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Howard is a village of roughly 19,000 residents situated directly northwest of Green Bay in Brown County, Wisconsin. It functions primarily as a residential suburb, offering a quieter, lower-cost alternative to staying in Green Bay proper while still providing easy access to everything the greater Green Bay area has to offer.
The community is bordered by the East River and contains a network of parks and trails that locals use year-round. While Howard lacks a dense downtown core of its own, its position on major road corridors makes it a practical staging point for visitors attending Packers games, exploring the Bay of Green Bay shoreline, or passing through northeastern Wisconsin.
Visitors should calibrate expectations accordingly: Howard is a place to sleep comfortably, eat well at accessible chain and local restaurants, and launch day trips rather than a destination with its own concentrated visitor district.
Before You Go
Visas and Entry
Howard, Wisconsin is a U.S. destination. For visa and entry requirements into the United States, check TravelerPulse's Visas section and consult the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for authoritative, current information.
Climate
Howard experiences a humid continental climate. Summers (June–August) are warm, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-60s to mid-80s°F (roughly 18–30°C). Winters are cold and snowy — temperatures regularly drop below freezing from December through February, and lake-effect snow from Lake Michigan is common. Spring and fall are transitional and can be unpredictable; pack layers.
What to Pack
- Winter visits: heavy coat, waterproof boots, gloves, and hat are essential
- Summer visits: light clothing, rain jacket, and insect repellent for trail use
- Packers game days: dress in layers regardless of season; Lambeau Field is an outdoor stadium
Getting There
By Air
The nearest commercial airport is Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) in Green Bay, approximately 10–15 minutes by car from central Howard. It serves regional and connecting flights; verify current carriers and routes directly with the airport or airline booking platforms before travel.
By Car
Howard sits along US Highway 41 and US Highway 141, making it straightforward to reach by car from Milwaukee (roughly 2 hours south), the Fox Cities/Appleton area (about 30 minutes southwest), or the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to the north. Driving is the most practical way to arrive and get around.
By Bus
Green Bay Metro Transit serves parts of the greater Green Bay area including Howard; verify current routes and schedules on the Green Bay Metro Transit website before your trip, as suburban coverage can be limited.
Getting Around
A personal vehicle or rental car is strongly recommended for getting around Howard and the broader Green Bay area. The community is suburban in layout, with destinations spread across arterial roads rather than concentrated in a walkable core.
Rideshare services (Uber and Lyft) operate in the Green Bay metro area, including Howard, though availability may be lower than in larger cities — confirm coverage before relying on it, especially late at night or on major event days when demand surges around Lambeau Field.
For those attending Packers games, note that game-day traffic around Lambeau Field can be significant. Many fans use private lots, shuttle services, or simply walk from nearby neighborhoods. Plan extra time on game days.
Things to See & Do
Outdoor Recreation
Howard maintains several community parks and access to the East River corridor. The broader Brown County park system offers additional options for hiking, cycling, and seasonal activities. Reforestation Camp, managed by Brown County, is a short drive away and provides trails through forested terrain.
Lambeau Field (Green Bay)
The home of the Green Bay Packers is approximately 10–15 minutes from Howard and is one of the most storied stadiums in American professional football. Even outside the NFL season, the Packers Hall of Fame and stadium tours attract visitors year-round. Verify tour availability and hours on the official Green Bay Packers website.
Bay of Green Bay
The western shore of Green Bay (the water body, not just the city) is accessible within a short drive, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and shoreline walks, particularly in warmer months.
Bay Beach Amusement Park and Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the city of Green Bay, Bay Beach Amusement Park is a low-cost, family-oriented municipal amusement park operating seasonally. Adjacent to it is the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary, a free nature center. Confirm seasonal hours locally before visiting.
Food & Drink
Howard's dining scene is predominantly found along its main commercial corridors and consists largely of national chains alongside some local and regional options. For a wider variety of independent restaurants, supper clubs, and breweries, the city of Green Bay — just minutes away — offers considerably more choice.
Wisconsin Food Culture
Visiting Wisconsin means encountering a few regional staples worth trying:
- Friday night fish fry: a deeply rooted Wisconsin tradition at supper clubs and taverns, typically featuring beer-battered cod or perch
- Cheese curds: fresh, locally produced dairy — look for them on menus or at local grocery stores
- Brandy Old Fashioned: the Wisconsin twist on the classic cocktail, made with brandy rather than whiskey, common at supper clubs
For craft beer, several breweries operate in the Green Bay metro area; verify current offerings locally.
Practical Information
Emergency Services
In any emergency in the United States, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance.
Health
No travel health precautions specific to Howard or Wisconsin are required for most visitors. Standard travel health advice applies: ensure routine vaccinations are up to date. Tick awareness is advisable if spending time in wooded or tall-grass areas, particularly in warmer months; check for ticks after outdoor activities.
Money
ATMs are widely available at banks and grocery stores along Howard's commercial corridors. Credit and debit cards are accepted virtually everywhere.
Connectivity
Major US mobile carriers provide strong coverage throughout the Howard and Green Bay area. Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and many dining establishments.
Sales Tax
Wisconsin has a state sales tax; Brown County adds a local increment. The combined rate applies to most purchases — verify the current combined rate locally.
Safety
Howard is a quiet residential suburb with a generally low crime profile typical of similar-sized Midwestern communities. Standard urban safety practices apply: be aware of your surroundings, secure valuables in your vehicle out of sight, and avoid leaving items unattended.
Winter driving in Wisconsin deserves specific attention. Roads can become hazardous quickly during snowstorms or freezing rain. If you are unfamiliar with driving in winter conditions, reduce speed, increase following distance, and check road condition reports through the Wisconsin Department of Transportation before traveling. Carry an emergency kit in your vehicle during winter months.
