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

Lawrence University

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

706 E College Ave

View map

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

View map

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)

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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.

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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)

View map

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)

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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)

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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

View map

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.