Things To Do
in De Pere

De Pere, located in Brown County, Wisconsin, is a charming city that beautifully merges rich history with vibrant community life. Nestled along the Fox River, it boasts picturesque views and numerous parks, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is known for its friendly atmosphere and a strong sense of local pride, often reflected in its events and festivals.

With a variety of dining options and recreational activities, De Pere offers a delightful experience for both residents and visitors alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown and the Riverfront
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at the Village Grille, known for its hearty American breakfast options. After breakfast, take a stroll along the Fox River Trail, enjoying the serene views.

afternoon
:

Visit the De Pere Historical Society to learn about the city's history, followed by lunch at The Green Bay Distillery for some local flavors. Spend your afternoon exploring the shops downtown.

evening
:

End your day with dinner at The Abbey, where you can enjoy beautiful riverside dining. After dinner, relax at the local coffee shop, Roots Coffee, for some live music.

day 2
Day 2: Parks and Local Culture
morning
:

Begin with a morning walk at Voyageur Park, where you can enjoy nature and take photographs of the river. Grab a coffee and pastry from a local bakery to fuel your day.

afternoon
:

Head to St. Norbert College for a campus tour and check out any events happening there. For lunch, try the popular La Java for a casual dining experience.

evening
:

Explore the local nightlife by heading to The Ashwaubenon Bowling Alley for fun and games. Conclude your trip with dessert at The Cupcake Shoppe, famous for its unique flavors.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15-25
Coffee$3-5
🚍Public Transport Fare$2
🏨Hotel Night$100-150
🛒Grocery Bill$50-80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming small-town atmosphere with friendly locals.
  • Beautiful outdoor spaces and parks for recreation.
  • Rich history and cultural events throughout the year.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Harsh winters can deter outdoor activities.
  • Some restaurants may have limited hours during off-peak seasons.

Places to Visit in De Pere

Visit one of these nice places.

Fox River Trail

A scenic pathway perfect for capturing the natural beauty of the river and the lush surroundings.

St. Norbert College

Featuring beautiful architecture and serene campus landscapes, it's a great spot for architectural photography.

Voyageur Park

Offers picturesque views of the river and is especially beautiful during sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in De Pere

De Pere offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases local flavors and diverse dining options, perfect for any food lover.

De Pere Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cheese Curds

A Wisconsin staple, these deep-fried cheese curds are a must-try snack, often served with ranch dressing.

Must-Try!

Bratwurst

Enjoy this local favorite, which is often grilled and served with sauerkraut on a bun.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

De Pere Farmers Market

Held on Thursdays during summer, this market features local produce, handmade goods, and delicious street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

De Pere experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often below freezing. Summers are warm to hot, with average highs in the 80s °F (27-32 °C). Spring and autumn feature mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Midwestern hospitality is prominent; greetings, smiles, and politeness are appreciated.

Punctuality

Being on time for scheduled events or appointments is considered respectful.

Respect for Nature

As many locals enjoy outdoor activities, respecting nature and local wildlife is important.

Safety Guide

Safety

De Pere is generally a safe city, but standard precautions should be observed. Keep personal belongings secure while out, and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Local emergency services are available, and it is advisable to have emergency contact numbers readily accessible.

Tipping in De Pere

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip service staff around 15-20% in restaurants, and rounding up is common for bartenders.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept major credit and debit cards, and cash is still widely used in local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and numerous outdoor festivals celebrating the season.

Summer

Warm weather makes it perfect for outdoor activities, with vibrant farmers markets and community events.

Autumn

Enjoy the stunning fall foliage and a variety of harvest festivals, making it a picturesque time to visit.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snowfall create a winter wonderland, perfect for seasonal activities like ice skating.

Nightlife Guide

De Pere at Night

De Pere's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with a mix of bars, bowling alleys, and occasional live music events. Popular spots include The Abbey, which offers a cozy atmosphere with craft beers, and The Ashwaubenon Bowling Alley, where visitors can enjoy bowling and arcade games. Seasonal events, especially during summer, often feature outdoor concerts and community gatherings, creating a lively atmosphere.

Hiking in De Pere

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Baird Creek Trail

This trail features a mix of wooded areas and open spaces, perfect for hiking and observing local wildlife.

Ledgeview Nature Reserve

Offers well-marked trails with varying difficulty levels, making it suitable for both casual hikers and experienced adventurers.

Airports

How to reach De Pere by plane.

Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB)

Located about 15 miles from De Pere, it serves as the main airport for the region, offering domestic flights and connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

De Pere is quite walkable, especially in the downtown area where shops, restaurants, and parks are closely located. Sidewalks are well-maintained, making it easy to explore on foot. The Fox River Trail also offers a scenic route for walking and biking, encouraging locals and visitors to enjoy the outdoors.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

De Pere has a strong family-oriented community, with many parks and activities tailored for children.

Students

With St. Norbert College nearby, there is a vibrant student population contributing to the local culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

High school and college football are popular, with local teams drawing significant community support.

Hockey

Ice hockey is a favorite sport, with local teams and youth leagues fostering a strong hockey culture.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in De Pere is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car. Public transportation options include the Green Bay Metro system, which provides bus services connecting De Pere to surrounding areas. Biking and walking are also popular, especially along the Fox River Trail.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting De Pere.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian menus, and vegan options are increasingly available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

De Pere has access to healthcare facilities, including hospitals and urgent care centers. The nearest major hospital is Aurora BayCare Medical Center, providing comprehensive services. Local clinics also offer family care and specialty services, ensuring residents and visitors have access to necessary medical attention.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide