Community Spotlight: Fish Creek

Fish Creek (or Fish Crick as many locals say) has long been a hub of shopping, dining and a favorite place to gather with family and friends. Located on the bay side of the peninsula just south of Peninsula State Park, this village is central on the western shoreline and central to all Door County has to offer.

History & Culture

Fish Creek has deep roots in Door County heritage, spanning back to 1855 when fishermen and loggers began to settle in the area. 

Asa Thorp, the village founder, constructed the first pier using local timber and many buildings were constructed beginning in the 1860’s - some of which you can still see today. One such place is the Alexander Noble house that is now open to the public. Built in 1875 you can see an example of what life was like for these first pioneers at this must-visit historical house in downtown Fish Creek.

As the village grew, visitors began to take notice of the pristine location and easy access to nature’s bounty. Soon Fish Creek was thriving with activity and vacationers, and that attraction has shown to be timeless as the community has fostered the welcoming of tourists year after year. From hiking, biking and camping in Peninsula State Park, watching a live show at the Peninsula Players Theater or grabbing a burger and ice cream at Not Licked Yet, family and village traditions are going strong.

Outdoor Recreation

Explore the village or 3,776-acre state park by bicycle or moped with a rental from Edge of Park Rentals or Nor Door Sport & Cyclery. You won’t want to miss the scenic views from the harbor and beautiful panoramic overlooks in Peninsula State Park. The Sven’s Bluff overlook lets you view the whole of Chambers Island, along with the smaller Strawberry Islands in the foreground.

Take the adventure to the water and see the island up close by renting a pontoon or jet skis at Fish Creek Boat Rentals. Or, let the experts do the driving with the Fish Creek Scenic Boat Tours that take you past bluffs, caves and Millionaire’s Row - a shore of gorgeous houses and private docks. If the weather is right and you're feeling adventurous, do the same exploration by kayak with a guided tour. There are endless options for waterfront fun as long as the summer weather is cooperative!

Shopping & Dining

Fish Creek is considered the most walkable village for dining and shopping, with the majority of restaurants and boutiques centralized along the downtown waterfront area. 

Start at the western end of Main Street with a cherry stuffed french toast breakfast at the White Gull Inn and then travel east to find many shops and eateries on both sides of the road. On Deck Clothing is a favorite outfitter and Hide Side Boutique offers one-of-a-kind leather garments and decor from North American artists.

Don't forget the Top of the Hill Shops featuring the Fragrant Isle Shop offering Door County’s largest selection of luxurious lavender products. The lavender products are all made with sustainably grown and pesticide-free local lavender. You can also pick up tasty chocolates and candies to enjoy for dessert or as a snack.

A mid-day lunch is well spent at the Wild Tomato Wood-Fired Pizza and Grille where you can find specialty pizzas that use local ingredients and creative combinations. If you fancy for an afternoon libation, the Cookery Restaurant and Wine Bar is a great pit stop for their outdoor patio and wine list.

Relaxing with Family

Just north of town is a family favorite outing: the Skyway Drive-In Theater. 

Showing two movies a night, the Skyway is one of the state’s last drive-in theaters. Bring your blankets and chairs or pop your hatchback and get cozy for the night under the stars. The nostalgic setting offers popcorn and candy for purchase plus a playground to entertain you pre-show and during intermission.

Go beyond the big screen, spend your evening watching live entertainment at one of the live performance theaters in the area. The Door County Auditorium attracts nationally recognized artists and musicians at their state of the art indoor auditorium. Or, keep your activities outside with the Northern Sky Theater located in Peninsula State Park. The amphitheater is hosted under the stars and runs mid-June through August. Also situated in the open-air is the Peninsula Players Theater; with intermission bonfires and an outdoor garden to enjoy pre-show, there’s more to experience than just the Broadway-quality show.

Did You Know?

The Door County Auditorium has been graced by household names such as Johnny Cash, Willy Nelson, Joan Baez and Melissa Etheridge. Recent performances include The Lumineers, Ira Glass, Buddy Guy and The Indigo Girls.

The high temperatures in summertime hover between 60 and 80 degrees - not too hot and not too cold.

Peninsula State Park is home to the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse made of cream city brick and built in 1866. The lighthouse is restored and open daily for tours.

Sunset Beach Park, located at the end of west Main Street, is an ideal place to watch the sun set over the lake.