🍁What’s Still Open in Door County This October (and Why It’s the Perfect Time to Visit)
Discover what’s still open in Door County this October — from wineries and orchards to trails and cozy restaurants — plus where to stay!
Enjoy a beautiful drive through Door County’s winding roads surrounded by brilliant fall colors.
October in Door County might just be the best-kept secret — lively, colorful, and full of fall charm. The peninsula buzzes with activity this time of year, from orchard visits and scenic hikes to local festivals and wine tastings. It’s the perfect month to experience the best of fall while still enjoying the shops, restaurants, and attractions that make Door County so special.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or a midweek escape, you’ll find plenty of places still open and ready to welcome you. From outdoor adventures and cozy cafes to family-friendly fun, here’s a look at what you can enjoy across Door County this October.
🌲 Family-Friendly Outdoor Adventures
Cana Island
The Ridges Sanctuary (Baileys Harbor)
Just steps from our Ridges Retreat property, this nature preserve offers peaceful boardwalk trails surrounded by rich fall colors. Perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature. In October, The Ridges offers Friday night hikes along the illuminated boardwalk as well as guided hikes throughout the week, giving visitors a chance to experience the sanctuary’s beauty and wildlife in a whole new way.
Door County Trolley Tours
Operating throughout October, the famous Door County Trolley offers scenic fall color rides, wine tours, and even haunted ghost tours. It’s one of the best ways to explore the county’s beauty in comfort and style.
Peninsula State Park (Fish Creek)
One of Wisconsin’s most beloved parks, Peninsula State Park stays open year-round with miles of hiking and biking trails, breathtaking overlooks, and the historic Eagle Bluff Lighthouse.
Cana Island Lighthouse (Baileys Harbor)
Accessible by a short causeway, this historic lighthouse offers some of the best views in Door County. Climb the tower for sweeping Lake Michigan vistas and take in the fall colors that surround the shoreline — it’s a classic Door County experience. a favorite for families and photographers alike.
Scenic Drives
Cruise along Highways 42 and 57 for sweeping views of fall foliage and charming small towns. Don’t forget to stop at local farm markets and viewpoints along the way!
🍎 Orchards & Farm Markets
Apple season is in full swing, and Door County’s orchards are buzzing with activity all month long. Whether you’re picking apples, sipping cider, or stocking up on local treats, here are some favorites that remain open in October:
Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market (Fish Creek)
Sequist Orchards Farm Market (Sister Bay)
Waseda Farms (Baileys Harbor)
Schartner’s Farm Market (Egg Harbor)
Wood Orchard (Egg Harbor)
Hyline Orchard (Fish Creek)
🍷 Wineries, Breweries & Cider Houses
Sip, relax, and enjoy Door County’s harvest season one glass at a time.
Fall in Door County is the perfect time for wine tasting, craft beer or cider sipping — many wineries and breweries stay open through October.
Harbor Ridge Winery (Egg Harbor) – a relaxed, friendly spot with scenic fall views.
Anchored Roots Vineyard & Winery (Egg Harbor) – cozy outdoor tastings with a rustic vibe.
Door Peninsula Winery (Sturgeon Bay) – one of Door County’s largest and most popular wineries.
Simon Creek Vineyard & Winery (Sturgeon Bay) – open through October 31 with weekend music.
Door 44 Vineyard & Winery (Sturgeon Bay) – known for crisp whites and fruit-forward reds.
Island Orchard Cider (Ellison Bay) – handcrafted hard ciders made from local apples.
Sway Brewing + Blending (Baileys Harbor) – small-batch craft brewery focused on unique blends and creative flavors.
Door County Brewing Co. & Music Hall (Baileys Harbor) – live music, local beers, and a fun, community atmosphere.
Lake Fire Winery (Baileys Harbor) – a boutique winery and tasting room offering locally made wines and a cozy outdoor patio.
🍽️ Cozy Restaurants & Cafés to Try This Fall
Door County’s restaurant scene stays lively well into October, with plenty of cozy spots serving fresh, local flavors. From waterfront cafés to farm-to-table favorites, these local gems are still open this month and perfect for a relaxed fall meal:
Old Post Office Restaurant (Ephraim) – a Door County classic known for its traditional fish boil and stunning bay views. Open through the last Sunday in October.
Chef’s Hat Café (Ephraim) – casual, cozy dining with fresh salads, sandwiches, and lakefront views.
Sip (Ephraim) – a stylish wine and espresso bar offering small plates, pastries, and local pours in a relaxed atmosphere.
La Sirena (Baileys Harbor) – coastal-inspired Mexican cuisine featuring fresh seafood, tacos, and margaritas.
Chive (Baileys Harbor) – creative farm-to-table dishes and handcrafted cocktails in a welcoming setting.
Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant (Sister Bay) – a must-visit Door County icon serving traditional Swedish pancakes and hearty breakfasts — and yes, the famous goats on the roof remain through mid-October!
Door County Creamery (Sister Bay) – artisan cheeses, salads, and gelato made from locally sourced goat milk.
🎉 October Festivals & Events
October in Door County is packed with small-town festivals, outdoor music, and family-friendly celebrations. Here are a few favorites still happening this month:
Pumpkin Patch Festival (Egg Harbor – October 11–12) – A fall favorite featuring live music, carnival rides, arts & crafts, food stands, and festive pumpkin displays throughout the village.
Fall Fun Fest & Cider Pressing Party (Washington Island – October 11) – Celebrate the season with fresh cider pressing, hayrides, and hands-on activities at the Farm Museum.
Jack O’Lantern Days (Fish Creek – October 24–26) – A fun-filled weekend with a costume parade, mask-making for kids, live music, games, and Halloween-themed activities throughout downtown Fish Creek.
Sister Bay Fall Fest (Sister Bay – October 17–19) – A Door County tradition for 75+ years with a parade, local food, live music, arts & crafts, and kids’ activities all weekend.
Halloween Glow Ball Nights – Evergreen Miniature Golf (Fish Creek – Saturday nights in October) – Play mini golf under the lights with glowing balls and spooky décor; a family-friendly way to cap off your day.
Serenity on Spruce
October is one of our favorite months in Door County — not because it’s quieter, but because it feels more personal. The colors are rich, the air is fresh, and the local spots still buzz with friendly energy.
If you’re planning a fall trip, we’d love to help you experience it all. From Serenity on Spruce in Ephraim to Ridges Retreat in Baileys Harbor, our homes are perfectly located near everything that makes October in Door County unforgettable — hikes, wineries, cozy cafés, and waterfront views.
🏡 Visit www.serenitytravelrentals.com to check availability and make this fall getaway yours.