Wisconsin’s Doorway to Heaven & Lake Michigan Adventure


Wisconsin‘s Top Attractions including Milwaukee, Door County, and The Best of Lake Michigan’s Shoreline

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of America's Midwest with our meticulously crafted "Milwaukee & Door County" Tour.

From the historic streets of Greendale to the scenic beauty of Door County, immerse yourself in the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and savory flavors of Wisconsin.

Experience the warmth of Midwestern hospitality as you explore charming villages, indulge in delectable cuisine, and uncover hidden gems along the way. Join us for an enchanting adventure that promises to leave you with cherished memories that last a lifetime.

Duration
9 Days /8 Nights

Group size
Min 35

Customization
Available!
Tour Inclusions: 8 nights’ accommodation, Roundtrip baggage handling, 8 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 7 Dinners, Wine & Beer Tasting events, admissions, entrance, and guide fees as stated in the itinerary, including taxes, and gratuity. Except gratuity for guide fees is not included on adult tours unless otherwise requested.
Highlights:
  • Guided Greendale Tour
  • Pabst Mansion
  • Harley Davidson Museum
  • Milwaukee Art Museum
  • Beer Tasting
  • Wisconsin Maritime Museum
  • USS Cobia Submarine
  • Lighthouse Inn
  • Wine Tasting at Door 44 Winery
  • Door County Peninsula Tour
  • Lautenbach's Orchard Country Winery
  • Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant
  • Lighthouse Tour
  • Peninsula Players Theater
  • Washington Island Cherry Train Tour
  • Cave Point Country Park
  • Laverne & Shirley Tour
  • Lakefront Brewery

Sample Itinerary:
 
Day 1
  • Arrive in Greendale, WI. One of only three “Greenbelt towns” in the U.S., built during the Great DepressionGreendale is also known as a “Norman Rockwell town” due to its New-England-like traitsThere’s a life size statue of Norman on the corner in the Village Center- where he’s painting Greendale! A Step-on Guide will take you on a one-hour guided tour of the Historic Village of GreendaleHear the unique history of the Village and the stories behind the one-of-a-kind folk-art chimneys! Stroll the quaint village after the tour.
  • Check-in to your local, charming accommodations.
  • Enjoy a Welcome Dinner included at a local favorite restaurant to kick-start your adventure!
  • Return to the hotel to rest and relax.
 
Day 2
  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast included at the hotel this morning.
  • Arrive at the Pabst Mansion, a grand Flemish Renaissance Revival-styled house built in 1892 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for Captain Frederick Pabst, founder of the Pabst Brewing Company. In 1975 it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and is now a historic house museum.  You'll embark on a docent-led 60-minute tour where you'll learn about the Pabst Mansion, Pabst family and details about the architecture and furnishings of the home while exploring the first through third floors.
  • Explore the Harley Davidson Museum, dedicated to the legendary brand of American motorcycles, with exhibits, stores, & dining.
      • Be sure to make a stop for lunch on your own, at your leisure, at the Motor Bar & Restaurant located on the museum campus.  The restaurant features classic American fare including ribs, burgers, pastas, subs, salads, tacos, and more.  Plenty of selections to satisfy any appetite.
    • Regroup with your fellow travelers for the Spotlight Tour. Enjoy this walk through the Museum exhibits with specially-trained Museum Tour Guides sharing stories about the history of the Harley-Davidson® Motor Company and select motorcycles and artifacts in their collection. Discover culture and history through stories and interactive exhibits that celebrate expression, camaraderie, and love for the sport. With an unrivaled collection of Harley-Davidson® motorcycles and memorabilia, a 20-acre, park-like campus, and a calendar full of activities, the H-D Museum is one of Milwaukee’s top tourist destinations for visitors from around the globe. 
  • Discover fine works of art at the Milwaukee Art Museum where you'll enjoy a Docent-led Tour focusing on the highlights of the collections with time to explore on your own afterwards. The Museum collects and preserves art, presenting it to the community as a vital source of inspiration and education. 4-Floors of exhibits. 30,000 works of art. 400,000+ visitors a year. 125 years of collecting art. From its roots in Milwaukee’s first art gallery in 1888, the Museum has grown today to be an icon for Milwaukee and a resource for the entire stateThe 341,000-square-foot Museum includes the War Memorial Center (1957) designed by Finnish American architect Eero Saarinen, the Kahler Building (1975) by David Kahler, and the Quadracci Pavilion (2001) created by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. A docent-led tour focusing on the Highlights of the collection with time to explore on your own afterwards.
  • This evening, we're off to Mader's Restaurant where we'll dine and drink till we're merry with a delectable dinner and Beer Tasting! An old-school place offering classic German cuisine, Bavarian decor & traditionally attired waitstaffMader’s was founded in 1902, before the Wright brothers first flight and before Henry Ford’s Model T.  In 1920 a crushing blow struck the humble tavern: Prohibition! Charles Mader hung a large sign in his window: “Prohibition is at hand. Prepare for the worst. Stock up now! Today and tomorrow there’s beer. Soon there will only be the lake.”  Forced to reinvent or close down, Mader’s wife, Celia saved the establishment. She turned her full attention to creating the rustic, familiar German dishes of her homeland: Sauerbraten, Wiener Schnitzel, and Pork Shank. The new business plan succeeded and endured past the jubilant night of April 7th, 1933, which marked the end of Prohibition. Mader’s was there to serve the first legal stein of beer in Milwaukee, and it was announced from Mader’s on the city’s only radio station on that historic midnightA collection of sepia-toned photographs adorn the walls of Mader’s Restaurant, illuminating many of the highlights from these pivotal founding years. 
 
