New to N.E.W. – Exploring Green Bay through the eyes of a newbie

My family moved to Green Bay in mid-June and we have been staying with my in-laws since then (more on that later). I knew that to thrive this summer we would have to get out and about and begin exploring our new hometown. We moved from Madison and we were hopeful that Green Bay would have similar activities to offer – let me tell you, we have not been disappointed.  In this upcoming series, I am hoping to share a few of our new experiences with you.

Farmers’ Markets

One of my favorite weekend activities in Madison is to stroll around the Capital Square at the Dane county farmers’ market.  A couple of weeks after we arrived to Green Bay my mother-in-law suggested we attend the Wednesday farmers’ market on Broadway. I am used to the casual stroll around the state capital that ensues each Saturday.  Hence, I was not prepared for the beer-garden-like atmosphere of the Wednesday market. Now don’t get me wrong, I loved it. But I felt like it was more of a party atmosphere then my stroller pushing, babywearing-self was prepared for.  We did pick up a few produce items. However, we ended up not having dinner, as planned, due to the longish lines and eager stomach of our three year old.  I am sure my husband and I will revisit the Wednesday market when we have a babysitter.

We attended the Saturday morning market on South Washington Street a couple of weeks later. My husband and I found this market more welcoming for our family of four. My three year old, Elsie, enjoyed her own rosewater lemonade from Kavarna.   She was equally as excited to tackle an orange Push-Up from the ice cream truck before 10:00 am.  Elsie was able to dance to the small band that played in the parking lot near Green Bay Title.  We also enjoyed being on the east-side of the river to swing by the CityDeck splash pad.

We have also visited the small market in Howard on Thursday evenings (located near the library).  This market has about 15 stands and offers some produce, homemade goods, and eggs.  I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of options at the market located at Festival Foods on Lineville.  

Farm Stands and You-Pick Produce

One thing I have noticed about this area is the abundance of farm stands.  It seems there is a different one in each grocery store parking lot.  Because of this, these stands have been great to pick up produce that we go through quickly.

Earlier this summer we had the opportunity to pick our own strawberries.  We ended up going to Sunny Hill Farm in Suamico on two separate occasions.  My husband also showed me two other options in the Suamico area as well (Blaser’s Acres and Moder’s Gardens).  We are hoping to try them out next year for strawberry picking.

Elsie strawberry picking

Recently I found the website, Soilmate.  This site allows you to search and review local markets, restaurants, wineries and breweries.  It’s a great resource to find options to purchase local food and produce!

So, fill me in… what markets am I missing out on?  What is your favorite you-pick farm?  Please share in the comments!

Original post by Nicki on 8/14/16