Summer is wrapping up, so my family and I hit the road. We had a day that wasn’t filled with camps, classes, visiting, or rest, which doesn’t happen often and affords us a day full of adventure! We decided to take a Door County day trip, checking out the amazing parks, such as Whitefish Dunes State Park and Cave Point County Park, then driving around the peninsula.
Whitefish Dunes State Park
Our first stop on our Door County day trip was at Whitefish Dunes State Park. Here we enjoyed the breathtaking beach. The water was so clear it looked as though we were on a tropical island. My kids and I walked into the water, which was cold being Lake Michigan. Kayakers were launching their kayaks right on the beach. My kids enjoyed playing with the large stones on the beach and checking out the driftwood. We were careful not to walk on the dunes themselves as there is a hefty fine to keep the dunes.
Whitefish Dunes State Park also has a small nature center, and campground. The nature center has booklets for kids, that inspire them to look for animals and plants native to the area. It also has information on the Native Americans, who used the dunes as a place to stay and be protected from the Wisconsin Weather.
Cave Point County Park
Next, we traveled to Cave Point County Park. This park is stunning! So many great photo opportunities. The trails are easy to navigate and my older kids enjoyed exploring the rocks and inlets of Lake Michigan. The kayakers we saw on the beach, had traveled to Cave Point also and were enjoying the view from the lake itself.
Ephraim
We decided to continue our Door County day trip by driving the whole peninsula. We drove to Sister Bay and then headed south through Ephraim. While in Ephraim, we stopped for lunch at Wilson’s, which is an old soda shop-style restaurant that serves HUGE ice cream sundaes. Unfortunately, we needed to head home shortly after that and didn’t get to check out more of Door County’s beautiful parks and shops, but we will be back for more!
More of our favorite Door County places to visit:
Peninsula State Park – This park is perfect for hiking, biking, camping or just hanging out at the beach. While you are visiting, check out the new handicap-accessible tower.
Potawatomi State Park – This park is located in Sturgeon Bay so it’s a little closer to home. It is great for camping, hiking, and biking also.
Red Putter Golf – this small locally owned mini-golf place is great for a family on a budget.
Skyway Drive-In Theater – enjoy a movie or two with your family.
Find more Family Friendly Door County Ideas for your vacation.
