Tourism

Often called the 'Waterfall Captial of Wisconsin' and probably the best kept secret in the state, Marinette County provides outdoor enthusiasts with four seasons of unlimited fun.  Boasting 14 waterfalls, over 231,000 acres of county forest land, 22 county park properties, 12,371 acres of lakes, 920 miles of rivers and streams, over 600 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, over 230 miles of ATV trails, and numerous hiking, biking, cross country ski and snowshoe trails, Marinette County has come to be known as "the real north".

Where else can you wake up to a serene morning, have an adrenaline filled afternoon and enjoy family entertainment at night? Right here, in "the real north".

We have so much for you to experience, it is hard to decide how to spend your day. Our waterfall tour is the perfect place to start your adventure. There are 14 waterfalls located throughout Marinette County. Many are located within the county parks system. There is a $3.00 per vehicle entrance fee each day, but you pay only once and have acces to all the county parks for the entire day. You could spend 2-3 days trying to see all the waterfalls, so for your convenience we have broken the full tour down into four mini-tours. Tour maps and complete descriptions of the waterfalls are located in the Official Marinette County Visitor Guide or at the Chamber office in Marinette.

While your touring the waterfalls, visit Governor Thompson State Park. This newer park is still undergoing construction as they create campgrounds, a welcome center and soon a beach area on Woods Lake. The 2800-acre park has two inland lakes and is located on Caldron Falls Flowage. There is a fishing pier, boarding dock and restroom at the boat landing with picnic areas and 16 miles of hiking trails inside the park as well.

Fishing and boating on one of our many inland lakes or flowages is often what guests like you look forward to. We also have the beautiful waters of Green Bay at our finger tips. Within walking distance of the marinas you can expect to find various restaurants, shoppes, museums and parks.

The Peshtigo River State Forest is abundant with wildlife. Many species of animals and birds call this area home and make for great photo opportunities. Hike, mountain bike, horseback ride or cross country ski along the many trails systems to view wildlife in its' natural setting.

For the adrenaline seekers, we have some of the best whitewater rafting east of the Mississippi River. During the spring months, you can expect to find Class IV and V rapids on the Peshtigo and Menominee Rivers. Slower portions of these rivers are also excellent areas for canoeing, kayaking and taking a lazy river float trip.

Our year-round ATV trails are well-maintained with access to park-n-ride locations, area restaurants and lodging establishments, and also ATV camping. 

With over 600 miles of excellently groomed snowmobile trails that connect to the 25,000-mile statewide trail system, you never run out of new places to explore on your ride.

If motor sports aren't to your liking, we have many land and water trails and routes for your enjoyment. Three rustic roads offer scenic beauty while bicycling. The Peshtigo River Trail is 11-miles of waterway traveling through wetlands and wildlife habitats that is best suited for canoeing or kayaking. There are also numerous hiking, cross country ski and snowshoe trails throughout the county. Some trails offer scenic overlooks, rock outcroppings, hills and low lying areas.  

Home to 10 golf courses, you will never run out of challenges. Our golf courses offer 9 to 27 holes with driving ranges either on-site or nearby. Golf on an island course surrounded by the Menominee River, hit the links on a course tucked between the bluffs of the Menominee River or take advantage of a mature tree lined course located in the woods. Watch out for wildlife! White-tailed deer and possibly turkey may roam through the fairways.  

A newer activity to the area, but just as exciting is the game of Disk Golf or Frisbee Golf. There are two courses in Marinette County and both are located in city parks. Marinette City Park in Marinette, has a nine-hole moderatley wooded course and utilizes the sledding hill to make this course challenging. Badger Park in Peshtigo, also has a nine-hole course that is seemingly easy, but don't let this fool you! It is much more challenging than it appears.

Looking for crafts, antiques or museums? Marinette County has many for you to visit. Both highways 41 and 141 have charming antique stores where you can find historic treasures, handmade items, homemade delicacies and much more. Our museums are unique in their own right since each area of the county has its' own story to tell. The Peshtigo Fire Museum, the Amberg Museum Complex, the Crivitz Area Museum and the Menominee County Heritage Museum feature displays of eras gone by. The Wizard of Oz Museum is a new addition to the county. Featuring movie memorabilia that is unsurpassed in the midwest from one of America's cherished films of all time, this museum is a must see for families.

Known for our exceptional hunting, "the real north" has many season for you to bag your trophy. This area is home to white-tailed deer, black bear, grouse, turkey, bobcat, coyote, fox, muskrat, raccoon, and even though they are released into the wild here, we have pheasant. So whether you like to trap, bow or gun hunt, we have a season for you.  

No matter what your pleasure, we have something for everyone in Marinette County. Come visit us today and experience "the real north".