If you’re looking for a charming Great Lakes getaway, I can’t recommend Two Rivers, Wisconsin enough. I found it tucked along the shores of Lake Michigan, and trust me—you’ll love the quiet beauty here. You can soak up sandy beaches, paddle through calm waters, or explore bike trails that I personally couldn’t get enough of. I really think you’ll enjoy the relaxed, small-town feel—it made me want to slow down and just enjoy the view. Whether you’re a history buff or just want to kick back by the water, Two Rivers gives you that perfect slice of coastal Midwest charm.
Best Time to Visit
I suggest planning your trip between late spring and early fall—think May through September. I went in early summer, and the warm temps were just right for beach days, kayaking, or hitting the trails. You’ll also catch fun local festivals if you time it right. Honestly, I wouldn’t go in winter unless you really love the cold!
How to Get There
- If you're driving: I took Highway 42, and it was a smooth ride—just about 40 minutes from Green Bay or 1.5 hours from Milwaukee. You’ll be surprised how scenic it is.
- Flying in? I flew into Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport, which is only 45 minutes away. But Milwaukee’s airport is a solid option too—it’s about 1.5 hours out.
- Taking the bus? I looked into intercity buses, and they get you to nearby Manitowoc. From there, it’s easy to grab a rideshare or taxi to Two Rivers.
Where to Stay
- Lighthouse Inn on Lake Michigan – I stayed here once, and if you love waking up to waves, this place is for you. It has a private beach and an onsite restaurant that saved me from driving around for dinner.
- Cobblestone Hotel & Suites – If you want something close to downtown and Neshotah Beach, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to walk everywhere. I liked how modern and clean it felt.
- Red Forest Bed & Breakfast – When I craved something cozy and personal, I stayed here. You’ll get homemade breakfast and a really welcoming vibe that you can’t find at chain hotels.
Unique Attractions
1. Hamilton Wood Type & Printing Museum
Located in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, the Hamilton Wood Type & Printing Museum is dedicated to the study, preservation, production and printing of wood type used in letterpress printing. The museum was originally located in the former Hamilton Manufacturing Company factory building but was moved in 2013 to the former Formrite Company building. The museum has a collection of more than 1.5 million pieces of wood type in more than 1,000 styles. The museum also includes the presses and vintage prints. The museum organizes a range of workshops and conferences throughout the year and welcomes students from universities from across the United States. The museum is run by the Two Rivers Historical Society.
1816 10th St, Two Rivers, WI 54241, Phone: 920-794-6272
2. Rogers Street Fishing Village
Located on the banks of the East Twin River, near Two Rivers, Wisconsin, Rogers Street Fishing Village is a museum and heritage park with four historic buildings that feature exhibits on America's commercial fishing. Visitors can board the 1936 wooden fishing tug BUDDY O, visit the fishing sheds, watch the antique Kahlenberg Marine Oil Engine start up, listen to the whistles and horns. The highlight of the visit is climbing up to the 1886 Two Rivers' North Pier Lighthouse for a spectacular bird's eye view of the entire Fishing Village. A part of the museum is also the Great Lakes Coast Guard Exhibit SHIPWRECKS!, with artifacts rescued from the depths of Lake Michigan's most famous shipwrecks.
2102 Jackson St, Two Rivers, WI 54241, Phone: 920-793-5905
Attractions for Couples
3. Woodland Dunes Nature Center
Woodland Dunes Nature Center and Preserve is a 1,500-acre area of hardwood and conifer forests, wetlands, and prairies between the towns of Two Rivers and Manitowoc, Wisconsin. There are about seven miles of hiking trails winding through verdant marshes, wooded ridges and lush meadows. Center’s 14 ridges and swales are home and a stopover to neo-tropical songbirds, Monarch butterflies, bats, amphibians, mammals and more than 400 plant species. Visitors can observe about 260 species of birds, including 36 species of warblers. There are environmental education programs year around for adults and youth. The center serves as an outdoor classroom for thousands of students in the region.
