Known as Wisconsin's Maritime Capital, Manitowoc sits where the Manitowoc River meets Lake Michigan, offering residents waterfront views and a connection to the area's maritime heritage. The Wisconsin Maritime Museum showcases this history, while the S.S. Badger car ferry provides a unique transportation link across Lake Michigan to Ludington, Michigan. The city experiences moderate temperatures thanks to Lake Michigan's influence, with milder winters and pleasant summers compared to inland locations.

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Manitowoc is $789 per month. Downtown Manitowoc features the historic Eighth Street district, where restored buildings house local shops and eateries. The 5.5-mile Mariners Trail provides a scenic pathway along the lakeshore, connecting Manitowoc to neighboring Two Rivers.

Interstate 43 offers convenient access to Green Bay (34 miles north) and Milwaukee (74 miles south). The Harbor Town Center serves as a primary shopping destination, while the downtown district provides additional retail and dining options. Cultural attractions include the Rahr-West Art Museum, located in a beautifully preserved Victorian mansion. Major employers in the area include Manitowoc Ice and Burger Boat Company, representing the city's strong manufacturing and maritime sectors.