Wisconsin S Baileys Harbor Has Endless Attractions

A small town in Door County is your headquarters for some big outdoor fun. While the population of Baileys Harbor barely tops 1,000 people, when it comes to outdoor fun, it punches well above its weight; it’s a place where you can dive a ship wrecks, go sea kayaking, hike to a historic lighthouse, go zip lining, and more. While Wisconsin has a lot of destinations that are packed with outdoor attractions, the options in Baileys Harbor’s quiver are hard to beat. Read on to see why your next outdoor adventure should be in Wisconsin’s Baileys Harbor.

Baileys Harbor is a place that has always been connected to Lake Michigan. A Native American name for the harbor is “Ah-quah-o-me-ning” which translates to “fish go to shore.” It was later named Baileys Harbor for a ship captain named Bailey who was caught in a terrible storm and found refuge in the harbor.

Baileys Harbor, Door County/Facebook

Many captains did not find safety here and the waters off of Baileys Harbor are home to many well-preserved shipwrecks, like the Christina Nilsson, a 170-foot schooner that sunk in 1884. It rests in shallow water, just offshore and it’s a popular spot for recreational scuba divers.

Wisconsin Shipwrecks (Wisconsin Historical Society)

If your idea of fun is staying above the waves, you have a lot of options. Anglers will find some longtime, deeply experienced captains ready to take them out on a memorable offshore fishing charter.

Facebook / First Choice Charter Fishing

Outfitters can also set you up for a sea kayaking adventure. Pick your poison: a bluff tour, a shipwreck viewing cruise, or an excursion to the nearby sea caves.

Facebook / Lakeshore Adventures Kayak

Back on shore, even more fun awaits. If you love a good nature hike, and taking a few photos, head to the 1,600-acre Ridges Sanctuary. Tranquil trails will take you into woods that are studded with wildflowers – 28 different species of orchids have been found here. While you have your camera out, be sure to capture a picture of one of the nearby lighthouses and range lighthouses.

Destination Door County/Facebook

Finish your time in Baileys Harbor with your feet off the ground. Lakeshore Adventures has the longest zip line in Door County – the 2,000-foot trip will give you big thrills, as well as views of the Ridges Sanctuary, Moonlight Bay and Cana Island. Just don’t look down!

Facebook / Lakeshore Adventures Zip Lining

For more information on these attractions and more ideas of things to do in and around Baileys Harbor, visit the Destinations Door County website. If you’re a thrill seeker looking for even more Wisconsin fun, here are some more adventures you can only have in the Dairy State.