A travel guide to the best things to do in Green Bay, WI with the best shopping, attractions, parks & more in Green Bay, Wisconsin
Madison and Milwaukee might get the most attention from the visitors to Wisconsin.
However, Green Bay, one of the smallest cities in the United States is one of the most vibrant and supportive towns that you can find in the States.
Home to the NFL team Green Bay Packers, the city offers a wide variety of activities for all ages to enjoy.
But the home of the Packers is not just a football destination – outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and even avid eaters will be impressed with the various fun things to do in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
You might also consider Green Bay for a staycation as well, be it in summer or winter.
It is home to many beautiful inns, cabins, and lodges where you can spend your weekend relaxing with a view.
The area is also famous for hosting some of the most romantic cabins in Wisconsin.
Be ready to enjoy long walks around the parks or unleash your adventurous side by visiting amusement parks.
You can also relax at the beach, have a spa treatment, taste the delicious cuisine, or visit the wildlife sanctuary.
It’s thus perfect when looking for great Wisconsin vacation ideas.
Plan to stay local as there are plenty of budget-friendly or more luxurious options here in Green Bay for a great getaway.
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Table of Contents
Overview of the best things to do in Green Bay, WI
- Ride the Zippin Pippin
- Visit the wildlife sanctuary
- Play in the title town
- Find your zen at the Green Bay Botanical Garden
- Taste the best Kringle (Scandinavian pastry)
- Take a tour of Lambeau Field
- Feed the Giraffe at the New Zoo & Adventure Park
When looking for activities in Green Bay, Wisconsin, have a look at the tours offered by Viator. – Check prices here
What is Green Bay, WI famous for?
Green Bay is actually the oldest community in Wisconsin!
It is a place where farming, dairy cows, and cheese are as much a part of the area’s robust history, outdoor beauty, and famous professional football team, the Green Bay Packers.
The NFL team is so successful that Green Bay has nicknamed itself “Titletown, USA.”
But you may be wondering what to do in Green Bay besides football?
Well, there are numerous things you can do such as visit the beautifully manicured rows of flowers at the Green Bay Botanical Garden, hiking paths, or the natural history museum at the Cofrin Center for Biodiversity.
Green Bay is thus a fabulous choice when looking for cool things to do in Wisconsin in winter such as ice skating.
Nearby in Door County, you’ll also find some of the most amazing snowmobile trails in Wisconsin.
From outdoor activities to unique food and dining, Green Bay is one of the best places to vacation in Wisconsin.
Best Hotels in Green Bay, WI
Budget
Bay Motel **
Wingate by Wyndham Green Bay **
Home2 Suites Green Bay **
Mid-Range Accommodation in Green Bay
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Green Bay ***
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Green Bay North, WI ***
Hampton Inn Green Bay Downtown ***
Upper-Range
Lodge Kohler ****
Aloft Green Bay ****
Hyatt Regency Green Bay ****
For even more options, check out my guide on the best hotels and resorts in Green Bay, WI.
It is also home to some of the best resorts in Door County and the best resorts in northern Wisconsin for you to consider.
1. Visit Children’s Museum, Green Bay
Located near Bay Beach Amusement Park, Green Bay Children’s Museum is one of the fun things to do in Green Bay with kids.
Completed in 2012, it provides children with programs and exhibits that aim at stimulating their curiosity and interest in learning.
If your kid dreams of playing professional football and leaping into a crowd of screaming fans, check out the GetUp & Get Moving exhibit.
Other facilities in the museum include a recycled art studio and a building literacy with Lego.
It is open Sunday and Monday from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm and from Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
The entrance fee is $8 per person, for seniors, it is $7 and for children under 15 months, it’s free.
Book here the best tours in Green Bay
2. Eat out in restaurants in Green Bay, Wisconsin
One of the best parts about going on vacation is trying the local cuisine, and Green Bay offers a classy, comfortable, and flavorful eating experience.
These are some of the best restaurants in Green Bay Wisconsin that you can try:
Start your day with breakfast and espresso served at Grapevine Cafe. You can also try Sunrise Scrambler or Bird’s Nest.
