Best Things to do in Appleton | Must-see attractions 2025

Lawrence University

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

706 E College Ave

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Lawrence University, a liberal arts college and conservatory in Appleton, Wisconsin, known for its cultural attractions, coeducational history, and diverse student body.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some events may require paid tickets.

Hearthstone Historic House Museum

Th-Sa 10:00-15:30; Su 13:00-15:30

Museum

625 W Prospect Ave

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Hearthstone Historic House Museum, built in 1882, is a historic home in Appleton, Wisconsin, renowned as the world's first hydroelectric-powered house.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Guided tours may have associated costs.

The History Museum at the Castle

Mo-Su 10:00-16:00; Tu off; PH off

Museum

330 E College Ave (at Drew St)

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The History Museum at the Castle in Appleton showcases local and national history with a focus on Houdini and Fox Valley's cultural significance.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

General admission: $7; seniors (65+): $5; students with ID: $5; free for children under 5.

Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Stadium

2400 N Casaloma Dr

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Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium in Appleton, WI, offers a premier sports venue with a commitment to enjoyable guest experiences.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Typically $10-$15 for adults; discounts available for children and seniors.

Paper Discovery Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

425 W Water St

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The Paper Discovery Center in Appleton, Wisconsin, is a hands-on museum dedicated to the paper-making process, featuring interactive exhibits in a restored building.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibits may require a paid ticket.

Trout Museum of Art

Tu,We 10:00-16:00; Th,Fr 10:00-19:00; Sa 10:00-17:00; Su 12:00-16:00; Jan 01 off; Nov Th[4] off; Dec 24-25 off; easter off

Museum

111 W College Ave Fox Cities Building for the Arts

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Trout Museum of Art in Appleton, Wisconsin features exhibitions of regional, national, and international visual art alongside educational programs and jazz performances.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Gordon Bubolz Nature Preserve

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Nature reserve

4815 N Lynndale Dr

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Gordon Bubolz Nature Preserve in Appleton offers unspoiled landscapes with trails for hiking and cross-country skiing, plus an educational center.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special programs may require a fee.

Erb Park

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

1800 North Morrison Street

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Erb Park in Appleton, Wisconsin, features seasonal outdoor swimming pools, sports courts, and an ice-skating rink, offering a vibrant recreational experience.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some activities require a fee during peak season.

Butterfly Gardens of Wisconsin

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Garden

N2550 State Hwy 47

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The Butterfly Gardens of Wisconsin in Appleton is home to a diverse array of butterfly species and offers educational programs in a serene garden environment.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Adults: $10, Children (ages 5-12): $5, Under 5: Free. Special discounts for families available.

Special Memories Zoo

10:00 AM–7:00 PM

Zoo

W7013 Spring Rd

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Special Memories Zoo is located just outside Appleton, US, featuring numerous animal exhibits and an engaging experience for families and visitors of all ages.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Adults: $10, Children (3-12): $5, Free for children under 3. Discounts available for groups.

Barlow Planetarium

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

1478 Midway Rd

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Barlow Planetarium in Appleton, WI, is a premier facility that features a 48-foot dome, immersive shows, and advanced 3-D technology for engaging star presentations.

Duration: 2 hours.

General Admission: $7, Seniors (60+): $5, Children (3-12): $5, Children under 3: Free.

Weis Earth Science Museum

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

1478 Midway Rd University of Wisconsin-Fox Valley

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Wisconsin's official mineralogy and geology museum, Weis Earth Science Museum, offers exhibits on the state's rich geological history and includes a planetarium.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Pierce Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

1035 West Prospect Avenue

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Pierce Park in Appleton, Wisconsin features recreational facilities including disc-golf, tennis courts, and spacious fields, ideal for outdoor activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No charges for park access.

Plamann Park

7:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

1375 E Broadway Dr

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Plamann Park in Appleton, WI features a 27-hole disc golf course, a lake beach, children's farm, sports fields, and picnic areas for outdoor activities.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. No fees for park entry; some special events may require a fee.

