Craving lakeside charm, cozy inns, and sunset views over the bay? Visit Sister Bay! Nestled on the shores of Door County, this beloved Wisconsin destination offers stunning natural beauty, Swedish flair, boutique shopping, and laid-back adventures year-round.

Sister Bay, WI Highlights:

  • For Families: Play and relax at Sister Bay Beach – Swim, sunbathe, or launch a kayak in the town’s beautiful waterfront park.
  • For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hike and explore at Peninsula State Park – One of Wisconsin’s top parks, with scenic trails, bluffs, and beaches nearby.
  • For Kids: Visit the goats on the roof at Al Johnson’s – A Swedish restaurant with a famously quirky and kid-friendly rooftop attraction.
  • For an Adventure: Paddle Sister Bay at sunset – Rent kayaks or paddleboards for a peaceful experience on Lake Michigan’s waters.
  • For Shoppers: Stroll downtown Sister Bay – Browse gift shops, galleries, and artisan boutiques along walkable streets with a view.

Best Time to Visit Sister Bay, WI

The best time to visit Sister Bay is from late spring to early fall (May to October). Warm weather, outdoor dining, cherry-picking season, and fall foliage make this prime time for Door County adventures.

How to Get to Sister Bay, WI

  • If you are traveling by car: Sister Bay is located along Highway 42 in northern Door County, about 1.5 hours from Green Bay and 3.5 hours from Milwaukee.
  • By Air: The closest major airport is Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport, with car rentals available for the scenic drive north.
  • By Bus: Door County Connect and regional shuttle services offer limited connections from nearby towns during peak seasons.

Where to Stay in Sister Bay, WI

  • Country House Resort – Adults-only lakeside hotel with serene views, walking trails, and access to the waterfront.
  • Scandinavian Lodge – Cozy suites with fireplaces, pools, and a location near downtown and shopping.
  • Coachlite Inn – Quaint and affordable option nestled in the pines just outside town.

Best Things to Do in Sister Bay, WI

Sister Bay Marina


Watch boats glide by and enjoy a relaxing summer stroll.

Sister Bay Marina

© Sister Bay Marina

Sister Bay Marina is located in the heart of beautiful Sister Bay, Door County, Wisconsin. It is surrounded by the lush, well maintained waterfront park, a popular spot for local events, a family picnic, swimming or enjoying a spectacular sunset over the water.

  • The marina offers 40 transient slips, 100 seasonal slips and ten commercial slips suitable for boats up to 80 feet long and with 7 foot drafts.
  • There are several restaurants within walking distance of the Marina.
  • Boats can be connected to 30 and 50 amp electrical and water hook-ups. There is a free Wifi service for guests of the Marina.

10733 N Bay Shore Dr, Sister Bay, WI 54234, Phone: 920-854-4457

Sister Bay Marina is 3 hours from Milwaukee.


Corner of the Past Museum


Explore pioneer life and discover affordable local history sights.

Corner of the Past Museum

© Corner of the Past Museum

Corner of the Past Museum is a history museum in Sister Bay, Wisconsin. It started on a tiny piece of land, but with the help of the local community it grew into a large museum on seven acres of land, with 17 historic beautifully restored buildings.

  • The main gallery occupies the old Anderson House and it has 15 galleries full of original artifacts, photos, videos and stories.
  • The museum organizes a range of public events such as family fun crafts, butter-making courses, wood crafts, a scavenger hunt for kids with ice cream reward and much more.
  • Volunteer docents are available to answer visitors’ questions.
  • The museum also offers self-guided audio tours.
  • Heritage Programs and Farmer & Craft Market are offered most Saturdays in season, with courses on rug making, blacksmithing, carving and painting.
  • The market offers the best local fresh produce and other foods and crafts.

10310 Fieldcrest Road, Highway 57 at Country Lane, 1 mi. S of downtown Sister Bay, Sister Bay, WI 54234

Where to Eat in Sister Bay, WI

Door County Creamery


Savor fresh goat cheese and enjoy a quick, tasty stop.

Door County Creamery

© Door County Creamery

Door County Creamery is a charming cafe in Sister Bay, Wisconsin, where visitors can shop for artisanal goat cheeses, delicious fresh sandwiches and hand-made gelato. The shop is bright and friendly, with a few colorful tables where guests can enjoy their treats. There is also a range of other gourmet items for sale, some good quality wines and craft beers. The creamery makes cheese at their own farm just outside Sister Bay and they offer lunchtime tours of the farm. The tours start at the creamery and include transport to the farm, where guests learn about how the farm operates, how they make cheeses and about the life of their goats. A pleasant light walking tour of the farm includes encounters with their "daddy" goats, "mommy" goats and "baby" goats and tasting of their homemade goat milk, cheese, gelato and patio lunch.

