De Pere, WI
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Healthcare Facilities
De Pere is a historic city on Wisconsin's Fox River, offering a blend of small-town charm, rich French-Canadian heritage, and outdoor recreation, located just minutes from Green Bay.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: De Pere, Wisconsin
- Administrative Role: De Pere is a city in Brown County and is a principal city within the Green Bay Metropolitan Statistical Area . It is not a county seat; that title belongs to the neighboring city of Green Bay.
- Country and Region: The city is located in the state of Wisconsin, in the north-central United States. The state is famously known as "America's Dairyland" for its deep-rooted dairy farming and cheesemaking traditions.
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Historical Names: The city's name originates from the French "Rapides Des Pères" (Rapids of the Fathers) . This name was given by French explorers and missionaries, including Father Claude Allouez who established a mission here in the 17th century. For a period in the late 19th century, the west side of the river was separately incorporated as the city of Nicolet, after the explorer Jean Nicolet .
- Nicknames and Motto: The official city motto is "Runs Deeper" , a clever play on its name and the depth of its history, community, and the Fox River that flows through its heart.
Date of Founding and Age
- First Mentioned: The area was first visited by European explorer Jean Nicolet in 1634-35, who found a large Native American settlement drawn by the abundant fishing at the Fox River rapids .
- Founding and Age: The modern city began in 1836 with the incorporation of the De Pere Hydraulic Company and the first platting of the town . The village of De Pere was incorporated on March 6, 1857, and it was chartered as a city on March 31, 1883 . In 2023, the city celebrated 140 years since its incorporation. The west and east sides of the city were consolidated into a single government in 1890 .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 44°26′46″N 88°4′27″W (44.4460910, -88.0740510) .
- Positioning: De Pere is situated in northeastern Wisconsin on both banks of the Fox River, approximately 6 miles (10 km) upstream from where the river empties into the Bay of Green Bay (Lake Michigan) . It lies about 109 miles north of Milwaukee .
- Elevation: The city's elevation is approximately 600 feet (183 meters) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
- Historic Mill Town & Suburb: Historically, De Pere's economy was powered by its excellent water power on the Fox River, supporting paper mills, flour mills, and manufacturing . Today, it functions as a historic and residential suburb within the Green Bay metro area.
- Educational Hub: The city is the home of St. Norbert College, a private Catholic liberal arts college founded in 1898, which is a major local employer and cultural institution .
- Local Commerce: Downtown De Pere is a vibrant center for shopping and dining, supported by the city's historic residential neighborhoods .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, the population of De Pere is 25,410 .
- City Classification: De Pere is a medium-sized city and is one of the fastest-growing communities in the Green Bay metropolitan area, with significant population increases since the mid-20th century .
City's "Visiting Card" (In a Nutshell)
De Pere is a city where history runs deep, from its 17th-century French missionary roots to its well-preserved 19th-century downtown. Nestled on the banks of the Fox River, it offers a quintessential Wisconsin experience: cheering on the Packers' training camp at St. Norbert College, enjoying the scenic Riverwalk, and exploring a community that seamlessly blends its small-town feel with a rich, layered past .
Geography
Water Features (Rivers and Lakes)
- Fox River: The defining natural feature of De Pere, the Fox River flows through the center of the city. It is historically significant as part of the water route from the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River used by explorers and traders . Today, it is central to the city's identity, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and riverside walks. The river is known for its excellent fishing for species like walleye and sturgeon . De Pere is located at the river's first rapids, which was the head of lake navigation . The city is just a few miles from the Bay of Green Bay, an arm of Lake Michigan.
National and Natural Parks
While there are no national parks within the city limits, De Pere maintains an extensive municipal park system with over 400 acres of parks and green space .
- De Pere Riverwalk and Wildlife Viewing Pier: A must-see local attraction that begins in Voyageur Park and extends into the Fox River . It features a fishing pier, island pathways, and excellent opportunities to view wildlife, including bald eagles, pelicans, and various fish species . The pier provides a close-up view of the De Pere Dam and the historic Locktenders House.
- Voyageur Park: Located at 100 William St, this park serves as the gateway to the Riverwalk and is a central spot for community gatherings and enjoying sunset views over the Fox River .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
De Pere has a humid continental climate, characterized by great seasonal temperature variation. It features warm, humid summers and freezing, snowy, and windy winters. The city experiences partly cloudy skies throughout the year .
Average Temperatures Throughout the Year
- Hottest Month: July, with an average high of 80°F (27°C) and an average low of 61°F (16°C) .
- Coldest Month: January, with an average high of 26°F (-3°C) and an average low of 13°F (-11°C) .
- Extreme Temperatures: The temperature typically varies from 12°F (-11°C) to 81°F (27°C) but can occasionally drop below -7°F (-22°C) or rise above 89°F (32°C) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Rainfall: The wettest month is June, with an average rainfall of 3.6 inches (91 mm) . The drier season lasts from early October to early April .
