Interesting places to visit near Green Bay, United States

Location: Chain O'Lakes State Park is located near Waupaca in central Wisconsin, USA, offering a tranquil escape into nature.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, Wildlife Enthusiasts, History Buffs, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: This park is a hidden gem featuring over 20 interconnected lakes, abundant wildlife, and scenic trails that provide a peaceful retreat from urban life. It’s perfect for families seeking outdoor adventure, nature lovers eager to spot diverse bird species and native animals, and travelers who appreciate a mix of history and natural beauty.

Key activities: Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking on well-maintained trails, fishing and kayaking on the pristine lakes, wildlife watching including birding and deer spotting, picnicking in designated areas, and exploring historical landmarks within the park. Seasonal events often include guided nature walks and local food festivals celebrating Wisconsin’s culinary heritage.

Kid-friendly focus: The park offers gentle trails suitable for young children, educational nature programs, and safe swimming areas, making it an excellent destination for family outings.

Dog-friendly notes: Chain O'Lakes welcomes dogs on leash, with ample trails and open spaces for pets to explore alongside their owners, ensuring a fun experience for the whole family.

Location: Nestled in southeastern Wisconsin, USA, Kettle Moraine State Forest spans multiple counties and offers a unique glimpse into glacial landscapes shaped by the last Ice Age.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Why it's a great detour: Kettle Moraine State Forest is a captivating detour for travelers seeking breathtaking natural beauty combined with diverse hiking opportunities. Its distinctive glacial landforms, including kettles, moraines, and eskers, provide a fascinating backdrop for outdoor adventures and a chance to connect with Wisconsin's geological history.

Key activities: Visitors can enjoy over 100 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy family-friendly paths to challenging routes for avid hikers. The forest also offers biking, horseback riding, bird watching, and picnicking. History buffs can explore interpretive centers and preserved sites that reveal the region's Native American and pioneer heritage.

Kid-friendly focus: Many trails are suitable for young children, with gentle terrain and educational signage that makes nature exploration fun and informative. Seasonal programs and ranger-led activities add to the family-friendly appeal.

Dog-friendly notes: Dogs are welcome on most trails as long as they are kept on a leash, making it an excellent destination for travelers with pets who enjoy outdoor excursions.

Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA

Best For: Families with children, Nature Lovers, Dog-Friendly (limited areas), History Enthusiasts, Foodies

Nestled in Milwaukee, the Milwaukee County Zoo offers an enchanting detour perfect for travelers seeking immersive wildlife encounters combined with family-friendly fun. This expansive zoo features over 2,000 animals across 300 species, providing a captivating experience that appeals to nature lovers and history buffs alike, with its rich legacy dating back to 1892.

Visitors can explore interactive exhibits such as the Tropical Rainforest, the African Savanna, and the Great Escape, where kids can enjoy hands-on learning and animal feedings. The zoo also offers seasonal events, educational programs, and diverse dining options highlighting local flavors, making it a treat for foodies. While dogs are welcome in designated outdoor areas, pets are not allowed inside animal exhibits.

Designed with families in mind, the zoo provides stroller rentals, playgrounds, and shaded picnic spots, ensuring a comfortable visit for young children. History enthusiasts will appreciate the zoo's evolution and conservation efforts showcased throughout the park. Whether you're strolling scenic trails, attending keeper talks, or savoring a meal at the on-site café, the Milwaukee County Zoo promises a memorable and enriching detour for all ages.

Location: Devil's Lake State Park is located near Baraboo in south-central Wisconsin, USA, nestled within the scenic Driftless Area.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Why it's a great detour: This park is a natural gem offering breathtaking sandstone bluffs, crystal-clear lake waters, and a network of scenic hiking trails that cater to all skill levels. Its unique geological formations and rich Native American history make it a captivating stop for history buffs and outdoor adventurers alike. The park's rustic charm and well-maintained facilities provide a perfect escape from urban life.

Key activities: Visitors can enjoy hiking on over 29 miles of trails with stunning vistas, rock climbing on the famous quartzite bluffs, swimming and kayaking in Devil's Lake, picnicking in designated areas, and exploring the park's visitor center to learn about its natural and cultural history.

Kid-friendly focus: The park offers several easy and moderate trails suitable for families with young children, along with safe swimming beaches and educational programs that engage kids with nature.

Dog-friendly notes: Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails, making it an excellent destination for travelers with pets who want to enjoy the outdoors together.

Location: Eagle, Wisconsin, USA

Best For: Nature Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Why it's a great detour: Nestled in the scenic countryside of southeastern Wisconsin, the Old World Wisconsin Open-Air Museum offers a unique blend of historic charm and lakeside tranquility. This living history museum brings 19th-century rural life to life through authentic buildings and engaging demonstrations, making it an enriching stop for travelers seeking cultural depth and natural beauty.

