20 Unique Things To Do In Sturgeon Bay That Will Make You Feel Like a Local
Looking for a charming waterfront escape that blends small-town hospitality with big outdoor adventures? Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, delivers all that and more. Nestled in Door County along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, this vibrant town offers a unique mix of maritime history, scenic beauty, and quirky local culture that keeps visitors coming back year after year.
From lighthouse hunting and shipwreck dives to farm-to-table dining and cozy art galleries, Sturgeon Bay has something for every kind of traveler. It’s the kind of place where you can spend your morning kayaking through peaceful coves and your afternoon sipping local wine while browsing antiques.
In this guide, you'll discover the top things to do in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin—including hidden gems, seasonal favorites, and can’t-miss experiences that showcase the best of this lakeside gem.
1. Tour the Door County Maritime Museum
📍 Location: 120 N Madison Ave, Sturgeon Bay, WI
⚓ Best for: History buffs, boat lovers, curious travelers
Dive into the rich maritime heritage of Sturgeon Bay at the Door County Maritime Museum. Perched right on the working waterfront, this fascinating museum showcases the shipbuilding legacy and nautical life of the Great Lakes through immersive, hands-on exhibits.
The standout feature is the Jim Kress Maritime Lighthouse Tower—a stunning 10-story experience where each floor explores a different aspect of maritime history. Reach the top, and you're rewarded with panoramic views of the bay, the historic bridges, and the shipyards below.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the guided tour of the John Purves, a 149-foot restored tugboat from 1919. Walking through its tight engine rooms and crew quarters feels like stepping into a floating time capsule.
2. Walk the Historic Steel Bridge
📍 Location: Michigan Street Bridge, Sturgeon Bay, WI
🌉 Best for: Photographers, architecture fans, casual strollers
A stroll across Sturgeon Bay’s iconic Historic Steel Bridge is like walking through a living postcard. Officially known as the Michigan Street Bridge, this 1931-built Sturgeon Bay attraction is one of the last remaining rolling bascule bridges in the country—and it still opens for passing boats!
The bridge connects downtown Sturgeon Bay to the west side and offers a peaceful, walkable path with lovely views of the waterfront, shipyards, and passing sailboats. Its industrial charm and historic significance make it a favorite among photographers and history enthusiasts alike.
Pro Tip: Time your walk for sunset. The soft glow over the water and the bridge’s vintage steelwork create a picture-perfect scene you’ll want to capture—and remember.
3. Visit the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal North Pierhead Light
📍 Location: End of Canal Rd, Sturgeon Bay, WI
📸 Best for: Lighthouse lovers, photographers, sunset chasers
Nothing says “Door County” quite like a classic red lighthouse standing tall against Lake Michigan’s horizon. The Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal North Pierhead Light is a local icon—perched at the end of a long breakwater that juts dramatically into the lake.
To reach it, you’ll walk a narrow pier surrounded by waves and fresh lake breezes. The experience is peaceful, a little adventurous, and incredibly rewarding once you reach the bold red beacon at the end. It’s a favorite spot for engagement photos, solo contemplation, and dreamy Instagram snaps.
Pro Tip: Head out just before sunset. The golden light reflecting off the water and glowing behind the lighthouse makes for one of the most stunning views in all of Sturgeon Bay.
4. Explore Potawatomi State Park
📍 Location: 3740 County Rd PD, Sturgeon Bay, WI
🌲 Best for: Hikers, kayakers, nature lovers
Tucked along the shoreline of Sturgeon Bay, Potawatomi State Park is a nature lover’s dream and a standout Sturgeon Bay attraction for outdoor adventure. The park boasts miles of scenic trails through dense woodlands, limestone cliffs, and peaceful lakeside stretches—perfect for a relaxing walk or an invigorating hike.
You’ll find fishing piers, boat launches, and kayak-friendly waters, along with picnic spots that feel like your own private retreat. In the fall, the park explodes with brilliant red, gold, and orange foliage, making it one of the best leaf-peeping spots in all of Door County.
Pro Tip: For panoramic views of the bay, take the Tower Trail to the observation tower site—it’s a local favorite for sunrise and sunset moments.
5. Shop and Dine in Downtown Sturgeon Bay
📍 Location: Downtown Sturgeon Bay, WI
🛍️ Best for: Shoppers, foodies, laid-back explorers
No visit is complete without soaking up the small-town charm of Downtown Sturgeon Bay. This walkable area is lined with locally owned boutiques, cozy bookshops, quirky antique stores, and art galleries that reflect the creative spirit of the community.
When it’s time to eat, the downtown scene doesn’t disappoint. Scaturo’s Baking Co. & Café serves up hearty breakfasts, baked goods, and sandwiches with that home-cooked feel. For a fresher, more modern twist, Bluefront Café offers inventive lunch dishes with plenty of vegetarian-friendly options.
Pro Tip: Many of the shops here carry locally made items—perfect for one-of-a-kind souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else in Door County.
6. Take a Kayak Tour Along the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal
📍 Location: Launch points available near Otumba Park and Sunset Park
🛶 Best for: Active families, water lovers, beginner paddlers
Looking for one of the most memorable family activities in Sturgeon Bay? Hop in a kayak and explore the scenic Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal from the water. It’s a calm, beginner-friendly paddle with unforgettable views of red lighthouses, lush shoreline, and the city’s historic steel bridges.
Guided kayak tours are available for those who want a narrated experience, or you can rent your own and paddle at your own pace. Along the way, you might spot herons, sailboats, and even the occasional passing freighter.
Pro Tip: Early morning or late afternoon tours offer the best light (and fewer boat wakes), making for a smooth, peaceful glide through the heart of Sturgeon Bay
7. Sip Local Wine at Door Peninsula Winery
📍 Location: 5806 Hwy 42, Sturgeon Bay, WI
🍷 Best for: Couples, friend groups, wine enthusiasts
When it comes to relaxing, sipping wine at Door Peninsula Winery is a top-tier experience—and a standout among Sturgeon Bay wineries. Housed in a converted schoolhouse, this welcoming spot is known for its approachable tastings, wide variety of fruit wines, and laid-back vibe.
You'll find everything from crisp apple and tart cherry blends to classic reds and whites, plus a gourmet food shop filled with local jams, cheeses, and wine-infused goodies. It's the kind of place where you can linger, sample, and stock up on tasty souvenirs.
Pro Tip: Ask about their wine + cider tastings—they also run Door County Distillery on-site, so you can sample spirits too. A perfect option for a relaxed afternoon or a rainy-day treat.
8. Visit the Garden Door at the UW Peninsular Agricultural Research Station
📍 Location: 4312 Hwy 42, Sturgeon Bay, WI
🌼 Best for: Couples, garden lovers, peaceful wanderers
For one of the most unexpectedly charming and romantic things to do in Sturgeon Bay, head to The Garden Door—a hidden oasis tucked behind the UW Peninsular Agricultural Research Station. This whimsical public garden is completely free to visit and packed with personality.
Wander through themed garden rooms, admire the vibrant blooms, spot fairy doors tucked into tree trunks, and pause by the tranquil koi pond. It's quiet, creative, and just the right mix of playful and peaceful. A favorite for low-key date strolls and dreamy photography sessions.
Pro Tip: Bring a coffee or picnic and make it a slow morning. The gardens are typically uncrowded, so you'll often feel like you have the whole place to yourselves.
9. Experience a Sunset at Sunset Park (Yes, It Lives Up to the Name!)
📍 Location: 747 N 3rd Ave, Sturgeon Bay, WI
🌅 Best for: Nature lovers, couples, golden hour chasers
If you're looking for a moment of calm or that perfect end-of-day photo, head to Sunset Park—a local favorite that truly lives up to its name. With peaceful walking trails, benches along the shoreline, and grassy spots perfect for a blanket and snack, it’s one of the best places in Sturgeon Bay to soak in golden-hour views.
As the sun dips over the water, the sky turns fiery with orange and pink hues, and the boats in the harbor cast dreamy reflections. It’s a simple pleasure, but one that feels unforgettable in the right moment.
Pro Tip: Bring takeout from a local café or deli and enjoy a casual waterfront picnic. Locals swear the sunsets here never disappoint.
10. Climb the Observation Tower at Potawatomi State Park
📍 Location: 3740 County Rd PD, Sturgeon Bay, WI
🗺️ Best for: View seekers, photographers, outdoor enthusiasts
For panoramic views that truly capture the beauty of Door County, climb the Observation Tower at Potawatomi State Park. As one of the highest viewpoints in the area, this scenic perch offers sweeping vistas over Sturgeon Bay, the surrounding forests, and—on clear days—even a hint of the Lake Michigan horizon.
It’s a short, rewarding hike to the base, and the view from the top is unforgettable—especially in autumn, when the treetops burst into vibrant shades of red and gold. This is one of those quiet thrills that sticks with you long after you’ve come back down.
Pro Tip: Visit early in the day for clear skies and fewer people. It’s one of the most breathtaking yet underrated spots in all of Door County.
11. Get Artsy at Popelka Trenchard Glass Studio
📍 Location: 64 S 2nd Ave, Sturgeon Bay, WI
🖼️ Best for: Art lovers, creatives, gift seekers
Step inside Popelka Trenchard Glass Studio and you’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a working art gallery—because you have. This local treasure showcases the stunning work of resident glassblowers Jeremy Popelka and Stephanie Trenchard, whose pieces have been featured in museums across the country.
Watch live glassblowing demos as molten glass transforms into delicate vases, bold sculptures, or whimsical ornaments right before your eyes. The attached gallery and gift shop are full of one-of-a-kind items that make meaningful souvenirs or standout home décor.
Pro Tip: If you’re in town for a few days, check their schedule—occasional workshops and artist talks offer a deeper dive into the creative process behind some of Door County’s most iconic glass art.
12. Take a Boat Tour with Door County Boats
📍 Location: 120 N Madison Ave, Sturgeon Bay, WI
🚤 Best for: Sightseers, couples, maritime history fans
Want to see Sturgeon Bay from a whole new perspective? Hop aboard a narrated cruise with Door County Boats and glide through the waterways that define this historic town. From scenic lighthouse cruises to sunset tours and insider stories about the area’s legendary shipyards, every ride offers something a little different.
Their popular “Fireboat Tours” use a converted Chicago fireboat—yes, it still sprays water—adding a playful, unexpected twist to your time on the water. It’s a relaxing and informative way to soak in the coastal scenery and get a deeper feel for Door County’s maritime roots.
Pro Tip: Book a sunset cruise for unforgettable golden hour views. Bring a jacket—the breeze picks up once you’re out on the open water.
13. Snap Photos at Graham Park’s Waterfront Art Sculptures
📍 Location: E Maple St & S 1st Ave, Sturgeon Bay, WI
📷 Best for: Photographers, art lovers, casual strollers
Graham Park is one of Sturgeon Bay’s newer public spaces, but it’s already made a big impression—thanks in part to its colorful, contemporary waterfront art installations. Located just off the harbor walk, this inviting little park blends public art with peaceful views, making it ideal for a low-key stroll or an impromptu photo session.
The sculptures change periodically and are part of the city’s commitment to supporting local artists. Add in some cozy benches, green space, and a close-up view of boats passing through the canal, and you’ve got a picture-perfect slice of Sturgeon Bay creativity.
Pro Tip: It’s especially photogenic in the early morning or golden hour, when the art pieces glow under soft light and the harbor is calm.
