Affordable Destination for Families

With the popularity of over the park, expensive amusement parks, a lot of families are looking for a more affordable option that is low-key, but just as much fun for the kids. The Bay Beach Amusement Park in Green Bay may be this option. The park began in 1892 when a man named Mitchell Nejedlo fell in love with the area and purchased a strip of land nearby. He created a private beach resort with he named Bay View Beach. There, he built a dance hall and bathhouse, and his intention was to sell summer residences to visitors. Getting to Bay View Beach was tough, and the area, like much of Wisconsin, suffered from a mosquito problem. This hindered his efforts to attract visitors and buyers. In 1902, Nejedlo teamed up with a boat captain and they bought a 400 passenger boat that would transport people from the Walnut Street Bridge to the beach.

The destination grew in popularity and was visited by swimmers and bathhouse visitors. People would actually rent swimsuits for a dime, wanting so badly to participate in the seashore fun. In 1901, the first roller coaster was built. It was replaced in 1929, but was later dismantled in the 1930's, due to insurance issues. It was shortly after the turn of the century that the beach began to look more like an amusement park than just a swimming destination. Modeling the popularity of Coney Island in New York, the park included Shoot-the-Chutes, a Merry-Go-Round, and concessions. The park's ownership changed hands a few times, and they experienced numerous obstacles on their way to what they are today. The dance halls were the most popular feature of the park for a period and it became a destination for Green Bay teens during the 1930's and 1940's.

Today, the park sits on over 40 acres of land and includes 16 rides, seven shelters, restrooms, gaming areas, and places to picnic. The City of Green Bay maintains the park and prides itself on keeping it a popular destination for children, teens, and adults. Rides include boats, the Granny Bugs, the Ladybugs, Jeeps, Racecars, and the Skyfighter for the littlest members of your group. Old kids and adults can enjoy more thrilling rides like slides, bumper cars, the helicopter, the Ferris wheel, the Scrambler, a Merry Go Round, the Tilt a Whirl, and plenty more. There are live pony rides available for children who would like to enjoy a ride on a horse. The shelter, picnic area, and dance hall are all available for rental.

A popular destination in the park after a long day of thrill rides is the concession stand. Offering cotton candy, popcorn, slushies, nachos, soda, and ice cream, it is an affordable way to enjoy a snack. The main pavilion offers more food choices including more substantial treats like brats, hamburgers, hot dogs, and fries. The building provides a great back drop for your meal.

What families love most about Bay Beach is its affordability. Parking and admission are both free, and tickets are available on the per ride basis. Tickets cost a quarter, and most rides require only one or two tickets. Bay Beach is a great place for the whole family.