Heritage Hill State Historical Park

Imagine a place where time seems to stand still, allowing you to catch a glimpse into the past of Northeastern Wisconsin. Heritage Hill State Historical Park is a unique open-air "living history" museum located in the picturesque city of Green Bay, USA. Spread across 56 acres, it features approximately 27 historic buildings that have been carefully preserved or reconstructed to tell the story of the region from the early 18th century to the mid-20th century.

Walking through the park, you pass through different eras divided into thematic zones: from the rugged days of the fur trade and military life at Fort Howard to the quiet existence on a Belgian immigrant farm. This isn't just a collection of buildings, but a living space housing a collection of 9,000 artifacts, including rare furniture, books, and clothing dating back centuries.

The mission of this site is to inspire and educate, connecting modern generations with their cultural roots. Managed by a non-profit organization, the park welcomes thousands of schoolchildren and tourists every year, offering not only historical insights but also a beautiful outdoor setting for walks along the banks of the Fox River.

To help plan your visit to Heritage Hill State Historical Park, it's useful to have current contact details on hand. You can reach the park administration for information regarding special events or group visit arrangements.

At Heritage Hill, history literally comes to life before your eyes. One of the most engaging activities here is interacting with interpretive guides dressed in authentic costumes from different eras. You can watch a blacksmith at work, learn the nuances of the fur trade, or see how farming was managed a century ago. It’s an interactive experience that turns a simple walk into a fascinating exploration of the past.

Be sure to visit the park’s iconic structures, such as Fort Howard, built in 1836, or the oldest church in Green Bay, dating back to 1852. Each building is filled with genuine household items, furniture, and tools, creating a sense of total immersion. For children, the park frequently offers workshops and educational games that allow them to learn about history through hands-on activities.

Beyond the historic buildings, the park offers wonderful opportunities for walking. The site is situated on an elevation, providing panoramic views of the Fox River. In the summer, it often hosts festivals and concerts, while the cozy green spaces and modern education center serve as a beautiful venue for weddings and private celebrations in a historic setting.

The attraction is conveniently located in the Allouez neighborhood, right on the banks of the scenic Fox River. If you are traveling by car, reaching the park is easy; it is situated in close proximity to Highway 172 and Webster Ave. Ample parking is provided on-site for visitors, and special Wisconsin State Park stickers are not required for entry.

For those who prefer public transportation, buses from downtown Green Bay stop within walking distance of the main entrance. You can also always use taxis or popular ride-sharing services like Uber. The drive from Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) takes about 15–20 minutes.

Outdoor enthusiasts can reach the site by bicycle via the scenic trails running along the river. During the summer season, special excursion bus routes sometimes link the city's main tourist points with the historical park.

The history of the park began in the 1960s through the initiative of local historians and the Brown County Historical Society. A significant boost to the project came from a large inheritance in 1965, which led to the formation of a special commission. Interestingly, the land for the park—a former prison farm—became available due to the construction of Highway 172 in the 1970s, which separated this plot from the main grounds of the correctional facility.

Heritage Hill officially opened on May 1, 1977, and welcomed about 2,500 people on its very first day. Since then, the park has continuously expanded; over the decades, its collection has grown to include more than 25 historic buildings transported from various parts of the region. For example, in 1980, the 1852 church—the oldest church building in the city—was moved to the site.

The park is divided into four distinct historical zones covering the period from 1672 to 1940. Here, you can trace the region's development from the first contacts with indigenous peoples during the fur trade era to the thriving farming communities of the early 20th century. In 2006, a modern Education Center opened on the grounds, allowing for year-round programming and workshops.

To leisurely explore all 26 historic buildings and stroll across the expansive 56-acre grounds, a typical visitor will need between 2 to 4 hours. This is enough time to step inside key homes, speak with costumed guides, and enjoy the river views.

If you are planning a family trip or wish to attend a special event (such as a craft festival or holiday program), it is worth setting aside half a day for your visit. Keep in mind that the park is quite large, and moving between the thematic zones—from the fort to the farmsteads—requires a fair amount of walking.

Typically, Heritage Hill State Historical Park is open to visitors from Tuesday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Please note that the park may be closed for regular visits on Mondays, Saturdays, and Sundays unless special events or holiday programs are scheduled for those days.

Operating hours and the availability of costumed interpreters can vary significantly depending on the season and weather conditions. We highly recommend checking the park’s official website or calling ahead before your visit to ensure all exhibits are open.

Exploring the surroundings of Heritage Hill State Historical Park will allow you to dive even deeper into the atmosphere of the region and discover many new things. Green Bay and its suburbs are rich with landmarks related to Wisconsin's culture, sports, and industrial development.

Near the park, you will find both quiet memorial areas and modern entertainment centers, making it possible to create a full and diverse itinerary for the whole day. Below is a list of interesting sites located nearby: