In the heart of Sister Bay, a small Wisconsin village, goats munch grass on the roof of a building—and people stop to watch. This surprising sight draws thousands of visitors each year and has become one of Door County’s most recognized attractions. Known as Goats on the Roof, this fun roadside stop is more than a tourist gimmick. It’s part of local tradition, community celebration, and small-town humor. This guide covers the story, setting, fun facts, and experiences surrounding this beloved spot in Door County.
Goats on the Roof in Door County: Quirky Roadside Attraction
| Location | Sister Bay, Wisconsin |
| Attraction Name | Goats on the Roof |
| Associated Restaurant | Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant |
| Unique Feature | Live goats graze on a sod-covered roof |
| Best Viewing Season | Late May to early October |
| Annual Highlight | 75th anniversary celebration in 2025 |
| Popular Add-On | Goat Cam (live stream camera during open season) |
| Visitor Type | Families, road-trippers, first-time tourists |
| Local Status | Iconic photo spot and family tradition |
How the Goats Got on the Roof
The story begins with Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant, a well-known eatery serving Swedish pancakes and lingonberries. In the 1970s, a friend of Al’s gifted him a goat as a joke. That goat found its way to the grass-covered roof of the restaurant. Visitors passing by started stopping for pictures, and the idea stuck.
Now, each spring, goats return to the roof. Staff members guide them up a special ramp, and they spend warm months grazing, relaxing, and entertaining guests below.
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The Roof Itself
The roof is not just for looks. It is a real sod roof, designed in Scandinavian style. The grass is trimmed, watered, and strong enough to hold several goats comfortably. It reflects traditional Swedish architecture and honors the restaurant’s Nordic roots.
Tourists often see goats resting, walking, or eating. Some goats enjoy the attention, while others lounge in the sun. It all adds charm to the experience.
Visiting the Site
The goats usually arrive near Memorial Day and stay through early October. The best viewing times are late morning or early afternoon when the goats are active and the sun shines on the green roof.
Parking is available near the restaurant, and staff are used to helping guests take photos. Visitors enjoy breakfast or lunch, then snap photos of the rooftop goats as part of their visit.
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Some tips for visiting:
- Arrive before noon for better seating and goat viewing
- Bring a camera or phone for photos
- Check the goat schedule if traveling in spring or fall
- Watch the Goat Cam if you’re unable to visit in person
What Else You Can Do There
While the goats are the highlight, there’s more to the stop:
- Al Johnson’s Restaurant serves classic Swedish dishes, including pancakes, meatballs, and desserts
- The Butik is a Scandinavian gift shop with imported items, clothing, and decor
- Outdoor benches and walking areas offer spots to sit and view the roof
- Goat Cam live streams the goats for online visitors during the open season
Families often make this part of their Door County tour. It’s fun for kids and enjoyable for adults. The attraction mixes humor, tradition, and great photo opportunities.
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Local Pride and National Attention
Goats on the Roof is now a symbol of Sister Bay. Locals refer to the goats as unofficial town mascots. The restaurant supports local events and uses the goats as part of community marketing.
Media outlets have featured the goats in travel guides, magazines, and even national television. The spot draws fans from across the country who come just to say they’ve seen the goats for themselves.
Celebrating 75 Years of Goat Fame
In 2025, Al Johnson’s celebrates 75 years. That anniversary includes new events, special menus, and activities tied to the goat tradition. The family behind the restaurant continues to run it with pride, maintaining both quality food and the quirky goat tradition.
The goats symbolize fun and welcome—just like the restaurant itself. Visitors in 2025 can expect more goat-themed merchandise, photos, and souvenirs.
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Why People Keep Coming Back
Visitors don’t just stop once. Many return year after year, bringing friends or children who’ve never seen rooftop goats. It’s not just the novelty—it’s the joy. Goats on the Roof is fun, easy to visit, and full of local charm.
For Door County, it’s proof that something simple, when done with care and a bit of humor, can become unforgettable.
FAQs
You can see them at Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant in Sister Bay.
Goats appear from late May through early October, depending on weather.
No. They only stay on the roof during warm months and live on a nearby farm otherwise.
Yes. You can view the goats from the sidewalk or patio without charge.
Yes. Al Johnson’s serves breakfast and lunch, with indoor and outdoor seating available.
Goats on the Roof in Sister Bay is more than a roadside oddity. It’s a family tradition, a symbol of Door County’s welcoming spirit, and a reminder to enjoy life’s lighter moments.
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Whether you’re eating Swedish pancakes, browsing the gift shop, or watching goats graze from the sidewalk, you’re part of a local story that keeps growing stronger every year.