Travel Guide
This Charming Lake Town Is The Midwest’s Most Underrated Summer Getaway
Apr
Those from the Midwest claim, “The Midwest is best!”. I gotta say I agree since my born-and-raised Missourian ex-girlfriend moved to Texas, but I digress…
The summer slice of paradise I’m about to reveal isn’t St. Louis or anywhere close — it’s a charming lake town in Wisconsin lined with cozy inns and down-home delights, plus nice resorts along the vibrant shores of Lake Michigan’s Green Bay brimming with outdoor adventures.
Not to be confused with the city of Cheeseheads rooting for the ‘Green and Gold’ on Sundays; we’re talking Green Bay the body of water, carving into the eastern coast of Wisconsin.
Tucked away from any major city, Sister Bay is a tranquil oasis that’s become popular for family vacations, couples retreats, and anyone looking to escape the big city life.
While it’s still a bit nippy for a springtime escape, come summertime, locals in the know pour in to Sister Bay to soak up the sun, enjoy waterfront dining, and fun small town happenings as this blip on the map becomes a surprisingly action-packed summer escape.
Welcome To Wisconsin’s Charming Lakeside Village
Even in the age of AI, we still haven’t decided if size really matters. Well, if you’re on the side of quaint and cozy, then Sister Bay is just for you, as there are under 2,000 residents calling this tiny town home.
Boasting a walkable main strip of welcoming boutique shops, old-timey inns, and vintage Mom & Pop eateries such as ‘famous’ Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant, you know, that ‘restaurant with goats on the roof’ — totally normal.
In other words, there’s more than enough to experience to justify this somewhat off-path hideaway.
At first glance the picturesque townscape feels like a village stuck in time. That is until you whip out your modern smartphone to snap a pic for the ‘gram.
Equally scenic is the vibrant waterfront, especially the marina, considered one of the best in Door County and the grounds to local favorite Marina Fest on August 30 – 31.
Check out Door County Boats for a wonderful boat tour across the gleaming lake known particularly around Wisconsin as the top spot for epic sunsets.
Summer By The Bay: Experience Scenic Beaches & Aquatic Adventures
Sometimes lakes get a bad wrap in favor of proper coastal beaches lined with all-inclusives, crashing waves, and salty breeze.
While the shores are generally calm here in Sister Bay, you will still find a handful of cushy resorts and clean and clear waters inviting you to swim, kayak, paddle board, or make friends with a boat owner (wink, wink).
Waterfront Park (a.k.a. Sister Bay Beach) is the longest stretch of public beach in Door County and holds rave reviews from visitors.
One recent beachgoer loved the convenience of nearby restaurants to grab a bite to eat and live concerts on Wednesday nights, but claimed the real selling point is ‘the pier gives you the million-dollar sunset photo’.
At Sister Bay Beach, you’ll find a playground for the kiddos, barbecue grills for a classic cookout, and free parking, according to numerous reviews.
It’s advised to embrace the ‘early bird gets the worm’ strategy as summer is Sister Bay’s busiest season.
In terms of weather, July and August are the best months to visit. Temps tend to hover in the mid to high 70’s with an occasional day or two dipping in the 80’s, providing bath-like water perfect for a refreshing dip in the Bay’s transparent waters.
But for one of the best kept secrets nearby lies Washington Island, home to some of the ‘clearest waters in America‘.
Getting here is a bit of a trek from Sister Bay as you’ll have to drive to Northport, which lies at the northernmost tip of the peninsula, to hop aboard the Washington Island Ferry (cars allowed).
Rustic Inns & Waterfront Resorts: Where To Stay In Sister Bay
Whether you’re the type seeking a sense of nostalgia or ready to activate “Vacation Mode” beachside, Sister Bay ticks off both boxes.
Word to the wise, though — book in advance. This small town of 1,153 people only has so much room (literally) for tourists.
Step back in time at these 4 cozy inns:
- The Coachlite Inn
- The Churchill Inn
- The Inn At Little Sister Hill
- Roots Inn & Kitchen
Level up at Sister Bay’s pair of resorts:
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
