Escape the Ordinary With A Magical Winter Getaway in Door County
When most people think of vacation, their minds fill with images of sandy beaches and summer sunshine. But winter is a perfect time to travel to Door County, Wisconsin, for those who thrive when the air is crisp and the snow is fresh. The Rushes Resort offers everything a winter enthusiast could dream of—from cozy fireplaces to the thrill of ice skating on Kangaroo Lake. Whether you’re a family searching for a seasonal retreat, a couple looking to rekindle romance, or a solo adventurer seeking outdoor thrills, the Rushes promises an unforgettable experience as a hub for your Door County winter adventures. Visit us to enjoy this unhurried and uncrowded time of year!
On-Site Activities and Amenities at the Rushes
We work hard to ensure your winter getaways at the Rushes will never disappoint. Located near the northern Door County community of Baileys Harbor and on the shores of picturesque Kangaroo Lake, the Rushes can be your home base for winter fun on-site and the broader area. When you book with the Rushes, here’s what you’ll discover right in your backyard:
Ice Skating on Kangaroo Lake
Every winter, we transform a portion of Kangaroo Lake into a glassy-smooth skating rink. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or trying it for the first time, the lake’s serene setting makes the experience magical. The crisp air, the sound of blades on ice, and the surrounding snowy landscapes create a refreshing and tranquil atmosphere. It’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon connecting with nature and enjoying the simplicity of the season. We’ll provide the skates; you provide the fun! If you need a quick warm-up, enjoy a roaring fire at one of our beachside fire pits, which includes complimentary firewood.
Ice Skating Fun Fact: Historians think ice skating developed in Scandinavia as far back as 1000 BC, where they made skates from animal bones.
Exploring Nature Hikes
Rushes Resort invites guests on scenic nature hikes through our 100-acre Logerquist Nature Preserve. The preserve offers trails that wind through snow-dusted trees and open fields, providing a glimpse into the area’s natural beauty. Each path offers a new discovery, from local wildlife tracks to breathtaking winter landscape views.
The quiet stillness of the preserve, interrupted only by the crunch of snow underfoot, offers a sense of peace and solitude. It’s an educational adventure for families where kids can learn about different animal tracks or how plants adapt to the cold. For those who love photography, the preserve is a canvas of natural artistry, offering countless photo opportunities that capture the essence of winter—team up with our on-site naturalist for a richer hiking encounter.
Hiking Fun Fact: The Beeh forest found in Door County extends about 75 miles west of Lake Michigan and includes Sugar Maple, Eastern Hemlock, American Beech, Yellow Birch, Basswood, Ironwood, Northern Red Oak, Red Maple, Paper Birch, and White Ash. White-tailed deer eat maple and hemlock saplings as soon as they peek out of the snow cover, but since deer don’t prefer to eat beech trees, they dominate the area.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a fantastic way to explore off-the-beaten-path areas, allowing you to forge your own trail through untouched snow along the trails of the Rushes wilderness preserve. It’s an activity that requires minimal skill but offers maximum enjoyment, making it perfect for families and beginners. Check out snowshoes from the front desk and get exploring!
Snowshoeing Fun Fact: Does snowshoeing feel like hard work? It is! It turns out that you burn between 300 and 600 calories an hour with this underrated winter sport.
Cross-Country Skiing
For cross-country skiing enthusiasts, our groomed ski trails offer an exhilarating way to enjoy the great outdoors. The rhythmic motion of skiing and the breathtaking scenery create a meditative experience that rejuvenates body and soul. Whether you’re a novice skier or a seasoned pro, the Rushes trails provide endless opportunities for snowy expeditions.
Skiing Fun Fact: People needed cross-country skis for centuries to hunt and gather firewood during harsh Northern winters. Also, skiing was essential for maintaining social contact, given the long distances between small, isolated communities during snowy winters.
Cozy Evenings by the Fire
Imagine ending your day of outdoor adventures with a warm mug of cocoa nestled beside a roaring fireplace. The crackling flames provide the perfect backdrop for storytelling, laughter, or simply unwinding with a good book. At Rushes Resort, each condo features a natural fireplace and complimentary firewood, ensuring every guest can enjoy its comforting warmth and ambiance.
