Oct 21, 2023

Take in the coastal vibes while in the Midwest

Connection and learning are lifelong wonders. Perhaps these aren’t the two words that immediately come to mind when thinking of a two-day press trip to Northern Wisconsin, where we’d be showcasing the latest fall trends from Lands’ End. But the energy aligned because we were amongst an incredible group of people from throughout the country, ready to take in all the sights and beauty of Door County in autumn.

We were eager to capture our moments but quickly became most interested in being together and building memories with new friends. Connections were made. We both feel that we learned not only from our new friends but also from the teams at Lands’ End, Destination Door County, and Madden Media. We are honored to detail some snippets of our time spent over two days in Door County, Wisconsin, as Lands’ End Ambassadors.

Where to stay

Gordon Lodge on North Bay

Gordon Lodge is where we began and ended each day. Friendly staff await you at the front desk. The 130-acre lakefront property with numerous trails for hiking and biking in Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin, is secluded. Yet Gordon Lodge also offers all the modern conveniences of a daily hot breakfast buffet, a restaurant and a bar, and high-speed wireless internet. Rooms in the Lodge are spacious and clean, while suites and cabins are also available. Event space provides a beautiful backdrop for weddings and other special occasions.

What to see

Whitefish Dunes State Park

• Located along the eastern bay of the Door County peninsula. Walk the beach along Lake Michigan, where you can appreciate how beautifully clear this Great Lake is, as you can see the bottom from the shore.
• Pick a trail and walk through the woods, seeing the lake between the trees.

Cave Point County Park

• Just up the beach from Whitefish Dunes State Park, you’ll find Cave Point. Prepare to take many photographs as you cannot get enough of the scenic carved rock that extends into ever-so-blue Lake Michigan.
• In season, there are opportunities to see the wave-crashed carved rock on various kayak tours.

Cana Island Lighthouse

• Words cannot describe the way you get to Cana Island Lighthouse. One of the most iconic lighthouses in Door County, you will traverse a causeway of rock by foot or hay wagon, depending on tide and comfort level.
• If you’d like, from May to October, climb to the top of the 89’ light! In 2024, Cana Island Lighthouse will celebrate its 155th anniversary.

Sail Door County

• Board the Edith M. Becker for a day on Lake Michigan. The captain and mate will entertain you on a leisurely cruise on this 65’ schooner that has traveled the world!
• We were able to help raise the sails together. Now we can say we went sailing!

Peninsula State Park

• Climb 65’ to the top of Eagle Tower, which sits 253’ above Lake Michigan for unparalleled views atop the tree canopy. This is also accessible via an 850’ long ramp to the top.
• You may be lucky to spot a bald eagle or one of the many other eagles that nest in the park!

Where to eat + drink

Wild Tomato Pizza Wood-Fired Pizza & Grille

• In Sister Bay, you must try some of their pies! One has cheese curds, a Wisconsin treasure we’ve never had on pizza.
• Another we tried and loved is the Solago. Topped with chorizo, roasted Mexican street corn atop an ancho chili crema base, the magic comes alive with the cotija, cilantro, and Tajin garnish!

Harbor Fish Market & Grille

• Try the lobster roll! They offer a menu with choices for everyone. It’s a treat for lunch after a morning filled with hiking.
• The Harbor Fish Market & Grille is within a historic building dating back to 1908, featuring tin ceilings and hardwood floors.

White Gull Inn

• The White Gull Inn offers one of the most unique fish boils as you will learn all about how this came to be. We won’t give away everything, but this is a way to enjoy Lake Michigan whitefish with a story you can take home!
• You must experience a fish boil. The traditional dining option is one you can only find in Door County! And the cherry pie for dessert is delightful.

Thyme Restaurant

• In Sister Bay, Thyme Restaurant offers a modern twist on classic fare. Cocktails are of note as well!
• Their outdoor seating area is charming with string lights and provides the ambiance for a lovely evening under the stars.

Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market

• Taste the ciders and wine. Door County is known for the cherries, and of course, there is cherry wine!
• The grounds are expansive, and we enjoyed walking amongst the apple trees. You can even try your luck to see how far you can spit a cherry pit. Yes, you read that correctly!

Where to shop

Fish Creek

• From souvenirs to swimsuits, stroll the boutiques in Fish Creek.
• Enjoy the sidewalk and patio al fresco options if going in May through October.
• On Deck Clothing Company offers many fashionable brands for men and women.

What to wear

Layers are a must for any season when you’re along the shore. Lands’ End offers vast options for outerwear, basics, shirts, pants, and, of course, sweaters! We can share tops, which is a fun fact you may not have known before. The entire family will enjoy the fashionable looks and keep these pieces going yearly with the timeless style Lands’ End represents.

This year, we’re celebrating 40 years of Squall with the 1963 collection pullover. It’s such an incredible jacket, and we couldn’t be more proud to have it in our wardrobe. The colors stand out with some nautical flair for the yachting heritage. We braved the winds, and keeping dry while sailing wasn’t a problem!

Insulated jackets are also a classic for us. These look like a bomber while providing a little more warmth. We chose one in black and one in Coriander. They’re even made with recycled plastic bottles. How cool is that?!

Lands’ End denim is remarkable. The Comfort Waist stretches up to two inches and makes all-day wear enjoyable. Feel good in these as they’re also sustainably made! We also enjoyed wearing the Hybrid Chinos in Forest Moss. Roll up the pant legs for a modern twist, or keep it casual. These also dress up nicely with a Tailored Fit Twill.

Rugby shirts are back (if they ever left!), and you can’t go wrong with any of the Rugby Sweatshirts. You’ll love the feel of the French terry fabric. Prepare to be asked where you found this one, and it will undoubtedly be a popular item this holiday season!

It wouldn’t be fall without flannel, and this year, the Flagship Flannel Shirts are ones we’ll be wearing until springtime! The weight is just right, and the softness is unmatched. Color options are plenty; we chose one in Gray Heather, Alabaster Vintage and Navy/Camel Plaids.

Be sure to check out the entire Lands’ End collection here. With the holidays approaching, order early for the best selection.