35 Best Things to do in Green Bay!

Green Bay in Wisconsin, is a city with a rich history, a passion for football, and a welcoming community that makes it a great destination for travelers. Located at the mouth of the Fox River, which flows into Lake Michigan, Green Bay is known for its charming small-town vibe mixed with the excitement of a big sports town. Whether you’re visiting to catch a Packers game, explore the beautiful nature, or delve into the local culture, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Green Bay during your visit to Wisconsin.

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1. Historic Attractions

Heritage Hill State Historical Park

Covering 56 acres, Heritage Hill State Historical Park is a living history park featuring 27 historic and reproduction buildings, and highlights Northeast Wisconsin’s cultural and historical heritage through interactive exhibits and workshops. The site includes structures from the 1600s to the early 1900s, such as fur trade-era buildings, Fort Howard military structures, and small-town homes and farms, each providing insight into different time periods. Visitors can walk through the Streets of Old Green Bay, where costumed interpreters host events and share stories about early settlers and daily life.

Brown County Historical Society & Hazelwood Historic House

The Brown County Historical Society & Hazelwood Historic House is a Greek Revival-style home built in 1837-38 by Morgan L. Martin, a key figure in Wisconsin’s early history. The house was home to the Martin family for nearly a century and is now a museum showcasing furniture, artwork, and objects from the time period. Visitors can explore rooms filled with historical artifacts, learning about Green Bay’s growth from a frontier settlement to a thriving community. The Brown County Historical Society manages the site, preserving local history through exhibits, tours, and educational programs.

St. Francis Xavier Cathedral

Built between 1876 and 1881, St. Francis Xavier Cathedral was designed in Romanesque Revival style, inspired by Ludwigs kirche in Munich, Germany. The church was named after St. Francis Xavier and features a large crucifixion painting by Johann Schmitt, a German-born artist of the Nazarene movement. Over the years, the cathedral has undergone multiple restorations, updating its floors, pews, paintings, and pipe organ, while preserving its historical beauty. Visitors can explore the church and museum tours, join events and religious celebrations, to learn about its history and the architecture.

Brown County Courthouse

The Brown County Courthouse serves as the center for county legal proceedings, housing the Circuit Court, Clerk of Courts, and other judicial offices. The courthouse plays an important role in handling civil, criminal, and family cases, ensuring legal services for residents. The building has a historic design, reflecting Green Bay’s long-standing commitment to public service. Visitors can access court records, marriage licenses, and legal documents through Clerk of Circuit Court’s office. The courthouse is part of Brown County’s government system, supporting various legal and administrative functions.

Titletown District

The Titletown District is a 45 acres mixed-use development area, developed by the Green Bay Packers to create a space for year-round activities, entertainment, and community events. At the heart of Titletown is a public park and plaza, where visitors can enjoy outdoor games, exercise areas, and seasonal activities like ice-skating and tubing. The district is home to Hinterland Brewery, Lodge Kohler, and Bellin Health’s sports medicine clinic, offering dining, lodging, and wellness services. Titletown hosts concerts, movie nights, fitness classes, and family-friendly events, making it a lively destination.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Fox River Trail

Following along the Fox River, Fox River Trail is a 25 miles scenic path, offering a mix of urban and rural landscapes. Starting near downtown, the trail stretches south through Allouez, De Pere, Rockland, Wrightstown, and Holland, passing parks, historic sites, and natural areas. The first 10 miles are paved, making it great for biking, walking, and jogging, while the southern section has a crushed stone surface, allowing for horseback riding in designated areas. The trail crosses St. Norbert College, offering views of its historic campus, and crosses Claude Allouez Bridge, a key landmark along the route.

Ashwaubomay Lake Park

The Ashwaubomay Lake Park is a popular summer destination, featuring a man-made lake with a zero-depth entry sandy beach, making it ideal for families with young children. The lake includes toddler slides, floating rafts, diving boards, and water basketball hoops, offering a variety of fun water activities. There is a sand volleyball court and picnic areas, providing places to relax between swims. The park has a concession stand with snacks and drinks and outside food is not allowed. The lake is designed for swimmers of all ages, offering both shallow and deep areas to suit different comfort levels.

