Manitowoc WI

Maintowoc WI is located in the greater Manitowoc County along Lake Michigan at the start of the Manitowoc River. More than 32,000 residents call the area home, while the overall county boasts nearly 79,000 inhabitants.

A Brief History of Manitowoc WI

Manitowoc WI’s unique name comes from a Ojibwe word meaning dwelling of the great spirit. The Menominee language translates it to place of the spirits. French fur traders arrived in 1673, an industry that saw establishment of the Northwest Fur Company by 1795.

The land where Manitowoc WI sits was a product of negotiations from the 1836 Treaty of the Cedars. It was chartered as a village in 1851, and then later incorporated as a city in 1870.

In the present day, Manitowoc WI offers several shopping options as well as a revived downtown area. You’ll find Holy Family College, the University of Wisconsin at Manitowoc, and Lakeshore Technical College for higher-education opportunities.

Over the years, notable residents have included Wisconsin State Representatives James Sibree Anderson, Garey Bies, Dale Bolle, and Benjamin W. Diederich, as well as comedian Charlie Berens, violinist Giulia Bustabo, and Cowboys’ offensive lineman Doug Free.

Things To Do in Manitowoc WI

Manitowoc WI offers a variety of options when you’re looking for things to do. A local favorite is the Wisconsin Maritime Museum. Here, you’ll find an interactive water station, submarine simulator, and even be able to tour a submarine.

To admire some of Manitowoc’s natural beauty, head to West of the Lake Gardens. Six acres along Lake Michigan include a rose garden, sunken garden, and many more flora on display. If you’re lucky, you may even be able to spot the monarch butterflies along their migration route.