- Snowfall: The snowy period lasts from November to mid-April. December is typically the snowiest month, with an average accumulation of 4.6 inches (117 mm) .
- Wet Days: June, July, and August each average around 11.2 days with measurable precipitation .
Sunshine and Daylight
- Daylight Variation: The length of the day varies significantly, from just 8 hours and 50 minutes in December to 15 hours and 33 minutes in June .
- Clear Skies: The sunniest and clearest months are July and August, with around 66-67% of days being sunny or partly sunny .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Best Time to Visit: For warm-weather outdoor activities, the best time to visit De Pere is from mid-June to early September .
- Spring (April-May): Temperatures warm up rapidly, from average highs of 55°F (13°C) in April to 67°F (19°C) in May. This is a wetter time of year .
- Summer (June-August): Summers are warm and pleasant, with July being the warmest month. This is the peak season for enjoying the Riverwalk, boating, and other outdoor recreation .
- Fall (September-October): Mild and generally pleasant, with September averaging a high of 70°F (21°C). This is a beautiful time to see fall colors along the Fox River .
- Winter (November-March): Winters are cold, snowy, and windy. The coldest periods are typically from late November through early February .
Landmarks
[St. Norbert College and the Green Bay Packers]
- Full Name: St. Norbert College
- Location and Significance: Founded in 1898, this private Catholic liberal arts college abuts the banks of the Fox River on the city's west side . Its campus, a historic district listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is a defining feature of De Pere .
- Unique Connection: St. Norbert College has a unique and famous tie to the Green Bay Packers. Not only does the college's cheer squad perform at Lambeau Field, but the college has also been the Packer's official summer training camp host since 1958 . Football fans from around the world visit the campus each year to watch the team practice.
[Historic Downtown De Pere and North Broadway Street]
- Full Name: North Broadway Street Historic District
- Architectural Significance: This district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places (#83003368), is the heart of downtown De Pere . It features large, beautiful homes and historic commercial buildings lining Broadway, Ridgeway Boulevard, and nearby streets near the Fox River .
- Modern Vibe: Today, it is a vibrant and walkable area filled with local shops, restaurants, and services, preserving its 19th-century charm while serving as a modern community hub .
[De Pere Lock and Dam Historic District]
- Full Name: De Pere Lock and Dam Historic District
- Historical and Engineering Importance: Added to the National Register in 1993 (#93001331), this site represents the city's industrial heritage and its crucial role in Fox River navigation .
- The Dam: The De Pere Dam on the Fox River is a prominent local landmark. The adjacent Locktenders House and the powerful rush of water over the dam are key features of the Riverwalk experience, offering a tangible connection to the city's past as a mill town and transportation hub .
Transport
Major Highways
De Pere is well-connected by several major highways, making it easily accessible by car .
- I-43: This north-south interstate runs from Green Bay through De Pere's east side, heading south to Milwaukee and Beloit.
- US-41: A major north-south highway that passes through the Green Bay area, connecting cities from Michigan's Upper Peninsula to Miami, Florida.
- WI Hwy 172: This freeway provides a crucial southern bypass of Green Bay, connecting US-41 on the west to I-43 on the east, and is located just north of De Pere.
Nearest Airports
- Green Bay–Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB): Located approximately 7-10 miles north of De Pere, this is the primary commercial airport for the region, offering connections to major hubs across the United States.
Public Transit and Getting Around
- Bus Service: De Pere is served by Green Bay Metro, the public transit system for the greater Green Bay area, providing bus routes that connect the city to Green Bay and other neighboring communities.
- Ridesharing: Services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in De Pere, offering another convenient option for getting around the city and to nearby destinations. Popular routes include trips to Lambeau Field and the Bay Park Square mall .
- Walkability: The downtown area and the St. Norbert College campus are the most walkable parts of the community . However, the majority of the city is laid out as drivable suburbia .
Rail and Water
- Rail Service: De Pere has freight rail service provided by the Wisconsin Central Ltd. (Canadian National) and the Escanaba & Lake Superior Railroad Co. . There is no passenger rail service in the city; the nearest Amtrak station is in Milwaukee.
- Water: The Fox River is navigable, and De Pere has multiple boat launches for recreational watercraft. The city is at the historical head of lake navigation on the Fox River, with the Port of Green Bay located just downstream .
Universities and Educational Institutions
Saint Norbert College
The most prominent educational institution in De Pere is Saint Norbert College (SNC) , a private liberal arts college founded in 1898 by the Norbertine order . Located at 100 Grant Street, its campus is a defining feature of the city, thoughtfully blending with the historic downtown area . SNC is consistently ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the Midwest . With a student population of around 1,900, it offers a close-knit academic community and a low student-to-faculty ratio of 11 to 1 .
The college is organized into three main divisions: the Humanities and Fine Arts, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences . It is particularly well-regarded for its undergraduate research opportunities, strong study abroad programs, and its Army ROTC program . Beyond academics, SNC is a central part of the community, hosting cultural events and contributing to the vibrant, college-town atmosphere of De Pere.
