For legions of Packer fans, Green Bay, Wisconsin, stands as a pilgrimage destination. Lambeau Field is their temple, and the Packers’ owned-by-the-fans identity feeds their faith. Even opposing fans find themselves awed on stadium tours when they walk through the tunnel where the team bursts onto the field. But an off-season visit reveals a different side of this working-class city of 101,000: fantastic restaurants, appealing trails and top-notch attractions for all ages. Whether your blood runs green, gold or just plain red, you’ll come away rooting for Titletown. greenbay.com
What to do
Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary A 700-acre park with a wildlife rehab center provides a scenic escape within the city. Free. baybeachwildlife.com
Broadway District shopping Check out Beerntsen’s Confectionary and Besselli boutique. onbroadway.org
Broadway District shopping
Green Bay Botanical Garden The 47-acre property includes the Vietnam Veteran Garden. Admission charged. gbbg.org
Green Bay Botanical Garden’s Gertrude B. Nielsen Children’s Garden. Photo by Michael Lescihsin.
Heritage Hill State Historical Park A living-history museum with 25 buildings traces state history. Admission charged. heritagehillgb.org
National Railroad Museum Learn about Pullman Porters at an interactive exhibit, and don’t skip the excellent film. Admission charged. nationalrrmuseum.org
Where to eat
Black and Tan The main-floor bar at this sophisticated downtown spot has a tempting lounge menu; upstairs, enjoy seasonal fine dining. blackandtangrille.com
Cheese Cake Heaven A strip mall cafe serves huge sandwiches and cheesecake. cheesecakeheaven.com
Fox Harbor Pub and Grill A two-tier deck and fire pit draw a casual crowd, especially for Wednesday and Friday fish fries. foxharborpubandgrill.com
Jimmy Seas Pub, Grill and Fenders Beer-battered cod tacos warrant a trip to this hidden spot. jimmyseas.com
Republic Chophouse In a cozy, dark steak house, linger over rich, indulgent meals. republicchophouse.com
Where to stay
St. Brendan’s Inn A classy Irish-theme inn features 28 rooms and a satisfying restaurant. saintbrendansinn.com
With kids
Bay beach amusement park A roll of quarters buys a day of fun. baybeach.org
Lambeau Field Pint-size fans can practice their Lambeau Leap. packers.com
NEW Zoo Lions, giraffes, moose and more thrive in a wooded setting. newzoo.org
Kroll's West Legendary burgers star at this retro spot near Lambeau. krollswest.com
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