Door County’s Southern Charms: A Drive through its Natural and Maritime Heritage

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Shaped by ancient seas and later settled by Native Americans, fishermen, and farmers, the southern half of Door County is a fascinating blend of rugged beauty, maritime history, and small-town charm. From the bustling shipyards of Sturgeon Bay to the serene cliffs of Cave Point, this driving tour takes you through the landscapes and stories that define this unique region.

The tour starts at Door County Coffee & Tea Co in Carlsville, a small but historically rich community known for its coffee and locally made wines and spirits. You’ll follow Sturgeon Bay Canal into and through the county’s largest city, Sturgeon Bay, where you’ll learn how their shipyards have been vital to the region’s economy for over a century.

As you drive along the canal, I’ll tell you about its history and how this feat of engineering reshaped the county’s maritime industry, making the area a vital shipping hub. You’ll also see the Coast Guard station, which still plays a crucial role in safeguarding these waters. The tour ends in Horseshoe Bay, where you can visit Frank Murphy Park, take in stunning views of Green Bay’s waters, and see where the Door County triathlon kicks off. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop your car and explore on foot.

You’ll have a chance to:

• Walk the shores of Whitefish Dunes State Park, home to towering sand dunes and ancient Native American village sites
• Stand in awe at Cave Point, where the relentless power of Lake Michigan has sculpted dramatic limestone cliffs along the Niagara Escarpment
• Journey along the coastline to see historic lighthouses like the Sturgeon Bay Pierhead Light and the Sturgeon Bay Canal Light, standing as sentinels at the entrance to the canal
• Explore Jacksonport and Egg Harbor, two scenic lakeside towns with charming shops, cozy cafés, and a deep connection to the county’s Scandinavian heritage
• Discover the historic Horseshoe Bay Farms, a century-old agricultural estate that played a vital role in Door County’s cherry industry
• Enjoy hearing Egg Harbor’s fascinating tales at Chief Oshkosh Native American Arts, a museum and gift shop handbuilt by the chief himself, and later remodeled after his death

By the end of this 180-minute journey, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for the beauty, history, and resilience of the southern half of Door County.

Whether you're here for a day trip or a weekend getaway, you’ll leave with a newfound understanding of this remarkable place, and with plenty of ideas for what to explore next.