You’ve spent 18 years preparing for this moment, and now here you are—car packed to the ceiling with essential dorm room essentials, dishing out advice your kid will totally listen to, and wondering if they’ll remember to do laundry sometime before Thanksgiving.
That’s right! It’s college drop-off season, which means new adventures for young St. Norbert Knights or UW-Green Bay Phoenixes. But what about the new adventures that await empty-nester parents who are saying goodbye to their high school grads?
Well, we can’t help you with the emotional rollercoaster of letting go of your baby bird, but we can offer you some great distractions and memory-making experiences before you part ways.
Keep reading to find out how to get a true taste of Green Bay and make your college drop-off weekend one to remember!
Get the Lambeau Experience
If you’ve never been to Lambeau Field, there’s no better time to soak in the magic than during college drop-off weekend. Whether you want some family bonding time or are looking for something to do while your newly independent college kid decorates their dorm, visiting Lambeau is a great way to experience an iconic piece of Green Bay.
Enjoy a quick taste of the action with a 15-minute Field Viewing, try a guided Stadium Tour and get a peak behind the curtain, dive deep into over a century of football greatness at the Packer’s Hall of Fame, or take a stroll down the one-mile Walk of Legends.
Take a Historic Ride on the Zippin Pippin
If you’re looking for a thrilling way to experience Green Bay, head over to Bay Beach—Green Bay’s beloved historic public amusement park! This local gem has been delighting visitors and locals alike for over a century with 20+ rides, playgrounds, picnic areas, concessions, and their newly updated temperature-controlled pavilion.
And while you’re there, don’t forget to ride the iconic Zippin Pippin! The Zippin Pippin isn’t just any roller coaster—it’s legendary! Originally built in 1912, this wooden roller coaster was one of Elvis Presley’s favorites. When the original Pippin in Memphis was slated for demolition, Green Bay swooped in to save the day, giving this classic ride a new lease on life. Now, you can feel the same rush of adrenaline that Elvis did as you zip along this little slice of Americana at Bay Beach.
Check Out the Local Arts and Culture Scene
Green Bay might be known best for its football, but it’s also home to a diverse cultural scene. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or just looking to explore something new, Green Bay’s museums and galleries offer a little something for everyone. Here are a few spots to add to your itinerary:
This museum offers an eclectic mix of exhibits that cover everything from the natural history of the region to hands-on science experiences, social and cultural explorations, and more. With rotating exhibits that often feature local artists and historical artifacts, the Neville is a treasure trove of knowledge and a great place to get acquainted with the area’s rich heritage.
Housed in a renovated Cadillac dealership from the 1950s, this museum features an impressive collection of classic and contemporary cars, each with its own unique story. Whether you're ogling a vintage Corvette or admiring the latest supercar, the gallery’s mix of automotive history and design will delight anyone who appreciates a blend of style and speed.
All aboard for a journey through time at the National Railroad Museum, one of the oldest and largest railroad museums in the country. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of railroads in America, and it does so with a vast collection of locomotives, rolling stock, and memorabilia. You can walk through a real Union Pacific “Big Boy” (one of the largest steam locomotives ever built) and even take a scenic train ride around the museum’s grounds.
This unique gallery space is housed in a 100-year-old converted cannery factory and serves as a hub for local artists to showcase their work. The Art Garage offers a rotating lineup of exhibits featuring everything from paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media. It’s a vibrant, community-driven space that’s all about supporting and celebrating the local art scene. And hey, if you’ve got a budding artist heading off to college, it may just be their art on the walls next!
Stop and Smell the Roses at the Green Bay Botanical Garden
Add a touch of tranquility to the weekend at the Green Bay Botanical Garden. The garden’s 47 acres are filled with more than 120,000 plants, with gorgeous, thoughtful architecture and design throughout each garden space. Late summer is a wonderful time to visit, as the garden bursts with the vibrant blooms of the season’s final hurrah. It’s the perfect moment to take in the last of the summer flowers, enjoy the warm sunshine, and maybe even snap a few family photos before heading home.
Get in Touch with Nature
You don’t have to wander far from campus to experience the natural beauty that the Green Bay area has to offer. Whether you’re doing a drop-off at St. Norbert College or UW-Green Bay, you’ll find yourself surrounded by easily accessible outdoor spots that are perfect for a quick escape into nature.
Near St. Norbert College? Head down to the De Pere Riverwalk and Wildlife Viewing Pier, located right in downtown De Pere along the east side of the Fox River. This scenic walkway offers a peaceful retreat just steps from downtown De Pere. Accessible from Voyageur Park, the Riverwalk allows you to stroll along the Fox River and even cross over to the historic De Pere Lock and Damn District. As you walk, you’ll be surrounded by spawning fish and other wildlife, providing a serene contrast to the bustling nearby restaurants, shops, and hotels. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet moment of reflection or a leisurely walk with your college-bound kid before the big goodbye.
Near UW-Green Bay? You’re in for a treat because you don’t even have to leave campus. The Cofrin Memorial Arboretum, a 290-acre natural boundary encircling the UW-Green Bay campus, offers the beauty of nature right at your doorstep. This lush arboretum is not only a haven for wildlife but also a favorite spot for hiking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors. With trails winding through diverse ecosystems, you can take in the gorgeous scenery of the bay, catch glimpses of local wildlife, and immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings. It’s an ideal place to relax and recharge, whether you’re up for an adventure or just want to take a leisurely stroll before heading home.
Eat Like a Local
You didn’t think we’d let you leave without a taste of the local food scene, did you? Before your college-bound kid dives into meal plans and cafeteria fare, treat them to some of Green Bay’s best bites. The city’s restaurant scene is as diverse as it is delicious, so we’ve rounded up ten must-try spots for each meal, close to both campuses.
Breakfast, Brunch, & Coffee
Lunch
Dinner
It’s Not Goodbye, It’s See You Later!
As you wrap up your visit to Green Bay and prepare to head back home, remember that this isn’t the end of your connection to the city—it’s just the beginning of a new chapter. Green Bay will always be here, ready to welcome you back whenever you need a dose of Northeast Wisconsin charm, a Packers game, or just a weekend to reconnect with your college kid.