For a nice family meal, Nakashima of Japan is great. Here kids will love the high-flying antics of the hibachi chefs.
Try 1951 West as well where dipping fruits in the chocolate fountain during a Sunday brunch is loved by kids and adults alike.
Angelina Authentic Italian Restaurant is the place for Italian cuisine, and if you are looking for a classic restaurant, “Republic Chophouse” should be your first stop.
Look for the traditional Walleye, Perch or Pollack.
3. Visit the Bay Beach Amusement Park
The Bay Beach Amusement Park is a well-kept secret just two hours north of Milwaukee and situated near the mouth of the Fox River in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
It is a place that is kid-friendly, relatively low-cost, and one of the best Green Bay attractions.
While great for kids, this is also one of the best things to do in Green Bay for adults!
This municipal amusement park comprises various spots that are worthy of sightseeing.
There are around 22 operating rides in the park which locals and sightseeing tourists can enjoy.
Let the kids loose on any of the park’s rides, while adults relax and grill out at the Bay Beach Pavilion, or any of the seven large shelter and picnic areas.
Movies, dances, and other local events are held here too.
The park is open from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm. The general admission and parking are free, while the ride ticket is 25 cents each.
4. Visit the National Railroad Museum
Established in 1956, the National Railroad Museum is located in a suburb in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and is one of the best things to see in Green Bay for families.
The railroad museum is one of the oldest institutions in the country that is committed to preserving the railroad history of the United States.
Railroad history comes to life with over 70 pieces of vintage rolling stock including Eisenhower’s WWII command train, the Union Pacific Big Boy, and the Rock Island Aerotrain.
The museum is home to an extensive collection of rolling stock and historic locomotives that span more than a hundred years.
Visitors can also enjoy a 25-minute train ride tour of the museum.
The entrance fee for adults is $10, for children aged 2 to 12, it is $7.50, and for seniors, $9.
Book here the best tours around Green Bay, WI
5. Wander in the Green Bay Botanical Garden
The Green Bay Botanical Garden, established in 1996, is located on 2600 Larsen Road, Green Bay, WI.
Wandering through the garden is one of the best Green Bay activities you can do.
It consists of around thirteen garden collections spread across 47 acres of land.
The 23.5 acres area is developed with lush gardens, outstanding architecture and peaceful woods which sets the stage for a horticultural adventure through plants that thrive in the Upper Midwest.
The gardens here worth seeing are Agnes Schneider Terrace where ornamental grasses and perennial flowers are found while the Four Seasons Garden features magnolias and lilacs.
Both children and adults will enjoy a variety of educational programs and year-round special events here.
6. Learn in Heritage Hill State Park
The Heritage Hill State Park is a historical park with an open-air museum.
The museum is located on 2640 S Webster Ave in Green Bay, Wisconsin. It’s one of the prettiest and best state parks in Wisconsin.
The main attractions in the State Historical Park of Green Bay are endangered buildings and more than 30 historic structures.
These structures include the buildings from Fort Howards, the Belgian Farmstead outhouse, and the log cabins from the fur trade era.
Sightseeing tourists can immerse themselves in history by engaging with live historical interpreters who are dressed up in period clothing.
The entrance fee for adults is $10, and for children 3-15 years old and seniors, $8.
Book here the best tours around Green Bay, WI
7. Do a hike in Brown County, WI Fonferek’s Glen
Fonferek’s Glen is a 74-acre geological gem featuring a 30-foot waterfall, dolomite cliffs, and a stone archway.
Located along Bower Creek in the Town of Ledgeview, hiking is definitely one of the best things to do near Green Bay, WI.
Make sure to plan plenty of time to hike since the area is home to some of the best hiking trails in Wisconsin.
This park also includes 30 acres of former agricultural fields that have been planted with native trees and prairie.
It is a 0.8-kilometer heavily trafficked loop trail primarily used for hiking, nature trips, and birding and is accessible year-round.
If you love hiking, you ought to experience this trail.
