Of course, the native tribes, notably the Ho-Chunk, had already established a thriving settlement on the shores of the Fox River. Other European settlers followed the trail blazed by Jean Nicolet, drawn by his descriptions of abundant fish in the Fox River rapids. In 1672, French Jesuit explorer Pere Claude-Jean Allouez founded the St. Francis Xavier Mission nearby, and this is how the community came to be christened Rapides des Peres.
Today, the city's name has been shortened simply to "De Pere." De Pere is a large suburb of Green Bay, Wisconsin, with a population over 23,000. Getting to De Pere is easy, given that Interstate 41 runs north to south on De Pere's west side. Merge onto Wisconsin Highway 32/Wisconsin Highway 57, and you'll be in the middle of De Pere in no time.
From St. Norbert College to the North Broadway Street Historic District, you'll find elegant and significant historic sites throughout De Pere. If you're a Roman Catholic or just appreciate a quiet place for meditation, make a pilgrimage over to the National Shrine of Saint Joseph at St. Norbert's. For a livelier atmosphere, head to De Pere's downtown entertainment district for shopping, dinner, and cocktails.
If you like to hike, you're in luck because De Pere maintains several trail systems. The East River Trail offers scenic views of the East River, while The Preserve Trail takes you through quiet woodlands. The Fox River Trail runs right through De Pere, allowing you to take in the Fox River views.
Just like those settlers so long ago, many people today come to De Pere for the excellent fishing, but there's so much more to discover in De Pere, from its historic downtown to its trails and tasty regional pasties.
When are the best times to visit De Pere, WI?
De Pere experiences four distinct seasons. Some prefer not to visit during the frigid, snowy winters, but if you love cross-country skiing, ice fishing, or building snowmen, it's the perfect time to come. Summers are also excellent for outdoor sports, as the temperatures range in the low to mid-80s with low humidity.
If you want to see the countryside and enjoy some great wine while doing it, register for the De Pere Wine Bus Tour, which takes place in September. The tour starts at Mona Rose Winery in Green Bay. The next stop is The Blind Horse Winery in Kohler. Enjoy your own lunch or pack a picnic. The tour runs all day and includes bus transportation, snacks, tastings, and a souvenir wine glass from Mona Rose. Be sure to register early, as space is limited.
One of the better ways to see the area in warmer months is by canoe or kayak on the Fox River. Launch from the docks at Fox Point Boat Launch or the docks at Voyageur Park. Just be prepared to pay a launch fee at both locations. Pack your fishing rod, reel, and bait, because fishing on the Fox River is second to none.
Come in October for the Hilly Haven Oktoberfest Golf Outing, a local tradition, and stick around town for WitchFest, a spooky affair for a good cause. Everyone wears their best witch costume for a night of drinking and dancing to support breast cancer patients. The witch with the best costume wins a prize.
If you love winter sports and skating, visit De Pere in the winter when the lighted outdoor ice rinks open at Legion and VFW Parks. In the warmer months, cyclists love to zoom around De Pere.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in De Pere, WI:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs displaying average price patterns by star rating class in De Pere, WI. Analyze these illustrations to calculate the cheapest seasons to book in De Pere throughout the year.
Where are the luxury hotels near De Pere, WI?
4 Star Average Prices: $223.90
When you pull up to Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Green Bay, you will feel like you've arrived at a posh new home, with all the amenities and perks you could desire. You'll be greeted by a plate of fresh-baked cookies and handed a key to your suite.
The air-conditioned rooms include refrigerators and microwaves, in case you'd like to store some snacks and easy meals in your room. There's also an in-room coffee maker for your convenience. If you need an accessible room with a roll-in shower, simply request it.
Other desirable amenities at Country Inn & Suites include a business center, a fitness center, laundry facilities, and complimentary newspapers and hot coffee or tea in the lobby. Country Inn & Suites takes care of the most important meal of the day, providing a free daily brunch buffet for all guests to enjoy. The hotel features a large indoor pool and whirlpool that are especially popular with families. There's also a bowling alley adjacent to the hotel.
Which hotels in De Pere, WI are budget-friendly?
3 Star Average Prices: $123.87
If you need a hotel that's budget-friendly and convenient to the freeway, consider Sleep Inn & Suites Green Bay Airport. For a budget property, this hotel aims high and hits the mark with amenities like an indoor pool, a 24-hour fitness center, and pillow-top bedding.
Wireless internet is free for all guests, and you will also enjoy free cable programming. The daily breakfast service is free, too. Business travelers will appreciate the business center, free airport shuttle, meeting rooms, and express check-out service.
