Explore These Great Places to Visit Near Green Bay, WI
Whether you are in Green Bay, WI, for a visit or are a full-time resident, there are many things to love about the region. It boasts fun entertainment, a lively arts scene, delicious food and drink options, plus unique job opportunities and great schools.
“The cool thing about Green Bay is that we can be a lot of things to everyone,” says Nick Meisner, vice president of digital marketing and communications for Discover Green Bay.
He says the region works as an urban destination and a gateway to the outdoors. “There’s unique dining, theaters, nightlife, museums and cultural exhibits,” he says. “You can also head out on the water to fish or spend time birdwatching and hiking.”
While you are sure to find what you are looking for in the region, a big perk for those who live in the Green Bay, WI, area is that there are many cool places to visit nearby. In other words, residents have the best of both worlds – a great place to live and plenty of places to travel to for a daytrip or long weekend. Ahead are some of the great places to visit near Green Bay, WI.
Fun Excursions West of the Region
About four-and-a-half hours west of Green Bay is Minnehaha Regional Park in Minnesota. The park features walking and biking trails, and the scenic 53-foot Minnehaha Falls is its main highlight. Paved paths and stairways allow visitors to get close to the base of the falls. The park provides a natural retreat within the city of Minneapolis, and it can be enjoyed year-round, with opportunities for picnicking, walking, biking and enjoying the landscaped gardens and river views.
After exploring the park, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is another great place to visit near Green Bay, WI. This 11-acre urban park is free to visit and features more than 60 sculptures.
When you’re ready to eat and shop, explore the North Loop, also known as the Warehouse District. This area has been transformed from old shipping warehouses into a trendy entertainment center. Another great option is the Mall of America in Bloomington, which offers entertainment, food and over 500 stores. If you’re up for a little more fun, catch a Minnesota Twins game at Target Field or a Minnesota Vikings game at U.S. Bank Stadium.
Easy Trips South of Green Bay, WI
Milwaukee: A great place to visit near Green Bay, WI, is Milwaukee. The Deer District, the city’s newest neighborhood, is a must-see. It hosts more than 150 events a year and provides a variety of dining and entertainment options. At the center of the Deer District is Fiserv Forum, where the Milwaukee Bucks and Marquette men’s basketball play. If baseball is more your speed, nearby, you’ll find American Family Field, where the Milwaukee Brewers play.
Another destination in the city is Milwaukee Public Market, where you’ll find local products, artisan grocery options, ethnic food, bars and much more.
Known as the City of Festivals, Milwaukee delivers when it comes to events and gatherings. Consider attending Summerfest, Jazz in the Park, Food Truck Fest and Weird Fest. And you can’t go to Milwaukee without enjoying a beer or two. Check out the Milwaukee Brewery Trail and pick a few from the list to visit.
Chicago: A visit to nearby Chicago is the perfect weekend trip for Green Bay, WI, residents. Enjoy attractions like Shedd Aquarium, where people can come eye to eye with aquatic life, or Navy Pier (aka The People’s Pier), which is known for its events and dining and shopping options. As you walk along the pier, you can enjoy the city’s skyline, see street performers, and even ride the Ferris wheel or carousel. For a true taste of Chicago, grab a slice of authentic deep-dish pizza at Giordano’s.
Sports fans can catch a Chicago Bears game at Soldier Field, the Bulls or Blackhawks at the United Center, and the Cubs at Wrigley Field or the White Sox at Rate Field.
What to Visit Northeast of Green Bay, WI
Less than an hour northeast of Green Bay is Door County, often called the Cape Cod of the Midwest. Door County is also known for its cherries, as it has just the right environment to grow the dark red fruit. From July through August, you can visit Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market to pick your own cherries. Door County is also a great place for wine enthusiasts to explore. Door Peninsula Winery, one of Wisconsin’s largest wineries, offers tastings of over 45 varieties, including its famous cherry wine.
For history and scenic views, tour one of Door County’s 11 lighthouses. Cana Island Lighthouse is a favorite for photographers, with its classic white tower set against Lake Michigan.
Green Bay isn’t just a great place to live; it’s a gateway to the Midwest. Whether you’re enjoying waterfalls, exploring historic lighthouses, watching sporting events or visiting wineries, there are destinations to enjoy in every direction.
This article is sponsored by the Greater Green Bay Chamber.