14. Catch a Show at Third Avenue PlayWorks (TAP)
📍 Location: 239 N 3rd Ave, Sturgeon Bay, WI
🎭 Best for: Theater fans, date nights, culture seekers
If you're in the mood for a little drama—or comedy—make plans to see a live performance at Third Avenue PlayWorks (TAP). This intimate downtown theater delivers professional productions year-round, with a rotating lineup that includes everything from heartfelt dramas and clever comedies to family-friendly shows and thought-provoking new works.
The venue itself is cozy and modern, making every seat feel close to the action. It’s one of those under-the-radar experiences that adds real character to your visit and a welcome touch of Door County’s artsy side.
Pro Tip: Check the calendar before your trip—tickets often sell out quickly for popular weekend performances or limited-run plays.
15. Visit Sawyer Farms & Market (Seasonal)
📍 Location: 1941 County Rd S, Sturgeon Bay, WI
🍓 Best for: Families, fall lovers, farm-to-table fans
For a sweet slice of country life just minutes from downtown, head to Sawyer Farms & Market—a seasonal spot bursting with local flavor and charm. Depending on the time of year, you can pick your own berries, apples, or pumpkins, stroll through fields with a warm cider in hand, or load up on fresh produce and baked goods at the market stand.
This spot shines brightest in autumn when the farm transforms into a fall lover’s paradise with hayrides, corn mazes, and an explosion of golden color across the landscape. It’s wholesome, photogenic, and a beloved local tradition.
Pro Tip: Visit in late September or early October for peak apple-picking and pumpkin patch season—perfect timing for families or anyone chasing that cozy fall feeling.
16. Tour the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Lighthouse (Private Access but Viewable)
📍 Location: Canal Rd, Sturgeon Bay, WI
🔦 Best for: Lighthouse fans, history buffs, photographers
The Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Lighthouse is one of the area’s most striking sights—with its tall white tower rising at the southern end of the canal, it's a favorite among Sturgeon Bay lighthouse tour chasers and maritime history fans. While the lighthouse itself sits on federally protected property and isn’t open for public tours, it's still clearly viewable and totally worth the trip.
Visitors can walk the nearby breakwater path to the North Pierhead Light or find several great photo vantage points along Canal Road. It's a peaceful area with plenty of space to take in the landscape, and the sight of two lighthouses standing guard over the canal is something you won’t forget.
Pro Tip: Bring a zoom lens for your camera—this lighthouse is beautifully photogenic, especially during golden hour or when waves crash along the shore.
17. Try Cider or Craft Beer at Bridge Up Brewing Co.
📍 Location: 129 N Madison Ave (Inside the Door County Maritime Museum), Sturgeon Bay, WI
🍺 Best for: Craft drinkers, casual hangouts, post-adventure sips
Tucked inside the Door County Maritime Museum building, Bridge Up Brewing Co. is one of the most unique places to enjoy a cold one in Sturgeon Bay. This small but mighty brewery serves up a rotating selection of craft beers and ciders brewed right on-site — perfect for kicking back after a day of exploring.
With local ingredients, fun seasonal brews, and a welcoming vibe, it’s a favorite with both locals and visitors. Grab a flight to sample a bit of everything, or enjoy a pint while soaking in harbor views from the museum deck.
Pro Tip: Ask about their Door County cherry cider—a fan favorite that captures the region’s famous fruit in refreshingly tart form.
18. Take a Self-Guided Historic Walking Tour
📍 Location: Various points throughout Downtown Sturgeon Bay
🗺️ Best for: History buffs, architecture lovers, slow-paced explorers
Sturgeon Bay wears its history proudly, and one of the best ways to experience it is by taking a self-guided walking tour through its charming historic districts. From beautifully preserved Victorian homes to old shipyard buildings and 19th-century storefronts, every block has a story to tell.
