Northeast Wisconsin Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Northeast Wisconsin with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring must-visit places, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Northeast Wisconsin

Northeast Wisconsin, also known as the Fox Valley region, is situated in the state of Wisconsin, Midwest United States. The region is popular for its outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and scenic beauty. It’s encompassed by Lake Michigan on the east, Green Bay to the north, and the Central and Eastern Wisconsin to the west and south.

List of Places to Visit in Northeast Wisconsin

Northeast Wisconsin is home to many culturally important attractions, natural wonders, and adventure sports. Here’s a list of must-see places in the region.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. National Railroad Museum - Located in Green Bay, this museum showcases the history of railroading in the United States.
  2. EAA Aviation Museum - This museum is located in Oshkosh and is dedicated to promoting and preserving the history of aviation.
  3. Oneida Nation Museum - Located in Oneida, this museum features the Oneida Nation’s culture, heritage, and history.
  4. The History Museum at the Castle - This museum in Appleton features exhibits on the Fox Valley region’s history, including Harry Houdini’s childhood home.

Natural Attractions of Northeast Wisconsin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Peninsula State Park - Located in Fish Creek, this park is one of the largest state parks in Wisconsin and offers hiking, camping, kayaking, and scenic views.
  2. High Cliff State Park - This park in Sherwood features the limestone cliffs overlooking Lake Winnebago, making it a popular spot for hiking, camping, and water sports.
  3. Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary - Situated in Green Bay, this 700-acre sanctuary houses several trails for hiking and bird watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northeast Wisconsin

Exploring Northeast Wisconsin on a hike or bike ride is one of the best ways to experience the region’s natural beauty fully. Here are the top trails for hiking or cycling enthusiasts:

  1. Wiouwash State Trail - This 22-mile trail starts in Oshkosh and leads to the nearby towns of Hortonville and Scandinavia.
  2. Fox River State Trail - This 25-mile trail connects Green Bay and Hilbert, and it’s ideal for biking, hiking, and running.
  3. Newberry Trail - This trail is located in Appleton and is a perfect route for hiking with your dog.

Best Things to Do in Northeast Wisconsin: Activities and Tours

  1. Bay Beach Amusement Park - This amusement park is located in Green Bay and features more than 30 exciting rides and attractions.
  2. Lambeau Field Stadium Tour - Take a guided tour of the legendary football stadium of the Green Bay Packers.
  3. Fox River Kayaking Company - Take a relaxing kayaking tour around the beautiful Fox River in the company of expert guides.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northeast Wisconsin

Day 1: Explore the National Railroad Museum in Green Bay. Day 2: Hike at High Cliff State Park in Sherwood. Day 3: Visit The History Museum at the Castle in Appleton, followed by shopping at the Fox River Mall. Day 4: Take a tour of the Lambeau Field Stadium in Green Bay. Later, go on a wine-tasting tour at the von Stiehl Winery in Algoma. Day 5: Rent a bike and go on a cycling tour at the 22-mile Wiouwash State Trail. Day 6: Visit Bay Beach Amusement Park in Green Bay. Day 7: Take a relaxing kayaking tour with the Fox River Kayaking Company in Appleton.

Food and Drink Scene of Northeast Wisconsin

The food and drink scene of Northeast Wisconsin are full of surprises. Here are the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Cheese curds - You can find this Wisconsin favorite in nearly every restaurant in Northeast Wisconsin.
  2. Friday night fish fry - This tradition of serving fish on Friday nights has been followed for decades in the region.
  3. Bratwurst - This pork sausage is a Wisconsin staple, and it’s often served grilled with sauerkraut.

Local Beverages

  1. Spotted Cow - This beer is one of the most famous Wisconsin beers and is brewed by New Glarus Brewing Company.
  2. Door County wine - Door County is home to several wineries that offer tours and wine tastings.
  3. Kringle - This flaky pastry is loaded with fruits, nuts, and cinnamon. It’s often eaten with coffee or tea.

Where to Stay in Northeast Wisconsin: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Northeast Wisconsin offers a wide array of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.

  1. Hyatt Regency Green Bay - This hotel is located in downtown Green Bay and offers an indoor pool, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
  2. Franklin Street Inn Bed & Breakfast - This restored Victorian home in Appleton offers charming rooms and a homemade breakfast.
  3. Massbach Ridge Bed and Breakfast - A historic farmhouse in Algoma that features antique furnishings and serves a farm-fresh breakfast.

What to Buy in Northeast Wisconsin: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Natural Food Co-op - This grocery store in Green Bay specializes in organic and natural foods and also offers souvenirs and clothing.
  2. Door County Candle Company - This company in Sturgeon Bay offers handmade candles and pottery.
  3. Simon’s Specialty Cheese - This cheese shop in Little Chute offers a variety of Wisconsin cheeses to bring home with you.

Local Culture and Customs of Northeast Wisconsin

Northeast Wisconsin’s culture is heavily influenced by German and Polish immigrants, and it reflects in the region’s food, festivals, and traditions. The locals here are friendly and welcoming, and tourists are often treated with great hospitality.

Best Time to Visit Northeast Wisconsin

The best time to visit Northeast Wisconsin is during the summer (June - August) as the region’s outdoor activities are in full swing. However, the fall season (September - November) offers scenic fall foliage views.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northeast Wisconsin

Do:

  1. Try a Friday night fish fry
  2. Visit a winery in Door County
  3. Explore the region’s state parks

Don’t:

  1. Make fun of cheese curds
  2. Underestimate the cold winters
  3. Ignore the locals’ hospitality

Safety and Health

Safety in Northeast Wisconsin

Northeast Wisconsin is a safe destination to travel to. However, it’s always wise to be cautious and observant of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like Green Bay’s Lambeau Field Stadium.

Health in Northeast Wisconsin

Northeast Wisconsin has several hospitals and clinics that cater to the medical needs of locals and tourists.

Getting to Northeast Wisconsin: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Northeast Wisconsin

  1. Appleton International Airport (ATW)
  2. Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB)
  3. Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA)

Bus Stations Near Northeast Wisconsin

  1. Greyhound Bus Lines - Green Bay
  2. Lamers Bus Lines, Inc.- Appleton

Other Options

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation offers several state highways and scenic routes that connect the region to the rest of Wisconsin and the U.S.

How to Get Around in Northeast Wisconsin

The best way to explore Northeast Wisconsin is to rent a car. However, you can also get around the region using the local bus services, bike rentals, and taxi services.

Where to Go Next from Northeast Wisconsin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Door County - Known for its small towns, scenic views, beaches, and wineries.
  2. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore - A group of 22 islands that offer outdoor recreation and stunning views.
  3. Wisconsin Dells - A popular destination for family vacations, featuring water parks, amusement rides, and attractions.

Conclusion

Northeast Wisconsin offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and delicious food. Plan your next trip to this captivating destination and experience the region’s beauty and hospitality.

Sturgeon Bay lighthouse, one of many scenic lighthouses along the Door Peninsula in Door County (Wisconsin) Sturgeon Bay lighthouse, one of many scenic lighthouses along the Door Peninsula in Door County (Wisconsin)


    Appleton
    Denmark
    Door County
    Freedom
    Green Bay
    Ledgeview
    Manitowoc
    Oshkosh
    Waupaca