Richeson School of Art & Gallery

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

557 Marcella St

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Richeson School of Art & Gallery features 700+ original artworks, including a local collection and rotating exhibits, across 15,000 sq. ft. in Appleton, WI.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Outagamie County Pet Exercise Area

Open 24 hours

Park

2830 French Rd.

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Outagamie County Pet Exercise Area in Appleton features spacious, fenced areas for dogs to run off-leash, complete with agility equipment and waste disposal stations.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free access.

Colombus Club

10:00 AM–12:00 AM

Event hall

Appleton

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Colombus Club in Appleton, United States, is a historical social club founded in 1926, offering events, dining, and cultural experiences for members and guests.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Membership required. Special events may incur additional fees.

Reid Municipal Golf Course

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Golf Course

1100 E Fremont St

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Reid Municipal Golf Course in Appleton, Wisconsin, offers a scenic 18-hole layout with rich history and well-maintained greens.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Green fees vary; generally around $25 for adults, $15 for juniors.

Fox Cities Performing Arts Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

400 W College Ave

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The Fox Cities Performing Arts Center in Appleton, Wisconsin hosts national music acts, Broadway shows, and high-profile entertainment events.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Ticket prices vary by event. Many events feature tiered pricing for adults and children.

Chaska Golf Course

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Golf Course

5443-5549 Wisconsin Ave

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Chaska Golf Course in Appleton, United States offers 18 holes of championship golf, designed to enhance your golfing experience in a scenic setting.

Duration: 4 hours.

Daily greens fees vary by season; average adult fee is $30.

Garden Of The Fox Cities

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Garden

1313 E Witzke Blvd

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Garden Of The Fox Cities in Appleton, WI, is a 15-acre public botanical garden featuring diverse plant collections, walking paths, and seasonal exhibits.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may incur additional fees.

Hoover Park

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Amusement Park

600 E. Roeland Ave

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Hoover Park in Appleton, Wisconsin, is a serene green space featuring walking trails, gardens, and recreational facilities ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have a nominal fee.

Highview Park

7:00 AM–9:00 PM

Amusement Park

110 E Wayfarer Ln

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Highview Park in Appleton, Wisconsin offers green space for sports, play, and picnics, making it a community favorite for outdoor activities.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a fee.

City Center Plaza

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

116 N Appleton St

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City Center Plaza in Appleton, United States, features over 150 stores, a food court, and various entertainment options, making it a vital shopping destination in the region.

Duration: About 2-3 hours.

Free. Certain events and exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Northland Shopping Mall

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

900 W Northland Ave

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Northland Shopping Mall in Appleton, Wisconsin features key retailers like Festival Foods and Kohl's, offering a variety of shopping options in a single location.

Duration: Around 2-3 hours.

Free. No entry fee is required for shopping.

Kimberly Clark Theater

11:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

400 W College Ave (Fox Cities Performing Arts Center)

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Kimberly Clark Theater in Appleton is a premier venue for the performing arts, hosting a variety of shows, concerts, and community events in a historic setting.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours including a show.

Varies by event. Typical range: $10-$50, with discounts for students and seniors.

Outer Edge Stage

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Theater

303 N Oneida St (Franklin St)

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Outer Edge Stage in Appleton, Wisconsin is a versatile event venue hosting concerts, gatherings, and community events with a vibrant atmosphere.

Duration: 2-3 hours for events.

Typically $15-30 for events, discounts available for seniors and students.

Christ the Rock Community Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

W6254 HWY 10-114

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Christ the Rock Community Church in Appleton, United States, is a vibrant community hub offering spiritual growth and outreach programs for all ages.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Appleton Alliance Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

2693 W Grand Chute Blvd

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Appleton Alliance Church in Appleton, United States is a community-centered church, focusing on worship, community service, and educational programs for all ages.

Duration: 1-2 hours for services or events.

Free. All regular services and events do not require admission fees.

Crossroads Foursquare Church

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

Menasha

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Crossroads Foursquare Church in Appleton emphasizes community and outreach programs while providing a welcoming environment for worship and fellowship.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Certain events may require a registration fee.

Apostolic Truth Church

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

kesting court

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Apostolic Truth Church in Appleton, WI, is a vibrant place of worship known for its community engagement and contemporary services.

Duration: 1-2 hours for a service.

Free. Donations are encouraged during services.

Valley Baptist Church

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

3600 N Chippewa St

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Valley Baptist Church in Appleton, United States, serves as a beacon of faith within the community, offering worship services and various outreach programs.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are accepted to support community programs.

