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Sister Bay, Wisconsin

A Vibrant Summertime Favorite on the Waterfront

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From orchards and farms to some of the Wisconsin’s best birding, Door County is a nature-lover’s dream in fall.

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Door County's Al Fresco Destination

Door County's Al Fresco Destination

Sister Bay has been a dining destination ever since a local character put a goat on a roof 50 years ago, but an influx of new chefs and restaurants has made Northern Door’s largest village the place for food and drink as well as outdoor concerts, entertainment, and sports and recreation.

Patios, waterside decks, and other outdoor dining options beckon as you stroll the 1,900 feet of public waterfront, and the beautiful beach and marina call you to the bay. Toss a Frisbee on the waterfront, jump off the dock, or enjoy a summer concert in between visits to iconic shops and galleries, cozy coffee shops, beloved watering holes, a historic rural campus, and famous restaurants.

A couple having drinks at the bar

Restaurants in Sister Bay

The largest community in Northern Door, Sister Bay also boasts the most restaurants and taverns open all year. Enjoy supper clubs, Swedish meatballs, local pub fare, artisan cheese, fresh seafood, or wood-fired pizza. No other village can claim so much flavor.

Lodging in Sister Bay

Lodging in Sister Bay

Sister Bay lodging runs the gamut from quaint bed and breakfasts to resorts with full ranges of amenities, all within steps of the village. You’ll find classic motels in the heart of the scene and upscale boutique lodging on the edges of town. Stay in historic lodges or modern suites.

Things to Do in Sister Bay

Things to Do in Sister Bay

Hit the water. Hit the bike. Hit the beach; hit it all in Sister Bay. Shop an array of local clothiers and sports stores or find fine furnishings. When you’re done, wash down your day’s adventure with fantastic food and drink at a parade of amazing restaurants, beer gardens, and ice cream shops.

Deeper Dive: Sister Bay

A family boating out on the lake.

Water Activities

The clean waters surrounding Door County are the stuff of legends. Learn more about water sports, boating, kayaking, lakes, and bays and other water-based fun.
Discover the Beaches of Door County

Discover the Beaches of Door County

Door County is home to a variety of beaches, from the sandy spots along Lake Michigan and Green Bay to the rare Schoolhouse Beach, which is one of just five limestone beaches in the world.
Where to Get Winter Gear & Clothing

Where to Get Winter Gear & Clothing

Whether you plan to hike a remote snow-covered trail or only leave your cozy cabin for the essentials, staying warm and dry will be key, and these Door County winter-gear retailers can get you set up.
A couple walking their dog down a grassy hill.

Dog Parks in Door County

Looking for a safe place to let your dog off its leash? Check out these officially designated Door County dog parks and let your pup run wild, expend some excess energy, and meet other dogs.
Community Spotlight: Sister Bay

Community Spotlight: Sister Bay

Iconic and picturesque, Sister Bay is a community that has fostered a bustling downtown waterfront and a flourishing food community.
Historic Museums of Door County

Historic Museums of Door County

Door County may be best known for its quaint harborside villages, outdoor adventure, and unique dining/drinking opportunities, but its historical and cultural sides have plenty to offer as well.

5 Must-Dos in Sister Bay

A sailboat on the lake at sunset.

1. Stroll 1,900 feet of public waterfront at sunset

You’ll be joined by a crowd clamoring for a picture, but you won’t notice them as you lock in on another beautiful day’s end.

2. Dine and drink

2. Dine and drink

Sister Bay has long been home to fantastic year-round dining options, but thanks to an extensive downtown street reconstruction, the village is hopping more than ever before.

Aerial view of people on the beach

3. Take a dip

Sister Bay’s new beach is a great place to cool off. You can also rent kayaks, paddleboards, or boats on the shore, so there’s no excuse for not getting on the water.

A man and woman shopping inside a store.

4. Shop

Sister Bay is home to several well-regarded galleries and shops, as well as three specialty outdoors stores where you can gear up for a Door County adventure.

Two motorcyclists on a tree-lined road

5. Ride on!

Bring your motorcycle or bicycle and ride through some of the area’s most beautiful winding roads, from Sister Bay to the tip of the peninsula. Make your way back down beautiful country back-roads and finish in time for a sunset and a beverage on the shore.

Sister Bay Annual Events

Roofing of the Goats
June

Roofing of the Goats

The annual Goat Parade is followed with Al Johnson's Goat Festival, which features food, drinks, games, activities, and, of course, the titular goat roofing.
A cyclist riding next to the lake.
June

Peninsula Century Spring Classic Bike Ride

Bike enthusiasts from all corners of the Midwest travel to Baileys Harbor to kick off the spring season and participate in bike races that range from 25–100 miles.
Pumpkins lined up in a field
October

Sister Bay Fall Festival

Sister's Bay signature event—the fall festival—features an auto show, raffle, music, a fish boil, and dozens of other fall-themed activities throughout the weekend.
A horse and carriage next to a trolley car in the snow
November

Capture the Spirit

Locals of and visitors to Sister Bay get into the holiday spirit with a series of seasonal activities, including food and drinks, music and caroling, cookie decorating, plus a visit from Santa himself.

Discover Door County

Trip Planner

Explore local businesses, activities, and events and add them to your custom trip itinerary.

Door County Events

Find Door County events for every kind of trip, including festivals, performances, and kids’ events.

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