The Vault Door County

If you’re poking around Ellison Bay and want somewhere off the beaten path, this little spot is worth knowing about. It’s a popcorn and soft serve shop — gourmet flavors, potato puffs, the works — but there’s also a dedicated play fort tucked in for the 2-to-8 crowd, which buys parents enough time to actually enjoy a snack. The owner is genuinely welcoming, not just going-through-the-motions friendly. Gnomes, wooden sculptures, quirky decor throughout — it’s got a personality that most tourist stops around here are missing. Benches available if you want to sit and let the kids burn some energy before heading back out on the peninsula.