Day 3
  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on your own prior to checking out.
  • Experience the Wisconsin Maritime Museum & a USS Cobia Submarine Tour where you can explore a restored WWII submarine and museum in this shipbuilding town. A guided tour of The Wisconsin Maritime Museum will allow you to create personal and meaningful connections with the local waterways through interactive exhibits, and a world-class collection.
  • Stop for an included lunch at the Lighthouse Inn on Lake Michigan.
  • Depart on a Scenic Drive along Lake Michigan shoreline en route to our next destination.
  • Indulge with a Wine Tasting at Door 44 Winery, located in the heart of Door County and a must-see with its six-acre vineyard and state of the art facility. You’ll sample their award-winning wine, stroll the vineyard, tour the winery, relax on the patio, and enjoy the beautiful view! Parallel 44 is a premier Wisconsin wine destination.
  • Enjoy an included dinner at a local Supper Club, a Door County favorite location and long time small business dedicated to the area.
  • This evening, check-in to your local area hotel to rest and relax for the night.  
 
Day 4
  • Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at your leisure this morning.
  • Depart for Fish Creek.  En route, you'll drive through Peninsula State Park and enjoy beautiful views of Green Bay.
  • Arrive for a Wine Tasting at Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market. Located on 100 acres of blossoming orchards and lush vineyards in Door County, Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market is a popular stop for visitors to the area. Since 1955, the family has been growing, harvesting, and producing quality fruit and products. The roadside market offers hundreds of locally grown and produced products-many featuring the popular Door County tart cherry.
  • Enjoy a Swedish Lunch at Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant - Famous for the Goats on the Roof.  Al Johnson’s is an authentic Swedish family-owned restaurant where you can find real, live goats grazing the sod roof. It’s quite a sight, and it’s made this place one of the most famous restaurants in Door County. Inside the casual, carpeted dining room, young ladies in Scandinavian garb dish out limpa bread and Swedish meatballs. The menu consists of a variety of Swedish fare, from pancakes with lingonberries to Swedish meatballs, whitefish, sandwiches, salads, and a variety of hot and cold plates. 
  • Embark on an Orchard Tour at Seaquist Orchards, the premier cherry and apple grower in Wisconsin and enjoy many samples & free-time for shopping. When the coach arrives at the market, a tour guide steps right on the coach and gives a fun, informative 20–30-minute tour. After the tour, apple cider and a wide variety of samples (jams, fudge, mustards, salsa) are available, along with some great shopping!
  • This afternoon, arrive at the Sister Bay Marina and sail off on a Scenic Boat Tour! Embark on a breathtaking adventure aboard their double-decker tour boat as they sail along the stunning shores of Green Bay towards the incredible Eagle Bluff Lighthouse at Peninsula State Park. Brace yourself for an immersive and insightful narrative that will transport you back in time as you delve into the rich history and heritage of the charming village of Ephraim, while admiring the impressive millionaire’s estate “Englemar” on Horseshoe Island. Get your cameras ready as you approach the majestic Peninsula State Park, and witness the jaw-dropping Eagle Cave perched 40 feet above the shoreline. The tour takes you on a journey of discovery, regaling you with fascinating tales of the French explorers and early Indian inhabitants that once called Nicolet Bay their home, as you cruise around Welker’s point in the Park.
  • Delight with a famous Door County Fish Boil Dinner at the Old Post Office Restaurant. The Lake Michigan whitefish is caught by local fishermen and prepared outside over a roaring open fire. Small potatoes and onions are boiled first, and the fish is then dropped into the steaming kettle. The Fish Boil offers delicious history, too. The Scandinavians are credited with bringing it to the county more than one hundred years ago. The Old Post Office specializes in carrying on this tradition. Enjoy the traditional Door County Fish Boil while capturing a sunset you will never forget!
  • Return to the hotel this evening to rest and relax (and look through all your photos taken so far!)
 
