Why Travelers Will Fall in Love With Door County, the Star of a New Holiday Film

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A new holiday movie is shining a spotlight on one of Wisconsin’s most beloved regions.

Door County, known for its small-town charm and Lake Michigan views, is the backdrop for A Wisconsin Christmas Pie, premiering Oct. 9 on Great American Pure Flix and Oct. 11 on Great American Family.

Directed by John Stimpson, the film stars Katie Leclerc ( Switched at Birth ) and Ryan Carnes ( General Hospital ) in a story of love, tradition, and, of course, cherry pie. For Destination Door County, the production serves as both a national spotlight and a thank-you to the communities that welcomed the cast and crew.

“Door County is the perfect setting for the film with its local traditions and beautiful scenery, rich agricultural history with cherries, commercial fishing, and dairy farming. Together with the importance of family, all of these elements are integral storylines in the film and are also authentic to the Door County community,” said Stimpson.

Locals turned out to support the project. “We had hundreds of folks apply to be volunteer extras during the production process, and businesses and organizations were equally happy to help…” said Jon Jarosh, Chief Communications Officer for Destination Door County. “We look forward to celebrating this movie when it’s released and sharing Door County’s warm holiday spirit with audiences worldwide.”

Wisconsin officials say the film could also give tourism a boost through the growing trend of “ set-jetting.” “A visit to Door County is like walking onto the set of a cozy romance movie, so it’s truly special to see one filmed here,” said Anne Sayers, Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Tourism. “A Cherry Pie Christmas captures everything that makes Wisconsin a great vacation destination—charming towns, beautiful scenery, and welcoming communities.”

Filming took place at some of Door County’s most recognizable spots. The Hillside Waterfront Hotel and the White Gull Inn in Fish Creek both served as backdrops, while Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery and Eagle Tower at Peninsula State Park brought in local flavor. Scenes were also shot along the shoreline, in cherry orchards, and at family-run businesses that show off the peninsula’s spirit.

Fall is one of the best times to visit Door County, when the bluffs turn shades of red and gold and the pace slows down.

One of my favorite experiences was kayaking at Death’s Door. The water was calm, and the limestone cliffs stood tall around us. Our guide, Justin, mixed in history and local legends as we paddled, so it felt like sightseeing and a history lesson rolled into one.

For a different adventure, Captain Matt of Door County Adventure Rafting runs inflatable boat tours across Lake Michigan. He has even discovered a shipwreck himself. On my ride, he pointed out wooden beams and hull remnants just below the surface, making the lake’s history come alive.

Back on land, biking through Peninsula State Park was a highlight of my trip. The trails wound between tall trees and offered stunning shoreline views, and I could imagine how vibrant the colors must be in October. Eagle Tower offers one of the best overlooks on the peninsula. The Ridges Sanctuary provides a quieter walk on boardwalk trails, and Newport State Park is one of the Midwest’s few International Dark Sky Parks and the perfect place to look up at the stars.

Fall is also harvest season in Door County. Orchards open for apple picking, pumpkin patches pop up, and cider tastings are everywhere. Local farmers’ markets bring out fresh produce and handmade goods, while festivals like the annual Fall Fest in Sister Bay add music, food, and the kind of small-town fun that makes visitors feel like regulars.

Door County’s accommodations have plenty of personality, but the Baileys Harbor Schoolhouse Inn is especially memorable. Once the town’s school, the building is now a boutique inn with deep roots in the community. The owner went to school there herself, as did her parents and grandparents. Staying there felt like being part of that history, not just checking into another hotel.

Door County’s dining scene covers everything from casual to creative. We stopped at Sip, a cozy café that made for the perfect lunch spot. Pizza Bros. was great after a long day outside, hearty pies paired with craft brews from Barrel Brewing Company. For dinner, Hill Street Café stood out with playful takes on classic comfort food.

Of course, cherry pie is a must, and you can find it at restaurants all across the peninsula.  My favorite was from Lure, where I also had incredible Pad Thai. For something truly local, the peninsula’s traditional fish boils are a fall favorite.

And when the credits roll, travelers who’ve watched the movie may find themselves drawn to see those orchards, inns, and lighthouses for themselves.