On the western shore of Lake Michigan lies Manitowoc, a community of roughly 35,000 and rich in maritime history. Manitowoc is the lone Wisconsin port for the S.S. Badger carferry, which sails across Lake Michigan from Ludington, Michigan every May-October. Manitowoc was ranked #2 by Forbes Magazine for "Best Small Cities to Raise a Family."

HISTORY
Manitowoc was officially founded in 1836 with shipbuilding playing a major role in its growth. Sailing ships, schooners, clippers, and various other pleasure crafts were manufactured in Manitowoc, and even today it is known for its luxury yachts. The early Native Americans referred to Manitowoc as "Home of the Good Spirit" because of its beautiful rivers and harbors.

MUSEUMS
The Rahr-West Art Museum was named by USA Today as one of the "Top 10 Great Places to See Art in Smaller Cities." It is housed inside a historic Victorian mansion, and delights visitors with work by such masters as Picasso and Warhol. It's definitely a "must-see" when visiting Manitowoc. The Wisconsin Maritime Museum takes you into a world of ships and anything relating to life on the Great Lakes. See an authentic WWII submarine, visit a model ship gallery, and try a sport fishing simulator. The exhibits and programs at the museum are entertaining and educational for all.

MALTING
The Manitowoc Malting Plant does not produce one drop of beer, but since 1847 (except for the Prohibition years), it has been in the business of processing barley into malt, which determines a beer's flavor and color. Purchased by Anheuser-Busch in 1962, the malt is shipped out by train to six of their plants, where Budweiser is bottled. In essence, it may be bottled elsewhere, but the heart and soul of the beer begins in Manitowoc.

Visit DestinationManitowoc.com, Manitowoc.org or Manitowoc Chamber of Commerce for more information about Manitowoc.

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COMMUNITIES NEAR MANITOWOC
It's a very short drive between the many charming communities in our area, including Door County, Green Bay and the Wisconsin Dells.

LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORIES
Our Manitowoc visitors business sections include information for Camping, Restaurants, Shopping, Things to Do, Lodging, and more.