Key activities: Visitors can explore over 60 historic structures, including farmhouses, schools, and shops, participate in hands-on workshops, and enjoy peaceful walks along lakeside trails. Seasonal events and traditional craft demonstrations provide immersive experiences that appeal to all ages.

Kid-friendly focus: The museum is highly suitable for families with young children, featuring interactive exhibits and open spaces where kids can learn about pioneer life in an engaging way.

Dog-friendly notes: Leashed dogs are welcome on outdoor trails and grounds, making it a great spot for travelers with pets to enjoy nature and history together.

Location: Madison, Wisconsin, USA

Best For: Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, History Enthusiasts, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: Nestled in the heart of Madison, Olbrich Botanical Gardens offers a vibrant escape into nature with its beautifully curated gardens and unique Thai Pavilion. This destination is perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful yet engaging experience, combining horticultural beauty with family-friendly activities and cultural intrigue.

Key activities: Visitors can explore diverse themed gardens including rose, rock, and tropical conservatories, enjoy interactive family programs, stroll along scenic walking paths, and savor local food at the garden café. The Thai Pavilion offers a cultural highlight with its authentic architecture and history.

Kid-friendly focus: The gardens provide ample space for children to explore safely, with educational exhibits and seasonal family events that engage young minds in nature and conservation.

Dog-friendly notes: While dogs are not allowed inside the main garden areas, nearby walking trails and park spaces welcome leashed pets, making it a convenient stop for travelers with dogs to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

Location: Middleton, Wisconsin, USA

Best For: Foodies, History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Nestled in the charming town of Middleton, the National Mustard Museum offers a uniquely flavorful detour that delights visitors with its quirky charm and extensive mustard collection. This one-of-a-kind museum celebrates the history and cultural significance of mustard, making it a fascinating stop for food lovers and curious travelers alike.

Visitors can explore hundreds of mustard varieties from around the world, sample different flavors, and learn about the condiment’s rich history through engaging exhibits. The museum’s playful atmosphere and interactive tastings make it especially enjoyable for families, while history buffs will appreciate the detailed displays and vintage memorabilia.

Kids will find the tasting experience fun and educational, though younger children may prefer to observe rather than sample the spicier varieties. The museum welcomes well-behaved dogs in the gift shop area, making it a convenient stop for travelers with pets.

Whether you're a foodie eager to discover new tastes, a history enthusiast intrigued by culinary traditions, or a family looking for a lighthearted and educational outing, the National Mustard Museum provides a memorable and delicious experience that adds a flavorful twist to your road trip.

Location: Upper Peninsula, Michigan, USA

Best For: Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, Hiking, Wildlife Enthusiasts, History Buffs, Foodies

Nestled in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Hiawatha National Forest offers a peaceful wilderness escape perfect for families and nature lovers alike. This detour invites travelers to explore pristine trails, encounter diverse wildlife in their natural habitat, and enjoy the quiet beauty of expansive forests and sparkling lakes. Its accessibility and variety of activities make it an ideal stop for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Visitors can hike scenic trails suitable for all ages, engage in bird watching, and participate in guided wildlife programs that educate about local flora and fauna. History enthusiasts will appreciate nearby cultural sites reflecting the heritage of the region, while foodies can savor local delicacies at nearby eateries featuring fresh, regional ingredients.

The forest is especially welcoming to families with young children, offering safe, manageable hikes and interactive nature centers that foster curiosity and learning. Dog owners will find many dog-friendly trails and open spaces where pets can roam and explore alongside their owners, making it a perfect spot for a family outing with furry friends.

Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, an educational experience, or an active day outdoors, Hiawatha National Forest's serene wilderness provides a rich and rewarding detour for travelers of all interests and ages.

Location: Lake Geneva, Walworth County, Wisconsin, USA

Best For: Nature Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Foodies, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Nestled on the shores of a pristine glacial lake, Lake Geneva offers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern culinary delights, making it an ideal detour for travelers seeking a peaceful yet engaging experience. The town's beautifully preserved Victorian architecture and scenic lakefront provide a picturesque backdrop for leisurely exploration, while its vibrant food scene showcases local flavors that delight food lovers.

Visitors can enjoy lakeside strolls along the Geneva Lake Shore Path, explore historic landmarks such as the Black Point Estate, and indulge in farm-to-table dining at cozy bistros and lively markets. Families will appreciate the kid-friendly attractions including boat tours, parks, and interactive museums, while dog owners will find numerous pet-friendly trails and outdoor dining options.

This destination caters to a wide range of interests—from history buffs eager to uncover the town's past, to nature enthusiasts drawn by the lake and surrounding woodlands, and foodies looking to savor regional specialties. Its welcoming atmosphere and diverse activities make Lake Geneva a memorable stop for all ages and travel styles.