7 Reasons To Spend Time In Algoma, Wisconsin

Algoma is located along Lake Michigan between Green Bay and Door County

On a recent visit to Algoma Wisconsin, while enjoying a Two Stall craft beer at Annapee Brewery, we had a conversation with a husband and wife.  They happened to be from Illinois, but spend many vacation days in Algoma. Curious why they choose to keep coming back to Algoma instead of trekking a bit farther north with the masses to spend time in popular Door County, I asked them why Algoma. They preceded to tell us that while the Door is a great place to vacation, they much prefer Algoma because it is quiet and less touristy, the locals are friendly, and it is cheaper than staying in Door County. Door County is close, so if they want to spend the day there, they just hop in the car and head north.

That was interesting and I can absolutely see their point (especially the cheaper aspect). Algoma has a small-town vibe but has lots of things to do. Algoma (which was once called Ahnapee) has a rich commercial fishing history, which makes it the perfect spot to take in a little charter fishing.  There are many charter companies available if your dream is to reel in one of those big browns!

If fishing is not your thing, there are 6 more reasons to spend some time in Algoma.

Crescent Beach-The beach is the perfect spot to spend the day catching rays,  take a dip in cool Lake Michigan, or launch your kayak. Along Crescent Beach, you can find a 1/2 mile boardwalk made out of recycled materials to take a stroll. Plus the beach offers the best view of the historic red lighthouse.

Shopping-The downtown area offers some great places to drop some cash.  Art galleries, consignment shops, clothing, and food (yes cheese!), will satisfy everyone. Algoma is a historical town and the facades of many of the shops downtown reflect that. Check out the old Deep Rock gas station downtown and you will have flashbacks to the 50s! If you are in town on the first Friday of the month you can take part in Steele Street First Friday Art In Algoma when businesses open their doors for art exhibitions. Side note: There is wine involved!!

Historic Walking Tour-Go to the Visit Algoma website and download the Walking Tour brochure. As I said, there are many places downtown that is full of history. You can also view the Walldog murals on a handful of buildings. I loved seeing the murals as we walked downtown. The brochure features points of interest with a brief description.

Ahnapee Brewery-I guess I am biased when it comes to the coolest two-stall garage in town. I love this place. so much so, I wrote a whole post about Annapee Brewery! Their craft brews are AWESOME, and the atmosphere cannot be beaten! My personal fave…yup, Two Stall!

Von Stiehl Winery-As much as I love the Two Stall, I adore the winery. One of the most popular wineries in Wisconsin, You can stop in here and do a tasting, take a tour, and buy some unique gifts. With over 25 varieties of wine, I can assure you, you will find a favorite.

Ahnapee State Trail-Maybe before you consume the wine and beer, you should check out the Ahnapee State Park Trail. This is something on my to-do list, which is why I included it here. The trail is 30 miles long. It’s easy to navigate as it is mostly flat, wide, and well maintained. Hike it or bike it. In the winter the trail is part of the snowmobile trail system. There is a trailhead located in Algoma, so it’s the perfect choice to get in some exercise during your visit.

As I learned on my road trip to Algoma, it’s small towns like this that makeup what is so great about Wisconsin. I feel like it would take a lifetime to explore all the great places my state has to offer. Sure we have famous places like Door County, Milwaukee, and Wisconsin Dells, but it’s the little-known under-the-radar places that can be the real hidden gems.

Have you been to Algoma? Tell me about it. What’s your “hidden gem” you like to explore?

Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this post, please share.

Lori

Go explore! The world is waiting