Fish Creek
The Heart of Tourist Life - Fish Creek
By Steve Allen
Jul 1, 2008 - 7:33:36 AM

White Gull Inn

Fish Creek is at the heart of tourist life on the Peninsula. Along with Ephraim, it is pretty much the most centrally located area for the hustle bustle of shops, restaurants, and places to see. Approaching from the south on Route 42, you'll come down the steep hill into town. Turn left for Founder's Square and the White Gull Inn, turn right for most of the downtown shops, and go straight to the bay front and marina area. There is a public parking lot near Founder's Square, or you may find a place right on the main drag, which is Route 42. There is some parking near the marina, and if all else fails, there is a parking lot near the public library (turn right at the crossroads mentioned above.)

Some of the best eating opportunities in Door County are in this lovely waterfront town. Probably the most famous is the White Gull Inn. Open year round, this B&B is simply first class. We've been enjoying their fare for over 30 years, and it is always excellent and consistent. All three meals are served, and fish boils are offered in season. Reservations are very much recommended from June to October, especially for the fish boils. Dinner by candlelight is wonderful for that special occasion. Everything is superb. Lunch is also a great choice since you'll still enjoy sumptuous food at a more economical price.

C&C Club

C&C Club

At the main downtown intersection is the C&C Club, which is also highly recommended. It is a typical Wisconsin supper club with above average food. There is often entertainment in the lounge. At Christmas time, Al, the owner, puts up an enormous real tree right in the dining room and adds more decorations and lights every year. In 2006, there were over 10,000 lights. A contest is held annually to guess the number of lights on the tree. Call ahead for a reservation and in winter ask to be seated near the fireplace. Pelletier's Restaurant is nearby on Founder's Square and offers a well-known fish boil. For a more fancy atmosphere, try the Whistling Swan, which is also a B&B.

The Cookery

Bayside Tavern

Down the street is the Bayside Tavern, known for its great sandwiches. We've heard the fish sandwich is outstanding. It's a popular hangout for the locals but caters to tourists and has a pleasant atmosphere. Close by is The Cookery, which is also informal, bright, and cheerful. This is a great choice for families with good sandwiches. On the north edge of town, there is a restaurant named Gibraltar Grill. It's very informal and moderately priced. Lunch and dinner are offered year round. We found it a welcome spot for grilled salmon and hot chocolate in front of the roaring (real) fireplace one blustery evening last winter.

You simply must stop at the ice cream place right downtown on Route 42. It's called Not Licked Yet, open seasonally, and you'll go down a steep driveway to get your delectable delight. It's busy in summer, but worth the wait. There are outdoor picnic tables and an indoor dining area with restrooms. We'd venture to say that this is the top ice cream spot on the peninsula. Great for kids!

Historic Alexander Noble House

Right downtown on the main corner is the historic Alexander Noble House, built in 1874. Tours are given in season. It's a nice break from all the shopping along that street. A favorite downtown highlight is the Fish Creek Market. It's kind of a gourmet type market with selections and brands not usually found in traditional grocery stores. Upstairs is a cozy bistro called Mr. Helsinki's. It's cosmopolitan and avant guard with unique menu items in an upscale, relaxed atmosphere.

Clark Park

Take a stroll down by the waterfront and explore the marina with its Alibi Dock. This harbor is a popular stopover for boats cruising the waters of Green Bay and the Great Lakes. There are rental slips, a boater's store and lounge, and shower facilities. Adjacent is a small town park, Clark Park, and a fishing pier, very popular in the evening for sunset viewing. Yet another restaurant beckons between downtown and the marina. It's called Summertime, and this quaint eatery has both indoor and outdoor seating. It's open year round.

Gibraltar Town Hall

As you leave Fish Creek on Route 42 going north, you'll find the south entrance to the largest state park in Wisconsin. Peninsula State Park is really a must for everyone, even if all you want to do is drive through it for the scenery and come out at the northern entrance near Ephraim. If you study your map, you'll notice how pronounced this peninsula is, and how much shoreline is included within the park boundaries. Stop at the Ranger Station to buy a day or season pass and pick up a park map.

View from top of Lookout Tower

Peninsula State Park has many extensive trails for hiking, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, etc. There are many separate beach areas and camping areas. There are small boat rentals at the Nicolet Bay beach area. Nature walks and educational programs are routinely offered by the park naturalist. In visiting this park over a thirty year period, we never tire of it and always find new things to see and do. Be sure to see Lookout Tower. It's not a bad climb, and the view from the top is awesome. In autumn, you'll often see stunning fall color that paints a gorgeous vista, a true feast for the eyes. Be sure to stop at Eagle Bluff Light as well. You can't go into the lighthouse or the building, but the grounds are open daily and the structure is pretty interesting and worthy of a photo or two.

Scooters for rent outside the park

There is also a public golf course at Peninsula State Park which seems to be quite popular. Just outside the park entrance, you can rent a motor scooter or bicycle. There is a separate paved path for such vehicles, so this can be a lot of fun. This business is located directly behind Julie's Cafe, another good family eatery where you get a lot of food for a small price.

Fish Creek Market & Mr. Helsinki's Restaurant

In February of each year, Fish Creek holds it annual Fish Creek Winter Festival. This event was formerly known as the Fish Creek Winter Games and was highlighted by a festive carnival-like atmosphere, with tents out on the ice and Olympic-style contests (such as tossing things), food, beverages, vendors, music, and just plain fun. In recent years a colorful kite flying event called "Kites Over the Bay" has been held as well. Now the festival takes place all over the Fish Creek area and includes a soup cook off and snow sculpture contest. The Door County Idol Contest is held at the Door County Auditorium. Be sure to book lodging early, since this festival is popular.

A noteworthy shopping experience can be had at O'Meara's Irish House. Among other things Irish, this is the place to get a genuine Irish wool sweater direct from the weaver in Ireland. Find this charming little shop on your left going up the hill as you leave Fish Creek traveling north. O'Meara's also carries a wide assortment of good quality gifts, especially items with an Irish theme.

Alibi Dock