Big news for Wisconsin’s favorite peninsula: Door County named Midwest Living’s 2026 Getaway of the Year.
Door County named Midwest Living’s 2026 Getaway of the Year. For anyone who has spent time exploring the shoreline villages, hiking the state parks, or watching a sunset over Green Bay, the recognition feels well deserved.
Each year, Midwest Living highlights destinations across the region that offer unforgettable travel experiences, natural beauty, and vibrant communities. In 2026, Door County earned the top spot, reinforcing what longtime visitors already know. The peninsula is one of the Midwest’s most charming and rewarding getaway destinations.
From scenic waterfront towns to outdoor adventures and boutique places to stay, Door County continues to attract travelers looking for a refreshing escape along Lake Michigan.
When Door County was named Midwest Living’s 2026 Getaway of the Year, the publication pointed to the region’s unique blend of nature, culture, and small-town charm.
The peninsula stretches roughly 70 miles into Lake Michigan and includes 19 distinct communities, each with its own personality. Visitors can explore historic waterfront villages, charming downtown districts, and quiet countryside roads lined with orchards and forests.
Outdoor adventure is one of the biggest reasons travelers return year after year. Door County features five state parks and dozens of county parks, offering miles of hiking and biking trails, kayaking routes, scenic overlooks, and sandy beaches.
One of the highlights is Peninsula State Park in Fish Creek, widely considered one of the most beautiful parks in the Midwest. The park features dramatic limestone bluffs, shoreline bike trails, beaches, a historic lighthouse, and the famous Northern Sky Theater.
Combined with stunning lake views and unforgettable sunsets, it’s easy to see why Door County continues to rise as one of the Midwest’s top travel destinations.
Another reason Door County was named Midwest Living’s 2026 Getaway of the Year is the variety of experiences visitors can find throughout the peninsula.
Each town offers something a little different.
Fish Creek is one of the most popular destinations, known for its vibrant downtown, waterfront parks, and access to Peninsula State Park. Restaurants, galleries, and boutique shops line the streets, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
Ephraim offers one of the most picturesque waterfronts in the Midwest, with historic white buildings overlooking Eagle Harbor. It’s a perfect place for quiet shoreline walks and classic Door County scenery.
Further north, Sister Bay features a lively marina scene, waterfront dining, and some of the best sunset views in the county. Meanwhile, Ellison Bay and Gills Rock provide peaceful escapes with rugged shoreline views of Lake Michigan.
Together, these communities create a destination that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new.
Visitors exploring Door County will quickly discover that the peninsula offers more than just scenic views.
Iconic Door County experiences include traditional fish boils cooked over open flames, cherry orchards that bloom each spring, historic lighthouses scattered along the shoreline, and art galleries that reflect the region’s strong creative culture.
Kayaking along limestone cliffs, cycling scenic shoreline roads, and hiking wooded trails are just a few ways travelers can explore the peninsula’s natural beauty.
In the evening, many visitors gather around waterfront fire pits, enjoy locally made wine or cider, and watch the sun set over Green Bay or attend one of peninsula’s signature events.
These moments are part of what makes Door County such a memorable destination.
Travelers visiting the peninsula after Door County was named Midwest Living’s 2026 Getaway of the Year will find a growing number of thoughtfully designed places to stay.
Two standout properties highlighted among the best places to stay in Door County are Fresh Coast Motel and Spruce and Shore Motel, both located in the heart of Fish Creek.
Fresh Coast Motel has quickly become one of the most talked-about boutique motels in the region. The property blends modern design with classic roadside charm and recently earned national recognition. In 2025, Fresh Coast Motel took third place in the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards for Best New Hotel in America, placing it among the country’s most exciting new lodging destinations.
Guests appreciate the motel’s thoughtfully designed rooms, relaxed coastal aesthetic, and prime location just steps from Fish Creek’s public beach and waterfront.
Just a short walk away, Spruce and Shore Motel offers another unique boutique experience. Located in downtown Fish Creek, the historic motel has been carefully refreshed with modern interiors while maintaining its classic mid-century charm.
With its quiet atmosphere, in-ground pool, and easy access to restaurants, shops, and the harbor, Spruce and Shore provides a comfortable and stylish home base for exploring the peninsula.
Together, these two boutique motels reflect the evolution of Door County hospitality, where historic properties are being thoughtfully revived for modern travelers.
With Door County named Midwest Living’s 2026 Getaway of the Year, the peninsula is receiving well-deserved attention as one of the Midwest’s premier travel destinations.
Whether visitors come for the hiking trails, charming waterfront towns, local food and wine, or relaxing lakeside stays, Door County offers a travel experience that feels both timeless and refreshing.
For travelers looking to experience the peninsula at its best, there has never been a better time to plan a getaway to Door County.
