Wisconsin

Door County: Lighthouses, Lake Views, Orchards & Artists

Program No. 12334RJ
Explore idyllic Door County, where you’ll discover centuries-old orchards, historic lighthouses, alluring lake views, and artists who capture the beauty of this unique peninsula.

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At a Glance

Discover Wisconsin’s famed Door County, a peninsula home to five state parks, 10 lighthouses and 300 miles of scenic Lake Michigan shoreline. Savor fresh lake breezes and be inspired by the steep bluffs and sandy beaches on either side of the peninsula. Learn about Door County history, art, geology and culture from local experts like an award-winning taxidermist, a watercolor artist, a lighthouse docent, naturalists and orchard owners. Visit state parks and fascinating museums that showcase the area’s rich maritime roots and unique history, and enjoy an authentic Door County fish boil with a resident storyteller.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Walking up to one mile, rocky terrain on field trips; climbing stairs.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Go inside and learn about the keepers of the beautifully restored Eagle Bluff Lighthouse.
  • Enjoy a Washington Island lavender farm.
  • Uncover the unique climate and geologic history of the peninsula by examining the Niagara Escarpment with a local naturalist.

General Notes

An airport transfer is available at an added cost.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Ed Fenendael
A native of Wisconsin, Ed began his art career over 30 years ago. He works in several media, but his main focus is watercolor and watercolor/ink. Ed's paintings can be found in Washington D.C., at Atelier Galerie in Giverny, France; at Morning Mist Studio (his private gallery) in Door County, in numerous corporate and private collections throughout the world; and the Miller Art Museum's permanent collection. He has studied at the Kansas City Art Institute, the University of Wisconsin and graduated from Marquette University. He teaches watercolor and offers workshops in the United States and abroad.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Ed Fenendael
Ed Fenendael View biography
A native of Wisconsin, Ed began his art career over 30 years ago. He works in several media, but his main focus is watercolor and watercolor/ink. Ed's paintings can be found in Washington D.C., at Atelier Galerie in Giverny, France; at Morning Mist Studio (his private gallery) in Door County, in numerous corporate and private collections throughout the world; and the Miller Art Museum's permanent collection. He has studied at the Kansas City Art Institute, the University of Wisconsin and graduated from Marquette University. He teaches watercolor and offers workshops in the United States and abroad.
Profile Image of Len Villano
Len Villano View biography
Photographer Len Villano built his first darkroom in his parent's bathroom at the age of seven (much to the chagrin of his three sisters). And while he’s trained as an architect and is an environmentally-conscious musician, photography is still the primary method Len uses to interact with the world around him. When he’s not waiting for the perfect light, Len serves as the photography director for the Peninsula Pulse.
Profile Image of Katie Krouse
Katie Krouse View biography
Katie Krouse currently serves as executive director of The Ridges Sanctuary, sharing her passions for conservation by leading the organization to protect and preserve the unique ecosystems found within. With a background in aquatic sciences and evolutionary biology, Katie has translated her interests into programming, conservation, and engagement through programs such as the Festival of Nature and land restoration activities. The Ridges Sanctuary, near Baileys Harbor, is considered one of the most ecologically diverse sites in the region by the U.S. Department of the Interior.
Profile Image of Mike Orthober
Mike Orthober View biography
Mike Orthober became interested in wildlife at a young age. By the time he was in high school, area hunters were calling on his skills. He won “Best in the World of Fish” at the World Taxidermy Championships and has since judged national and state competitions. Mike created the Wildlife Exhibit at the Door County Historical Museum, using not just his taxidermy skills, but also painting the background and creating and constructing the habitat. Mike was inducted into the Taxidermy Hall of Fame in 2019.
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