Top 15 Activities and Attractions in Green Bay, WI

Green Bay in Wisconsin is renowned for being the state’s oldest settlement. In the 1600s, this area gained prominence for beaver pelts, paper production, and a robust shipping industry.

Today, these industries continue to play a significant role in employment within Green Bay. However, visitors can also step back in time to experience these historical elements firsthand at Heritage Hill State Park.

In addition to its historical attractions, the city boasts a dynamic shopping, dining, and nightlife scene, complemented by a variety of educational museums.

Additionally, Green Bay is home to the notable Green Bay Packers, its professional football team, with tours of the team’s home stadium being a widely popular activity.

Other attractions include the stunning outdoor landscapes surrounding Green Bay. Hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing are popular seasonal activities that allow residents and visitors alike to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Let’s delve into the most notable activities to experience in Green Bay:

1. Heritage Hill State Park

Those who appreciate history will find much to enjoy at this 48-acre park in Green Bay located on the east bank of the Fox River.

In addition to the lush landscapes, a primary attraction is the heritage village, which consists of twenty-five restored buildings dating back to the 17th century, scattered throughout the park.

Knowledgeable guides donning period attire enhance the experience, and highlights include live demonstrations conducted by printers and blacksmiths.

A notable feature is a fur trader’s cabin that dates back to the 19th century.

2. Fox River State Recreational Trail

The Fox River State Recreational Trail meanders along the Fox River in northeastern Wisconsin, starting from the downtown Green Bay area.

This trail extends for 20 miles to the Brown County Line and remains popular among hikers and walkers eager to appreciate the scenic views.

If you seek picturesque vistas of Green Bay, this trail offers an excellent opportunity to witness the area’s natural splendor surrounding the Great Lakes Region.

3. National Railroad Museum

Established in 1958, the National Railroad Museum aims to preserve and promote the history of railroad travel in the United States, housing an impressive collection of over 70 locomotives and cars.

Additionally, guests can explore static displays of photographs and memorabilia, along with educational films for a comprehensive understanding of railroad history.

Moreover, visitors can enjoy rides on the “Thomas the Tank Engine” railway that operates within the museum premises.

Undoubtedly, this destination is ideal for locomotive enthusiasts, featuring a variety of iconic pieces from the steam engine era that will captivate history lovers.

4. Bay Beach Amusement Park

Located near the mouth of the scenic Fox River, Bay Beach Amusement Park offers a fun-filled experience for all ages in the Green Bay area.

On the eastern bank of the river, the amusement park features a multitude of rides and attractions that entertain visitors of all ages, including roller coasters and various amusement rides.

Traditional activities such as arcade games and a food court are also available for those seeking a break between adventures.

5. Neville Public Museum

As the largest museum in Green Bay, the Neville Public Museum provides an extensive overview of the area’s history, encompassing a wide range of exhibits on science, art, and local heritage.

The museum features a signature permanent exhibit titled “On the Edge of the Inland Sea,” designed to educate visitors about the historical context of the Great Lakes Region.

This journey through history spans from the Ice Age to modern times, complemented by various rotating exhibits that change throughout the year.

6. L.H Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve

This preserve encompasses over 900 acres along the southwestern shores of Green Bay, providing a sanctuary for numerous bird species in the region.

In addition to serving as a wildlife haven, it features an Interpretive Center where visitors can learn about local flora and fauna, including species such as Canadian geese and wild ducks.

Outdoor activities abound, with numerous trails ideal for hiking in summer, and snowshoeing or skiing opportunities during the winter months.

7. Green Bay Botanical Garden

For those keen on exploring the native plants of Green Bay, the Botanical Garden offers comprehensive information about local flora.

Covering over 40 acres, these public gardens feature various themed zones, including seasonal gardens, dense woodlands, fragrant rose gardens, and a New American Perennial Garden.

Depending on your visit timing, a variety of special events occur throughout the year, including the Concert in the Garden series in the summer and the Garden of Lights during the winter season.

8. Oneida Nation Museum

If you have an interest in the early inhabitants of Green Bay and the broader Fox River area, this museum provides detailed insights into their settlement history.

Opened in 1979, the museum features a variety of exhibits both indoors and outdoors, illustrating the extensive history of the Oneida Nation.

Notable artifacts include Native American tools, memorabilia, and vibrant paintings and drawings. A replica of a traditional Oneida longhouse enhances the experience, while a gift shop offers local handicrafts, including beadwork jewelry and literature about the region.

9. Green Bay Packer Hall of Fame

For an exploration of the legacies of some of the most renowned players in the history of the Packers, visit the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame.

This facility offers 25,000 square feet dedicated to over 100 players, aiming to honor these athletes and educate visitors about the history of the football team.

Exhibits include memorabilia such as photographs and interactive displays that engage visitors, making this an enriching experience for anyone interested in football, regardless of familiarity with the team.

10. Northeastern Wisconsin Zoo

Northeastern Wisconsin Zoo, also referred to as NEW Zoo, spans over 40 acres and showcases native wildlife, featuring local favorites such as grey wolves, mountain lions, and bears.

In addition to indigenous species, the zoo is home to international animals, including African lions and Australian wallabies, plus a variety of penguins.

Visitors can explore the zoo and observe the animals in habitats that replicate their natural environments while gaining insights on preservation and environmental conservation efforts.

11. Brown County Reforestation Camp

To gain more knowledge about ecology and the environment in Green Bay, visit the Brown County Reforestation Camp, located near NEW Zoo.

This area consists of conserved land with extensive hiking and nature trails; thus, those interested in exploring on foot can take leisurely walks through the natural surroundings.

The camp features pristine forestland, with nature trails providing spectacular views, particularly during the summer months. Winter visits offer opportunities for popular activities such as cross-country skiing.

12. Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary

Encompassing an impressive 700 acres, the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary offers a magnificent setting for nature enthusiasts to appreciate the area’s natural beauty.

Among the many activities available, birdwatching stands out, with an estimated 250 bird species residing in the sanctuary.

The sanctuary also houses the Nature Education Center, a three-story facility featuring interactive exhibits that educate visitors about environmental conservation efforts pertinent to the region.

In addition to birds, other wildlife such as wolves, flying squirrels, and bobcats inhabit this expansive area.

13. Weidner Center for the Performing Arts

Affiliated with the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts, named in honor of the university’s founder Edward Weidner, serves as a prominent venue for the local arts community.

The center hosts musical and theatrical productions from various Green Bay companies, accommodating over 2,000 attendees. Consequently, if you are interested in experiencing Broadway-style performances from local talent, this is the place to be.

14. Green Bay Packers Lambeau Field Tour

The Green Bay Packers are unique, as the team is owned by the citizens of Green Bay, fostering a strong community connection to the team.

Experiencing a football game at Lambeau Field is a thrilling event marked by an energetic atmosphere. However, even if you cannot attend a game, you can still participate in a stadium tour to learn about the remarkable history of this iconic sports entity.

15. Grassy Island Range Lights

For a glimpse of a distinctive Green Bay landmark, visit the Grassy Island Range Lights, which comprise two preserved lighthouses once prominently positioned at the entrance of the Green Bay Harbor.

These lighthouses were originally constructed to guide ships through the harbor channels. Though decommissioned and relocated, they are now recognized as historical sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places in Wisconsin.