Eagle Harbor

Ephraim epitomizes the essence of Door County. Along with Fish Creek, it is at the center of tourist life. It has a certain storybook charm with the town nicely wrapped around its primary waterfront, Eagle Harbor. Its stately homes and hotels along the shoreline attest to its glorious past as a prime destination for tourists, seasonal visitors, and permanent residents of the Peninsula. Ephraim is wonderful in all four seasons and there seems to be plenty to see and do every day.

Ephraim Public Library

The longtime home of Charles ("Chick") Peterson, local artist extraordinaire, Ephraim induces vast quantities of photography and art work. The old Anderson Dock is almost the county's "Motif #1". Among Peterson's work are paintings of the ships of yesteryear docked at the Anderson, loading and unloading passengers and freight. One can't help but notice the structure at the end of the dock, now the Francis Hardy Center for the Arts, with its graffiti and vivid color. You might see a classic sailing yacht berthed here as well, with an occasional sea gull to add local color. The Anderson House is on the other side of the road, here on the northern end of the village. One of the many worthwhile gift shops, you'll find local art and gifts of high quality. Peterson prints and an occasional original are sold here; you might spy "Chick" himself as he makes his periodic stop to check in and say hello to the owners.

Wilson's Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlor

Downtown Ephraim centers around Route 42, right along the shoreline. Hotels, B&Bs, and resorts abound, offering spectacular views to their guests. An important landmark is Wilson's Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlor, a local tradition since 1906. One hundred years in the ice cream business is pretty remarkable, but when you see the activity there in high season and taste the delicious offerings, you'll understand why they've been so successful!

The Ephraim Inn Bed & Breakfast

The Ephraim Inn is one of several local B&Bs that cater to individuals seeking a somewhat quieter lodging environment than what is typically found in the resorts or motels. When you're visiting such a quaint town, it makes a lot of sense to stay at one of these establishments to get the full effect of Door County charm. Check the listings of B&Bs at our vacation lodging sister site; the link is at the top of this page.

Nearby, set into the hill, is the former Anderson Hotel, since converted into residential condos. The Hillside Inn is just in front of this stately structure. We remember staying there about thirty years ago when an air of proud but quaint elegance prevailed. What better thing to do than to sit on the veranda and sip lemonade or your favorite adult beverage. You can still do that at the Edgewater Resort down the street, also a grand-looking structure with a long history in the accommodations business.

Boat rentals at Eagle Harbor

Ephraim is a great place to rent a small sailboat, canoe, or kayak. Just check at the little hut between the parking lot and the shore at Eagle Harbor, along Route 42. You'll see the boats waiting for you. The bay is somewhat protected from the weather and higher winds, and boaters of all ages and skill levels can enjoy the waterfront activities offered. This could well be the best place on the Peninsula to rent small boats. It's arguably the most picturesque location to do so. We've noticed quite a number of parasails clipping along in the harbor here as well. They're colorful with the big chutes, so get the camera out! You may be able to engage in such fun for a small fee.

There's a pretty nice swimming beach here at Eagle Harbor too. In past summers there have been some E-coli warnings in Door County, but you'll be able to easily find out if it's safe. The monitoring is almost constant and signs are posted, as well as updates in the Door County Advocate, the local newspaper.

Door County Confectionery

Beach house at Eagle Harbor

Take a stroll up the beach and you'll enjoy quite a vista out over the water. There are some pretty interesting beach homes in the area. One is pictured here. Look for the little squirrel figure carved out of wood jutting out at the edge of the roof. We wonder if this ornament is in keeping with Scandinavian architectural tradition. Probably is. There's a fair amount of such design in Northern Door County.

This particular home is right at the end of the public beach near the south end of the village. Be respectful of private beach areas in front of such homes. This is a delightful little beach, but parking is very limited. Almost across the street (Route 42) is Door County Confectionery, a must stop kind of place!

Water Street Gallery

Water Street Gallery is a treasure trove of mostly framed art prints at a reasonable cost. The work of local and regional artists can be found here. The selection is so wide that you're bound to find something you like. It's located at the southern end of town on Route 42.

Moravian Church

In the center of the village, just up the hill, you'll find the often photographed Moravian Church. There is a lot of history here since the village was settled back in 1853 by Moravians from Norway. The nearby Lutheran church was established later, in the 1880's.

Ephraim hosts the annual Fyr-Bal Fest, a celebration of Norwegian traditions, every June. There is a fish boil, arts and crafts fair, and the lighting of bonfires along the shore. One lucky village resident is chosen each year to preside as the Fyr-Bal Chieftain, and this person can be a man or a woman. There are fireworks at dusk. This event is one of Door County's major festivals.