Top 5 Door County Landmarks

These top 5 Door County landmarks showcase the best of the peninsula

Your Door County adventure isn’t truly complete until you’ve stood beneath a lighthouse that’s weathered over a century of storms, walked through treetops to panoramic bay views, and wandered down a road so scenic it feels like something out of a storybook. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler to the peninsula, these five iconic landmarks capture the heart and soul of Door County.

Eagle Tower at Peninsula State Park

Perched majestically atop Eagle Bluff, Eagle Tower is a must-see wonder in Wisconsin. The current structure, rebuilt in 2021, is a 60‑foot timber tower that rises 253 feet above on the Green Bay side. It replaced the original 1914 fire tower and the 1932 observation tower —keeping alive over a century of tradition.

Why you’ll love it:

• Two ways up: a breezy 100‑step staircase or an 850‑foot ADA‑accessible canopy walk winding through treetops.
• Breathtaking 360° views—spy islands, the Upper Michigan shoreline, and the quaint town of Ephraim.
• Perfect spot for sunrise, sunset, or a deep breath of fresh forest air.

This landmark is a true celebration of accessibility, design, and nature—all rolled into one scenic stop.

Cave Point County Park

Discover Door County’s most iconic shoreline! Cave Point County Park is famed for its wave-worn limestone ledges, spectacular underwater caves, and stunning Lake Michigan views. This county park is located just northeast of Sevastopol.

Best things to do:

• Hike the short but scenic trail along the cliff’s edge, connecting to Whitefish Dunes State Park.
• Join a kayak or paddle tour to explore these unique fresh water caves up close.
• Cliff-jumping and photography are summer favorites, just be cautious of slippery rocks .

This gem attracts over a million visitors annually and offers one of the most dramatic natural landscapes in the county.

The Infamous Curvy Road

Arguably the most picturesque and serpentine stretch of Highway 42, this road dubbed ‘The Curvy Road‘ features around 15 scenic curves that slip through dense woodland near the Washington Island ferry dock.

Legend credits famed landscape architect Jens Jensen for its design—though he likely only approved of it, rather than engineered it himself.

Why it’s iconic:

• Autumn foliage transforms this stretch into a golden, serpentine masterpiece—and it’s thrilling in winter, too.
• A hotspot for photographers, drivers, motorcyclists, and everyone in need of a scenic, winding escape.

Whether you drive it slowly or bike it during fall, this road captures the essence of Door County’s rustic charm.

Anderson Dock

A timeless cultural gem in Ephraim, Anderson Dock is a weathered wooden dock and warehouse complex dating back to 1858. Built by Norwegian brothers Aslag and Halvor Anderson, it fueled Ephraim’s growth as a commercial hub.

What makes it special:

• A beloved canvas: arriving sailors painted ship names and dates on the dock, and today’s visitors continue the tradition—with a brush.
• Part of a historic district that includes galleries and an ice house—testimony to village life across centuries.
• Restoration efforts by the Ephraim Foundation reflect the community’s commitment to heritage .

Visiting Anderson Dock is stepping into living history where art, maritime culture, and local tradition converge.

Cana Island Lighthouse

Standing proudly since 1869, the 89‑foot tall Cana Island Lighthouse remains one of Door County’s most photographed landmarks.

You reach the island via scenic hay‑wagon ride or by foot when water levels dip—over a rocky causeway.

Highlights:

• Climb 97 spiral stairs to a 360° observation deck overlooking Lake Michigan and the peninsula.
• Explore the keeper’s quarters, oil house, and lighthouse grounds—guided tours run May through October.
• Home to the original third‑order Fresnel lens, encased in steel since 1902 for protection.

This historic icon offers both educational depth and Instagram-worthy panoramas.

These top 5 Door County landmarks are truly the pinnacle of a Door County adventure. Each one showcases a different side of what makes this peninsula so special—whether it’s the awe-inspiring views from Eagle Tower, the crashing waves at Cave Point, or the nostalgic charm of Anderson Dock. They’re not just stops on a map; they’re moments you’ll remember long after your trip ends.

We highly suggest making time to experience each of these iconic places for yourself. And if you’re looking for even more to explore, be sure to check out our full list of recommended things to do, hidden gems, and local favorites on our website.