Stay at Holiday Inn

Located on the western shore of Lake Michigan, Manitowoc is a city with a rich shipbuilding and brewing history. Manitowoc made a name for itself when its world-renowned shipyards turned out 28 submarines for WWII. The brewing industry also thrived, fueled by the area’s strong German immigrant influence. The brewing tradition is kept alive with local breweries and Briess Malting, which supplies specialty malt for over half of the world's craft breweries.

Today, Manitowoc has become a hot spot for tourists, blending its history with modern appeal and attractions. The bustling downtown is the city's centerpiece, offering a mix of arts and culture, one-of-a-kind shops, a variety of dining options, and striking historic buildings — all set against the beautiful backdrop of the Manitowoc River and Lake Michigan.

The Holiday Inn is conveniently located next to exit 149 off of I-43, making it a short 9-minute drive to downtown. 

Attractions

Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, you'll want to explore some of Manitowoc’s standout attractions. Start with the Wisconsin Maritime Museum, the largest of its kind in the Midwest. This interactive museum offers engaging exhibits for all ages, including the Maritime History Gallery, the kid-friendly Waterways Room, and guided tours of the USS Cobia — a real World War II submarine.

Just up the road, the Rahr-West Art Museum is another must-see. Housed in a beautifully preserved Victorian mansion, the museum showcases pieces by iconic artists like O’Keeffe, Warhol, and Picasso. With both permanent collections and changing exhibitions, there’s always something new to discover — and admission is free. Right outside, you’ll find the marked crash site of Sputnik IV, with an exhibit inside detailing the historic 1962 event.

Manitowoc also offers plenty of family-friendly stops, like Red Arrow Park, a spacious beach with playgrounds, picnic spots, and room for dogs to play. Not far away is the Cedar Crest Ice Cream Plant and Parlor, where you can enjoy a sweet treat and snap a photo with the famous “Big Cow.”

Outdoors

With lakeside scenery as stunning as Manitowoc’s, you'll want to spend some time outdoors. One of the best ways to soak it in is on Mariners Trail — a 7-mile paved path open year-round that hugs the Lake Michigan shoreline, dotted with public art and flower gardens. Walk, run, or rent a bike to enjoy the ride, and be sure to stop by the Manitowoc Breakwater Lighthouse at the trail’s starting point.

Golfers will find plenty to love in the area. Autumn Ridge Golf Course offers a beautifully maintained, hilly layout for a more traditional round, while Seven Lakes Golf Course provides a relaxed par-3 experience perfect for a casual game.

If you’re into tennis or pickleball, head to Rheaume Park or Citizen Park, which also features baseball diamonds, basketball courts, and the Manitowoc Family Aquatic Center with mini golf. For disc golf fans, Silver Creek Park is a local favorite — a free, nationally recognized course known for its scenic and challenging terrain.

Restaurants

Manitowoc's restaurant scene is a huge part of its culture. Courthouse Pub and Harborside Restaurant are great choices for steak on date night, with the former being voted as having the county's best cheese curds. For something more casual, there's no shortage of diners and classic Wisconsin fish fry. On the nice days, soak up the sun and fresh air with outdoor dining at The Wharf and Waterfront Wine Bar. For large groups, accommodations can be made at Time Out Sports Bar and Luigi's Italian Restaurant, among others. 

For help planning your group travel itinerary to Manitowoc, please contact our Destination Sales & Marketing Manager, RaeAnn Thomas, at rthomas@manitowoc.org.