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Ellison Bay Wisconsin Travel Guide | Things to Do, Places to Eat, and Where to Stay
Ellison Bay Wisconsin
Ellison Bay sits near the tip of the Door Peninsula, Door County’s scenic northern escape, offering a slower pace, dramatic shoreline views, and access to some of the county’s most untouched natural beauty. Compared to the busier towns farther south, Ellison Bay feels more like an artist’s retreat or nature-lover’s hideaway perfect for those who want to escape the crowds without losing the charm.
It’s the kind of place where you might hike through a cedar forest in the morning, browse a pottery studio in the afternoon, and watch the sun dip into Green Bay from a quiet bluff at night. Visiting Ellison Bay during cherry blossom season is like stepping into a postcard with the peaceful orchards, quiet roads, and a burst of spring color that marks the start of summer in Door County.
Why Visit Ellison Bay?
Fewer Crowds
Even in peak summer, you’ll find more elbow room here.
Dramatic Scenery
Clifftop parks and sweeping Green Bay vistas.
Artistic Flair
Galleries and studios give the village a creative vibe.
Gateway to the North
Close to Newport State Park and Washington Island ferry.
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Newport State Park is located near Ellison Bay on the northeastern tip of the peninsula, it is Wisconsin’s only formally designated wilderness park. That means it offers a more rustic, back-to-nature experience than many other state parks and perfect for those who truly want to disconnect. This park is ideal for camping, hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing (it’s also a certified Dark Sky Park).
Ellison Bay Community Park
The park is a perfect spot for families to spend the day together. Visitors can enjoy tennis courts, a children’s playground, picnic tables, BBQs, and wide grassy areas for spreading out a blanket and relaxing. A sandy beach provides safe swimming in summer, while a covered gazebo offers shelter during rainy weather. For larger gatherings, the historic Community Center is available to rent for family reunions, weddings, and special events.
Ellison Bluff County Park
A must-visit for its panoramic overlook of the Green Bay shoreline. Perched high above the waters of Green Bay, Ellison Bluff County Park is a hidden gem that showcases some of the most dramatic views in Door County. Tucked away near Ellison Bay, this quiet park is less crowded than other destinations, making it a favorite for locals and travelers who enjoy peaceful, scenic escapes. Best at sunset or during fall color season.
Cherry Blossoms
Ellison Bay and the surrounding Door County countryside transform into a sea of white and pink when the cherry orchards bloom. Typically peaking in mid to late May, the blossoms draw visitors from across the Midwest to witness one of the peninsula’s most iconic seasonal displays.
The Clearing Folk School
Founded by Jens Jensen, this renowned retreat offers workshops in nature studies, arts, crafts, and writing. Even if you don’t take a class, the grounds are beautiful to explore.
Kayak Tours
Kayak tours explore shoreline caves and coves, especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset. When you join a guided kayak tour in Door County, you can relax and immerse yourself in some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Midwest. From dramatic shorelines and hidden caves to peaceful bays, every paddle reveals a new perspective of the peninsula.
Galleries
Clay Bay Pottery
Located along Hwy 42, Clay Bay Pottery is the studio of Jeanne and David Aurelius. Their work ranges from whimsical, nature-inspired pottery to abstract vases, tiles, and unique woodcuts and paintings from other local artists.
Turtle Ridge Gallery-Boutique
Mary Ellen Sisulak showcases her mixed-media paintings and encaustics here. The gallery also offers distinctive handmade leather accessories, artisan jewelry, and select designer clothing. It’s surrounded by natural beauty and even hosts art camps.
Gills Rock Pottery
Thor and Judy Thoreson work from a historic building to create functional and decorative pottery. Their gallery pairs beautifully crafted pots with artistically displayed linens and wooden pieces—and you’ll find standout pieces for your garden as well.
Sutra Gallery
This intimate gallery is housed in a small home off Highway 42 and features Indian and South Asian art, including fabrics, oils, acrylics, and woodcuts. The gallery space changes regularly and the owner brings new pieces from artists overseas.
Where to Eat
The Wickman House
One of Door County’s top dining experiences, the Wickman House is known for seasonal, locally sourced dishes and creative cocktails.
Mink River Basin
Classic Wisconsin tavern fare with a friendly local vibe.
Kick Ash Door County
Coffee, baked goods, and homemade granola in a relaxed setting.
The Vault
Gourmet popcorn, soft serve ice cream, LaCocina Pizza, Exotic Jerky, and more to enjoy Ellison Bay.
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Signature Events
Olde Ellison Bay Days (June)
Local food, live music, and a small-town parade.
Door County Sea Kayak Symposium (July, nearby in Rowleys Bay)
Clinics, tours, and demonstrations for all skill levels.
Getting There & Around
Ellison Bay is about 40 minutes north of Sturgeon Bay, just past Sister Bay on Highway 42. The roads north become quieter and more scenic, and it’s an easy drive to Gills Rock or the Washington Island ferry.
Conclusion
Ellison Bay is Door County’s peaceful northern soul, a blend of dramatic bluffs, artisan energy, and unspoiled nature. It’s less about “doing everything” and more about slowing down, breathing in the cedar-scented air, and letting the scenery do the work.
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