Hiking Trails

Green Bay has several hiking trails that offer a mix of scenic views, wooded paths, and riverfront walks. One of the popular spots is Baird’s Creek, which features wooded trails and bridges, making it ideal for hiking and cross-country skiing, with restoration efforts helping to preserve its natural beauty. Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary offers hiking trails through wetlands and forests, providing opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation. The Mountain-Bay State Trail stretches across multiple counties, offering long-distance hiking and biking through wooded bluffs and open landscapes.

Boating and Sailing

Green Bay offers great opportunities for boating and sailing, with access to the Bay of Green Bay and the Fox River. Foxy Paddler Party Boat and Green Bay Yachting Club provides sailing and kayaking lessons, helping beginners learn the basics while offering advanced courses for experienced sailors. Riverway Marina and South Bay Marina provides docking services and more customized boating tours, making it a convenient spot for those looking to explore the water. Several boat launches are available, including Fox Point Boat Launch and Metro Boat Launch, providing easy access to the water.

Fishing Charters

Green Bay is a great place for fishing charters, offering trips for walleye, musky, bass, and perch. Several guide services operate in the area, helping visitors experience fishing on the Bay of Green Bay and Lake Michigan. Green Bay Trophy Fishing provides fishing trips for walleye, bass, pike, and salmon, with experienced guides helping anglers find the best spots. Many charters like Brett Jolly Charters offer half-day and full-day trips, with boats equipped for different fishing techniques. Some services provide equipment, bait, and expert advice, making it easy for beginners to enjoy the experience.

Golfing Courses

Green Bay has a variety of golf courses offering options for different skill levels and playing styles. One of the private 18-hole course, Oneida Golf Club is a known for its challenging layout, driving range, pool, and tennis courts. Shorewood Golf Course, located near the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, features scenic fairways and well-maintained greens, making it a favorite among locals. Village Green Golf Course is a public course with an easygoing atmosphere, ideal for casual players.

Duck Creek Golf Center provides a driving range and an 18-hole miniature golf course, making it a great choice for families. Royal Scot Golf Course & Supper Club is a well-kept 18-hole course with a fully irrigated practice area, offering a competitive challenge. Many golf courses in Green Bay have clubhouses and restaurants, providing space to relax after a round of golf. Golfers can find courses with lesson programs, pro shops, and practice facilities, making it easy to improve their game.

3. Iconic Landmarks

National Railroad Museum

Founded in 1956, National Railroad Museum is one of the oldest and largest museums in the country dedicated to preserve the railroad history. It features historic locomotives, rolling stock, and railroad artifacts, giving visitors a chance to explore the impact of trains on American history. One of the highlights is the British Railways Class A4 No. 60008 Dwight D. Eisenhower, a train used by the Supreme Allied Commander during World War II. Visitors can walk through exhibits showcasing railroad technology, industry growth, and passenger travel, with interactive displays that make learning fun.

Neville Public Museum

The Neville Public Museum is dedicated for art, history, and science, featuring exhibits that explore cultural artifacts, and scientific discoveries. It highlights stories from Northeast Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula region, allowing visitors to learn about the area’s past through historic photography, interactive displays, and rotating exhibits. The Generations Gallery showcases artifacts that reflect the region’s cultural and industrial development. Visitors can explore sections focused on environmental science, archaeology, and Green Bay’s early settlements, gaining insights into how the area evolved.

The Automobile Gallery & Event Center

The Automobile Gallery & Event Center features a large collection of 100 vehicles, displaying classic, vintage, and modern cars, allowing visitors to see how automobiles have evolved over time. It serves as an event venue, hosting corporate meetings, weddings, receptions, and community gatherings in a unique setting. Special exhibits and seasonal car shows keep the collection fresh, introducing visitors to rare and iconic automobiles from different time periods. The gallery offers guided tours, allowing guests to learn about the details of each vehicle and its contribution to automotive innovation.

Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame

Established in 1966, Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame was the first hall of fame dedicated to a single professional football team, celebrating the Packers’ legacy through interactive exhibits, historic memorabilia, and detailed displays. Visitors can explore Vince Lombardi’s recreated office, relive legendary moments in the Ice Bowl Theater, and see the team’s four Super Bowl trophies up close. The Hall of Fame features nine permanent galleries and two temporary exhibit spaces. The venue also highlights Green Bay’s deep connection to football, giving fans insight into the team’s role in the community.

