen, to taste, to look a little longer. Here is what I think you should see on your trip.

Best Things to Do in Fish Creek, WI

1. White Gull Inn

The White Gull Inn in Fish Creek is one of those places that instantly feels like a retreat into simpler times. Nestled in the heart of Door County, it combines small-town warmth with a sense of history that’s been carefully preserved. This 19th-century inn is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience of cozy rooms, legendary breakfasts, and a slower pace that encourages you to linger.

What stood out most to me was how seamlessly the inn balances tradition and comfort. From the creak of old wooden floors to the inviting smell of coffee drifting through the dining room, every detail feels intentional. Outside, you’re just steps away from the charm of Fish Creek’s boutiques, waterfront, and trails.

Staying here felt grounding and nostalgic—like stepping into a living piece of Door County’s heritage. The friendly staff, hearty meals, and proximity to Lake Michigan made it feel like a home away from home, with all the beauty of the peninsula right at your doorstep.

We drove from Chicago and stayed at the White Gull Inn itself for its historic character and famous cherry-stuffed French toast (worth every bite). My best meal was their traditional Door County fish boil—an outdoor experience that combines storytelling, crackling flames, and the freshest whitefish ($27.95 per person). It’s communal, theatrical, and uniquely local.

2. Peninsula Players

Tucked along the scenic shores of Green Bay, Peninsula Players Theatre is more than a stage—it’s an experience. Founded in 1935, it’s known as America’s oldest professional resident summer theater, and seeing a show here feels like stepping into a long-cherished tradition. The open-air setting is magical: towering trees surround the grounds, and before the curtain rises you’ll often catch the glow of the sunset melting over the water just beyond the stage.

What makes it unique is the blend of world-class performances with a laid-back, Door County vibe. Guests arrive early to picnic on the lawn, sip local wine, and stroll through the gardens. Then, when the bells chime, the crowd gathers under the canopy for a night of drama, comedy, or musicals performed at Broadway-level quality—yet with the intimacy of a lakeside community.

It’s not just a theater—it’s an event. The audience is as much a part of the atmosphere as the actors themselves, sharing in laughter, applause, and the occasional gasp together. It’s the kind of night that lingers in memory long after the play ends.

3. Peninsula State Park

Peninsula State Park is the crown jewel of Door County, a vast natural playground stretching along the shoreline of Green Bay. At nearly 4,000 acres, it’s the kind of place where you can lose track of time—whether you’re hiking wooded trails, biking scenic roads, or simply standing in awe of the lake views from high bluffs. It’s one of Wisconsin’s most beloved state parks, and it’s easy to see why.

What struck me most was the variety: rugged cliffs that drop into sparkling blue waters, quiet sandy beaches, historic landmarks like Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, and wildlife around every corner. It feels both adventurous and peaceful, a rare mix that makes each visit feel new. Whether you’re out on the water in a kayak or watching the sunset from the bluff, Peninsula State Park captures the very best of Door County’s natural beauty.

We spent a full day here and still only scratched the surface. My personal highlight was biking along Sunset Trail, a looping path that winds through forests and shoreline views—it was the perfect mix of challenge and relaxation. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find something to love here, no matter the season.

4. Edgewood Orchard Galleries

Edgewood Orchard Galleries feels less like a gallery and more like a discovery. Tucked away in a historic stone fruit barn dating back to 1918, it has grown into one of the Midwest’s most respected art galleries. Walking through the doors, you’re greeted by both the rustic charm of the building and the vibrant, contemporary works that line its walls. Outside, the gallery extends into sculpture gardens shaded by old trees, where art and nature meet in quiet harmony.

We spent a sunny afternoon here, drifting between indoor and outdoor spaces, pausing to admire the details in both the artwork and the historic architecture. My favorite moment was stumbling upon a bronze sculpture tucked beneath a canopy of trees—it felt like a secret meant just for me. Whether you’re an art collector or a casual traveler, Edgewood Orchard Galleries leaves a lasting impression of Door County’s creative spirit.

