48 Hours to Explore Manitowoc and Two Rivers

Your adventure starts here! Just outside of Two Rivers, Point Beach State Forest covers 3,000 acres, and all the sites are within walking distance of majestic Lake Michigan. This is the perfect park for strolling six miles of sandy shoreline and dunes or hiking a five-mile stretch of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. You’ll also be able to snap lots of photos of the iconic Rawley Point Lighthouse. 

For dinner, gather at the Courthouse Pub in Manitowoc. While this bistro does have a Wine Spectator-awarded wine list, there are also plenty of house-made microbrews on the menu. Dig into fresh seafood, salads and more and finish with a dessert made locally at Jenn’s Java. 

Start your day with a stop at a truly one-of-a-kind coffeehouse, located within one of the oldest independent department stores in the U.S.! Schroeder’s in Two Rivers opened in 1891 and is still owned by the same family. In 1997, the bank area was transformed into a charming cafe looking out at the adjacent park. Stop in to fuel up for the day and browse the store to travel back in time. 

For a Great Lake adventure you’ll never forget, go scuba diving or snorkeling around some of the area’s 37 known shipwrecks. Shipwreck Adventures in Two Rivers will supply all the equipment and training you need to explore these historic vessels. If you prefer to hang out above the water, they also offer canoe, kayak and paddleboard rentals for a fun day in the sun.

When you and your crew get hungry, stop in at Pop-Start Pizza in Two Rivers. Choose from Neapolitan pies with modern twists, like the “Notorious P.I.G.” made with Italian sausage, Prosciutto, local bacon, thyme and hot honey.  

Learn more about the area’s history through interactive exhibits, including a real steam engine, a restored World War II submarine and a 19th-century shipbuilding town at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum in Manitowoc. And for even more history brought to life, hop over to Two Rivers’ Rogers Street Fishing Village, where historic buildings and artifacts chronicle 170+ years of maritime operations. 

A trip to Manitowoc isn’t complete without visiting the city’s iconic lighthouse. Built in 1895, the Breakwater Lighthouse has stood guard over the city for over 130 years. You and your crew can walk the length of the pier for a perfect photo-op, and tours of the tower are available through the Manitowoc Maritime Museum each summer. 

For dinner, share a meal at a classic Wisconsin supper club: Green Street Food & Spirits. Indulge in tavern favorites such as steaks, seafood and barbecue ribs, all served with your choice of potato and soup or salad. The menu also stands out for its tasty vegetarian options. 

After enjoying a delicious diner breakfast at Bud Willman's, go exploring by bike! The Mariners Trail connects Manitowoc and Two Rivers with stunning shoreline views and a smooth paved path. Enjoy the 50 flower gardens bordering the route, each with a different theme and all maintained by volunteers, plus the sprinkling of permanent sculptures. Need to rent bikes? Visit Cool City Cycles or the Manitowoc Marina for easy adventuring.

You can’t leave Two Rivers without celebrating the birthplace of the ice cream Sundae! The Washington House Museum & Visitor Center includes an original 1890s saloon, multiple ballrooms and a working replica of Ed Berners' Ice Cream Parlor, where you can end your visit with a scoop (or three!). It’s the perfect way to wrap up your sweet getaway together.