Bellevue, WI
Bellevue, a village in Brown County, is a thriving suburban community within the Green Bay metropolitan area, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and convenient access to urban amenities.
About the city
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
The full official name of the city is the Village of Bellevue. It is located in Brown County in the state of Wisconsin, USA. Bellevue is an integral part of the Green Bay metropolitan area and is situated just about 4 miles (6.4 km) east of the city of Green Bay . Brown County is known for being home to Green Bay, a city with a deep-rooted history as the oldest settlement in Wisconsin and the world-famous home of the Green Bay Packers football team .
Historic Names and Nicknames
The village was named "Bellevue," which is derived from the French words meaning "beautiful view" . It does not have widely recognized historical names or common nicknames, but its identity is closely tied to its role as a peaceful, residential suburb with beautiful scenery, living up to its namesake.
Date of Foundation and Age
Bellevue was first established as a town and existed in that form for many years. It later incorporated as a village on February 14, 2003 . As of 2026, the Village of Bellevue is 23 years old.
Geographical Position and Coordinates
The village is located at the geographical coordinates 44.4592° N, -87.955° W (44°27′33″N 87°59′18″W) . It lies in the eastern part of Wisconsin, not far from the point where the Fox River flows into Green Bay, which is an arm of Lake Michigan . The landscape is typical of the Great Lakes region, marked by the juxtaposition of suburban development and natural areas . The elevation of the village is approximately 207 meters (679 feet) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Bellevue functions primarily as a residential suburban community and a growing local economic center for the Green Bay area. Its economy is diverse, with key sectors including manufacturing, healthcare and social assistance, and retail trade . Many residents are employed in management, office and administrative support, and sales occupations .
Population and Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Bellevue was 15,935 . By 2023, estimates placed the population at 16,255, indicating steady growth . Based on its population, Bellevue falls into the class of a medium-sized municipality or large village. The racial makeup in 2020 was 80.6% White, 4.9% Asian, 1.2% African American, and 1.1% Native American, with 10.9% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino . The village has a median age of 40.9 years .
"City's Business Card" (in short)
Bellevue is a charming and welcoming suburban village that offers residents and visitors a peaceful "beautiful view" just minutes from the excitement of Green Bay. It serves as a convenient and family-oriented base for exploring the oldest settlement in Wisconsin, with easy access to the Fox River, area trails, and the vibrant culture of the Green Bay Packers.
Geography
Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)
While Bellevue itself is not directly on the Lake Michigan shoreline, it is located near significant water bodies. The Fox River is a major waterway in the region, flowing into Green Bay just to the north and west of the village. It is the main tributary of Green Bay and was a key site for early European settlement . The river is navigable for barges via locks and dams, connecting to the Fox-Wisconsin Waterway . The village's geography is also shaped by smaller creeks, such as Baird Creek, which runs through a preserved greenway and offers a natural escape .
National and Nature Parks
There are no national parks within Bellevue, but the village and its immediate surroundings offer access to significant natural and recreational areas.
- Baird Creek Parkway: This is a notable green space that follows Baird Creek, offering trails for hiking and walking in a natural setting. In the winter, it is also used for cross-country skiing .
- Fox River Trail and Mountain-Bay Trail: A portion of this trail runs near Bellevue, connecting to Green Bay and De Pere. A large part of it is located in and near Green Isle Park, providing a scenic route for walking, jogging, and biking through wooded areas where wildlife like turkeys and turtles can be spotted .
Islands and Archipelagos
There are no islands within the village limits of Bellevue. The major water bodies it is associated with, such as the Fox River and Green Bay, do not contain notable islands in the immediate vicinity of the village.
Climate and weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Bellevue has a humid continental climate, which is typical of the Great Lakes region of the Midwest. It is characterized by four distinct seasons, with warm, sometimes humid summers and cold, snowy winters .
Average Temperatures by Month
The climate in Bellevue shows significant seasonal variation.
- Winter (December-February): The coldest months are January and February, with average high temperatures near -7°C (19°F) and average lows dropping to -13°C (9°F) .
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm up considerably, with average highs ranging from 1°C (34°F) in March to 20°C (68°F) in May .
- Summer (June-August): July is typically the warmest month, with average high temperatures around 26°C (79°F) and lows near 16°C (61°F) .