5. Eagle Bluff Lighthouse

Perched high on a bluff within Peninsula State Park, the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse has been a beacon on the Door County shoreline since 1868. With its crisp white walls, red roof, and sweeping lake views, the lighthouse tells the story of a time when sailors relied on its guiding light to navigate the waters of Green Bay. Today, it’s both a historic landmark and a window into Door County’s maritime heritage.

6. The Noble House

Standing proudly along Main Street, the Alexander Noble House is Fish Creek’s oldest remaining residence, built in 1875 by one of the town’s founding fathers. Today, this beautifully preserved Greek Revival home serves as a museum, offering a rare glimpse into everyday life in Door County during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. With its white clapboard siding and period furnishings, it feels like stepping back in time.

What struck me most about the Noble House was its quiet intimacy. Each room is carefully staged with antiques, family heirlooms, and photographs that tell the story of Alexander Noble—a blacksmith, civic leader, and one of Fish Creek’s early settlers—and the generations who followed. The home doesn’t just preserve history; it makes it personal, giving voice to the people who helped shape this lakeside community.

We toured the house on a summer afternoon, and the knowledgeable guides made the experience even more engaging with stories of Noble’s family and the challenges of frontier life. Walking through the parlor, kitchen, and upstairs bedrooms, it felt like time had paused, leaving a tangible connection to the past. Outside, the home’s simple gardens and central location made it an easy and rewarding stop between exploring shops and cafes downtown.

7. Wild Tomato

Wild Tomato has become a staple in Fish Creek, known for its creative, wood-fired pizzas that perfectly capture Door County’s mix of casual charm and local flavor. From the moment you step inside, the warmth of the oven and the buzz of a lively dining room make it clear this is a place for both comfort and community. It’s the kind of restaurant where families gather after a day at the park, locals grab a casual bite, and visitors return year after year for the same beloved flavors.

8. Alexander’s

Alexander’s is one of Fish Creek’s premier fine-dining spots, known for its upscale yet welcoming atmosphere and a menu that combines classic supper club tradition with modern flair. From the moment you step inside, the warm lighting, polished service, and quiet elegance set the stage for a memorable evening. Its the kind of restaurant that feels perfect for a special occasion, yet still comfortable enough for a relaxed night out after a day of exploring Door County.

Conclusion

Fish Creek captures the essence of Door County—a place where natural beauty, history, art, and food all come together in one welcoming village. From the wooded trails and sweeping lake views of Peninsula State Park to the intimate stories inside the Noble House and the creative energy of Edgewood Orchard Galleries, every corner offers something distinct yet connected. Add in the warmth of the White Gull Inn, the drama of a night at Peninsula Players, and memorable meals at Wild Tomato or Alexander’s, and you have a destination that balances both adventure and relaxation.

What stood out most to me was how Fish Creek offers experiences for every mood—quiet mornings by the lighthouse, afternoons wandering through art and history, and evenings gathered around a table with food that reflects the region’s character. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, savor, and connect—with nature, with history, and with the people who make this community feel like home.

Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or a longer stay, Fish Creek leaves you with the kind of memories that linger—sunsets over Green Bay, the scent of wood smoke from a pizza oven, the creak of an old inn’s floors, and the applause of a theater under the stars. It’s not just a stop in Door County; it’s the heart of it.

Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind Vacation Idea. My husband, son, and I spent years on the road, basing ourselves in each place for one or two months at a time. This has allowed me to experience each destination as a local, and Im eager to help you with travel itineraries, weekend inspirations, and local tips. I love to chase unique experiences and revisit old favorites, anything from great sunsets to places of mystery. I have 30 years of experience, over 400,000 social media followers, and my work as a travel expert has been mentioned on ABC6 Morning Show, Best of the Web, and USA Today. When I'm not traveling around the USA, I live in Austin, TX. Click for more.

 

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