Top things to do in De Pere (Wisconsin)

Discover De Pere, Wisconsin: A Guide to its Top Tourist Attractions

De Pere, a city of around 25,000 inhabitants, is located in Brown County, Wisconsin, just a few miles south of Green Bay. It is a charming city with plenty to see and do, with highlights ranging from parks and museums to riverside walks and historical sites. Here's a selection of the top tourist attractions to explore in De Pere.

Explore the Great Outdoors

Whether you're a nature lover or simply enjoy an outdoor activity with family and friends, De Pere offers some fantastic options to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors.

  • Voyageur Park: Located at 100 William St, Voyageur Park is a riverside park that offers visitors the chance to follow trails, spot wildlife and soak up the scenic surroundings. It also features a playground, boat docks, and plenty of space to relax and enjoy a picnic. URL
  • Sand Acres Park: A great spot for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers, Sand Acres Park (3687 Misty Meadow Ln) features a mix of forest, meadow, and wetland habitats that attract a wide variety of birds and wildlife. Visitors can follow trails, enjoy a picnic or simply take in the tranquil surroundings. URL
  • Ledgeview Park: If you're looking for a place to hike, bike or run, then head to Ledgeview Park (2064 Dickinson Rd). With its well-maintained trails that wind through woods up and down hills, it's the perfect place to get some outdoor exercise while taking in the natural beauty of the area. URL
  • Green Isle Park: For a family-friendly park experience, Green Isle Park (900 Greene Ave) offers something for everyone, with basketball and soccer courts, baseball fields, play equipment, picnic areas, and even river fishing. URL
  • Ashwaubomay Lake: If swimming and sunbathing are more your style, then head to Ashwaubomay Lake (2881 S Broadway). The seasonal swimming spot features a sandy beach, play equipment, volleyball court, and other amenities. URL
  • Brown County WI Fonferek's Glen: This 74-acre nature park features a waterfall, dolomite cliffs, a creek, and native trees, offering visitors the chance to connect with nature and admire the region's natural beauty. URL

Learn about De Pere's Rich History

If you're interested in learning about the city's fascinating history, there are plenty of sites and museums to visit in De Pere.

  • De Pere Historical Society: Housed in an 1836 building, the De Pere Historical Society (403 N Broadway) features exhibits and other materials on De Pere's unique history, including local artifacts, photographs, and documents. URL
  • Wisconsin State Historical Marker 262: White Pillars: Located on Cass St, this historical marker commemorates the former site of the White Pillars, a 19th-century hotel where famous people like President Rutherford B. Hayes and General George Custer once stayed. URL
  • Heritage Hill State Historical Park: This 48-acre outdoor living history museum on the Fox River is dedicated to showcasing Wisconsin's past. Visitors can explore more than 30 historic buildings, including homes, schools, and shops, and learn about the state's rich cultural heritage. URL
  • Oneida Nation Museum: Located on W892 County Rd Ee, the Oneida Nation Museum features exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that tell the story of the Oneida people. Visitors can learn about the tribe's history, traditions, and contemporary issues related to Native American communities. URL

Enjoy Art, Sports, and More

For those looking for a mix of activities, De Pere also has plenty to offer, from colorful murals and art installations to live sports events and other cultural experiences.

  • Sister City Mural: Located at 115 N Wisconsin St, this colorful mural celebrates De Pere's sister city relationship with Qufu, China, and features depictions of traditional Chinese architecture and cultural icons. URL
  • Nicolet Art Alley: Located at 331 Main Ave, the Nicolet Art Alley is a vibrant outdoor art installation that features murals, sculptures, and other art pieces created by local artists. URL
  • VFW Park: For sports enthusiasts, VFW Park (730 Grant St) is the perfect place to catch a game or join in a pick-up match. The park features baseball fields, soccer fields, and other sports facilities, as well as picnic areas and play equipment. URL
  • De Pere Riverwalk and Wildlife Viewing Pier: Located at Park 100 William St, the De Pere Riverwalk is a scenic trail that runs along the Fox River and offers visitors the chance to spot wildlife and enjoy views of the surrounding landscape. The wildlife viewing pier is an especially great spot for birdwatchers. URL
  • Oneida Nation Walk of Legends: If you're a football fan, then the Oneida Nation Walk of Legends is a must-visit. Located at Lombardi Ave and S Oneida St, the one-mile walking trail features 24 statues honoring the legends and history of the Green Bay Packers. URL
  • Jim Martin Park: Another great spot for outdoor recreation, Jim Martin Park (255 Libal St) features a playground, basketball courts, and open fields where visitors can play a game of frisbee, toss a football, or enjoy a picnic. URL
  • Green Bay Model Railroad Club: Finally, for those who love model trains, the Green Bay Model Railroad Club (333 N Broadway) is a great place to visit. The club features a large model train layout that is open for public viewing on select days throughout the year.

With its mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities, De Pere offers something for everyone. Whether you're visiting for a day, a weekend, or longer, be sure to explore the city's top tourist attractions and discover all that this charming Wisconsin city has to offer.