3000 Hawthorne Ave, Two Rivers, WI 54241, Phone: 920-793-4007
4. Bernard Schwartz House
The Bernard Schwartz House, known as Still Bend, is a magnificent 3,000-square foot house in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The Life Magazine considered it Wright's "Dream House," and a unique example of a two-story Usonian house. Wright designed the house originally for Life in 1938. The house is believed to have the oldest in-floor heating system in the country. It is located on the East Twin River about a mile from Lake Michigan. When he wrote in Life Magazine about the house plan, Frank Lloyd Wright mentioned that it reflects the American family unique lifestyle, with its special private spaces, super conveniences and great style. The Schwartz House is one of the few Wright homes open to the public that allow guests to spend the night.
3425 Adams St, Two Rivers, WI 54241, Phone: 612-840-7507
5. Spirit of the Rivers
Spirit of the Rivers is a majestic group of bronze sculptures placed on shore of the Lake Michigan, between Manitowoc and Two Rivers, Wisconsin. The monument celebrates the history and culture of the area’s earliest inhabitants and reminds us that native people lived on the lake shore for centuries before the timber was all cut to develop present cities. A group of portageur hold on their shoulders the birch bark canoe as a tribute to the first vessels to sail the lake waters and start the area’s rich maritime history. The statues, created by Richard Wallen, are over ten feet tall and weigh three tons.
4815 Memorial Dr, Two Rivers, WI 54241
6. Waverly Inn and Pizzeria
Located in the historic building in downtown Two Rivers, Waverly Inn and Pizzeria is a popular local pizza restaurant and bar known for the best thin crust pizzas in the area. What makes all the difference is their signature Waverly pizza sauce, premium toppings, and large portions. There is a fish fry on Friday, which is also a karaoke evening. Saturday is reserved for steaks – the choice is between tenderloin, New York strip, or rib eye. The dining room is spacious with exposed brick walls and high ceiling. There are plenty of TVs above the fully stocked bar and occasional live music. During the warm months, the guests can enjoy dining al fresco on the cozy patio.
1402 16th St, Two Rivers, WI 54241, Phone: 920-794-1709
Recommended Activities for Families
7. Point Beach State Forest
Point Beach State Forest is located along 6 miles of scenic Lake Michigan shoreline, where it provides a popular recreation area. Here you will find sand dunes, a light house and plenty of fun activities for the whole family. The forest campground offers 120 campsites, of which 70 have electrical hook-up, and there are restrooms and a shower block. Activities are many and varied; you can simply enjoy the 5+ miles of undeveloped beach on foot or enjoy swimming, paddling, boating and other water activities. In addition, the forest offers 11 miles of hiking and skiing trails as well as paved trails for biking and mountain biking.
9400 Country Road O, Two Rivers, WI 54241, 920-794-7480
8. Van der Brohe Arboretum
More than just a collection of trees, the Van der Brohe Arboretum will incorporate a community Art Park and an essential sanctuary for migrating birds. The arboretum covers 65 scenic acres, which was formerly home to a golf course. The arboretum was established in 2018 to provide and protect a community green space where residents and visitors can come to learn more about the environment and about trees and shrubs in general. Although the arboretum is still very young, trails have been laid to enable visitors to access the interior of the site and the art nodes. As more and more visiting birds find this sanctuary, it is hoped that the arboretum will become a popular bird-watching site.
3800 Lincoln Avenue, Two Rivers, WI 54241, 920-726-4850
9. LondonDairy Alpaca Ranch
The whole family will enjoy spending a few hours meeting and learning about alpacas at the 9. LondonDairy Alpaca Ranch in Two Rivers. On your tour of the ranch you will get the chance to meet some of the friendly resident alpacas, feed them and even take photos with them. You will also learn about their unique wool and its uses. At the end of the tour you can buy a wide range of alpaca products and a selection of South American wines at the shop. The ranch offers regular events for those who are considering setting up their own alpaca farms. Visitors are invited to book their tour of the ranch at least 48 hours in advance, as this is a working ranch and walk-ins cannot be accommodated.
6827 State Highway 147, Two Rivers, WI 54241, 920-793-4165
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Relax on Neshotah Beach – If you love soft sands and stunning Lake Michigan sunsets, you’re going to love Neshotah Beach. I always make it my first stop—it’s perfect for swimming, reading a book, or just soaking in the peaceful lake vibe.
- Bike the Mariners Trail – I’ve biked this trail more times than I can count, and I think you’ll find it just as scenic. Whether you're pedaling or walking, it’s an easy and beautiful ride between Two Rivers and Manitowoc that really shows off the shoreline.