You can pick up a walking tour map from the local visitors center or download one online for a smartphone-friendly version. The routes are easy to follow and offer a relaxing way to learn about the town’s maritime heritage, immigrant roots, and evolving architecture—all at your own pace.
Pro Tip: Make time to stop by the Door County Historical Museum along the way. It’s free and full of interesting local artifacts that bring the walking tour to life.
19. Hike the Ahnapee State Trail
📍 Location: Trail access at Utah Street in Sturgeon Bay
🚴♀️ Best for: Hikers, cyclists, fall color chasers
The Ahnapee State Trail is a scenic, crushed limestone path that winds its way through farmland, forests, and wetlands—all starting right from Sturgeon Bay. Once a railway line, it’s now a peaceful rails-to-trails route ideal for walking, biking, jogging, or even horseback riding.
The trail stretches 48 miles toward Kewaunee, but you don’t need to go far to find beauty. In fall, the tree canopy turns brilliant shades of gold and crimson, making it one of the area’s most breathtaking spots for leaf peeping. It's also a quiet escape for anyone seeking fresh air and a slower pace.
Pro Tip: Pack a snack and bike a few miles south—there are hidden picnic spots and quiet overlooks along the way that most visitors miss.
20. Attend a Local Festival (Like the Sturgeon Bay Fine Art Fair or Harvest Fest)
📍 Location: Downtown Sturgeon Bay & Martin Park
🎉 Best for: Festival fans, culture lovers, anyone craving local flavor
For a true taste of Sturgeon Bay’s small-town spirit, time your visit to coincide with one of its beloved local festivals. Two of the most popular are the Sturgeon Bay Fine Art Fair (held each May) and Harvest Fest (typically in September), both packed with energy, creativity, and community pride.
You’ll find everything from live music and food trucks to artist booths, family activities, and handmade crafts. The streets fill with locals and visitors mingling over kettle corn, brats, and locally made cider—capturing that warm, welcoming vibe Door County is known for.
Pro Tip: Book your lodging early—festival weekends are popular, and rooms near downtown fill up fast.
Conclusion
From peaceful lighthouses to artsy hideaways and Sturgeon Bay hiking trails to cider tastings, this Wisconsin city packs a surprising amount of charm and variety into one lakeside town. It’s a place where maritime history meets small-town creativity, and where outdoor adventures pair perfectly with relaxing, slow-paced moments.
You’ll find plenty of things to do in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin that go beyond the expected. Between the working waterfront, welcoming locals, and endless photo ops, this is one destination that quietly—and completely—wins you over.
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FAQ
1. What is Sturgeon Bay known for?
Sturgeon Bay is known for its working waterfront, historic lighthouses, shipbuilding legacy, and its role as the gateway to Door County. It's also popular for scenic trails, local festivals, and maritime museums.
2. Is Sturgeon Bay worth visiting?
Yes, Sturgeon Bay offers a rich mix of outdoor recreation, arts, history, and local flavor. It’s less crowded than other Door County towns and has its unique vibe with plenty of hidden gems and waterfront views.
3. Sturgeon Bay best time to visit?
May through October is ideal. Spring and summer offer lush landscapes and festivals, while fall brings stunning foliage. September and early October are perfect for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
4. How far is Sturgeon Bay from Green Bay?
Sturgeon Bay is about 43 miles northeast of Green Bay. The drive typically takes around 50 minutes, making it a convenient day trip or weekend getaway.
5. Does Sturgeon Bay have wineries or breweries?
Yes! Sturgeon Bay is home to Door Peninsula Winery and Bridge Up Brewing Co., offering tastings, flights, and local flavors. These stops are great additions to any food and drink itinerary.
6. What is the weather like in Sturgeon Bay?
Sturgeon Bay experiences warm summers with highs in the 70s–80s°F, crisp falls with brilliant foliage, snowy winters, and cool, pleasant springs. Layers are key, especially near the lake where it can be breezy.
