Door County, the picturesque peninsula that juts into Lake Michigan from Wisconsin’s eastern shore, is renowned for its scenic beauty, charming small towns, and outdoor recreational opportunities. While visitors often associate Door County with its cherry orchards, lighthouses, and shoreline vistas, the region also boasts an impressive collection of golf courses that deserve recognition. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about golfing in Door County, from its most notable courses to seasonal considerations and tips for planning your ultimate golf getaway.
Notable Golf Courses in Door County
Alpine Resort & Golf Course
Located in Egg Harbor, the Alpine Resort & Golf Course is one of Door County’s most historic golfing destinations. Established in 1921, this course features 36 holes spread across rolling terrain with spectacular views of Green Bay. The course is known for its well-maintained fairways, strategic layout, and challenging water features. Alpine combines the charm of a traditional course design with modern amenities, making it appealing to golfers of all skill levels.
Peninsula State Park Golf Course
Situated within the boundaries of Peninsula State Park in Ephraim, this 18-hole course offers a unique golfing experience surrounded by natural beauty. The course is owned by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and managed by the Peninsula Golf Associates. Players enjoy panoramic views of Green Bay while navigating through wooded areas and open fairways. As a public course with reasonable greens fees, Peninsula State Park Golf Course represents one of the best values in Door County golf.
Maxwelton Braes Golf Course
Located near Baileys Harbor, Maxwelton Braes is a classic 18-hole championship course designed by famous golf architect William B. Langford. The course opened in 1931 and features generous fairways with strategic bunkering and subtle green complexes. Maxwelton Braes is known for its player-friendly layout while still offering challenges for experienced golfers. The property includes a historic lodge and is surrounded by the natural beauty characteristic of Door County’s Lake Michigan side.
Idlewild Golf Course
This 9-hole course in Sturgeon Bay provides a quick, enjoyable round for golfers with time constraints or those seeking a more casual experience. Despite its shorter length, Idlewild offers interesting holes with tree-lined fairways and well-maintained greens. The course is particularly family-friendly and welcoming to beginners.
The Orchards at Egg Harbor
Built on a former cherry and apple orchard, The Orchards is an 18-hole championship course designed by William Newcomb. The course opened in 1999 and quickly established itself as one of Door County’s premier golfing destinations. Players navigate through rolling terrain featuring strategically placed bunkers, water hazards, and elevation changes. The course is known for its excellent conditioning and challenging yet fair design.
Cherry Hills Golf Course
Located near Sturgeon Bay, Cherry Hills is a 9-hole course that can be played as 18 holes with different tee positions. The course offers reasonable rates and a relaxed atmosphere, making it popular with families and casual golfers. Cherry Hills features open fairways with some water hazards and well-maintained greens.
Seasonal Considerations for Door County Golf
Spring Golf (April – May)
Spring brings the awakening of Door County’s golf courses after the long Wisconsin winter. Courses typically open in April, though opening dates can vary based on weather conditions. Advantages of spring golf include:
Lower greens fees during early season specials
Less crowded courses
The scenic beauty of Door County’s spring blossoms
Golfers should be prepared for potentially cooler temperatures and occasional wet conditions. It’s advisable to call ahead to confirm course conditions, as some courses may have temporary restrictions to protect turf during spring thaw.
Summer Golf (June – August)
Summer represents the peak season for Door County golf, characterized by:Optimal course conditions with lush fairways and true-rolling greens
Comfortable temperatures, typically ranging from 70-85°F
Extended daylight hours allowing for early morning or evening rounds
Full service operations with all amenities availableThe primary drawback of summer golf is increased demand. Tee times at popular courses should be booked well in advance, especially for weekend play. Higher peak-season rates also apply during this period.
Fall Golf (September – October)
Many experienced Door County visitors consider autumn the ideal time for golf in the region:Spectacular foliage creates a colorful backdrop for play
Moderate temperatures provide comfortable playing conditions
Reduced crowds after Labor Day
Often the best course conditions of the year
Shoulder season rates offer better value than peak summer
Fall golf in Door County typically extends through October, though weather becomes more variable later in the season. Morning frost delays become increasingly common by mid-October.
Winter
Most Door County golf courses close for the winter season, typically from November through March. The harsh Wisconsin winter with significant snowfall makes traditional golf impractical. A few enthusiasts engage in “snow golf” as a novelty, but serious golfers typically look elsewhere during these months.
Planning Your Door County Golf Getaway
Beyond the Course
A golf trip to Door County should include time to explore the region’s many attractions:
Dining: The area is known for its farm-to-table restaurants, supper clubs, and famous fish boils.
Wineries and Breweries: Door County features numerous craft beverage producers offering tours and tastings.
Outdoor Recreation: Kayaking, hiking, fishing, and beach activities provide alternate recreational options.
Cultural Attractions: Art galleries, theaters, and museums showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Tips for Door County Golfers
Packing for Variable Weather
Door County’s location between Green Bay and Lake Michigan creates microclimates that can result in rapidly changing weather conditions. Golfers should pack:
Layered clothing for temperature fluctuations
Rain gear, regardless of forecast
Sun protection (the reflection off water intensifies UV exposure)
Insect repellent, particularly for evening play
Transportation Considerations
Door County is relatively compact, with most courses within a 30-minute drive of central locations like Egg Harbor. However, during peak season (July-August), traffic on Highway 42 can cause delays. Plan accordingly, especially for morning tee times when traffic is heaviest.
Tee Time Strategies
For the best experience, consider these tee time strategies:
Book popular courses 2-3 weeks in advance during peak season
Look for twilight rates for significant savings
Consider 9-hole options when time is limited
Weekday play offers better availability and pace
Door County offers a diverse and satisfying golf experience set against one of the Midwest’s most beautiful backdrops. From historic courses dating back nearly a century to modern designs with all the amenities, the peninsula provides options for every golfing preference and budget. By understanding the seasonal patterns and planning accordingly, golfers can enjoy an exceptional experience while also sampling the many other attractions that make Door County a premier destination. Whether you’re planning a dedicated golf vacation or looking to incorporate a few rounds into a broader Door County experience, the region’s courses provide memorable play in a truly special setting.