Green Bay CityDeck

Stretching about 0.25 mile, Green Bay CityDeck is a riverfront boardwalk along the Fox River, located between Walnut Street Bridge and Ray Nitschke Memorial Bridge, offering a lively space for visitors. The deck is designed to bring people closer to the river, creating a lively area for walking, socializing, and outdoor events. The Shopko Landing, Pine Street Landing, and Cherry Street Landing are key sections of the deck, each offering unique attractions and open spaces for events. The Main Stage hosts live performances, special events and celebrations, making it a gathering spot for entertainment.

Explore Brown County Fairgrounds

The Brown County Fairgrounds is a popular event space located along the west shore of the Fox River, hosting the annual Brown County Fair, which celebrates agriculture, family traditions, and local businesses. The fairgrounds feature two exhibition buildings and several barn facilities, used for trade shows, community gatherings, and special events throughout the year. Events like livestock shows, rodeos, and local business exhibits, bringing a mix of entertainment and education to the community. Families can enjoy food vendors, carnival rides, and craft displays, making it a lively destination.

Lambeau Field

Opened in 1957 as City Stadium, later it was renamed as Lambeau Field for honoring Curly Lambeau, the team’s founder and first coach. With a seating capacity of 81,441, it remains as the second-largest stadium for hosting NFL games and the largest venue in Wisconsin, known for its cold-weather games, that makes the venue to earn nickname as “The Frozen Tundra”. The Lambeau Field Atrium featuring the Packers Hall of Fame exhibits, 1919 Kitchen & Tap, and Packers Pro Shop. It hosts concerts, community events, and the annual Packers Family Night, drawing visitors beyond football season.

Oneida Casino Hotel

The Oneida Casino Hotel is a gaming and entertainment destination, offering a variety of slot machines, table games, poker, bingo, and a sportsbook, providing guests with multiple ways to play. The hotel is directly connected to the casino, featuring comfortable rooms, dining options, and event spaces for a convenient stay. Restaurants inside the casino include casual eateries, a sports bar, and grab-and-go spots, making it easy for guests to enjoy a meal. The casino hosts live entertainment, special promotions, gaming tournaments and seasonal events to bring additional fun throughout the year.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Bay Beach Amusement Park

Located near Fox River, Bay Beach Amusement Park is a historic and a city-owned amusement park. The park has been a favorite family destination for over a century, offering classic rides and a scenic waterfront views. One of the highlights is the Zippin Pippin, a wooden roller coaster that was once Elvis Presley’s favorite ride. Other rides include bumper cars, a Ferris wheel, a giant slide, and a tilt-a-whirl, with most rides costing between 25 cents and $1, making it a budget-friendly amusement parks in the country. The park features a large pavilion that hosts dances, movies, and community events.

NEW Zoo & Adventure Park

The NEW Zoo & Adventure Park is a wildlife and outdoor adventure destination, featuring over 200 animals, including native Wisconsin wildlife like bison, wolves, and elk. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits that highlight conservation efforts and endangered species, offering hands-on experiences that make learning engaging. The zoo offers giraffe feedings, allowing guests to get close to these gentle giants. The Adventure Park provides ziplining, high ropes courses, and climbing walls. Educational programs, behind-the-scenes tours, and events create new experiences throughout the year.

Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary

The Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary is a 600 acres urban wildlife refuge, making it the largest park in the Green Bay Park system. It also operates the second-largest wildlife rehabilitation program in the state, caring for thousands of animals which are injured and orphaned. Visitors can explore hiking trails, live animal exhibits and educational displays, offering a chance to learn about local wildlife and conservation efforts. The sanctuary has a nature education center, observation building, and woodland areas, while families can take part in guided tours and seasonal events, making it a great destination.

Children’s Museum of Green Bay

The Children’s Museum of Green Bay offers interactive exhibits, creative play areas, and STEM-focused activities, making learning engaging. Exhibits cover a variety of themes, including science, art and engineering, helping children explore different subjects in an exciting way. One of the highlights is the Farmers Market exhibit, where kids can shop for pretend groceries and learn about food. The Fire Station exhibit lets children dress up as firefighters and practice emergency response skills. The Auto Garage exhibit allows kids to build and take apart car parts, encouraging problem-solving and teamwork.