Fox Valley Christian Fellowship

6:30 PM–8:30 PM

Church

1200 W Kimberly Ave

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Fox Valley Christian Fellowship in Appleton, USA, fosters community worship with a focus on spiritual growth, education, and outreach programs for all ages.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours for services or events.

Free access to worship services and community events.

Body By Lipo

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Spa Center

4780 Integrity Way

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Body By Lipo in Appleton, USA offers advanced liposuction and body contouring services with a focus on aesthetics and personalized care.

Consultation visit duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Consultation fee varies; prices for procedures are specified during initial consultations.

Radisson Paper Valley Courtyard

24 hours

Event hall

Appleton

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Radisson Paper Valley Courtyard in Appleton offers modern accommodations and convenient access to local attractions, making it a great stay for visitors to the region.

Duration: 1-3 nights recommended.

Paid. Room rates vary by season and booking platform.

Outagamie County Justice Center

8:00 AM–4:30 PM

Public Building

320 S Walnut St (Fourth Street)

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The Outagamie County Justice Center in Appleton, WI, functions as the primary judicial facility for Outagamie County, housing courts and related services.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free access to public spaces. Court sessions are open to the public but may have restrictions.

Newberry Tracks

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Train Station

Appleton

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Newberry Tracks in Appleton, WI, features extensive wooded trails and a rich history of local wildlife. A prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Special guided tours may incur a fee.

Maxair

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Airport

W6400 Challenger Dr

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Maxair in Appleton, USA, offers an immersive air experience with flight simulators, hang gliding, and informative aviation exhibits for aviation enthusiasts and families.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Adults: $15, Children (6-12): $10, Family Pass: $40.

james perry hall

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

Menasha

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James Perry Hall in Appleton, WI, offers historic architecture and cultural significance, serving as a landmark for education and community events.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Special events may have a fee.

Attic Theater

12:00 PM–8:00 PM

Event hall

420 E College Ave

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Attic Theater in Appleton, USA, is a historic venue offering diverse performances, known for its unique architecture and cultural contributions.

Duration: 2-3 hours is recommended for most performances.

Varies by show. Typically ranges from $10 to $30. Some events may be free.

Grace Christian

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Lindbergh

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Grace Christian in Appleton, United States, is a community-focused church known for its welcoming environment and diverse activities for all ages.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have a nominal fee.

St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Parish

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

N2385 Municipal Dr

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St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Parish in Appleton, WI, is a historic Catholic church established in 1868 known for its unique architecture and vibrant community.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for community support.

First United Methodist Church Appleton

9:00 AM–3:00 PM

Church

325 E Franklin St

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First United Methodist Church Appleton features stunning architecture and a vibrant community. It is known for its historical significance in Appleton, Wisconsin.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome for special events.

Fox Valley Unitarian Universalist Fellowship

Varies based on events

Church

2600 Philip Ln

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Fox Valley Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Appleton offers spiritual growth, social justice initiatives, and community events in an inviting setting.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for certain events.

Appleton Memorial Park

Dawn-Dusk

Park

1313 E Witzke Blvd

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Appleton Memorial Park is a large park in Appleton, Wisconsin. It features sports fields for baseball and soccer, along with a pavilion and picnic area.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Telulah Park

Dawn-Dusk

Park

1300 E Newberry St

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Telulah Park is a family-friendly park in Appleton, Wisconsin. It features picnic tables, walking and biking trails, and a 9-hole disc golf course that offers fun for all ages.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

City Park

Dawn-Dusk

Amusement Park

500 E. Franklin Street (North)

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City Park is a green space in Appleton, Wisconsin. It offers picnic areas, a playground, and tennis courts for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Building for Kids

10:00 AM-5:00 PM

Museum

100 W College Ave

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Building for Kids is a children's museum in Appleton that focuses on play-based learning. It offers hands-on exhibits and activities that inspire curiosity and help kids learn through play.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Lutz Park

7:00 AM-9:00 PM

Park

1320 S Lutz Dr

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Lutz Park is a peaceful park in Appleton, Wisconsin. It offers a playground, picnic areas with a gazebo, and access to the river for kayaking and canoeing.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free