10653 N Bay Shore Dr, Sister Bay, WI 54234, Phone: 920-854-3388

Where to Eat

Waterfront Restaurant


Dine with bay views and enjoy a romantic evening out.

Waterfront Restaurant

© Waterfront Restaurant

Waterfront Restaurant is located on the shoreline of Green Bay in North Sister Bay, Wisconsin. Elegant and refined, Waterfront offers seasonally changing menu in the beautiful dining room where every table has the view of the marina and the ocean. Floor to ceiling windows make sunsets spectacular experience. It is even more breathtaking from the lovely outdoor space, with one of their signature cocktails or a glass of champagne. The food is prepared fresh daily and the menu depends on seasonal ingredients. The pastas are rolled by hand, the beef is cut specifically for the restaurant and the fish comes from the nearby waters or is flown in fresh from all over the world. The wine list is extensive and many wines are available by glass.

10947 WI-42, Sister Bay, WI 54234, Phone: 920-854-5491

Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant and Butik


See goats on the roof and enjoy a fun, family-friendly meal.

Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant and Butik

© Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant and Butik

A roof covered in sod and a couple of goats grazing on it are just some of many reasons to visit Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant and Butik in downtown Sister Bay, Wisconsin. Open in 1949 and run ever since by Al Johnson’s family, the restaurant is little piece of Sweden, with traditional log cabin exterior and cozy, spacious, unpretentious interior, perfect for family and friends’ gatherings. The food is traditional Swedish, with their famous meatballs and even more famous pancakes with lingonberries. Guests are invited to take a tour of the iconic restaurant and learn how to make authentic Swedish pancakes. The goats are well-taken care of and normally live in a cozy barn when they are not posing for tourists.

10698 N Bay Shore Dr, Sister Bay, WI 54234, Phone: 920-854-2626

For Nature Buffs

Three Springs Nature Preserve


Walk scenic trails and admire peaceful sights on a fall trip.

Three Springs Nature Preserve

© nikonianthai/stock.adobe.com

Covering 5.5 acres of protected land, the Three Springs Nature Preserve protects and showcases a critical habitat home to many species of threatened or endangered plants and animals. It provides a an ideal home for diving ducks, sandhill cranes and herons, many of which may be spotted as you make your way along a 1.7mile loop trails through the preserve. Due to the sensitive nature of the plants which surround you, visitors are requested to remain on the marked trails as they explore. You should be on the lookout for several rare species like Hine’s Emerald Dragonfly, dwarf lake iris and lady slipper.

Three Springs Nature Preserve, 10442 Three Springs Rd, Sister Bay, WI 54234, 920 746 1359

If you are interested in local events:

  • Fall Fest (October) – Sister Bay’s biggest event featuring food, music, crafts, and a classic ping-pong ball drop.
  • Roofing of the Goats Parade (May) – Celebrate the return of the famous rooftop goats with a quirky spring parade and activities.
  • Concerts in the Park (Summer) – Free live music at Waterfront Park every Wednesday evening in peak season.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Sister Bay, Wisconsin:

  • Ellison Bay (10–15 min) – Visit the Ellison Bluff Overlook, shop for pottery, or explore nature preserves.
  • Fish Creek (15–20 min) – Enjoy theater at Peninsula Players, explore boutiques, and dine harborside.
  • Ephraim (10 min) – Take in waterfront views, visit historic churches, or rent a paddleboat on Eagle Harbor.
  • Baileys Harbor (25–30 min) – Hike at Cana Island Lighthouse or explore Ridges Sanctuary’s boardwalk trails.
  • Peninsula State Park (15–20 min) – One of Wisconsin’s best state parks for hiking, biking, golfing, or relaxing at Nicolet Beach.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Where is Sister Bay located?
    • Sister Bay is a tiny, charming village in Door County, Wisconsin.
    • It is situated at the tip of a peninsula extending into Lake Michigan.
  • What is the heart of village life in Sister Bay?
    • Most of the village activity revolves around the lively marina.
    • The area features restaurants overlooking the boats and the bay.
    • A large green park and a beach surround the marina.
  • How can visitors learn about the history of Sister Bay?
    • Visitors can explore the Corner of the Past Museum.
    • The museum features 17 historic buildings showcasing the village's past.

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Ideal for fewer crowds and blooming landscapes. Country House Resort – A peaceful adults-only retreat with scenic views. Visit Peninsula State Park – Great for hiking and nature photography.
Summer (June-August) – Peak season for outdoor activities and festivals. Scandinavian Lodge – A family-friendly stay with great amenities. Enjoy Sister Bay Beach – A perfect spot for swimming and picnicking.
Fall (September-November) – Stunning fall foliage and fewer tourists. Open Hearth Lodge – A cozy and comfortable stay with easy access to attractions. Take a scenic drive along Highway 42 – Experience breathtaking autumn colors.

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