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Dining in a College Town on the Fox River
De Pere's culinary scene is defined by its charming and award-winning downtown, which spans both sides of the Fox River . Here, historic buildings house a variety of high-quality dining establishments, offering everything from casual bites to more refined experiences . While De Pere may not be known for a single, signature dish, its food culture is deeply connected to its role as a vibrant community hub. You'll find a mix of classic American fare, cozy cafes, and restaurants representing diverse culinary traditions, all within a walkable, picturesque setting. The presence of Saint Norbert College also infuses the local dining scene with energy, catering to students, faculty, and visitors alike.
Farmers Market and Seasonal Food Events
A significant part of De Pere's culinary identity is its lively summer farmers market . This weekly event is a showcase of the region's agricultural bounty, where locals and visitors can find fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. It's a perfect way to experience the local food culture firsthand. Throughout the year, community gatherings like "Celebrate De Pere" and holiday events also feature food, turning the downtown into a destination for seasonal treats and communal dining .
Museums
Mulva Cultural Center
De Pere is home to a major new attraction, the Mulva Cultural Center , which opened its doors in late 2023 . Located at 221 S Broadway in the historic downtown, this world-class facility was founded by De Pere natives James J. and Miriam B. Mulva as a gift to the community . The center serves as a vibrant hub for arts, culture, and education, featuring traveling exhibitions from around the world. Past exhibits have included "Dino Safari," a popular attraction with life-sized dinosaurs .
In addition to its gallery spaces, the center houses the Discover Auditorium, which screens documentary and educational films, such as "Dinosaur 13" and space exploration features . It also offers a variety of educational workshops, like silk scarf marbling, and hosts community events, including a solar eclipse viewing party . With its gift shop and membership programs, the Mulva Cultural Center has quickly become an anchor for De Pere's cultural scene and a destination for visitors to Northeast Wisconsin .
Sport and Sports Legends
High School Baseball Champions
De Pere has a strong sports culture, with its high school teams often taking center stage. The De Pere High School Redbirds baseball team achieved a historic milestone by winning the WIAA Division 1 state championship in June 2024 . This marked the first state title in the program's history, a moment celebrated by the entire community. The Redbirds defeated Sun Prairie East 5-1 in the finals at Fox Cities Stadium, finishing a dominant season with a 27-3 record . The team has a long and proud tradition, having advanced to the state tournament five times since 1960, and continues to be a source of local pride .
De Pere Deacons: A Hockey Legacy
For nearly five decades, the De Pere Deacons have been a cornerstone of the local sports scene. This semi-professional hockey team, a step above a bar league with full-contact games, has been practicing and playing at the De Pere Ice Arena since 1977 . The Deacons compete in the Great Lakes Hockey League (GLHL) and have a storied history, having won four GLHL titles and a USA Hockey national championship in 2010 .
The team is a unique community institution, composed of players with full-time jobs—from physicians to college students—who are passionate about the sport. Their dedication and longevity were recognized in 2024 when the team was inducted into the Wisconsin Hockey Hall of Fame . The Deacons are also connected to hockey royalty; former Deacon Paul Coppo is a member of the United States Hockey Hall of Fame, and his grandson now plays for the team, carrying on the family legacy . Home games at the historic De Pere Ice Arena offer a classic, grassroots hockey experience.
Key Sports Venues
- De Pere Ice Arena: The long-time home of the De Pere Deacons hockey team, this "old hockey barn" is the heart of the local hockey community .
- Fox Cities Stadium (Grand Chute): While located in nearby Grand Chute, this stadium is where the De Pere Redbirds clinched their historic state baseball title in 2024 .
Healthcare Facilities
De Pere is served by several major healthcare providers, ensuring residents have access to quality medical services. The city benefits from its proximity to the larger Green Bay area, which hosts major hospitals, while also having its own clinics for primary and specialty care.
HSHS Medical Group
The Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) has a significant presence in the area. The East De Pere Family Practice, located at 3860 Monroe Road, is a clinic within the HSHS network . This practice provides family medicine services and is affiliated with HSHS hospitals in Green Bay, including HSHS St. Vincent Hospital and HSHS St. Mary's Hospital Medical Center, offering a connected care network for patients who need more advanced treatment .
Emplify Health (Bellin Health)
Emplify Health De Pere East Clinic , at 555 Redbird Circle, is another key healthcare provider in the city . This clinic focuses on primary care, with a team of providers specializing in family and internal medicine. It emphasizes a partnership approach to health, helping patients manage both acute and chronic conditions. The clinic's location and services make it a convenient option for routine care and wellness visits for De Pere residents.
Aurora Health Care
The Aurora Health Center at 1881 Chicago Street is part of the larger Aurora Health Care system, a nonprofit provider serving numerous communities across Wisconsin . While this location functions as a clinic, it connects patients to Aurora's wider network, which includes over 15 hospitals and more than 100 physician clinics. This integration allows for comprehensive services, from primary and preventive care to specialized treatment in areas like behavioral health, women's health, and neuroscience at other system locations .