Wisconsin, USA
Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB), approximately 50 miles south of Sturgeon Bay, is the closest. Appleton International Airport (ATW) is about 85 miles southwest. Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE), around 150 miles south, provides more flight options. Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), about 250 miles south, is a major international hub with the widest range of flights. GRB/ATW are mainly served by regional carriers of major U.S. Airlines. MKE has a broader array of airlines. ORD serves as a major hub for American Airlines and United Airlines.
A rental car is the most recommended and common method for reaching Door County from any of these airports. It presents the most flexibility for exploring the peninsula. All listed airports have major car rental agencies. Booking your rental car well in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended. Ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) may be available but can be substantial due to distance. Availability within Door County itself is very limited. Limited private shuttle services might operate but are typically expensive. No regular public shuttle bus service connects the airports directly to Door County.
Direct flights to GRB, ATW, or MKE are generally limited to major U.S. Cities. International travelers usually connect through Chicago O'Hare (ORD).
Flight prices to smaller airports can be higher during peak tourist seasons (summer and fall foliage) due to increased demand and limited capacity.
All listed airports provide standard facilities including car rental, dining, and retail shops. GRB and ATW are easier to navigate; MKE and ORD are larger with more amenities.
Vehicle and passenger service from Northport to Washington Island. Operates year-round with reduced winter schedules. Reservations for vehicles are recommended during peak season.
Occasional Great Lakes cruises may include a stop in Sturgeon Bay. This is not a common mode of arrival for independent tourism.
Not applicable. Door County is on Lake Michigan and Green Bay, not a major river system that supports passenger transportation for tourism.
Allow ample time for travel to the airport or your next destination. The United States does not impose specific exit fees or taxes upon departure for tourists. Your airline ticket or other travel arrangements typically include any relevant taxes and fees. For flights out of GRB or ATW, arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before scheduled domestic flight departure. For international flights, or connections through MKE or ORD, allow 2 to 3 hours before departure. Factor in additional time for security screening during peak travel periods.
Smaller airports (GRB, ATW) offer basic amenities for departing travelers, including some dining options and small retail shops post-security. They present a more relaxed and less crowded departure experience. Larger airports (MKE, ORD) offer a wide range of dining, shopping, and lounge facilities. However, they are larger and need more time to navigate through terminals and security checkpoints. Plan accordingly to enjoy amenities without rushing. Bus/Train Stations facilities vary widely; smaller stations may only have basic waiting areas, while larger city stations offer more services.
The United States does not impose specific exit fees or taxes upon departure for tourists. Any relevant taxes and fees are typically included in your airline ticket or other travel arrangements. This simplifies the departure process, as no additional payments are needed at the airport or border crossing for exiting the country.
If your itinerary includes a visit to Washington Island, remember to account for the ferry schedule for your departure. The Washington Island Ferry Line provides the main means of transport between the island and the Door County mainland. Ferry schedules can vary by season, with reduced frequency in winter. During peak tourist seasons, vehicle reservations are highly recommended as space can be limited, especially for popular departure times. Arrive at the ferry terminal well in advance of your scheduled departure to avoid any last-minute rush or potential delays.
Door County does not operate a comprehensive public transportation system with fixed routes and regular schedules for general tourism. You will not find a metro, bus network, or tram system serving all villages and attractions. Most local movement relies on private vehicles, bicycles, or limited taxi/ride-share services. This means that if you plan to explore beyond a single village, having your own vehicle or arranging alternative transport becomes necessary.
Taxis and ride-sharing services exist in Door County, but their availability and common use differ significantly from large metropolitan areas. Traditional licensed taxis are rare outside of Sturgeon Bay. You cannot typically hail a taxi on the street. Instead, you must call a local taxi service to arrange a pick-up. A few private shuttle or car services may also operate by appointment. Uber and Lyft operate in Door County, but their availability is very limited. During peak season, you might find more drivers, mainly in and around larger villages. Outside of these areas or during the off-season, finding a ride can be challenging, with potentially long wait times and high surge pricing.
Most Door County villages are pedestrian-friendly with sidewalks and scenic waterfront promenades. State parks offer extensive walking trails. Self-guided walking routes are available via maps or apps.
Door County developed excellent bicycle infrastructure with paved trails in state parks (e.g., Sunset Trail in Peninsula State Park) and scenic bike routes on county roads.
Avoid walking or cycling on high-speed sections of State Highways 42 and 57, especially where shoulders are narrow or non-existent, due to heavy traffic.
To rent a car in the U.S., you need a valid driver's license and a major credit card. Minimum age is typically 21 (surcharges for under 25). Major car rental companies operate at regional airports. Some may have satellite offices in Sturgeon Bay. Book well in advance during peak season.
Availability for motorcycle and scooter rentals is limited in Door County, mainly found in Sturgeon Bay or Fish Creek. Riders must possess a valid motorcycle endorsement on their driver's license. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet. This type of rental caters to specific interests and not general transportation needs.
Widely available in most popular villages: Sturgeon Bay, Fish Creek, Sister Bay, Egg Harbor, Ephraim, and Baileys Harbor.
Road bikes, mountain bikes, cruiser bikes, and electric bikes (e-bikes) are available. Full-day rentals typically cost $30-$80, with hourly and multi-day discounts.
Always wear a Bicycle helmet. Obey all traffic laws, use hand signals, and wear bright clothing for visibility. Be cautious of vehicle traffic, especially during peak season.