Zippin Pippin

The Zippin Pippin is a historic wooden roller coaster, originally built in 1912 and famously known as Elvis Presley’s favorite ride when it was part of Libertyland in Memphis in Tennessee. After Libertyland closed in 2005, Green Bay acquired the coaster, rebuilding it at Bay Beach, where it opened in 2011. The ride features a 70 foot drop and reaches speeds of 42 mph, with a track length of 2,347 feet, providing riders with multiple hills and turns for a thrilling yet smooth experience. Operating with two trains, each holding 30 riders, the coaster ensures a steady flow of guests throughout the day.

Meyer Theatre

Originally built in 1929 as the Fox Theatre, the Meyer Theatre is a historic performing arts venue, featuring Art Deco and Spanish Colonial Revival styles that create a unique atmosphere for live performances. With a seating capacity of 1,011, the theater hosts musicals, concerts, comedy shows, and events. Managed by PMI Entertainment Group, it offers a variety of performances throughout the year, including productions by Let Me Be Frank Productions, a local musical variety troupe. The theater features Frank’s Dinner Theatre, combining dining with entertainment for a memorable experience.

The Weidner

Officially known as the Edward W. Weidner Center for the Performing Arts, The Weidner is located on the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay campus. Cofrin Family Hall is the main theater, and it also includes Fort Howard Hall, Jean Weidner Theatre, a dance studio, and Grand Foyer, providing spaces for different types of performances and events. The Weidner hosts concerts, Broadway shows and university performances, making it a key part of Green Bay’s arts scene. It also supports educational programs like the Stage Doors series, which focuses on student learning through live performances.

Resch Center

Built in 2002, Resch Center is the biggest indoor arena in the city, hosting concerts, sports events, family shows, and comedy acts throughout the year. The arena has a seating capacity of 10,500, with a smaller setup called Resch Center Theatre, which seats up to 5,000 for more intimate performances. It is also home to Green Bay Phoenix basketball, Green Bay Blizzard indoor football and Green Bay Gamblers hockey, making it one of the popular spots for local sports fans. The venue hosts high school tournaments, WWE events, and touring concerts, bringing in over 650,000 visitors annually.

5. Natural Attractions

Green Bay Botanical Garden

Covering 47 acres, Green Bay Botanical Garden featuring over 120,000 plants from Wisconsin and around the world. It includes several themed sections, such as the Carol & Bruce Bell Children’s Garden, which connects nature with play, and the Agnes Schneider Terrace. The Mabel Thome Fountain is a popular spot surrounded by changing plant life throughout the year. Guided tours and workshops provide a chance to learn about plants, gardening, and conservation efforts. The garden also hosts nature-themed camps, special programs and events, providing interactive experiences for visitors.

Wequiock Falls County Park

The Wequiock Falls County Park is known for its seasonal waterfall, which flows from Wequiock Creek and is most active in spring and after heavy rains. The waterfall is located within a large narrow gorge, that allow visitors to take a close-up view of the Niagara Escarpment rock formation, one of the unique geological feature found in Wisconsin’s region. The park has picnic areas and restrooms, making it a great spot for a quick stop or a peaceful break. The park is home to the Jean Nicolet monument, which marks the landing of the French explorer in 1634, adding a historical attraction to the visit.

Baird Creek Preservation Foundation

The Baird Creek Preservation Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring the Baird Creek Greenway and Watershed. The area features 14 miles of trails, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, skiing, and wildlife observation. The foundation maintain 600 acres of greenway and focuses on land conservation, habitat restoration, and environmental education, helping preserve the natural beauty of the creek and its surroundings. The foundation hosts guided nature walks, educational programs and special events, encouraging people to learn about local ecosystems.

De Pere Riverwalk and Wildlife Viewing Pier

The De Pere Riverwalk and Wildlife Viewing Pier is a scenic walkway along the Fox River, offering visitors a chance to enjoy nature. The Riverwalk begins in Voyageur Park and crosses a channel to Government Island, where it continues south toward the site of the old Claude Allouez Bridge. The walkway extends into the river as a viewing pier, providing a great spot to see birds and local wildlife. The area is popular for fishing and walking, with benches and scenic overlooks along the path. The Riverwalk connects to downtown De Pere, making it easy to explore local shops and restaurants after a visit.

