Appleton, Wisconsin, USA
From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions and delicious dining options, here's a list to help you make the most of your time in Appleton:
Visit the History Museum at the Castle: Explore the history of the Fox Valley region through engaging exhibits and displays. This museum is home to the famous Houdini exhibit, showcasing the life and magic of the great escape artist Harry Houdini, who called Appleton home.
Stroll through Lawrence University: This liberal arts college offers a beautiful campus with a lovely riverfront view. Take a leisurely walk or attend one of their many cultural events or concerts.
Fox River Mall: Shop 'til you drop at Fox River Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in Wisconsin. It's packed with a wide range of stores, dining options, and entertainment choices.
Explore the Paper Discovery Center: Appleton has deep roots in the paper industry, and this interactive museum provides insight into the history and science of papermaking. You can even make your own paper!
Hearthstone Historic House Museum: Visit this Victorian-era mansion, which was the first residence in the world to be powered by a hydroelectric central station using the Edison system. Learn about the history of electricity and early innovation.
Telulah Park: Enjoy some outdoor recreation at Telulah Park, which boasts walking trails, picnic areas, and a beautiful pond for fishing and bird watching. It's an ideal spot for a family outing or a relaxing day in nature.
High Cliff State Park: Just a short drive from Appleton, High Cliff State Park offers hiking trails, camping sites, and stunning views of Lake Winnebago. Don't forget to visit the impressive limestone cliff, the park's namesake.
Fox Cities Performing Arts Center: Catch a live performance at this state-of-the-art venue. From Broadway shows to concerts and ballets, there's always something entertaining happening here.
Fox River Trolley Museum: Take a ride on a vintage trolley car and experience transportation from a bygone era. The museum offers historical insights into the region's transportation history.
Lawe Street Landing: This riverfront area is perfect for a leisurely walk, jog, or bike ride. You can also enjoy scenic views of the river and downtown Appleton.
EAA Aviation Museum: Located in nearby Oshkosh, the EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) museum is a fascinating place for aviation enthusiasts. Explore a wide variety of aircraft, from historic to cutting-edge.
Enjoy a Meal at a Supper Club: Wisconsin is known for its supper clubs, and Appleton has some excellent ones. These traditional dining establishments offer hearty meals, often with a side of live music and a friendly atmosphere.
Fox River Brewing Company: If you're a fan of craft beer, make sure to visit this local brewery. They have a fantastic selection of brews and a tasty menu to complement your drinks.
Fox Cities Stadium: Catch a baseball game at this minor league stadium, home to the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers. It's a fun way to spend a summer evening with family or friends.
Gordon Bubolz Nature Preserve: Explore the serene beauty of this 725-acre nature preserve. It's a great place for hiking, wildlife watching, and even snowshoeing in the winter.
Fox River Antique Mall: If you're into antiques and vintage finds, you'll have a blast browsing through this massive antique mall. You might stumble upon unique treasures from the past.
Attend a Farmer's Market: Appleton hosts several farmer's markets during the warmer months. They are a great place to shop for fresh, local produce and artisanal products.
Houdini Plaza: Named after the famous magician, this downtown plaza is a central gathering spot for events, live music, and local festivals. Check out the schedule to see what's happening during your visit.
Fox River Trail: This scenic trail follows the Fox River and is perfect for biking, walking, or running. It's a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area.
Downtown Appleton: Take a leisurely stroll through the historic downtown area. You'll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore. The downtown often hosts events and festivals, so check the calendar for any happenings during your visit.
Appleton Beer Factory: Another great spot for craft beer enthusiasts, this brewery offers a cozy atmosphere and a rotating selection of brews. Pair your beer with some delicious pub-style food.
Barlow Planetarium: Located at the University of Wisconsin-Fox Valley, the Barlow Planetarium offers fascinating astronomy shows and educational programs for all ages. It's a unique and educational experience.
Barrel 41 Brewing Co.: This local brewery is known for its creative and flavorful beers. It's a great place to relax and unwind with friends or family.
Eagle Flats Disc Golf Course: If you enjoy disc golf, check out this scenic course located in nearby Kaukauna. It's a fun and challenging outdoor activity.
Winter Sports: In the winter, you can enjoy activities like ice skating, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing at various parks and trails in the area. If you're up for some downhill skiing or snowboarding, nearby ski resorts like Nordic Mountain and Granite Peak are worth a visit.
Explore Nearby Cities: Appleton is centrally located in the Fox Valley, making it easy to explore neighboring cities like Neenah, Menasha, and Oshkosh, each with its own unique attractions and charm.
Visit Appleton, Wisconsin, USA
Discover the people who lived there, the places they visited and the stories they shared.