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De Pere

De Pere, Wisconsin, United States

De Pere, located in Wisconsin, United States, is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities for visitors to enjoy. Known for its rich heritage and picturesque landscapes,…

#Midwest#Small town#Fox River#Historic#St. Norbert College

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into De Pere.

Top Hotels in De Pere

Top Flights to De Pere

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in De Pere.

Tours

De Pere Riverwalk and Wildlife Viewing Area

Stroll along the Fox River and enjoy scenic views along with various wildlife sightings.

Shopping

Seroogy's Chocolates

A beloved chocolate shop featuring homemade candies, chocolates, and coffee.

Broadway District Shopping

Explore a variety of boutique shops and restaurants in De Pere's charming Broadway District.

Outdoor

Fox River Trail

A popular recreational trail along the Fox River used for walking, biking, and jogging.

Voyageur Park

A beautiful park in De Pere ideal for picnics, playing sports, or simply relaxing.

Green Isle Park

A large park featuring trails, fishing spots, and sports fields.

Mystique Ice Center

An ice skating rink offering recreational skating sessions and ice hockey leagues.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in De Pere.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of De Pere, Wisconsin, United States, is 26,000.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

De Pere

Jan

-4°-13°

Feb

-2°-11°

Mar

4°-6°

Apr

12°1°

May

19°7°

Jun

25°13°

Jul

27°16°

Aug

26°15°

Sep

22°10°

Oct

15°4°

Nov

6°-2°

Dec

-1°-9°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on De Pere.

What people love

De Pere, Wisconsin, is a charming city with a rich history and plenty of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some pros of traveling to De Pere:

Historic Downtown: De Pere's downtown area is filled with historic buildings, boutique shops, and restaurants, making it a great place to explore and experience local culture.
Fox River: The city is located along the scenic Fox River, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and kayaking.
St. Norbert College: De Pere is home to St. Norbert College, a private liberal arts college known for its beautiful campus and cultural events open to the public.
Nature Trails: The city has several nature trails and parks, including the Fox River Trail and Voyager Park, where visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Local Events: De Pere hosts various events throughout the year, such as farmers markets, music festivals, and holiday celebrations, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Overall, De Pere offers a mix of history, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences that make it a great destination for travelers looking to explore a small Midwestern town.

What to know

Traveling to De Pere, Wisconsin, like any destination, may have its cons. Some potential drawbacks of visiting De Pere could include:

Limited Public Transportation: De Pere is a smaller city, and as such, it may have limited public transportation options. This could make getting around the area more challenging for travelers who do not have access to a car.
Weather Extremes: Wisconsin is known for its cold winters and hot summers. Travelers should be prepared for extreme weather conditions depending on the time of year they visit De Pere. This could impact outdoor activities and sightseeing plans.
Limited Cultural Attractions: While De Pere has its charms and local attractions, it may not offer as many cultural or historical sites as larger cities. Visitors looking for a bustling cultural scene or numerous museums and galleries may find De Pere lacking in this regard.
Limited Dining Options: While De Pere does have some excellent eateries and local restaurants, the range of dining options may not be as diverse as in larger cities. Travelers with specific dietary preferences or looking for a wide variety of international cuisines may find the options in De Pere limited.
Limited Nightlife: De Pere is a quieter city compared to larger urban centers, so travelers seeking a vibrant nightlife scene with clubs, bars, and entertainment options may not find what they are looking for in this city.

Overall, while De Pere has its own unique charm and attractions, travelers looking for a bustling metropolitan experience with a wide range of amenities and activities may find the city lacking in some aspects.

Please note that these cons are general considerations and may not apply to every traveler. It's always a good idea to research and plan according to your own preferences and needs when visiting a new destination.

De Pere, Wisconsin, is a city located in Brown County and is part of the Green Bay Metropolitan Statistical Area. Its history is rich and intertwined with the broader development of the region.

Early History

The area now known as De Pere was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Ho-Chunk (Winnebago) and Menominee. French explorers were the first Europeans to arrive in the area, with Jean Nicolet visiting in 1634, marking the beginning of European exploration in Wisconsin.

French Influence

In 1671, French Jesuit missionary Father Claude Allouez established a mission on the banks of the Fox River, which he named Rapides Des Pères (Rapids of the Fathers). This mission was an important early settlement in the region and provided the basis for the name "De Pere."

19th Century Development

In the 19th century, De Pere began to grow significantly, largely due to its location along the Fox River, which was a critical waterway for transportation and trade. The city was officially incorporated in 1857.

Railroads and Industry

The arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century spurred further growth and industrial development. The city's economy was bolstered by industries such as paper manufacturing, which became a cornerstone of De Pere's economic landscape due to the accessibility of water and timber resources.

Significant Events

1871: A devastating fire destroyed much of the city, but it was quickly rebuilt. This resilience helped define the community's spirit.
20th Century: De Pere continued to grow, with improvements in infrastructure and public services. The construction of bridges across the Fox River helped unify the east and west sides of the city.

Important Landmarks

St. Norbert College: Founded in 1898 by Abbot Bernard Pennings, this Catholic liberal arts college is a key institution in De Pere. It is significant not only for its educational contributions but also for its picturesque campus along the Fox River.
De Pere Lock and Dam Historic District: This area is part of the Fox River lock system and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It represents the city's historical connection to river navigation and trade.
The Union Hotel: Established in 1883, it is one of the oldest continuously operating hotels in Wisconsin and has historical significance as a gathering place for the community.

Historical Figures

Father Claude Allouez: His establishment of the mission in the 17th century laid the groundwork for European settlement in the region.
Abbot Bernard Pennings: Founder of St. Norbert College, he played a crucial role in the educational development of De Pere.

Modern Day

Today, De Pere is a vibrant city known for its blend of historical charm and modern amenities. It maintains a strong community spirit and continues to celebrate its rich history through various cultural events and preservation efforts.

De Pere's history is a testament to the city's ability to adapt and thrive through changing times, while maintaining a strong sense of identity rooted in its historical origins.