- Kayak or paddle the East and West Twin Rivers – I found these rivers to be surprisingly calm and ideal for a relaxing paddle. If you’re into kayaking or canoeing, you’ll enjoy the slow flow and the way the town opens up from the water.
Where to Eat
- Casa Mexico – I stumbled into Casa Mexico one evening and ended up staying for a long, relaxed dinner. You’ll appreciate the generous portions, flavorful dishes, and the laid-back atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
- Kurtz’s Pub & Deli – Every time I visit Two Rivers, I make a point to stop at Kurtz’s. If you like hearty comfort food and a good beer, you’re going to love this place. The owners are friendly and it feels like a slice of small-town Wisconsin hospitality.
- Schroeder’s Department Store Café – I wasn’t expecting to find a charming café inside a historic store, but this one won me over. You’ll enjoy browsing the unique items while sipping your coffee in one of the coziest spots in town.
If you are interested in local events:
- Two Rivers Beach Bash (July) – I’ve gone a couple of times, and it’s always a blast. Live music, food trucks, and lake views—it’s like one big summer party you don’t want to miss if you’re visiting in July.
- Cool City Classic Car Show & Cruise (June) – I’ve been lucky to catch this event, and if you love classic cars like I do, it’s heaven. You’ll find beautiful vintage vehicles and great conversations with passionate car owners.
- Two Rivers Ethnic Fest (September) – This one’s all about celebrating community and culture. I recommend planning your visit around it if you enjoy live music, crafts, and trying new global dishes right in the heart of town.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 minutes of Two Rivers, Wisconsin:
- Manitowoc (10–15 min) – I usually pair a Two Rivers trip with a quick drive to Manitowoc. You’ll love the Maritime Museum and art galleries if you’re into history and culture.
- Point Beach State Forest (10–15 min) – I’ve spent entire afternoons hiking here. Whether you’re into long walks or just want to check out the lighthouse, it’s a gorgeous spot that I think you’ll appreciate.
- Branch River Golf Course (25–30 min) – If you like to golf, this is a great place to unwind. I enjoyed the peaceful scenery and relaxed pace—perfect for a low-stress game.
- Silver Creek Park (20–25 min) – I’ve been here in both summer and winter, and there’s always something to do. You’ll love the trails, disc golf, and yes, even sledding when it snows!
- LondonDairy Alpaca Ranch (20–25 min) – Visiting this ranch was such a fun surprise. You can meet alpacas, tour the farm, and browse a charming shop full of alpaca goods. I think you’ll have just as much fun as I did.
- Woodland Dunes Nature Center (5–10 min) – This is where I go when I want to feel truly connected to nature. You’ll find peaceful trails and lots of birds—perfect if you need a quiet escape.
- Lincoln Park Zoo (15–20 min) – I brought my nieces and nephews here, and it was a hit! You’ll find a good mix of animals, and since it’s free, it’s an easy add-on to your itinerary.
- Devil’s River State Trail (25–30 min) – If you’re looking to stretch your legs and explore, I really recommend this trail. It’s peaceful, scenic, and full of that classic Wisconsin countryside charm.
- Still Bend - The Bernard Schwartz House (5–10 min) – Touring this Frank Lloyd Wright home was a highlight of my trip. If you love architecture or unique homes, this place will blow you away.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Where is Two Rivers, Wisconsin located?
- It’s in Manitowoc County, right along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. I find it’s the kind of place where you feel welcome the moment you arrive.
- Why is Two Rivers famous?
- Two Rivers claims to be the birthplace of the ice cream sundae—and honestly, who am I to argue with that? You’ll see tributes to this sweet history all over town.
- What historical sites can visitors explore in Two Rivers?
- The Bernard Schwartz House is one I always suggest—it’s a Frank Lloyd Wright original, and walking through it felt like stepping into a design dream.
- The Historic Washington House is a favorite of mine too. There’s a museum, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor, and a sense of local pride you can feel as soon as you walk in.
- What outdoor activities are available in Two Rivers?
- You’ve got so many options—Point Beach State Forest is my go-to for hiking and beach time, and in the winter, there’s even skiing. If you love the outdoors, you’re going to be in your element here.
Plan Your Trip