We also feature outdoor fire pits with complementary firewood. Families and friends often find themselves drawn to the hearth, sharing stories and creating memories. It’s also a great place to bring that special someone to enjoy each other’s company in the flickering light.
Campfire Fun Fact: The origin of S’mores dates back to 1927 and traces its lineage to the iconic Girl Scout handbook, “Tramping and Trailing.” The name ‘S’mores’ was ingeniously derived from the term “some more,” which perfectly encapsulates the irresistible charm of this treat.
Recreation Center Delights
When the temperatures drop, the recreation center at Rushes becomes a central hub of activity. Home to an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, and workout room, it perfectly escapes the winter cold. Families often find the pool area a delightful spot where kids and adults can splash around, play games, or relax. The hot tub offers a soothing retreat for those seeking to unwind, especially after exploring the great outdoors. Its warm waters are ideal for soothing tired muscles, making it a favorite among cross-country skiers and snowshoers. For those committed to their fitness goals, the workout room offers a range of equipment, ensuring you can keep active even on vacation.
If you prefer to kick back and relax, we also have a movie library for movie rentals.
Hot Tub Fun Fact: In 2013, Van Zijl set the world record by spending 306 hours in a hot tub! He wouldn’t have been able to do that in our hot tub with all the tempting activities going on around him!
The Rushes Library and Activity Room
Gathering in the cozy library or checking out books or puzzles at The Rushes Resort in Door County, Wisconsin, turns family time into something truly special. Whether you’re diving into a jigsaw puzzle or reading a beloved story, it’s a chance to slow down and reconnect. Kids giggle as they fit puzzle pieces together while parents pick out favorite books to read aloud. Stocked with books and games, the library offers a warm and inviting space to unwind. Or, return to your spacious condo for the fun; together, families share laughter, quiet moments, and create memories that last well beyond vacation. Simple joys like these make a getaway to The Rushes unforgettable.
Fun Library Fact: The largest library in the world is the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., with over 170 million items in its collection, including books, recordings, photographs, maps, and manuscripts. It even has materials in over 450 languages! So, if you thought your local library had a lot to offer, imagine exploring the endless shelves at the Library of Congress!
Nearby Off-Site Activities
Though endless entertainment is available at the Rushes, your Door County winter adventures don’t have to stop at our boundaries. Here are just a few more ideas for blustery bliss around the local area:
Sensational Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling in Bailey’s Harbor is an exhilarating activity that combines the thrill of speed with the beauty of a winter wonderland. While snowmobiling is not allowed on the Rushes grounds or in the nature preserve, the Rushes makes a great gateway to snowmobiling fun. Your engine hums as you glide over freshly fallen snow, and the crisp air whips past, creating an adrenaline rush like no other. There are miles of snowmobile and ATV trails in Bailey’s Harbor, just a short drive from the Rushes. Heading north from Baileys Harbor on the well-marked trail to Sister Bay, you’ll pass through areas like the Mud Lake State Wildlife Area, a spot that remains nearly unreachable during the humid, warmer months. Riders are treated to breathtaking views, from towering pines to frozen lakes that sparkle in the winter sun.
Snowmobiling Fun Fact: According to the International Snowmobile Manufactures Association, the average snowmobile rider in North America rides 1,154 miles a year! How many will you rack up in Door County?
Ice Fishing Adventures
Just beyond Rushes Resort lies a world of off-site activities, beginning with the timeless tradition of ice fishing. The frozen Kangaroo Lake and Green Bay are prime spots for this winter pastime, offering a peaceful setting to try your hand at catching local species. With patience and the right gear, you might find yourself reeling in a trout or perch.
Local guides and outfitters are available to help newcomers get started, supplying all the necessary equipment and expertise. They ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, so even first-timers can enjoy the fun.
Ice Fishing Fun Fact: Ice fishing makes up 1/4 of Wisconsin’s fishing industry. If you join in, make sure you bring your spud. No, not your potato! A spud is a type of chisel used in ice fishing.
Marvel at Natural Ice Formations
The breathtaking natural ice formations in Door County are a sight to behold. These stunning displays of nature’s artistry are found along the county’s shoreline, where the cold weather transforms water into magnificent ice sculptures. From icicles as tall as trees to intricate ice caves, these formations provide a perfect backdrop for photographs, offering a chance to capture the essence of winter’s magic.
