Green Bay, WI Summary

Located in northeastern Wisconsin along the body of water from which it takes its name, Green Bay (population 102,313) is the seat of Brown County. Originally discovered by the French explorer Jean Nicolet in 1634, it was Wisconsin’s earliest settlement.

It was named for the greenish color of the water at certain times of the year.

A fur-trading post in its early history, today Green Bay is a major manufacturer of paper products. Its location makes it a leading port, with millions of tons of cargo passing through each year.

Above all, this town is best known for its football team, the beloved Green Bay Packers. This is the only team in football owned by its local community, and as a result its fans’ allegiance is unrivaled. In season, from August to December, this town knows only football. Offseason, football devotees can tour Lambeau Field, the team’s home stadium. The Packer Hall of Fame is open year-round.

Other attractions include the National Railroad Museum, which features dozens of locomotives and diesels. Also of interest is the Oneida National Museum. This building tells the story of the Native American tribe that purchased land in Wisconsin in the mid-nineteenth century. Today, the Oneida tribe also operates one of the state’s most popular casinos. As well as gambling, many big-name musical acts are major attractions here.

Green Bay’s airport, Austin Straubel Field, is served by several major airlines. I-43, US-41, and Hwy 29 are the major access roads.