Five Free, Fun Things to Do in Green Bay
10/16/2019Green Bay, WI may be known as the home of the Packers — but there’s a lot more that this diverse, historical city has up its sleeve. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or have never set foot on a field, Green Bay has got something for you.
Green Bay’s prime location around the west shore of Lake Michigan makes for a scenic weekend getaway for any outdoor enthusiast, and a plethora of zoos, parks and museums will keep kids entertained from dawn till dusk. The best part? Many of these cultural gems are totally free to explore! Here are just five of many cost-friendly recommendations to get you started exploring Green Bay.
1. Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary
Nature-lovers will go wild for this local highlight! Covering 600 acres, the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary cares for sick and injured animals and offers educational exhibits perfect for kids and adults alike. Explore one of several rustic hiking trails and see what wildlife you can find yourselves. The sanctuary is completely free and open to the public year-round.
2. Farmer’s Market on Broadway
If you find yourself in Green Bay on a summer Wednesday, the Farmer’s Market is a must-see afternoon stop. The Historic Broadway District locale gives a cultural backdrop to streets lined with everything from fresh produce to handcrafted arts and goods, often accompanied by live music and stands selling hot food and drinks.
3. Bay Beach Amusement Park
While not technically free, at 20 cents per ride the Bay Beach Amusement Park is affordable as it gets! With its beautiful location right on the mouth of the Fox River, the park’s retro atmosphere is part of its charm. Explore the area’s concession stands, rides and roller coasters or check out the pavilion, which often hosts dances and movies.
4. Walk of Legends
Stroll down the mile-long public art walkway for an up-close glimpse of its 24 statues, each telling the historical tale of the Green Bay football legends. Take notice of the street names the Walk spans — Lombardi Avenue and Brett Favre Pass are just a few, reflecting how deeply football history is woven into this city. If you’re looking for free things to do in Green Bay that will help you understand the heart of the city, look no further.
5. Waterboard Warriors Ski Show
Bringing the kids and looking for family activities? If you’re visiting during the summer months, check out the Waterboard Warriors Ski Show for a free show on the water! Shows include high-speed barefooting, water skiing, jumping and pyramids — high-energy viewing fun for the whole family. Shows take place on the Fox River twice a week through the summer months.
Visit Poke the Bear in Downtown Green Bay
As you can see, there’s no shortage of fun to be had in Green Bay! If you plan to check even a few of these activities off your list, it’s safe to say you’ll build up quite the appetite. End the day with a visit to Poke the Bear, a downtown restaurant that celebrates the city’s rich sports heritage with a warm atmosphere and locally-sourced food. From handcrafted cocktails to build-your-own burgers, Poke the Bear has a unique flavor for everyone. Check out the Poke the Bear menu to learn more!
