Wilder Park - Green Bay, WI

Wilder Park is a neighborhood located in Green Bay, the oldest city in Wisconsin. Green Bay was first inhabited by Native Americans, followed by European settlers who arrived in the area and utilized the Fox River and nearby waterways to ship and receive goods. Green Bay's population grew to 1,923 by 1850 and the city was officially incorporated in 1854. By the 1900s, the waterways of Green Bay had grown into a major shipping area that continues to thrive today.

Green Bay houses several museums, including the National Railroad Museum and The Children's Museum of Green Bay. The National Railroad Museum features exhibits dedicated to the history of the American railroad system and hosts some special events for children, such as "The Great Bunny Train" and "A Day Out With Thomas the Tank Engine." The Children's Museum of Green Bay features multiple exhibits and provides educational courses for children.

Wilder Park residents enjoy having a multitude of restaurants and bars right along Main Street, conveniently located within minutes of the immediate community. From casual diners to fancy supper clubs and everything in between, this area gives locals plenty of options to choose from when it comes to great food, tasty beverages, and exciting night spots.

When locals are looking to enjoy made-from-scratch meals served in a cheerful and welcoming dining room, they head over to Julie's Cafe & Catering on Main Street. This lovely establishment provides gorgeous lakeside views and signature menu items, such as the fish melt sandwich, a winning combination of baked haddock, melted cheese and tartar sauce served in a grilled torpedo roll. If you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast, locals recommend the steak and cheese omelette, a three-egg masterpiece filled with cheese, rib eye steak, onions and mushrooms that's sure to start your day off right.

For a snazzy dinner in one of Green Bay's most beloved establishments, locals suggest Wally's Spot Supper Club, Green Bay's "Original Steak House." This classy, family-owned joint has been in business for over 65 years, serving old-time regulars and new fans alike. With white linen tablecloths and signature entrées such as pan-fried walleye sautéed in butter and Nova Scotia scallops, you're definitely in for a treat the moment you walk through Wally's doors.

Popular restaurant and lounge Kroll's East is also located on Main Street and serves up some of the best chili in Green Bay. Kroll's beloved chili recipe has been in the family since 1945, and the staff keeps their lips sealed, so don't even think about asking. In addition to the restaurant's out-of-this world chili, Kroll's patrons enjoy signature burgers, such as the quarter-pound cheeseburger bratwurst combo, an "only-in-Wisconsin" taste sensation consisting of a beef patty topped with bratwurst and smothered in cheese, onions, pickles, mustard, ketchup and Wisconsin butter.

For a fun night of beers, music, pool and video darts, head down to Nic's Bar and Grill on Main Street. This cozy Irish bar provides just what the doctor ordered on those cold Wisconsin winter nights, with everything from $5 pitchers on Sundays to widescreen televisions for optimal Packers viewing.

The Wilder Park neighborhood features multiple sidewalks and trails, making the area safe for walking and bike riding. Outside of the immediate neighborhood, the city of Green Bay provides over 25 miles of biking paths along the Fox River, as well as over 1,000 miles of bike paths and lanes throughout the entire state of Wisconsin. You can park safely on most residential streets, but be sure to observe the specific legal parking times posted on the neighborhood's parking enforcement signs.

Taxicabs do not normally circulate the neighborhood, but you can call ahead to schedule service through Green Bay Taxi or use your smartphone to set up a ride through Uber or Lyft. Residents and visitors who utilize public transportation can board Green Bay Transit buses at various stop locations in the neighborhood, including North Webster Avenue and Eastman Avenue. The Interstate 43 Freeway can be easily accessed via Manitowoc Road. Though Green Bay has a reputation for minimal gridlock, make sure to check traffic reports before heading out, especially during periods of heavy snow and rain.

Wilder Park residents enjoy living within walking distance or just a short drive away to several free parks within the community, provided by the Green Bay Parks, Forestry and Recreation Department. While the parks do not charge entrance fees, parties who wish to reserve shelter space or large areas for parties and gatherings must typically pay rental fees.

Fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers alike enjoy visiting Baird Creek Park on Beverly Road, as well as the Wildlife Sanctuary Park on East Shore Drive; both parks provide lengthy trails that are perfect for walking, jogging, and biking.

Dog owners appreciate the wide-open spaces throughout Perkins Park on North Fisk Street, as well as the dog-friendly walking trails and cross-country ski paths throughout the park. Elsewhere in the neighborhood, Preble Park on Skyline Boulevard features an ample playground, picnic facilities, ball fields and horseshoes, making it the perfect spot for families and large groups.

The Green Bay Parks, Forestry and Recreation Department hosts several annual events throughout the year, with one of the local favorites being Kids Day, which takes place annually at Green Bay's Bay Beach Amusement Park. Dedicated to the children of Green Bay, the event features games, free food, live music, swimming and amusement park rides. Additional events include the Ameriprise Outdoor Winter Ice Rink on Green Bay's Fox Riverfront and Laura Ingalls Wilder Days at Heritage Hill State Historic Park.

The cost of living in the Wilder Park community exceeds the cost of living in central Green Bay by approximately 8 percent, with an average monthly rental rate of $570 for a one-bedroom residence. Wilder Park residents pay between $2 and $6 for domestic and imported beers at local neighborhood bars, but prices can fluctuate depending on specific promotions and happy hour drink specials.

Bus fare into central Green Bay ranges between $1.50 and $3, with discounted rates for students and seniors; disabled American veterans with proper identification ride for free at all times. Gas prices in Wilder Park come in at approximately 3 percent lower than the national average.

Wilder Park residents have an abundance of options when it comes to affordable merchandise. While the community doesn't house any high-end stores, shoppers have several grocery stores, department stores, specialty stores and discount retailers to choose from, conveniently located on and around West Mason Street and Main Street.

For affordable fashions and housewares such as bedding and towels, local shoppers often visit Kohl's on Main Street and T.J. Maxx on West Mason Street. If you're searching for the perfect gift check out Oneida Trading Post on Packerland Drive, specializing in unique gifts, greeting cards and accessories. For the football fan in the house, the Packers Pro Shop on Lombardi Avenue features Packers clothing, accessories and more.

For groceries, cleaning supplies, prescriptions, and basic household items, locals commonly shop at Walmart Supercenter and Copps on Main Street. For locally-grown fruits and vegetables, as well as homemade crafts, baked items, and specialty teas and coffees, shoppers take a trip to downtown Green Bay and visit the Downtown Green Bay Farmers Market, open every Saturday between May 31st and October 25th.