- Fall (September-November): Autumn sees a steady cooling, with average highs dropping from 20°C (68°F) in September to 4°C (39°F) in November .
Precipitation and Humidity
Precipitation is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
- Average Annual Precipitation: The village receives a significant amount of precipitation, totaling over 1000 mm (approx. 40 inches) annually .
- Wettest Months: Late spring and early summer tend to be the wettest, with June seeing around 106 mm (4.2 inches) and July 108 mm (4.3 inches) of precipitation .
- Snowfall: Winter precipitation often falls as snow, contributing to the area's reputation for harsh winters .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Bellevue for pleasant weather and outdoor activities is during the late spring, summer, and early fall.
- Spring (April-May): As the snow melts and temperatures rise, this is a time of renewal, though it can be wet .
- Summer (June-August): This is the peak season for enjoying the area's parks, trails, and nearby water bodies like the Fox River. The weather is warm and ideal for hiking and biking .
- Fall (September-October): The autumn colors are a major draw, with crisp, cool air perfect for outdoor exploration .
- Winter (November-March): This season is best for those who enjoy winter sports like cross-country skiing on trails like the Baird Creek Parkway , but visitors should be prepared for cold and snow .
Comparison with Other Cities
As part of the Green Bay metro area, Bellevue shares the classic weather patterns of northeastern Wisconsin. It is generally colder and snowier in the winter than cities in southern Wisconsin, such as Milwaukee or Madison, due to its more northerly location.
Landmarks
Park and Trail Systems as Key Attractions
In the absence of large, single monuments, the most cherished landmarks in Bellevue are its natural and recreational spaces, which serve as focal points for the community.
- Baird Creek Trail: This trail is located within the Baird Creek Greenway and is a highlight for nature lovers. It offers beautiful walks through nature, and in winter, it's a popular spot for cross-country skiing, making it a year-round destination .
- Green Isle Park: While technically just across the line in Green Bay, this park is adjacent to Bellevue and features a large portion of the Mountain-Bay Trail. It is a "cute little trail" that is narrower and more winding than others, perfect for recreational walking or jogging and observing wildlife in a wooded setting .
Nearby Regional Attractions
Bellevue's location within the Green Bay metro area puts it in close proximity to major regional landmarks.
- Green Bay (the body of water) and Fox River: These are defining geographical features of the region. The bay and river are not just scenic but also historically significant as the sites of Wisconsin's oldest European settlements and fur trading posts .
- The City of Green Bay: Just minutes away, Green Bay itself is a landmark destination, home to the legendary Lambeau Field, the stadium of the Green Bay Packers. The city offers a vibrant arts scene, numerous museums, and historic sites .
Transport
Main Airports in the City and Region
Bellevue does not have its own airport but is served by nearby facilities.
- Green Bay–Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB): This is the primary airport for the region, located about 11 miles (18 km) west of Bellevue in Ashwaubenon . It handles commercial flights, connecting the area to major hubs.
- Major Long-Distance Airports: For more extensive international connections, the Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) is about 190 km (118 miles) south, and Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is approximately 302 km (188 miles) to the south .
Main Railway Stations and Depots
There are no passenger railway stations within Bellevue itself. The nearest Amtrak service is located in Milwaukee or Chicago. However, a freight rail line operated by the Canadian National Railway (formerly Wisconsin Central) runs through Bellevue, connecting to the Port of Green Bay .
System of Public Transport (Metro/Tram/Bus)
Bellevue is primarily car-dependent, as is typical for suburban communities. Public transit is provided by Green Bay Metro, the bus system for the greater Green Bay area. Specific routes extend into Bellevue, connecting residents to jobs, shopping, and services in Green Bay and the surrounding suburbs.
Main Highways and Roads
Bellevue is a significant transportation hub within Brown County due to its location at the junction of two major highways.
- Interstate 43 (I-43): This freeway runs north-south through the eastern part of Bellevue, providing a direct route north to Sturgeon Bay and south to Milwaukee .
- Wisconsin Highway 172 (WIS 172): This state highway has its eastern terminus at I-43 in Bellevue. From there, it heads west as a freeway, providing a crucial southern bypass of Green Bay and connecting to I-41/US-41 and the Austin Straubel International Airport .
- County Highway GV (Monroe Road): This is another key arterial road within the village, providing access from the WIS 172/I-43 interchange to local areas .