A Sunny Summer Getaway
If you’re on the hunt for a summer escape that’s packed with charm, great eats, and a little sun-soaked R&R, Manitowoc, Wisconsin, is the place to be! Whether you’re craving delicious food, sandy beaches, or refreshing craft brews, this lakeside gem has you covered. So, grab that sunblock and your fave shades — it’s time to head to Manitowoc for a weekend you’ll be talking about for ages! Let’s dive in.
Day One
First things first, where to stay? If you’re all about modern conveniences but still want a nod to history, Harbor Town Inn is your spot. This 80-room hotel blends nautical themes with amenities, including a full-service business hub and fitness center. Or, if you’re feeling more “charming weekend in a Victorian dream,” then check into Toll House Bed & Breakfast. It’s like stepping into a time capsule but with Wi-Fi and comfy accomodations.
Once you’re settled in, head downtown for a shopping spree. From trendy boutiques to quirky gift shops and specialty stores, there’s a lot to explore. After you’ve worked up an appetite (because shopping counts as cardio), head to Ryan’s on York for dinner. This isn’t your average gastropub. Think blueberry BBQ tacos and a Thai lobster roll that’ll make you question why you ever bothered with plain ol’ lobster rolls in the first place. And if you’re a burger lover, they’ve got you covered too.
Cap off your evening at PetSkull Brewing for some of the best craft brews in town. Park yourself on the patio, beer in hand, listening to live music, and maybe (definitely) sneaking a bite of their beer-battered cheese curds! With 20 taps that rotate regularly, you’ll always find something fun and fresh to sip on. Plus, you can bring your pup — the patio is dog-friendly!
Day Two
After a night of brews and fried curds, a healthy breakfast is just what you need to kickstart your morning. Hit up Harmony Cafe & Juicery, where everything on their menu is fresh and tasty. Their scones? Absolute perfection. Their breakfast burrito? You’ll be fueled up for whatever’s next. Plus, when you dine here, you can feel great about your purchase. Harmony supports Grow It Forward’s mission of making sure that people in need get dignified access to good food.
Next, snag a spot on one of the city’s pedal taverns — Manitowoc Tavern on Wheels or Manitour Pedalers. You can book a private tour or join a group to make new friends while the driver guides you on a pedal-powered journey to all the downtown hotspots. Pedal taverns might be a newer addition to Manitowoc, but they’re already one of the city’s most popular summer activities!
After working up an appetite, it’s burger time! Head to Late’s to indulge in one of their classic burgers that’s as big on flavor as it is on reputation. The old-fashioned diner is a hit with tourists and locals alike for its scratch-made dishes. It’s also just a stone’s throw away from Red Arrow Park, where you can hit the public beach to soak up the rays.
Red Arrow has all the makings of a classic beach day: a sandy beach, shade if you need it and a playground for the kiddos. Slip on your swimsuit and settle in for an afternoon of sun, sand, and relaxation. If you’re visiting in mid-July, the Wisconsin Sand Sculpting Festival at Red Arrow is a must-see during your summer getaway. Watch speed sculpting shows, try your hand at an amateur competition, and shop the vendor booths.
End your day with dinner at Courthouse Pub for comfort food with a Manitowoc twist. Order up fan favorites like their chicken chili and award-winning cheese curds, and wash it all down with a beer from their on-site microbrewery.
Day Three
It may be checkout day, but there’s still fun to be had before heading out of town! Grab your walking shoes or rent a bike and head to the scenic Mariners Trail. With lush gardens and show-stopping Lake Michigan views, it’s one of the best summer things to do in the area without spending a dime.
Or if you’re feeling more indoors-y, stop by the Rahr-West Art Museum to find out why it was voted one of the best places to see art in a small town by USA Today. You’ll be inspired by works from famed artists like Picasso, Warhol, and O’Keeffe, along with rotating exhibits.
Then, make your way to The Wharf for a final meal on the open-air patio, where you can drink in killer views of the Manitowoc River. Whether you’re digging into shrimp tacos or building your own pizza, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the last moments of your summer getaway.
And just like that, your 3-day trip to Manitowoc is over — but the memories? Those are going to last way beyond the weekend. From chill beach days to pedal tavern parties, this escape is one for the books. Pack your bags, plan your trip, and get ready to fall in love with Manitowoc this summer!