5 Days of Small Towns and Nature from Fargo to Door County Itinerary

Begin your day with a short drive to Moorhead, MN (just across the river from Fargo). Visit the Hjemkomst Center to see the full-scale replica of a Viking ship and learn about Scandinavian heritage. Enjoy breakfast at Swedish Crown Bakery, where you can savor traditional Scandinavian pastries.

Continue your journey eastward towards Detroit Lakes, MN (about 45 minutes from Moorhead). Spend some time at Detroit Lake Beach for some relaxation by the water or rent a kayak for some adventure on the lake. For lunch, try Zorbaz on Detroit Lake, known for its fun atmosphere and tasty pizzas.

In the evening, explore downtown Detroit Lakes with its charming shops and cafes. Have dinner at Spitfire Bar & Grill, which offers great BBQ dishes in a casual setting. End your day with a stroll along Washington Avenue before heading back to your accommodation.

Drive about 1 hour southeast to Brainerd, MN. Start your morning with a hike or bike ride along the Paul Bunyan State Trail, one of Minnesota's longest trails offering scenic views of forests and lakes. Grab breakfast at The Barn, famous for its hearty breakfasts and friendly service.

Visit Brainerd International Raceway if you're interested in motorsports or head over to Northland Arboretum for some peaceful nature walks among beautiful gardens. For lunch, stop by Cragun's Legacy Courses where you can enjoy good food with views of their golf course.

Spend your evening exploring downtown Brainerd’s local shops or take part in one of their seasonal events if available. Dine at Iron Waffle Coffee Company which offers both savory meals and delightful desserts before retiring for the night.

Start your day with a drive to Sturgeon Bay, WI, the gateway to Door County. Begin your morning with a visit to the Door County Maritime Museum. This museum offers fascinating exhibits on the region's rich maritime history. Enjoy breakfast at Bluefront Cafe, known for its delicious and hearty breakfast options.

After exploring the museum, take a stroll along the Sturgeon Bay Canal and enjoy the scenic views of boats passing by. Head over to Inn at Cedar Crossing for lunch, where you can savor locally sourced dishes in a historic setting. Spend your afternoon visiting local art galleries and boutiques in downtown Sturgeon Bay.

In the evening, join a guided tour of The Farm, an interactive living museum where you can experience rural life and meet farm animals. For dinner, dine at Donny's Glidden Lodge, offering stunning lake views and delectable cuisine. End your day with a relaxing walk along Sunset Park before heading back to your accommodation.

Begin your final day with a visit to Peninsula State Park, one of Wisconsin's most popular parks. Enjoy hiking or biking along its scenic trails and take in breathtaking views of Green Bay. Have breakfast at Gibraltar Grill, known for its cozy atmosphere and hearty meals.

Door County: Kayak Tour of Cave Point is an exciting way to explore Door County's natural beauty from the water. Paddle through sea caves and enjoy stunning coastal scenery on this guided tour. For lunch, stop by Wild Tomato Wood-Fired Pizza and Grille for some delicious wood-fired pizza made with fresh local ingredients.

Door County: Fish Boil Dinner Experience is a must-do culinary experience unique to this region. Watch as fresh whitefish is cooked over an open fire in traditional Scandinavian style while learning about its history from local storytellers. Afterward, enjoy your meal at Pelletier's Restaurant & Fish Boil. Conclude your trip with a peaceful evening walk along Ephraim's waterfront before heading back.