As we wind down from the holiday season, you may be looking for a quiet, cozy weekend away. We had the privilege of staying at the Ennis Inn in De Pere, Wisconsin, last winter and really enjoyed our stay! I had previously stayed at the St. Brendan’s Inn (owned by the same management company) in downtown Green Bay and shared on social media about my visit there. Then, we were offered a night’s stay at the Ennis Inn in exchange for reviewing and sharing content about our experience. This guide for a cozy weekend in De Pere, Wisconsin, will include things to do, places to shop, and restaurants to check out. Each recommendation is located within walking distance of the Ennis Inn on the east side of De Pere, WI.
Stay at the Ennis Inn & Pub
The Ennis Inn is located on the Fox River in a beautiful historic building. The hotel is home to an Irish pub with a patio that boasts scenic river views. The Ennis Inn is perfectly located for a scenic getaway, while still being close to local shops and restaurants. We found that even in the cold, harsh winter, we still enjoyed walking short distances to each local business. I was most impressed with the history of the building and its beautifully cozy hotel lobby. We received good service during our stay at the inn and were able to get a good night’s rest.
Building History
The building used to be home to the Osen Milling Company that produced wholesale feed and seed. Since it was a mill, water from the river was utilized, which means the river runs right underneath part of the building. From the lobby of the hotel, you can see the arches that remain from the mill. I highly recommend stopping down to take a look at the brickwork. I found it fascinating! There are also old photos and feed bags hanging on one of the walls to pay homage to the building’s history. Prior to visiting, I had no idea about the history of the building and was able to get all of this information from the very welcoming front desk worker.
Our Room & Breakfast Included
We stayed in the Master King Suite that offers free internet, a desk to work at, a seating area, a full bathtub, and a cozy weekend essential: a fireplace! The fireplace was so nice and really helped us to warm up after walking outside throughout the day. Complimentary breakfast comes with every stay and we found the breakfast options to be very nice. As our visit was during covid, the breakfast had changed from custom order omelets to prepared quiche that could be heated up individually. I enjoyed a veggie quiche, toast, and coffee with Irish cream. There were also local bakery items available.
The Gift of Gab
While in the breakfast room, we were able to chat and connect with a couple who were celebrating their anniversary. We talked for quite a while about their love for all 5 Irish inns located throughout Wisconsin that they visit every year. We were also able to bond over our shared love for travel. I really enjoyed hearing about their trip over to Ireland a few years previously. After chatting with this couple, I realized that this was exactly the experience I would have in Irish Inns across the world. Each one offers the famous Irish hospitality and the gift of gab.
Where to Eat in De Pere, WI
There are two cafes within walking distance including Alpha Delights and Tazza Italian Coffee Co. Alpha Delights is a European bakery and one of my favorite cafes in the area. They serve coffee, baked goods, and light meals. Tazza Italian Coffee Co recently opened this location and offers latte sampler boards so you can try multiple flavors and combinations.
For lunch, I recommend La Nostra Strada Pizzeria. The restaurant interior is beautifully done and you can order thick crust pizza by the slice. The flavor combinations are authentically Italian and very similar to the toppings I’ve ordered while traveling in Italy.
For dinner, we ate at the Ennis Irish Pub, connected to the hotel. I always enjoy eating at Irish pubs, because I know the food will be hearty and delicious. The restaurant was very busy so we did wait a while for our food but it was tasty when it came out. I ordered the fish and chips (an Irish staple) and enjoyed the crispy fries, coleslaw, and salty cod. The Ennis Pub has an extensive food menu and also offers Irish cocktails and liquors.
Places to Shop in De Pere, WI
Just a few moments away from the Inn, you’ll find boutiques, a vintage shop, and a very popular candy store. Hey Daisy, Market Street Boutique, and Smithmaker Artisan Co are some of my favorite boutiques in the area. Stop in Market Street Boutique and say hi to Maggie, who would love to help you find your next favorite outfit. Smithmaker Artisan Co sells a variety of Wisconsin-inspired merchandise and hand-crafted natural soaps(pictured below). Hey Daisy sells trendy, affordable clothing, accessories, and thoughtful gifts.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Seroogy’s is the place to go! On our visit, I got chocolate-covered potato chips and a variety of chocolate truffles to enjoy over the weekend. Locals Only Vintage is just down the street and offers unique, eclectic vintage pieces.
Things to Do in De Pere, WI
If you’re looking for activities to do in the area, I would suggest catching a movie at the Get Reel De Pere Cinema, seeking out street art murals, or painting at Paintin’ Pottery. Gnomes, dishes, and planters are just some of the items available to paint at Paintin’ Pottery. We painted a small pot for succulents and a small bowl. We had a lot of fun painting and really enjoyed our time there.
The Get Reel Cinema provides dinner and a movie! The cinema offers food and drinks with delivery right to your table. For showtimes at the Get Reel Cinema, click here. If you’re in the mood for wandering, I recommend seeking out the street art in the area. There are 5 murals within walking distance of the Ennis Inn. Can you find them all?
I hope you’ve enjoyed this cozy weekend guide to De Pere, Wisconsin. De Pere has so many great small businesses to support and I hope I’ve helped you to find some new favorite shops and restaurants. Have you visited here before? Tell me about your experience in the comments below!
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