Transported

Warm weather fuels my wanderlust. Here in Milwaukee, we’re lucky to live in easy driving distance from a variety of great destinations – Chicago, if you’re hankering for a cosmopolitan experience; two outsider art museums in the Sheboygan area; and state parks all around us. But as special as each of these are, nothing is as uniquely beautiful as Door County.

On a recent visit to the area, I was enamored by the whitewashed buildings and old-school charm of Ephraim. In particular, Wilson’s Restaurant and Ice Cream Parlor, a place that opened in 1906, captured my heart. For me, old restaurants are like time-travel portals. This one was particularly alluring, looking as if nothing had changed in its century-plus of existence. I was transported to a time when hoop skirts were the thing and bay breezes were crucial for staying cool in a world without air conditioning.

In reality, Wilson’s has changed over the years. It does indeed have air conditioning, although that was a fairly recent improvement, arriving about 25 years ago. But, like much of Door County, the improvements were incremental and executed with an eye toward preserving the past. I think this creates the best kind of getaway, where you feel suspended in the illusion of a simpler place and time. And that is a big part of Door County’s allure. Whatever type of experience you’re looking for, our guide will help you find it. Turn to page 40 and get started.

This issue also features our annual Top Docs listings, starting on page 65. I’ve heard from so many of you, saying how helpful these recommendations are when you’re in need of a new physician. And I agree – I use them too!

Sometimes, the shorter stories are the ones that stick with me the most. I love Ann Christenson’s interview with Charlie DeSando, who has a YouTube series where he cooks with local notables. And I’m also excited for you to meet the very stylish Danielle Bly in the Your 414 section. Danielle, an executive at WEC Energy Group, is a woman about town who changes up her look with every season. She is a fashion icon living in our midst.

I hope you find plenty to enjoy in this issue and plenty of information you can use. Until next month, enjoy!