Day 5
  • Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at your leisure this morning.
  • Arrive at Door County Trolley Station and board your trolley. Take off on a Lighthouse Trolley Tour! Their ‘Old Time’ Trolley will navigate you to Door County’s most treasured lighthouses. Trolley guests will enjoy guided tours at these majestic landmarks, tucked away in the Peninsula’s hidden bays and coves.  
    • A made-to-order box lunch with beverage is included.
  • Spend time on own in Egg Harbor Village. Egg Harbor boasts a breathtaking expanse of sky that mirrors the azure waters below. The allure of award-winning performing arts, renowned galleries and shops, delectable eateries, and pampering accommodations has made Egg Harbor, Door County, a one-of-a-kind escape.
    • Enjoy dinner on you own while exploring the Village.
  • Arrive at Peninsula Players Theatre. Here, you’ll discover Door County’s professional theatrical treasure, presenting Broadway-quality comedies, dramas, and musicals in an enchanting setting. Delight in the entire Peninsula Players experience – impressive artistic talent, tranquil Beer Garden, and warming intermission bonfire. Mother Nature provides the picturesque setting and the Peninsula Players’ award-winning artistic company provides a memorable experience. 
    • Enjoy the show!
  • Return to your hotel this evening.
 
Day 6
  • Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at your leisure this morning.
  • This morning, arrive at Washington Island Ferry Line and board the ferry.  Depart for Washington Island via a five-mile route through “Death’s Door”. Each ferry has ample deck space with open-air seating. Photo opportunities abound on your trip through Death’s Door, so be sure to bring your camera!
  • Catch the Cherry Train and enjoy a narrated tour of the island’s features and attractions. Stops include the Stavkirke Church, Schoolhouse Beach, and the Farm Museum.
  • Enjoy lunch at Nelsen's Hall Bitters Pub. The folks at Guinness note that this is the largest purveyor of bitters in the world. During Prohibition, this spot applied for a pharmacy license and dispensed bitters, which are 90 proof, as cure for stomach troubles. Smart folks. Now it's a quirky little bit of history and folks here can get a certificate welcoming them to the Bitters Club. It's easy to see why it's one of the most iconic bars in Wisconsin. 
  • Board your Ferry for your return trip.  Upon arrival, enjoy free time in Fish Creek Village. Experience Door County’s best shopping, dining, arts, and outdoor activities in the heart of Wisconsin’s Northern Door Peninsula.
  • Feast with dinner included at Alexanders of Door County. At Alexander’s you can relax… They understand vacation, so casual fine dining means come as you are.
  • Return to your hotel for the evening.
 
Day 7
  • Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at your leisure this morning prior to checking out.
  • Arrive at Cave Point County Park which offers a spectacular view of Lake Michigan and the eastern shore of the Door Peninsula.  A half-mile hiking trail stretches through the forest of birch, maple and beech trees and links up with several miles of trails in the adjacent Whitefish Dunes State Park, which borders the park on three sides. A rocky beach extends eastward at lake level.
  • Enjoy an included lunch at The Log Den Restaurant. This meticulously detailed 10,000 square foot restaurant and lounge was designed and built by the Lautenbach family, locals of the Egg Harbor township for five generations. With an atmosphere like no other, an eager to serve staff, and a savory menu this is sure to be a one-of-a-kind Door County experience.
  • Visit Renard’s Cheese, bringing home some good Wisconsin cheese! Factory tours may be available in 2025.  Depart for Milwaukee.
  • Enjoy dinner at a local favorite restaurant well-known for it's delicious fare.
  • Check-in to your local Milwaukee accommodations this evening.
 
Day 8
  • Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at your leisure this morning.
  • Meet your Happy Times Tours Step-On Guides at the Lakefront Brewery. The girls are just getting off work and they invite you to embark on an exciting Laverne & Shirley Themed Tour of Milwaukee!
    • If you are a fan of the Laverne & Shirley show, you will appreciate seeing Milwaukee's City Hall which was the opening shot of the show. See Polish Flats and the Brewery that made Milwaukee Famous, "Shotz."You will even make a stop to see Laverne's heart throb- the Bronze Fonz Statue. Bring your camera for that! Your day includes touring Lakefront Brewery where you will enjoy 2 samples and a souvenir glass. Laverne’s pop made the best pizza in Milwaukee, so a Pizza Lunch is included (salad, garlic bread, pizza and non-alcoholic beverage). The day also includes a game of mini-bowling because the girls have to keep their skill sharp for the Shotz Brewery Tournament. Be ready for surprises along the way. Grab your friends and get ready for a Funday! 
  • Enjoy an included farewell dinner at Harbor House, a bright, spacious New England-style seafood restaurant Milwaukee residents and visitors love, set on the shore of Lake Michigan. The restaurant offers a premier lakefront dining experience and the freshest seafood flown in daily from both coasts. Harbor House specializes in oysters, selling more than 10,000 each month and offering a different variety each day depending on what's available and fresh. In addition to fresh fish and seafood options, the menu offers a variety of specialty dishes, from steak and pasta to sandwiches, salads, and a signature hamburger. 
 
Day 9
  • Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at your leisure this morning prior to checking out.
  • Depart for home with brand new memories, new friends, and a camera roll of amazing photos!
 
 
   
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