Don’t forget to bring your Wisconsin hiking guides where the best hikes in the region are listed. – Check prices here
8. Have fun at Ashwaubomay Lake
If you are wondering about exciting things to do with kids in Green Bay, then build sandcastles or enjoy a good swim in Ashwaubomay Lake.
Located on 2881 S Broadway, Green Bay, this is a man-made lake with shallow as well as deep areas.
The colorful slides are kid-friendly and there are always lifeguards around the place. You can safely take small children here.
There are picnic areas around the lake where you can relax and savor the view. It is considered to be one of the best lakes in Wisconsin.
Do not forget your eco-friendly sunscreen though as the area is not shaded!
9. Enjoy a ride at Zippin Pippin Roller Coaster
The Zippin Pippin Roller Coaster was Elvis Presley’s favorite ride back when it was located at Libertyland Amusement Park in Memphis TN.
Libertyland fell victim to economic problems and closed in 2005.
However, Schmitt and the city persevered with the roller coaster and on May 27, 2011, the Zippin Pippin Roller Coaster opened again for riders at the Bay Beach Amusement Park in Green Bay.
This rollercoaster will provide thrills and screams of delight.
With an overall length of 2,500 feet, hills of 70 feet, 54 feet, 45 feet, 38 feet, and 35 feet, the Zippin Pippin Roller Coaster will give you the ride of your life.
The general admission and parking are free, while the ride ticket is $1.
10. Do a wine tasting in Captain’s Walk Winery
If you’re a lover of wine, domestic or foreign, consider heading into downtown Green Bay for a walking winery tour at one of the best wineries in Door County.
Captain’s Walk Winery, located in Algoma, Green Bay is a local establishment that offers premium wine tastings daily.
In a laid-back atmosphere, you will learn about the unique wine-making process as well as experience the pairing of award-winning wines with real Wisconsin cheeses.
With a glass of wine in hand, you can relax on the porch, in the tasting room, or upstairs in the comfortable lounge of the pre-Civil War building which has been preserved for over 155 years!
There is no entrance fee which means you can save that money to buy bottles of your favorite wine.
Book here the best tours around Green Bay, WI
11. Enjoy the sunset at The CityDeck
The CityDeck is located along the Green Bay’s Fox Riverfront. It is a linear riverfront open space, reconnecting the people of Green Bay with the Fox River.
This is one of the best places in Green Bay for families to enjoy a performance or view the sunset.
The ¼ mile long, 2.5-acre linear park runs along the edge of the Fox River and connects a regional network of bike and pedestrian trails with Downtown Green Bay.
The deck creates both a flexible space for civic gatherings and has framed opportunities for new mixed-use development, infusing downtown with new life all day and night.
This is one of the best things to do in Green Bay, WI at night.
12. Have a picnic in Green Isle Park
Located along the East River, Green Isle Park offers recreation for everyone. It is a great spot for a picnic to enjoy lunch with nature.
For sports enthusiasts, you can find soccer fields, baseball, and softball diamonds. Tennis, volleyball, and basketball courts are also available.
It’s also the perfect place to read a book such as the Outdoor Adventure Books that you should read at least once in your life.
If you want to hit the trails, Green Isle Park has an East River Trail for hiking, running, and biking.
The park is particularly gorgeous in the fall season and thus a great idea when looking for fall activities in Wisconsin.
One can also find some great fishing spots and kayak launches along the East River.
The large shelter in the park is available for rental year-round.
13. Animal Watching in Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary
If you are wondering about free things to do in Green Bay, Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary is the place!
Located close to the Bay Beach Amusement Park, it is a 700-acre urban wildlife shelter.
It features live animal exhibits, educational displays, miles of hiking trails that transform into skiing trails in winters, and various wildlife viewing opportunities.
The sanctuary is also perfect when looking for cool things to do in Northern Wisconsin since it has plenty of options such as ice skating.
This wildlife sanctuary is the largest park in Green Bay and is the second-largest wildlife rehabilitation program in the state of Wisconsin.
As a wildlife sanctuary, they are responsible for the care and well-being of more than 4,500 orphaned and injured animals.
The park has free admission and is open year-round. Due to the beautiful fall colors, this is a great activity to do in Door County in October.
14. Have fun at Titletown District
Titletown District is a new community development just west of Lambeau Field in Green Bay, WI.
It is a 45-acre unique location perfect for community members and visitors to play, stay, eat, relax and enjoy, no matter the season.
Featuring a large public park with outdoor games, fitness activities, a winter skating rink, and a tubing hill.
In the heart of the action, you can enjoy Packers Game Day with live music and refreshments. – Buy tickets for Packers’ Games here
15. Watch Quirky Cars at The Automobile Gallery
The Automobile Gallery is another sightseeing destination in Green Bay that you do not want to miss.
It is home to various automobiles that have been used since the 1910s.
It is also committed to inspiring and educating the community about the history of each of the automobiles.
Not only car enthusiasts will enjoy sightseeing at this attraction, but every tourist who wishes to visit back in time through these cars.
Aside from the gallery, the place also has an events place.
Admission fee for adults is $10, for seniors, $8, and for children, $8.
Book here the best tours around Green Bay, WI
16. Get Lucky in Casinos in Green Bay Wisconsin
If you’ve had enough of outdoor sightseeing and adventure, it’s time to warm up to the bright lights and excitement of Green Bay casinos.
You can find high-stakes bingo, video poker, slot machines, and blackjack tables in modern and spacious casinos here.
Try your luck at the local Oneida Casino!
The gaming complex features reel slot and video machines, a 700 seat bingo hall, a 300-room hotel, and a convention center.
The other casino here is the Menominee Casino Resort.
17. Relax at the beaches near Green Bay, WI
Do you think that you need to travel to the Pacific or Atlantic to enjoy a beach vacation?
No, here at Green Bay you can do that!
While you can sunbathe and swim at all the beaches here, some even offer hiking and cycling trails for you to get active as well.
You’ll also find some of the best lighthouses in Wisconsin scattered along the coast.
Most of the beaches are located in Door County, only a 1h drive away.
Peninsula State Park is one such located on Lake Michigan and other beaches in Green Bay, WI is Crescent Beach, and Point Beach State Park (35min away).
It’s also the perfect place to bring along your eco-friendly swimwear.
On top, Green Bay is the gateway to Door County which boasts countless gorgeous beaches.
Read more about things to do in Door County.
18. Get pampered in spas in Green Bay
A retreat of indulgence and rejuvenation in the Green Bay, spas offer a great way to relax after all that sightseeing.
The best spas here are Elite Aesthetics Wellness Spa, Tranquility Spa Sanctuary, Arabella Spa and Salon, and The Day Spa Escape in DePere.
These spas offer tempting choices of over 100 treatments designed to reinvigorate the mind, body, and soul. It is one of the romantic things to do in Green Bay, WI.
If visiting with a partner, continue pampering yourself by staying in Lodge Kohler, one of the best romantic hotels in Wisconsin.
Lodge Kohler actually has its own spa called Kohler Waters Spa, making it one of the best spa resorts in Wisconsin.
19. Watch a Green Bay football game
The Green Bay Packers are known around the world for having a special bond with their fans and the community.
They practice across the street at the Don Hutson Center in the spring and during training camp each year.
It is a good idea to arrive early to get your spot. There is no cost to watch practice.
The Atrium is home to the Packers Hall of Fame and Museum, Pro Shop, Stadium Tour, and other dining and retail options.
Here you can also find the legendary Packers heritage trail. – Check rates for Packers’ games here
20. Wander in Green Bay parks
Gardens, sanctuaries, and parks make up thousands of acres of natural spaces, and miles and miles of trails that can be enjoyed by visitors.
Rugged terrain for biking, admiring forest plant species, sleeping under the stars, camping to escape the day-to-day grind, or a stroll through some of the parks here – the green spaces have a little something for everyone!
Pamperin Park, Green Isle Park, Baird Creek, Lily Lake, Voyageur Park, Murphy Park, Josten Park, and Astor Park are some of the best ones you can visit.
