Sister Bay is the commercial heart of the northern peninsula, with a marina, restaurants, shops and a lively summer atmosphere, and The Inn at Little Sister Hill is a small, quieter place to stay in the village. The inn's hillside setting gives it a more private feel than the main street, while the marina, restaurants and shops remain close. From here you can walk or drive to Al Johnsons, the goat-roofed Swedish restaurant, to the waterfront and to the village's galleries, and the inn is a short ride from Ephraim and Ellison Bay. It suits couples and small groups who like to stay in a village, eat out and explore the northern peninsula. The northern location is the main advantage. From Sister Bay you can reach Newport State Park and its dark skies in about a half hour, the Northport Pier and the Washington Island ferry in under an hour, and the Lake Michigan shore at Ellison Bluff and Gills Rock without a long drive. In the evening, Sister Bay has places for dinner, a fish boil or a sunset by the marina, and the hill gives some quiet when the village is busy. Compared with Fish Creek, Sister Bay is slightly less crowded and a good choice for travelers who plan to explore the northern part of Door County.
Location and getting around
Sister Bay lies about 20 minutes north of Fish Creek and 30 minutes from Egg Harbor, where the Door County Trolley tours depart. A car is useful, though the village center is walkable once you arrive. If you plan to take the Washington Island ferry, Northport Pier is about 30 to 40 minutes away, so a day trip is practical. Sunset spots, shops and the marina are within a few minutes of the inn.
Rooms and who it suits
The inn is a good match for couples, small groups and travelers who prefer small inns to larger hotels. Check the property page for room types, occupancy and any suites. If you are traveling with children, confirm the policy before booking. Guests who plan to hike, bike and visit state parks will find the location helpful, and the village offers many restaurant choices without a long drive.
Good to know
Sister Bay is busy during summer and fall color weekends, and rates rise with demand, so book early. The village hosts events and festivals through the year, which can fill lodging. Check the property page for current amenities, parking and cancellation policies, since small inns vary. In winter and early spring, many seasonal businesses close or reduce hours, so confirm that your dinner plans and attractions are open.
For a first Door County stay, consider splitting your nights between a central base such as Fish Creek and a northern base such as Sister Bay, to cut driving time and see more of the peninsula.
Why stay here
- ✓Hillside village setting
- ✓Near the Sister Bay marina
- ✓Walk or short drive to restaurants
- ✓Close to Al Johnsons
- ✓Base for Newport State Park
- ✓Free parking
- ✓Wi-Fi
- ✓Air conditioning
Good questions
Where is The Inn at Little Sister Hill?+
It is in Sister Bay on the Green Bay side of the northern Door County peninsula.
Is it close to the Washington Island ferry?+
Northport Pier is about 30 to 40 minutes by car, so a day trip to the island is practical.
Is it walkable to restaurants?+
Sister Bay's restaurants, marina and shops are close, and many are within a short walk or drive.