
Door County Coastal Byway
A 66-mile scenic drive along Lake Michigan, famous for its autumn colors and iconic curvy roads.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak fall colors, fewer crowds

Door County Coastal Byway
Best Time
Peak fall colors, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 66-mile scenic drive along Lake Michigan, famous for its autumn colors and iconic curvy roads.
"The curvy highway is gorgeous all year, but in the fall, when the leaves are at peak colors, it is amazing."
📸 Capture the Curves
Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light on the curvy roads, avoiding shadows.
🎟️ Ferry Tickets
Book Washington Island ferry tickets in advance during peak season to avoid sell-outs.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 101 reviews
Type
Tourist Attraction
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Door County Curvy Road
Hwy 42 between Gills Rock and Northport
The iconic, winding stretch of Hwy 42 offering breathtaking views, especially in autumn.

Peninsula State Park
Northern Door County
Stunning park with scenic overlooks, lighthouses, and trails perfect for fall exploration.

Washington Island
Ferry access from Gills Rock
A charming island accessible by ferry, offering unique attractions like the Cherry Train and white stone beaches.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Leaf Peeping
Washington Island Ferry Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Curves
Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light on the curvy roads, avoiding shadows.
🎟️ Ferry Tickets
Book Washington Island ferry tickets in advance during peak season to avoid sell-outs.
🧥 Ferry Deck Comfort
Dress warmly for the ferry ride to Washington Island; the wind chill can be intense on the upper deck.
🏍️ Motorcycle Paradise
Ideal route for motorcycle enthusiasts, especially the curvy sections of Hwy 42.
Best things to do in Sturgeon Bay?
Me and my boyfriend are planning on visiting Sturgeon Bay on Saturday. Wondering what are good spots to visit? Open to suggestions on natural areas, restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, really anything. :) Thanks!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Curves
Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light on the curvy roads, avoiding shadows.
🎟️ Ferry Tickets
Book Washington Island ferry tickets in advance during peak season to avoid sell-outs.
🧥 Ferry Deck Comfort
Dress warmly for the ferry ride to Washington Island; the wind chill can be intense on the upper deck.
🏍️ Motorcycle Paradise
Ideal route for motorcycle enthusiasts, especially the curvy sections of Hwy 42.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Door County Coastal Byway, particularly its stunning autumn foliage and the exhilarating curvy roads. The ferry to Washington Island is a popular, though sometimes crowded, experience. While the byway offers beautiful scenery, some find the beach areas less appealing due to noise and crowds.
"Scenic drive across Door County that culminates at the end of the peninsula. Fantastic views of colorful leaves by the road and in the background"
D Cha
"What a gorgeous spot to visit- Incredible colors this autumn!"
Rachelle “Ryka” Basset
"The curvy highway is gorgeous all year, but in the fall, when the leaves are at peak colors, it is amazing. I recommend going when it is overcast, early in the morning, or before dusk. The shadows can distort the photos, hiding the curves."
Amber Anderson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Door County Coastal Byway is approximately 66 miles long, encompassing parts of Highway 42 and Highway 57. It's a scenic drive that showcases the beauty of the Door Peninsula.
The byway primarily follows Highway 42 and Highway 57. The most famous section is the curvy stretch of Highway 42 between Gills Rock and Northport.
Absolutely! It's renowned for its stunning views of Lake Michigan, colorful foliage in the fall, and charming coastal towns.
Yes, you can drive the entire byway in a day, but to truly enjoy the stops and scenery, it's recommended to take your time and perhaps break it up over two days.
Key points include Peninsula State Park, charming villages like Fish Creek and Sister Bay, and the ferry to Washington Island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, driving the Door County Coastal Byway itself is free. However, there are entrance fees for state parks like Peninsula State Park.
Ferry ticket prices vary depending on whether you're taking a vehicle or just a passenger. It's best to check the official ferry website for current rates.
Ferries typically run from spring through fall. Operating hours and schedules can change, so it's crucial to check their website for the most up-to-date information.
While you can sometimes buy tickets upon arrival, it's highly recommended to purchase them in advance, especially during the busy tourist season, as they can sell out.
While there isn't a single pass for the entire byway, consider a Wisconsin State Park sticker if you plan to visit multiple state parks in the area.
📸 📸 Photography
The curvy section of Hwy 42, overlooks in Peninsula State Park, and the ferry ride to Washington Island offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Early mornings or before dusk provide softer light and fewer shadows, ideal for capturing the curves of the road and scenic vistas.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details of lighthouses or distant islands.
Drone usage is generally restricted in state parks and other protected areas. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Focus on the winding roads, the vibrant fall colors, charming lighthouses, the vastness of Lake Michigan, and the unique island scenery.
🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience
Explore the island via the Cherry Train, visit the white stone beach, see the old Nordic church, and enjoy the unique shops and art galleries.
Yes, numerous charming towns along the byway offer a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.
Peninsula State Park offers hiking and biking trails, scenic overlooks, a lighthouse, and opportunities for picnicking and enjoying nature.
Yes, it's a popular route for cyclists, especially the curvy sections. Be mindful of traffic and share the road safely.
Layers are key! Bring a jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially near the lake.








Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit