From climbing Eagle Tower to enjoying a show at Northern Sky Theater, these are our top picks
When resort guests ask us for a “things to do” recommendation that includes stunning views, outdoor activities, and a chance to relax, one destination comes to mind: Peninsula State Park.
Located just a short drive from Ephraim Shores’ doorstep, this 3,700-acre natural playground offers some of the most unforgettable views — and experiences! — in Door County. If you haven’t yet experienced what the park has to offer, let this be the year you discover why so many of our guests make repeat visits, season after season.
Looking for a list of things to do in Peninsula State Park? Here are our favorite activities:
Head out on a hike
With 20 miles of hiking trails, Peninsula State Park truly has something for everyone when it comes to walking and hiking, regardless of activity level. If you’re looking for a moderate challenge (with great views as a reward), one of our favorites is Eagle Trail. This two-mile loop takes you past 150-foot cliffs, springs, and a stretch of cedar forest.
Skyline Trail is a great option for a more moderate hike, especially because it means you’ll climb to Sven’s Bluff — easily one of the best views in the park — and you can easily connect to other trails. For a gentler hike, there’s Sentinel Trail, which can be accessed by Eagle Tower.
Climb to a view worth every step
When guests ask us about the “must-do” things in Peninsula State Park, we immediately tell them about Eagle Tower. The tower, rebuilt in 2021, features an accessible ramp system that makes those breathtaking panoramas of Eagle Harbor available to everyone.
From 60 feet above the ground — the top observation deck sitting 253 feet above Green Bay — you’ll see why our peninsula captures so many hearts, with views of the park, surrounding islands, the Upper Michigan shoreline, and the village of Ephraim.
Spend an evening under the stars
After a day of adventuring, we also love directing our guests to one of the most magical things to do in Peninsula State Park — catching a show at Northern Sky Theater. Even better, head out to a waterfront restaurant in Door County, and then head back to Peninsula State Park to cap off your night with a show!
During the summer months, Northern Sky’s outdoor amphitheater comes alive with original music performances that celebrate our state’s rich and humorous heritage. The 2025 summer season features three delightful shows: “Something in the Water,” a musical comedy about saving a historic resort; “Dairy Heirs,” a heartwarming story of family tradition and finding home; and “No Bones About It,” a hilarious barbecue-themed take on Romeo and Juliet. If you need help securing your tickets for one (or all!) of these shows once you get into town, let us know! We’re happy to help — and depending on the day, these shows can sell out fast!
Get out on the green
For golf enthusiasts, the Peninsula State Park Golf Course is an absolute gem. This 18-hole course winds through stunning landscapes and features incredible views of Green Bay from several holes. We’ve had guests return to Ephraim Shores year after year just to play this course — it’s one of the most popular things to do in Peninsula State Park!
In addition, there’s also a six-hole learning course, perfect for novice golfers or kids learning to play. The course is open daily from late April through late October and features a clubhouse serving breakfast and lunch.
Experience the beauty from the water
As the temperatures rise, Nicolet Beach, tucked into Peninsula State Park, provides a refreshing escape. The clear, shallow waters make it ideal for families, and the beach is well-maintained with plenty of amenities, including a stocked Camp Store with beach toys, groceries, ice, and other necessities, and an opportunity to rent bikes and boats.
Along with the bike and boat rentals are also kayak and paddleboard rentals, which give you a chance to see the park’s shoreline from a completely different perspective. This ranks high on our list of memorable things to do in Peninsula State Park, for sure!
Discover the year-round magic
Whether you’re joining us for a summer getaway or a fall color tour, or you’re heading here for a winter adventure, the changing seasons ensure you’ll never get the same version of Peninsula State Park twice!
We encourage you to make this year the one you discover — and fall in love with — the wonder of Peninsula State Park. And, after your adventures, the comfortable accommodations, waterfront views, and warm hospitality of Ephraim Shores Resort will be here to greet you.
Ephraim Shores Resort — a waterfront Door County resort for the whole family
Located in downtown Ephraim, Ephraim Shores is a family-friendly resort for groups of all sizes. From our private sundeck overlooking Eagle Harbor and our many room types to our beautiful waterfront location, Ephraim Shores has everything your family needs for the perfect vacation. Some of our amenities include an indoor pool and hot tub, an exercise room and game room, and bikes for our guests to use. To make your reservation, contact us at 877-854-2371 or visit our website at ephraimshores.com.
