New boutiques, restaurants, and events are constantly popping up in our thriving lakeshore communities. You’ll want to make time to visit these soon-to-be favorites.

 

Manitowoc launched a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area, commonly referred to as DORA, which allows visitors to grab a drink from their favorite, licensed watering hole while taking a walk downtown, exploring the riverfront, parks, public art and local businesses. Participating establishments serve the drink in a marked cup, allowing you to take it to-go within the DORA zone downtown. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, check out one of the area’s newest restaurants. Bloom & Brunch serves beautifully plated breakfast and lunch dishes in a bright atmosphere. For lunch, don’t miss the small but mighty Hot Daugs. This retro-themed hot dog joint will impress you with their flavorful selection and Pac-Man consoles. KC’s Kitchen & Cocktails offers a diverse menu of mouthwatering dishes, from tempura-battered cremini mushrooms to unique handhelds. For a flavorful, fresh pho and pad Thai, check out Ann’s Noodle. Don’t forget the coconut juice, served from a coconut itself.

New events have launched as well, including Nightmare Off 8th Street. This Halloween street festival has kids' activities, live music, vendors, and massive decorations to get you in the spooky mood on the first Saturday of October. Fourth on the Shore, Manitowoc’s Independence Day celebration, will be bigger than ever before in 2026 to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States. All weekend long, the lakeshore will be lit up with fireworks, a festive parade, live music, kids’ activities and more!

Red Arrow Park will see some major upgrades in 2026. Beach access will be expanded, and amenities, like foot wash stations, will be added. The first phase of upgrades is set to wrap up early in summer, just in time for the annual Wisconsin Sand Sculpting Festival in July.

Red Arrow Park 2026 Renovation Plan

The Manitowoc County Historical Society recently finished a major restoration project in the Pinecrest Historical Village, the Meeme House (pictured below). This establishment served as a rest stop for stage coaches in the 1800s, and can now be explored. You can even spend a night in living history by booking the “After Dark” experience.

Meeme House at Pinecrest Historical Society at Manitowoc County Historical Society

You can also stay the night in the area’s newest hotels and inns. The brand-new Hampton Inn Manitowoc, located right off the interstate, features 84 rooms plus a pool, fitness center, hot breakfast and even a self-pouring beer and wine wall.