It’s also a great place to take along your backpack made from recycled materials. – Check rates here
21. Visit Lambeau Field, Green Bay
In addition to watching a Packers game, one of the fun things to do in Green Bay, Wisconsin is to take a tour of Lambeau Field – the Packers home field.
There are multiple tour packages to choose from, including a few that take you around the whole area and not just Lambeau Field.
However, the three main ones are the Classic (60 mins), the Champions (90 mins), and the Legendary (120 mins), which take you around the field and show you behind-the-scenes.
With all three you’ll get to see the atrium, the East Side premium seating, the player’s tunnel and sideline.
However, the longer the tour, of course, the more you get to see and learn about Lambeau Field.
Tours start at an hour, but there are also 15-minute field viewings available for those on a budget and a time crunch.
A visit here is definitely one of the top things to do in Green Bay for sports lovers.
Book here the best tours around Green Bay, WI
22. Visit Neville Public Museum of Brown County
Wondering what to do in Green Bay, Wisconsin to learn all about the local area?
Well then a visit to the Neville Public Museum is definitely a must!
With over 100 years of service to the community, this museum knows what they’re doing – and they have even more history than that to showcase.
The Neville regularly brings in new exhibitions to highlight the area’s fascinating history.
So no matter how many times you visit, you’ll probably learn something new!
They also have a permanent collection of historical photos. Oh, and did I mention all the dinosaurs?
While the museum is one of the best things to do in Green Bay inside, you’ll find the trailhead to the Packers Heritage Trail right outside!
23. Historic Meyer Theatre
One of the best places in Green Bay for music lovers is the historic Meyer Theatre where you can still see local events and live performances.
They tend to host less mainstream bands, but some big names have played here, as well!
Originally built in 1929, this beautiful building is a beautiful example of both Art Deco and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture.
So even if you don’t come for a show, just stop by and admire the building itself.
If you’re looking for fun places to go in Green Bay to spend an evening out, the Meyer Theatre is a great option.
24. Visit Hazelwood Historic House Museum
Wondering what to see in Green Bay off of the beaten path? The Hazelwood Historic House Museum is one of the top hidden gems in Green Bay, WI.
Originally built in 1837 for the Martin family, this impressive-looking Greek Revival structure was the first home built in what is now the Astor Historic District.
It is open for group tours all year round, and seasonal smaller tours as well.
Visitors to Hazelwood won’t have to think about which eatery places to visit in Green Bay if they take the Formal Tea Tour.
That’s because it comes with food and beverages served in three courses!
History buffs looking at what to see in Green Bay should definitely head to this historic house museum, if only for the added bonus of the view over Fox River.
It’s also one of the best things to do in Green Bay in winter, because you’ll be indoors and out of the cold!
25. Do the Oneida Nation Tour
If you’re thinking “what is there to do in Green Bay, Wisconsin?” then I recommend you make your way straight to the Oneida Nation Reservation.
It’s one of the best things to do around Green Bay! The Reservation lies just to the west of Green Bay.
Here you can take part in the Oneida Nation Tour, and learn about the Oneida people, their history, and their culture.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy on the Oneida Nation tours.
A big one is listening to stories as storytelling plays an important role in Oneida culture.
With their rich oral tradition, you’ll be able to experience how tales and lessons were imparted from generation to generation.
You’ll also have the opportunity to watch some displays of traditional dancing, with explanations of the significance of each dance and each dancer’s cultural dress.
Visitors are also encouraged to take part. Dancing to the beat of the Oneida drum definitely counts as fun stuff to do in Green Bay!
Book here the best tours around Green Bay, WI
Directions to Green Bay Wisconsin
The city of Green Bay sits at the southern tip of Wisconsin, a sub-basin of Lake Michigan. About 90 miles north of Milwaukee, it’s the third-largest city in the state.
Whether you are traveling solo or with your family, Green Bay offers plenty of transportation options to get you to the city.
By Car
You can drive from Milwaukee to Green Bay which is about 117 miles and takes 2 hours to reach.
Take route I-43 which goes around the east and northern parts of Green Bay. Route I-41 leads to Green Bay’s west side from Milwaukee, and highway 29 is the route taken from Wausau.
Why not go by RV and do an epic roadtrip? – Check RV rentals here
By Plane
Green Bay is served by several major airlines. The nearest airport is Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB), conveniently located only 10-15 minutes from the center of the town.
Another airport is Appleton International Airport (ATW), about 25 miles southwest of GRB. – Check flights here
If you have time, also make sure to visit and experience all the fun things to do in Appleton!
There are lots of fun things to do in Green Bay and Appleton – you’ll be spoiled for choice!
Short FAQ about tourism in Green Bay, Wisconsin:
What is there to do in Green Bay for free?
If you are wondering about free things to do in Green Bay, the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary is the place to be! The entrance fee for children under 15 months is also free in the Children’s Museum situated in Green Bay.
What are fun things to do in Green Bay at night?
You can build sandcastles, enjoy a good swim in Ashwaubomay Lake, get lucky in casinos, etc.
What are fun things to do in Green Bay during winter?
You can enjoy hiking trails that transform into skiing trails in winters or enjoy winter skating, You might also consider Green Bay for a staycation during winters as well.
What are things to do in Green Bay in December?
There are plenty of things to do in Green Bay in December.
Visitors looking to be active outdoors can enjoy snow tubing, sledding and skating at Ariens Hill in the Titletown district. On Broadway, the annual Winterfest contains activities such as ice-sculpting and scavenger hunts as well as outdoor eateries and food vendors. And of course Lambeau Field and the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame are open year round.
What are cool things to do in Green Bay at night?
If you’re after nightlife, there are some great things to do in Green Bay for adults at night. There are craft beers at the Titletown Brewing Company, arcade games and pool – as well as the Foxy Pedaler party bike – at Keggers, and sophisticated wines at the Amphora Wine Bar and the Aardvark Wine Lounge. Fans of a beautiful sunset should head to The Citydeck. It’s one of the best places to go in Green Bay, where visitors can enjoy 2.5 acres of park that runs alongside the Fox River to watch the sun go down.
What things to do in Green Bay with kids?
Kids are always looking for weird things to do in Green Bay, and you won’t be disappointed. The New Zoo & Adventure Park, Bay Beach Amusement Park and the Children’s Museum of Green Bay all have lots of activities to keep kids and grownups alike entertained for hours. Green Bay Botanical Garden and Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary are both great things to see in Green Bay if you want your kids to have some wide open space in nature.
Before You Go: Top Tips for your Trip
- You’ll snap tons of photos and I love to take my GoPro in order to shoot even in extreme situations.
- Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and hiking sandals when traveling to warm countries. Consider trying some of these eco-friendly vegan hiking boots.
- Sunscreen is key! I always take with me my eco-friendly sunscreen by Thinksport.
- I always carry a light rain jacket, just in case. Pack smart with these organic cotton clothing companies.
- Be environmentally friendly and get one of these awesome backpacks made from recycled materials.
- Get in the mindset with these amazing wilderness survival books.
- Travel insurance is essential! If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, travel is protected against all odds with HeyMondo.
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
Jenn
Sunday 3rd of July 2022
Thanks for the great suggestions. I’m heading up to Green Bay in a couple weeks for a family event and was looking for a few fun things to do while we’re in town. This is a great list!
Cheers!
Paulina
Tuesday 5th of July 2022
So happy you liked it! Enjoy a lot!!
GB native
Friday 3rd of July 2020
None of the beaches mentioned in this post are anywhere near Green Bay
Paulina
Monday 6th of July 2020
Hello dear, many thanks for your comment. I updated the post and included drive time. It's all about 30 min away from GB. Thanks a lot for the heads up.
Robert Schuknecht
Saturday 27th of June 2020
Under the section Directions to Green Bay Wisconsin, by car, you say Green Bay is 17 miles from Milwaukee. I think you mean 117 miles.
Paulina
Monday 29th of June 2020
Hey Robert, thank you so much for the heads up!! :) It's already edited. Have a great one!