Spring at Thorp House Inn: History, Refreshes, and What's Happening in Fish Creek

As a new season begins in Fish Creek, there is a familiar sense of renewal in the air. From the shoreline to the shops, restaurants, and trails that make this village so special, spring is the time when Door County begins to come alive again. Here at the Thorp House Inn, we always look forward to this season, not only because of the beauty it brings, but because it reconnects us to the history, hospitality, and sense of place that have long defined Fish Creek.

Fish Creek has a long tradition as a destination for rest, recreation, and connection. Long before modern travel made weekend getaways easier, visitors were already drawn here by the beauty of Green Bay, the charm of the village, and the peaceful pace of life in Door County. Historic inns like Thorp House have long been part of that story, offering travelers a place to slow down, settle in, and experience Fish Creek in a more personal way.

In many ways, what is happening in Fish Creek right now is a continuation of what has made this area beloved for generations: people are returning to the water, the trails are filling with early-season hikers, local businesses are reopening for the season, and the village is once again becoming a gathering place. The details may look a little different now, but the spirit remains the same. 

Seasonal Maintenance and Updates at the Inn

Our team has been busy preparing for a new season! Over the past several weeks, we have updated our kitchen and appliances so we can provide even more hot and fresh breakfast variety to our Inn guests. We have also been focused on the important behind-the-scenes work that helps keep the Inn welcoming, well cared for, and ready for another busy year.

This includes seasonal deep cleaning, paint touch-ups, plumbing updates, roof & room refreshes, planning landscaping and outdoor clean-up, and routine maintenance throughout the property. One of the things we value most at Thorp House Inn is preserving the warmth and historic charm of the property while continuing to make thoughtful updates where they matter. Our goal is always the same: to create an experience that feels timeless, cared for, and genuinely welcoming from the moment guests arrive.

One of the best parts of staying at a locally owned inn is getting recommendations from people who truly know the area. If you are looking for a few favorite Fish Creek spots to add to your visit, here are some places and experiences our team often recommends:

• Peninsula State Park

• A must-visit in every season, Peninsula State Park is one of the true gems of Fish Creek. Whether you want a scenic drive, a peaceful walk, a bike ride, or time to take in the water views, it is always worth exploring.

• Barringer’s Restaurant

• A great choice for a fine-dining lunch or dinner. Excellent quality food, drinks, and service. Also, it’s close to the Inn, so you can take your time getting to dinner without rushing.

• Sunset Beach Park

• If you are hoping to end the day with one of Door County’s signature sunsets, this is one of our favorite places to go in the spring/summer. It is simple, beautiful, and exactly the kind of spot that reminds you why people return to Fish Creek year after year.

This time of year in Fish Creek has its own unique appeal. The village is beginning to buzz with seasonal energy, but it still offers a quieter, more relaxed pace than the height of summer. For many guests, that balance is exactly what makes a spring visit so enjoyable.

Right now, visitors can expect to see:

• Seasonal shops and restaurants reopening or expanding their hours

• New exhibits and activity at local galleries and art spaces

• Weekend dining specials, tastings, and live entertainment returning to the area

• More opportunities to enjoy the waterfront, scenic drives, and uncrowded village strolls

“After several years away, I’m excited to say that blogging for Thorp House Inn is back. I’ve truly missed sharing updates, stories, and a glimpse behind the scenes—so you can expect to see regular posts here once again.

Believe it or not, this is one of my favorite times of the year. There’s a special kind of energy in the air as we prepare for the busy season ahead. Behind the scenes, we’re deep in planning mode—coordinating details, refreshing spaces, and making sure everything is just right for our upcoming guests.

It’s a bit like a carefully choreographed dance, with many moving parts and plenty to keep track of. But it’s work we genuinely love. My staff and I are committed to creating an exceptional experience for every guest who walks through our doors, and this season is where it all begins to come together.

We can’t wait to welcome you.”

-- Matt Ranzau, Owner Thorp House Inn

As Fish Creek moves into a new season, we are excited for all that lies ahead. Whether you are planning a quiet weekend away, a longer Door County stay, or your first visit to Fish Creek, we hope this season gives you plenty of reasons to slow down, explore, and enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer.

We look forward to welcoming you soon.