Ellison Bay Is One Of Wisconsin’s Prettiest Small Towns

Wisconsin has some incredible small towns – from Northwoods forest outposts to old lakefront fishing towns, there are places that beckon travelers and practically beg to be photographed. If you live in Wisconsin, or spend time here, you probably have your own favorite spot. But if you’re looking for a historic and refreshing getaway, head to Ellison Bay. Overshadowed by gorgeous Door County villages like Ephraim and Fish Creek, this unincorporated community offers its own incredible blend beauty and history, just waiting for those who take time to explore. Here’s why you should visit Ellison Bay, one of Wisconsin’s prettiest small towns.

Ellison Bay has a long history. It was first named Joe-Sahbe Bay, after a son of the Potowatomi Chief Neatoshing, who was also known as Mishicot.

The modern community was was founded in 1872 by John Eliasen. It was originally a fishing and lumber town, and later, it was the heart of Door County orchard country, surrounded by small family orchards. Take a drive on the surrounding roads, and you’ll still see apple and cherry trees in production.

If you dust through town on Highway 42 you might not be wowed, but take a closer look around and you’ll see some incredible sights. Ellison Bluff County Park offers one of the county’s best elevated views – on some nights you can even see the northern lights here!

Ellison Bay is also home to the Clearing Folk School, a picture-perfect educational retreat that was founded by landscape architect Jens Jenson nearly a century ago. Take an art or writing class, or just admire the remarkable grounds. Steps away, there’s the beauty of Lake Michigan.

There’s more history hiding just beneath the waves. There’s an 1800s shipwreck just offshore in Garrett Bay – the *Fleetwing* sank in 1888 and can be visited by paddlers, scuba divers, and snorkelers.

Back in town, you’ll find everything you need to fuel your vacation, including great food, coffee, and drinks. Don’t leave town without getting an old fashioned and checking out some of the old school businesses!

I spent many of my childhood days in Ellison Bay, so I may have a bit of Ellison Bay bias, but I do think it’s a great place – do you agree? If you plan to visit, get all your vacation gear at REI. Interested in more things to do in Wisconsin? Here are the state’s best attractions.

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Ellison Bay, WI 54210, USA

There's No Community In Wisconsin More Enchanting And Historic Than Ellison Bay In Wisconsin

Ben Jones

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