There’s no better way to explore the Door County peninsula in Wisconsin than through the lens of family travel. As we embark on our adventure with our little one, we’ve discovered that finding the right places for our meals reduces stress and makes the trip more enjoyable. From trains delivering food to scenic waterfront dining, Door County offers an array of fantastic restaurants that cater to both the young and the young at heart. Here are our top 5 kid-friendly restaurants in Door County, each with its own unique charm.
PC Junction: All Aboard
Our favorite spot is at PC Junction, a charming restaurant located in the heart of Door County. What makes this place so special? It’s all about the trains! PC Junction is a dream come true for kids who are fascinated by locomotives. As soon as you step inside, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of miniature railroads and colorful model trains whizzing by.
The real magic, however, lies in the dining experience. As you sit around the main dining room, the model trains deliver everything to your seats. This interactive and engaging setup not only keeps the kids entertained but also leaves adults feeling like kids again. PC Junction serves up a variety of delicious food. Our favorites have been the spicy chicken sandwich, the Italian beef special, a brat burger special, and the chili. For the kids, the menu has the typical favorites, but the mac and cheese bites were the big hit. If you’re there during a birthday celebration stop by the hostess to request a special ice cream delivery surprise. It’s the perfect place to savor a tasty meal while watching the trains go by.
The Old Post Office: A Waterfront View
One of our favorite spots for breakfast is The Old Post Office in Ephraim, a charming town nestled along the shores of Green Bay. What sets this restaurant apart is its stunning waterfront location and the unique opportunity for kids to observe cars passing by while you’re eating which can keep them occupied for a bit.
The Old Post Office offers both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the bay while enjoying a delicious meal. The breakfast menu has something for everyone. Some of our favorites are the cherry waffles, corn beef hash, and pancakes. Our toddler loves the muffins, which are plenty big for a whole meal.
If you’re looking for a fish boil this was our favorite. The show is entertaining for the kids, but the pie is the best part at the end of the meal.
Pizza Bros at One Barrel: Pizza and Adult Drinks
Our new favorite pizza spot in Door County is Pizza Bros at One Barrel in Egg Harbor. What makes this spot so appealing to families is its perfect blend of pizza, outdoor seating with a view, and a plethora of games to keep kids entertained.
The outdoor patio is perfect for enjoying the pleasant Door County weather. While the adults sip on drinks and feast on pizza, the kids can explore the fun games available, from cornhole to giant Jenga. It’s the ultimate family-friendly environment where everyone can have a blast.
Pizza Bros offers an assortment of delicious pizzas, with options for everyone, making it an ideal stop for a casual and enjoyable family meal. Some of our favorites have been the Truffle Hog and the Mactastic, but the rest have all been delicious too.
The Boathouse: Great Views
One of our favorite dinner spots is The Boathouse in Sister Bay. Nestled on the shores of Green Bay, The Boathouse offers a dining experience that combines waterfront views with a menu that caters to both grown-ups and kids. They have 2 of our favorite dishes in all of Door County, so sometimes we have multiple dinners here on our trip.
While the Boathouse offers an array of dishes, it’s their mac and cheese that often wins over the hearts of children (just make sure to order the adult mac and cheese as a side). For the adults, the mac is worth the upgrade as a side with either the lobster roll or the shrimp basket. While you eat your meal, the kids can gaze out at the bay, watching boats go by. It’s a tranquil and picturesque setting that truly encapsulates the essence of Door County.
Wilson’s: A classic stop
No family trip to Door County is complete without a visit to Wilson’s, a historic ice cream parlor located in Ephraim. After eating a classic cheeseburger and listening to the jukebox, it’s time to treat your taste buds to some ice cream.
Wilson’s is famous for its old-fashioned charm and ice cream treats. The menu features a wide variety of ice cream flavors, sundaes, and shakes. Kids will be entertained by all the classic decorations and the old jukeboxes located at every table inside. Our favorite burger is the patty melt, and we always order the root beer float with their homemade root beer.
In Conclusion
As we wrap up our family adventure through Door County, we can’t help but reflect on the many incredible memories we’ve made. The breathtaking natural beauty, warm hospitality, and delectable dining experiences keep us coming back for more.
Door County is a destination that blends family-friendly activities with memorable culinary adventures. From watching trains deliver our meals at PC Junction to savoring mac and cheese at The Boathouse while gazing at the bay, each of these restaurants added a unique dimension to our journey.
The joy of seeing our toddler’s eyes light up as they get their sundae at Wilson’s is something we’ll cherish forever. These are the moments that make family travel special.
Our family is already planning our next visit to Door County, eager to create more unforgettable memories, explore new places, and discover more delicious dishes. Door County has a special place in our hearts, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to share these culinary gems with you. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or considering your first visit, we hope these Top 5 Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Door County enhance your own adventure.