6. Day Trips & Excursions

Lake Winnebago

Start a day trip from Green Bay and drive about an hour south to reach Lake Winnebago, offers a mix of outdoor activities and scenic views. Visitors can start their trip at High Cliff State Park, located on the northeast shore, which offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views from limestone cliffs. The park is a great spot for wildlife watching, with frequent sightings of bald eagles and deer. Several boat rental services are available for those who want to explore the water. Nearby towns like Oshkosh and Fond du Lac offer restaurants and shops, making it easy to grab a meal or explore the area.

Manitowoc

From Green Bay, a day trip to Manitowoc takes around 45 minutes and is a great way to explore Lake Michigan’s shoreline and learn about the area’s maritime history. The city is home to the Wisconsin Maritime Museum, where visitors can tour the USS Cobia, a World War II submarine and it display exhibits on shipbuilding, Great Lakes history, and naval artifacts. Another popular attraction is Rahr-West Art Museum, housed in a historic mansion and featuring local and international art collections. The city’s downtown area offers local shops, restaurants, and cafes, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Sturgeon Bay

Located 45 miles from Green Bay, a day trip to Sturgeon Bay takes around an hour drive, following Highway 57 for a scenic route. The Door County Maritime Museum is a great first stop, offering exhibits on shipwrecks, commercial fishing, and the region’s naval history. Visitors can tour John Purves tugboat, one of the restored vessel that gives an idea about shipping in Great Lakes. The Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal providing views of passing boats and Sturgeon Bay Lighthouse, which dates back to 1882. The downtown area has local shops, cafes, and art galleries, making it a great place to walk around.

Escanaba River State Forest

Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Escanaba River State Forest in Michigan is about 120 miles north, with a drive taking around 2.5 hours from Green Bay. It covers 40,000 acres, featuring hiking trails, fishing spots, and wildlife viewing areas. The Escanaba River runs through the forest, providing opportunities for canoeing and kayaking, with calm waters in some areas and mild rapids in others. Camping is allowed in designated areas, with basic facilities like fire pits and picnic tables. The forest is open year-round, though snowshoeing and cross-country skiing can be accessible only in the winter.

Shawano Lake

From Green Bay, a day trip to Shawano Lake takes around 45 minutes drive and offers a great way to enjoy boating, fishing, and relaxing by the water. The lake covers 6,215 acres, making it one of the largest inland lakes in the region. Several boat launches and marinas provide access to the water, and rentals are available for those who don’t have their own equipment. The lake’s shoreline has public beaches and picnic areas, perfect for swimming or enjoying a meal outdoors. Visitors can explore downtown Shawano, which has local shops and restaurants, making it a great stop before heading back.

How to Reach Green Bay

Green Bay is accessible by air, road, and bus, making travel convenient from various locations. The Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB), located about 9 miles southwest of downtown, serves as the city’s main airport, offering flights from major airlines that connect Green Bay to nearby cities. Travelers arriving by car can take Interstate 41, which runs north-south through the city, or Highway 29, linking Green Bay to western Wisconsin. The drive from Milwaukee takes about 2 hours, while Chicago is roughly a 3 hours drive.

Although train service is not available directly, travelers can take Amtrak to Milwaukee and then transfer to a bus. For those driving from nearby cities, major highways like I-43 and US-41 connect Green Bay to locations, offering a scenic and smooth journey, especially along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. If public transportation is preferred, Greyhound and Megabus provide bus services from several cities, with the downtown bus station making access simple for arriving travelers.

Local Transportation

The Green Bay Metro Transit system provides public bus services across the city, with routes covering key areas like downtown, shopping centers, and residential neighborhoods. The buses run Monday through Saturday, with schedules available online for easy trip planning. For those needing paratransit services, Green Bay Metro offers options for individuals with disabilities. On game days, special free bus routes help fans reach Lambeau Field, making travel convenient during football season.

Bird scooters are available throughout the city, offering an eco-friendly way to explore downtown and nearby attractions. Visitors looking for private transportation can use Bay Bus Shuttle, which provides sedans, minivans, and limousines for reliable rides. For those traveling longer distances, Greyhound and Jefferson Lines offer bus routes connecting Green Bay to nearby cities. While Green Bay does not have direct train service, travelers can take Amtrak to Milwaukee and transfer to a bus for the final stretch.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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