Green Bay Museums 101: A Comprehensive list & Guide

Are you looking for a list and guide to Green Bay Museums? You’re in the right place!

Visiting museums are a popular thing to do when you’re traveling, looking for something to do, or just needing to satisfy your curiosity of the world. It’s also a popular hobby among history buffs.

Green Bay Wisconsin is home to an impressive collection of museums that offer visitors a chance to learn about the city’s history, culture, and people.

Being the oldest settlement and city in the beautiful state of Wisconsin, there is no shortage of history on which it’s museums and landmarks are made of.

The Green Bay Park system is extensive as well!

From science centers, a national train museum, and historical sites, there is something for everyone in Green Bay’s Museum scene.

This comprehensive guide provides a brief overview of the best museums in Green Bay, their exhibits, activities, and reasons why visitors should consider adding them to their itinerary.

1. Neville Public Museum

The Neville Public Museum, located in the heart of downtown Green Bay, is a popular destination for visitors interested in learning about the area’s rich history and culture.

This Green Bay Museum offers a wide variety of exhibits, including Native American artifacts, local history exhibits, and natural science displays.

Exhibits and areas of interest:

• “On the Edge of the Inland Sea” exhibit: A permanent exhibit that explores the geological and cultural history of northeastern Wisconsin.
• “People of the Woodlands” exhibit: A permanent exhibit that showcases the culture and history of the region’s Native American communities.
• “The Paper Trail” exhibit: A temporary exhibit that tells the story of the paper industry in northeastern Wisconsin.

Activities available:

• Guided tours
• Educational programs for all ages
• Hands-on workshops and events

Reasons to visit this Green Bay Museum:

• Learn about the history and culture of northeastern Wisconsin
• See a diverse range of exhibits and artifacts
• Participate in educational programs and workshops

Website: Neville Public Museum

2. National Railroad Museum

The National Railroad Museum is a must-see destination for train enthusiasts and history buffs. This Green Bay Museum has an extensive collection of historic locomotives, rolling stock, and railroad artifacts is sure to impress visitors of all ages.

The National Railroad Museum is one of the largest railroad museums in the United States, with over 70 locomotives and train cars on display.

Visitors can see a wide variety of steam, diesel, and electric locomotives, as well as passenger and freight cars from different eras of railroading history.

Exhibits and areas of interest:

• “Transcontinental Railroad” exhibit: A permanent exhibit that tells the story of the building of the transcontinental railroad.
• “Union Pacific Big Boy” exhibit: A permanent exhibit that features one of the world’s largest steam locomotives.
• “Pullman Porter” exhibit: A temporary exhibit that explores the role of Pullman porters in American history.

Activities available:

• Train rides (available May-October)
• Guided tours
• Audio tours
• Model train displays
• Educational programs

Reasons to visit this Green Bay Museum:

• One of the largest railroad museums in the United States
• Fascinating collection of locomotives and train cars from different eras of railroading history
• Fun and educational activities for visitors of all ages

Website: National Railroad Museum

3. Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame

The Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame is a museum dedicated to the history of the Green Bay Packers football team.

This extensive Green Bay Museum features exhibits on the team’s history, including displays of game-worn uniforms, championship trophies, and other memorabilia.

Exhibits and areas of interest:

• “The Lombardi Legacy” exhibit: A permanent exhibit that tells the story of Vince Lombardi and his impact on the Green Bay Packers.
• “Super Bowl Experience” exhibit: A permanent exhibit that showcases the team’s Super Bowl victories.
• “Packer Hall of Famers” exhibit: A permanent exhibit that honors the team’s greatest players and coaches.

Activities available:

• Guided tours
• Interactive exhibits
• Photo opportunities with the team’s Super Bowl trophies

Reasons to visit this Green Bay Museum:

• Learn about the history of the Green Bay Packers
• See the team’s Super Bowl trophies up close
• Participate in interactive exhibits and activities

Website: Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame & Stadium Tours

4. Children’s Museum of Green Bay

The Children’s Museum of Green Bay is a fun and educational destination for families with young children. The museum’s exhibits and activities are designed to engage and inspire young learners.

Exhibits and areas of interest:

• “Buddy’s Garage” exhibit: A permanent exhibit that lets children explore a pretend garage and learn about basic mechanics.
• “Innovation Lab” exhibit: A temporary exhibit that encourages children to experiment with science and technology.
• “Toddler Town” exhibit: A designated area for children ages three and under to play and explore. “Pet Vet” exhibit: A pretend veterinary clinic where children can learn about taking care of animals. “Water Works” exhibit: An interactive exhibit that teaches children about the properties of water and how it shapes our world. “Garden to Kitchen” exhibit: A hands-on exhibit that teaches children about the process of growing food and cooking healthy meals.

Activities available:

The Children’s Museum of Green Bay offers a variety of activities for children and families.

These include…

• story times
• music and movement classes
• art workshops
• special events such as the annual “Big Truck Day” and “Touch-a-Truck” events.

Reasons to visit this Green Bay Museum:

The Children’s Museum of Green Bay is a must-visit destination for families with young children.

The museum offers a safe and interactive environment where children can learn and play.

The exhibits and activities are designed to engage and inspire young learners, and there is always something new to discover.

The museum also offers a variety of special events throughout the year, making it a fun and educational destination year-round.

Website: Children’s Museum of Green Bay

5. Heritage Hill State Historical Park

Heritage Hill State Historical Park is a living history museum that features over 25 historic buildings from different eras of Wisconsin’s history. Visitors can explore the buildings and learn about life in Wisconsin during different time periods.

This Green Bay Museum is a unique experience that you are sure not to forget!

Exhibits:

• Fort Howard
• Belgian Farm
• Civil War Camp Randall
• Fur Trade Post

Activities available at the park:

• Guided tours
• Special events and programs
• Educational programs

Reasons to visit this Green Bay Museum:

• Fascinating glimpse into Wisconsin’s history
• Beautiful setting
• Educational and fun for visitors of all ages

Website: Heritage Hill State Park

6. The Automobile Gallery

The Automobile Gallery is a museum dedicated to the history of the automobile. The museum features a collection of over 100 vehicles, ranging from antique cars to modern sports cars.

Exhibits:

• Classic cars from the 1920s-1950s
• Muscle cars from the 1960s-1970s
• Modern sports cars

Activities available at the museum:

• Special events and programs
• Private tours
• Rental space for events

Reasons to visit this Green Bay Museum:

• Fascinating collection of cars from different eras
• Beautifully designed museum space
• Special events and programs offer something for visitors of all ages

Website: The Automobile Gallery

7. The Oneida Nation Museum

The Oneida Nation Museum is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Oneida Nation.

This Green Bay Museum features exhibits on the Oneida people, including their history, culture, and contemporary life.

Exhibits:

• “Our People, Our Land, Our Images”: This exhibit features contemporary art and photography by Indigenous artists from across North America.
• “The Good Mind”: This exhibit explores the Oneida Nation’s traditional values, including the concept of the “Good Mind” and its importance in Oneida culture.
• “The Treaty of Canandaigua”: This exhibit tells the story of the Oneida Nation’s relationship with the United States government and the signing of the Treaty of Canandaigua in 1794.
• “The Oneida Nation Veterans Memorial”: This exhibit honors Oneida Nation veterans and features a mural depicting Oneida soldiers in various conflicts throughout history.

Activities:

• Guided tours of the museum are available for individuals and groups.
• The museum hosts various events throughout the year, including cultural festivals, workshops, and lectures.

Reasons to visit this Green Bay Museum:

• The Oneida Nation Museum provides a unique and important perspective on the history and culture of the Oneida people.
• Visitors can learn about the Oneida Nation’s relationship with the United States government and the impact of colonialism on Indigenous communities.
• The museum’s exhibits showcase contemporary Indigenous art and photography, providing a platform for Indigenous voices and perspectives.
• The museum’s events and programs offer opportunities for visitors to engage with Oneida culture and learn from members of the Oneida community.

Website: Oneida Nation Museum

8. The Hazelwood Historic House Museum:

The Hazelwood Historic House Museum is a restored Victorian-era mansion that offers a glimpse into the lives of Green Bay’s wealthy elite during the late 1800s and early 1900s.

This Green Bay Museum features period furnishings, decor, and artifacts, as well as exhibits on the history of the Hazelwood family.

Exhibits:

• The Hazelwood Family: This exhibit tells the story of the family who built and lived in the mansion, including their contributions to the community and their social status in Green Bay society.
• Victorian-era Decor and Furnishings: The museum’s interior is filled with period furnishings and decor, including ornate woodwork, stained glass windows, and antique furnishings.
• Historic Artifacts: The museum’s collection includes a variety of historic artifacts, including clothing, books, photographs, and household items.

Activities:

• Guided tours of the museum are available for individuals and groups.
• The museum hosts various events throughout the year, including historical lectures, music performances, and holiday-themed events.

Reasons to visit this Green Bay Museum:

• The Hazelwood Historic House Museum offers a unique glimpse into the lives of Green Bay’s wealthy elite during the Victorian era.
• Visitors can experience the mansion’s beautifully restored interior and furnishings, as well as learn about the history of the Hazelwood family and their contributions to the community.
• The museum’s collection of historic artifacts provides insights into the everyday lives of people during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
• The museum’s events and programs offer opportunities for visitors to engage with local history and culture.

Website: Historic Hazelwood

Conclusion

Green Bay, Wisconsin is home to a variety of museums and cultural attractions that offer something for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re interested in history, art, sports, or science – there is no shortage of Museums in Green Bay for you to explore.

From the Neville Public Museum’s extensive collection of art and artifacts to the National Railroad Museum’s impressive collection of locomotives, Green Bay’s museums offer unique and engaging experiences for visitors.

And with the Children’s Museum of Green Bay, Heritage Hill State Historical Park, and other family-friendly attractions, there’s plenty to see and do for visitors of all ages.

So whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun and educational day out, be sure to add Green Bay’s museums to your itinerary.