Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center | Green Bay

The Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center, located near Ashland, Wisconsin, serves as a premier gateway to the natural, cultural, and historical richness of the Lake Superior region. Named after former U.S. Congressman David R. Obey, the center provides visitors with an immersive educational experience focused on the unique ecosystems, geology, history, and people of northern Wisconsin and the surrounding areas.

Location and Setting

Situated on County Highway G just west of Ashland, the center occupies a modern, thoughtfully designed facility that harmonizes with the surrounding natural landscape. The location offers easy access for travelers exploring the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and the shores of Lake Superior, making it an ideal starting point for both educational visits and outdoor adventures.

Exhibits and Attractions

The core of the visitor center is its extensive exhibit hall, which features a variety of interactive and interpretive displays. These exhibits trace the region’s development from the Ice Age through pre-Columbian times, the fur trade era, early mining and logging industries, and into contemporary conservation efforts.

A prominent feature is a detailed replica of a historic fur trade post and a deep-shaft iron mine, offering visitors a tactile sense of the area’s economic and cultural history. The Community of Life mural, created in 2013, artistically portrays the diverse inhabitants of the Lake Superior region, including Native American communities, early settlers, and modern outdoor enthusiasts, reflecting the ongoing relationship between people and the environment.

The center also houses an art gallery with rotating exhibits, showcasing works that highlight regional culture, natural beauty, and scientific themes. Additionally, the Wisconsin Historical Society maintains archives on-site, accessible by appointment, for researchers and visitors interested in delving deeper into local history.

Observation Tower and Outdoor Features

One of the center’s standout attractions is its five-story observation tower, which provides sweeping 360-degree views of Chequamegon Bay, the Apostle Islands, and the surrounding forests. This vantage point allows visitors to appreciate the vastness and diversity of the northern Great Lakes landscape.

Outside, the center offers a network of trails, including the 0.75-mile Boardwalk Trail. This accessible path winds through ecologically rich environments such as black ash swamps, sedge meadows, and cedar-tamarack forests, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature study. The Children’s Nature Discovery Area nearby invites young visitors to engage hands-on with the natural world, featuring interactive exhibits and safe places to explore local wetlands and habitats.

Educational Programs and Services

The Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center is committed to environmental education and stewardship. It hosts a variety of programs tailored to different audiences, including children’s forest school sessions that focus on ecology, native plants, and conservation principles. Group visits and school programs can be arranged to provide customized educational experiences that foster an appreciation for the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

The center also functions as a resource hub, offering information on local trails, parks, recreational opportunities, and cultural events, helping visitors plan their explorations in the area.

Facilities and Visitor Information

Open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the center welcomes visitors year-round except for certain federal holidays. Admission is free, reflecting its mission to provide accessible education and enjoyment to the public.

The facility includes a gift shop named “Spirit of the North,” featuring educational materials, local crafts, and souvenirs that celebrate the region’s identity. Restrooms, parking, and accessibility features are well maintained to accommodate all visitors.

Summary

The Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center offers a comprehensive and engaging introduction to one of Wisconsin’s most ecologically and culturally significant regions. Combining immersive exhibits, panoramic views, outdoor trails, and educational programming, it provides a meaningful experience for visitors of all ages interested in understanding and appreciating the landscapes and communities of the northern Great Lakes area.