A Road Trip To Carlsville

A Road Trip Adventure

It's time to embark on a road trip adventure to one of Wisconsin's most iconic places - Door County. And today, we're heading to Carlsville, a charming community that is nestled in the heart of this treasured peninsula. Get ready for a weekend filled with exploration, delicious food, and unique shopping experiences.

Fueling Up at JP Express and Little Caesars Express

After a four-hour drive, hunger strikes, and we make our first pit stop at JP Express. This is the perfect place to grab some snacks and drinks to fuel us for the adventures ahead. And we can't forget about the adjacent Little Caesars Express, where we snag some mouth-watering pizza and chicken wings. With our snacks in hand, we are ready to continue our journey to Carlsville.

Door County Candle Company: Where Magic Happens

One of the must-visit destinations in Carlsville is the Door County Candle Company. Owned and operated by Christiana, this candle business offers individually hand-poured candles with over 40 different custom-made fragrances. As we enter the shop, we are greeted by Christiana and her husband, Nick.

Christiana takes us behind the scenes for an exclusive lesson in candle-making. We learn about the unique process and get to try our hand at creating our own candles. From mixing the wax and colors to pouring and labeling the candles, it's an immersive and fun experience. Christiana's passion for candle-making shines through, and we can't help but be inspired by her dedication and creativity.

But the Door County Candle Company is more than just a place to make candles. Christiana has used her business as a platform for philanthropy, raising and donating millions of dollars to relief efforts in Ukraine, Turkey, and areas affected by hurricanes. Her candles have become symbols of hope and light, making a difference in the world.

Door County Coffee: Aromatic Delights

Next on our itinerary is Door County Coffee, where we are greeted by the warm aromas of freshly brewed coffee. This business not only specializes in coffee but also serves fantastic meals. We meet Vicki, the owner, who shares her love for coffee and her journey of starting this business in the beautiful Door County.

Vicki takes us behind the scenes of the coffee roasting process, teaching us about the different grades of beans and the meticulous attention to detail that goes into every cup of coffee. And of course, we can't resist the opportunity to become baristas ourselves. With Vicki's guidance, we try our hand at making the perfect latte. It's a moment of pure joy and a reminder that owning a business is about connecting with people and creating memorable experiences.

Door Peninsula Winery and Door County Distillery: Toast to Carlsville

No trip to Carlsville would be complete without a visit to the Door Peninsula Winery and Door County Distillery. Housed in a historic schoolhouse, this establishment offers a glimpse into the art of winemaking and distilling.

Robin Beth, our knowledgeable guide, takes us on a tour of the winery and distillery. We explore the cellar, where archival photos and objects from the building's past as a schoolhouse are displayed. We learn about the fermentation process, aging tanks, and bottling machines that produce over 180,000 gallons of wine per year.

In the distillery, we witness the production of whiskey, rum, and brandy. The skilled craftsmen and women showcase their expertise, ensuring that every bottle produced is of the highest quality.

To cap off our visit, we head to the wine bar, where GT introduces us to a variety of wines to taste. From dry reds to refreshing whites, the flavors dance on our palates, leaving us wanting more.

Shopping and Fudge Delights

As our day in Carlsville comes to an end, we can't resist doing some shopping. We visit the charming local stores, filled with everything from coffee and kitchen goods to sunglasses and cozy sweaters. And of course, we indulge in some homemade fudge, each bite a sweet delight.

A Heartfelt Farewell

As we gather for a final toast in the barrel lounge, surrounded by the warmth and hospitality of the Carlsville community, we reflect on the incredible experiences and friendships formed during our visit. We raise our glasses to Carlsville, a place that exemplifies the spirit of connection, creativity, and community.

Though our time here may be coming to an end, one thing is certain - we will be back. Carlsville has captured our hearts with its magic and left an indelible mark on our souls. Farewell, for now, Carlsville. Until we meet again.

Closing Thoughts

Our road trip to Carlsville, Wisconsin has been unforgettable. We have discovered the charm and beauty of this community and experienced firsthand the passion and creativity of its local businesses. From candle-making to coffee roasting, winemaking to fudge tasting, every moment has been a delightful adventure.

As we leave Carlsville, we carry with us the memories of a place filled with warmth, kindness, and inspiration. This road trip has reminded us of the importance of exploration, connection, and embracing the unexpected.

So, the next time you find yourself on a road trip, take a detour to Carlsville. You never know what magic awaits you in this hidden gem of Wisconsin.