America's "Little Belgium" Is A Feast For The Senses
If you鈥檙e looking for the perfect 鈥渄upe鈥� travel opportunity, the Midwest鈥檚 鈥淟ittle Belgium鈥� is for you. Located in Door County, Wisconsin, and only a 30 minute drive northeast of Green Bay, the small town of Brussels, Wisconsin offers visitors a unique taste of Europe without you ever having to leave the United States.
Dubbed Little Belgium for being home to the largest Belgian-American community in the country, Brussel鈥檚 European roots are deeply intertwined with its Midwestern charm. The town鈥檚 history stretches back to the 1850s when the first Belgian immigrants settled in this fertile region, bringing with them the customs, language, and traditions that continue to shape local culture.
Today, Brussels鈥� rich European heritage is a living tapestry that鈥檚 on display through community events, local landmarks and attractions. It鈥檚 also very evident in the lifestyles of its nearly 1,200, the majority of them direct descendants of those first immigrants from Belgium.
A Dash of Old Belgium
Pay a visit to Brussels and you鈥檒l immediately be struck by the town鈥檚 warmth and authenticity. This charming community not only offers a slower pace of life that鈥檚 foreign to larger destinations on the Great Lakes, but it鈥檚 also brimming with opportunities for exploration and fun. From historical landmarks to annual festivals that celebrate a Belgian heritage that鈥檚 as old as the 鈥淏adger State鈥� itself, Brussels, WI, is the perfect escape for travelers looking for something a little different in the Midwest.
History buffs in particular are spoiled for choice as the town features several key sites that showcase its origins and European influence. One of them is the Belgian Heritage Center, a must-visit for those interested in the stories of the original settlers. Set in an old church, the center provides an immersive look into the history of Belgian migration and how these early settlers transformed the landscape of Door County.
The center also hosts special exhibits and events throughout the year, further deepening understanding of the town鈥檚 past and its role in the development of the Midwest and Wisconsin in particular. In addition to programs such as traditional crafts and Christmas celebrations, groups can book Belgian heritage presentations as well as tastings of traditional Belgian foods (advance bookings required).
Events and Traditions Celebrate Belgian Roots
One of Brussels鈥� most interesting aspects is its annual celebrations of Belgian traditions that draw visitors from across the state to experience a slice of 鈥淥ld Europe鈥� in the heart of America.
The Brussels Kermiss Festival, held every fall, is one of the best. A traditional Belgian harvest festival that has been celebrated here for over a century, this must-attend event brings together locals and visitors alike for a fun weekend of food, music, and dancing. Expect to find authentic Belgian dishes like booyah, a hearty stew, and a wide variety of local beers reflecting Door County鈥檚 brewing heritage, including those made by the One Barrel Brewing Company.
Another cultural highlight is the town鈥檚 Belgian Days Festival. Held each summer in July, this much anticipated event celebrates everything Belgian-American, from traditional polka music to culinary treats. The festival offers fun for the whole family, with parades, games, and performances that showcase the local culture.
Tourist Sites and Natural Beauty
Brussels is also home to several historic churches built by the early Belgian settlers. One of the best examples is the St. Francis & St Mary Catholic Church, an attractive red-brick building located just a mile outside of town that still serves a central role in the community.
For those who appreciate the outdoors, Brussels offers ample opportunities to explore the region鈥檚 natural surroundings. In-town green spaces include Brussels Park with 32 acres to spread out and have fun on, as well as the nearby Gardner Swamp State Wildlife Area with its trails and birdwatching.
Sugar Creek County Park is another great destination, especially for those wanting to dip their toes in Lake Michigan鈥檚 Green Bay. Around 40-acres of unspoiled lakeshore are available to explore here, including an impressive 1,050 feet of water frontage. Hiking, paddling, fishing, or simply kicking back and enjoying the great views are all fun things to do here, too.
Commercial Appeal with a European Twist
Brussels certainly caters to tourists eager to experience a destination that鈥檚 definitely different from the usual Midwestern fare. Its Belgian roots make it an appealing 鈥渄upe鈥� travel spot for those wanting to sample a little of Europe without ever having to leave the country.
It鈥檚 an experience that鈥檚 even better if you can include a local eatery or two in your Brussels travel itinerary. A visit to the Belgian Delight is a no-brainer when it comes to breakfast dining, with Belgian waffles (naturally) a must-try. And the Brussels Countryside Diner has even been featured on the Travel Channel for its tansy Belgian Trippe, a hot dog-like affair made with pork sausage and cabbage. Their famous Belgian Booyah, a hearty stew that鈥檚 especially popular in the colder months, is a must-try, too.
You can even buy these and other delicious Belgian treats at Marchant鈥檚 Foods. This popular deli also has an in-house bakery serving up delicious European pastries and, yes, Belgian pies.
The Final Word
Brussels, Wisconsin, is so much more than just another small town in the heart of America鈥檚 Midwest. The perfect 鈥渄upe鈥� day trip or getaway when exploring the Green Bay and Great Lakes regions, the town鈥檚 rich Belgian-American heritage, coupled with its scenic landscapes and cultural events, make it a standout destination for those seeking a unique travel experience. Whether you鈥檙e visiting for the food, the festivals, or the history, Brussels provides a welcoming atmosphere and an authentic connection to both its European past and its Midwestern present.
