Peninsula State Park vs. Newport State Park: Which Door County State Park Should You Visit?

Discover the Best State Parks in Door County

Door County, Wisconsin is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, historic charm, and waterfront adventures. At the heart of it all are two must-visit outdoor destinations: Peninsula State Park and Newport State Park.

Each park offers a unique experience—from scenic views and family fun to solitude and stargazing. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full vacation, this guide will help you choose the best park for your itinerary—and show you how to make the most of your trip with a narrated boat tour along the Door County shoreline.

Peninsula State Park: Iconic Views and Family-Friendly Adventures

Located along the shores of Green Bay near Fish Creek, Peninsula State Park is one of Wisconsin’s most visited and celebrated parks. Spanning over 3,700 acres, it’s packed with amenities and activities that make it ideal for families, first-time visitors, and active travelers.

Top Highlights of Peninsula State Park:

• Eagle Tower: A 60-foot accessible observation tower with panoramic treetop views

• Eagle Bluff Lighthouse: A restored 19th-century lighthouse overlooking the bay

• Nicolet Beach: A popular swimming, kayaking, and picnic spot

• Sunset Bike Trail: Paved paths winding through woods and shoreline views

• Campgrounds: Modern and accessible sites with electric hookups

Peninsula is perfect for visitors who want a mix of nature, history, and comfort—all in one place.

Newport State Park: Solitude, Hiking, and Stargazing

Tucked away on Door County’s eastern shore near Ellison Bay, Newport State Park offers a completely different experience. As Wisconsin’s only designated Dark Sky Park, it attracts those seeking tranquility, remote hiking trails, and some of the clearest stargazing in the Midwest.

What Makes Newport State Park Unique:

• Rustic hike-in campsites: No electricity, just you and nature

• Miles of forested hiking trails: Ideal for birdwatching and quiet exploration

• Dramatic Lake Michigan shoreline: Rugged beauty and crashing waves

• Stargazing opportunities: Certified dark skies with limited light pollution

• Minimal crowds and distractions: A true escape from the modern world

If you’re craving a slower pace and a deeper connection to nature, Newport delivers.

See the Shoreline from a New Perspective

After hiking the inland trails of Peninsula State Park or exploring the quiet shores of Newport State Park, there’s no better way to complete your Door County experience than by getting out on the water. Our tours operate out of Sturgeon Bay and Baileys Harbor, offering unique views of the shoreline and expert narration that brings the area’s natural and cultural history to life.

What You’ll Experience on a Shoreline Boat Tour:

• Lighthouse views and photo opportunities

• Narrated stories of local history, shipwrecks, and folklore

• Slide show visuals displayed on large screens onboard

• Relaxing cruises perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers

A boat tour is the perfect complement to a day spent exploring Door County’s state parks.

Can You Visit Both Peninsula and Newport State Park?

Yes. Door County is compact and easy to explore by car, making it entirely possible to visit both Peninsula State Park and Newport State Park in one trip. Many visitors spend a day at each park, then reserve time for a scenic boat tour to experience the area from the water.

Your Ideal Door County Itinerary

• Peninsula State Park: Ideal for families, cyclists, and history buffs

• Newport State Park: Best for hikers, stargazers, and nature lovers

• Shoreline Boat Tours: The only narrated boat tours in Door County showcasing historic lighthouses and coastal scenery

Book Your Door County Boat Tour Today

Ready to take your Door County vacation to the next level? Explore the coastline with a narrated scenic boat tour departing from Sturgeon Bay or Baileys Harbor.