Gay Summer Getaway: Green Bay, Wisconsin

Lambeau Field

Green Bay is the perfect summer getaway, offering a blend of outdoor adventure, cultural discovery, and good old-fashioned fun. Nature lovers can get a glimpse of what’s ahead for the future Green Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR), a significant designation that will protect one of the world’s largest freshwater estuaries. Spend the day paddling or hiking through Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve, where forest and marshland trails provide a peaceful setting for spotting wildlife. Ken Euers Nature Area is a hidden gem for birders and photographers, with restored coastal wetlands and beautiful walking paths. Just minutes away, the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary invites visitors to explore more than 700 acres of forest, wetland, and shoreline while meeting some of the 4,000 rescued animals that call it home. Next door, Bay Beach Amusement Park delivers classic summer thrills with vintage rides, a wooden roller coaster, and scenic views of Green Bay, all at just a few dollars per ride, making it a must-visit for families.

To connect more deeply with the area’s roots, experience the living culture of the Oneida Nation, which has called this region home for over two centuries. Begin your journey at the Oneida Nation Museum, where exhibits highlight the rich heritage and ongoing traditions of the Haudenosaunee people. On Thursdays from June through October, browse seasonal produce, crafts, and traditional foods at the Oneida Farmers Market, a community gathering spot and cultural showcase. For a deeper dive into Indigenous foodways, tour Ukwakhwa, a community farm that grows ancestral crops using sustainable and ceremonial practices. These immersive experiences offer a powerful perspective on how history, culture, and the land remain deeply connected.

Of course, no visit to Green Bay is complete without soaking in its storied football legacy. As the only community-owned team in the NFL, the Green Bay Packers are woven into the fabric of local life. Football fans can walk through history at the Packers Hall of Fame, take a behind-the-scenes stadium tour, and then head outside to Titletown, the entertainment district just west of Lambeau Field. In summer, Titletown comes alive with public art, a playground, yard games, live music, and a full lineup of outdoor events.

After a day of exploring, treat yourself to the flavors of northeast Wisconsin. Watch artisan curds being made at the Scray Cheese Factory, or sip on seasonal pours at local breweries such as Hinterland Brewery and Stillmank Brewing Co.. For a cozy, quintessential Wisconsin dinner, head to The Union Hotel & Restaurant for a brandy Old Fashioned and a hearty meal. Whether you're here for the nature, the history, or the hospitality, Green Bay delivers a summer experience you won’t forget. There are also a few LGBTQ bars you don't want to miss.

Scray Cheese Factory