Guided tours are available for those eager to learn more about these phenomena. Experienced guides provide insight into how these formations occur, enriching your experience and enhancing your appreciation for nature’s handiwork.
Door County Ice Fun Fact: Before refrigeration was invented in the 1920s, people harvested ice from Green Bay and stored large chunks covered in sawdust, sold to local residents, grocers, and fishermen.
Dining Delights
After a day of outdoor adventures, treat yourself to the culinary delights of Door County. The area boasts a variety of dining options open year-round, each offering a taste of local flavors. Whether you’re craving comfort food or gourmet cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The menus reflect the region’s rich culinary traditions, from hearty stews to fresh-caught fish. Some eateries host seasonal events and themed nights, adding a touch of excitement to your dining experience. Look here for specific recommendations from some of our owners.
Fish Boil Fun Fact: The tradition of fish boiling in Door County was initiated by Scandinavian immigrants in the late 1800s as a cost-effective meal for large groups. Today, it remains a symbol of community celebration at events like weddings and graduations, continuing to forge connections between eras and families.
Sip at Coffee Shops
Warm up with a visit to one of Door County’s charming coffee shops. These inviting spaces provide the perfect setting to enjoy a hot beverage while reflecting on the day’s adventures. Each shop has its unique ambiance, offering a range of coffees, teas, and pastries to suit your taste.
Coffee shops in the area are not just about drinks; they’re community hubs where locals and visitors gather. They offer a chance to meet new people, share travel stories, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Many shops also feature local art and music, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.
Coffee Fun Fact: Coffee has more flavonoids (antioxidants) than red wine, but during your stay at the Rushes, there’s no reason not to get bonus benefits and partake in both!
Wonderful Wineries
For those with a taste for fine wines and spirits, Door County presents an array of wineries and distilleries to explore. The region’s soil and climate contribute to the creation of exceptional wines and craft spirits, each offering a unique flavor profile.
Door 44 Winery in Sturgeon Bay offers wine-tasting tours where you can sample a variety of local vintages, from robust reds to crisp whites. Knowledgeable staff guides you through the tasting process, sharing insights into the winemaking process and the region’s viticultural history. Their vineyards also present a wide range of locally-sourced gourmet cheeses and nibbles for you to assemble your personalized Charcuterie Board to complement your wine.
Why not visit all 9 wineries in what has become one of the best wine hubs in the Midwest! See the full list of wineries at this Destination Door County page.
DC Wine Fun Fact: Grapes were a historically challenge to grow in Door County’s climate and soil, so wineries first produced wines using locally harvested fruit. The county’s cherry wine was an obvious first product, closely followed by apple, strawberry, and plum wines. Recent advancements in viniculture have allowed local wineries to add classic wines to their production.
Star Gazing Splendor
Door County’s clear winter skies offer some of the best stargazing opportunities in the region. Far from city lights, the night sky comes alive with a dazzling display of stars, constellations, and celestial wonders. It’s a breathtaking sight!
With a telescope or binoculars, you can observe distant galaxies planets, and explore the universe. The naked eye also has treats from the Milky Way and the occasional northern lights and meteor shower. It’s an awe-inspiring experience that deepens your connection to the natural world. For families, stargazing provides a beautiful opportunity to teach children about astronomy, sparking curiosity and wonder. It’s an activity that can be enjoyed year-round, but there’s something genuinely magical about gazing at the stars against a backdrop of snow-covered landscapes.
Star Gazing Fun Fact: Newport State Park is the first state park in Wisconsin designated by IDA as an International Dark Sky Park, one of just 48 parks in the world to earn the distinction. Only 13 other state parks in the United States have received IDA accreditation.
Discover Winter Fun At The Rushes!
Rushes Resort in Door County offers a winter getaway unlike any other, combining the comforts of a cozy retreat with the thrill of outdoor adventure. Whether you’re drawn to the warmth of a fireplace, the excitement of snowmobiling, or the tranquility of a nature hike, the Rushes has something for everyone.
If you want to expand your horizons, explore the wonders of Door County, and experience the magic of winter as never before. Whether planning a family vacation, a romantic escape, or a solo adventure, the Rushes Resort promises a winter getaway you will never forget.