Appleton
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Appleton's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, stroll through the historic downtown area, appreciating the beautiful architecture and charming storefronts. Don't forget to visit the Appleton History Museum to learn about the city's rich past.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes local ingredients and seasonal dishes. Post-lunch, wander through the Fox River Locks and take in the scenic views while learning about the area's industrial history. Consider renting a bike to explore the nearby trails that line the river.
As the sun sets, head to a popular local brewery for a tour and tasting session of their craft beers. Dine at a cozy restaurant with outdoor seating, where you can enjoy locally-sourced dishes while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the riverfront, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast at a café known for its healthy options, fueling up for a day in nature. Spend the early hours exploring the beautiful trails of Baird Creek Greenway, where you can observe local wildlife and enjoy the serene environment. Bring your camera to capture the stunning flora and fauna along your hike.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park amidst nature, taking in the fresh air and sounds of wildlife. After lunch, continue your exploration by participating in a guided nature walk or a birdwatching session with local experts. This immersive experience will enhance your understanding of the local ecosystem.
Wrap up your day with a visit to a nearby farm for a sunset tour, learning about sustainable farming practices. Enjoy a farm-to-fork dinner featuring seasonal produce and meats, with the sun setting behind the fields. Share your day's experiences with fellow diners, making new friends over delicious food.
Start your day with breakfast at a local diner, indulging in classic American fare to energize yourself. Afterward, head to the Trout Museum of Art to explore its diverse collection of contemporary and historical art. Engage with the exhibits and participate in any workshops available to deepen your understanding of the artistic process.
Enjoy lunch at a trendy eatery nearby, where you can sample innovative dishes inspired by global cuisines. Post-lunch, visit the nearby Fox Cities Performing Arts Center and browse through their upcoming events schedule, potentially catching a matinee performance. Take a leisurely walk around the area, appreciating public art installations and sculptures.
As evening approaches, attend a live performance at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, immersing yourself in local theater and music. After the show, dine at a restaurant known for its eclectic menu and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for unwinding. End your day with a nightcap at a stylish bar that features local craft cocktails.
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading out to High Cliff State Park for a day of adventure. Upon arrival, explore the numerous hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of Lake Winnebago and the surrounding landscapes. Make sure to take your time to soak in the natural beauty and capture stunning photos.
After a morning of hiking, enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch at one of the park's scenic spots, surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon engaging in outdoor activities such as fishing, birdwatching, or even kayaking if you're feeling adventurous. The park's unique rock formations and historical sites, like the Indian Mound, are also worth checking out.
As the sun sets, prepare to head back to Appleton, but not before stopping at a nearby restaurant known for its delicious lakefront dining. Relish the fresh catch of the day while enjoying the serene views of the sunset over the water. Conclude your day with a peaceful stroll along the lake shore, reflecting on your day of adventure.
Kick off your family day with breakfast at a family-friendly café, where kids can enjoy fun pancake shapes. Afterward, head to the Appleton Children's Museum, where interactive exhibits will engage your child's imagination and creativity. Participate in hands-on activities that encourage learning through play.
Break for lunch at a nearby pizzeria, where the whole family can enjoy delicious slices and salads. Return to the museum for more exploration, or take a short walk to the nearby Memorial Park for some outdoor fun, with playgrounds and open spaces perfect for kids. This mix of learning and play will ensure everyone has an enjoyable time.
For dinner, choose a casual dining spot that offers a kid-friendly menu with plenty of options for picky eaters. Afterward, head to a local ice cream shop for dessert, where the whole family can indulge in their favorite flavors. Share stories from the day and end your family adventure on a sweet note.
Start your day with breakfast at a quaint local café, enjoying a warm cup of coffee and fresh pastries. After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive along the Fox River Valley, stopping at historical landmarks and scenic vistas along the way. Visit the sites of notable historic events to enrich your understanding of the area’s past.
Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a riverside restaurant that offers stunning views of the Fox River. Post-lunch, take a guided boat tour along the river to learn about the history and ecology of the Fox River while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Be sure to keep an eye out for local wildlife that frequents the area.
Return to Appleton and enjoy dinner at a popular local steakhouse that prides itself on using locally-sourced ingredients. After dinner, visit a local theater for an evening performance that showcases regional talent, whether it's a play, concert, or dance recital. Reflect on the day's events while relaxing at a nearby coffee shop with a warm drink.
Begin your day with breakfast at a nearby café before heading to the Fox River Mall, one of the largest shopping destinations in the area. Spend your morning exploring the diverse range of shops, from popular national brands to unique local boutiques. Don't forget to stop by the mall's entertainment options, including arcades or mini-golf.
Break for lunch at one of the mall's many dining options, ranging from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants. After lunch, continue your shopping spree, taking advantage of any seasonal sales or exclusive offers. Consider visiting the mall's cinema for an afternoon movie to unwind.
As evening falls, enjoy a delicious dinner at a trendy restaurant within the mall, perhaps trying international cuisine or local favorites. After dining, take a leisurely stroll through the mall, enjoying the ambiance and any live entertainment that may be happening. Conclude your day with dessert at a sweet shop, indulging in treats that you can take home.
Start the day with breakfast at a renowned brunch spot, where you can sample their famous dishes made with local ingredients. Afterward, take a culinary class at a cooking school, learning to prepare a traditional dish from the region. Engaging with local chefs will deepen your appreciation for the area's culinary scene.
For lunch, enjoy a meal at a food truck gathering or local market, where you can taste a variety of dishes from different vendors. Spend the afternoon visiting local farms or markets, sampling fresh produce and artisanal products. Engage with farmers and vendors to learn about their practices and the significance of local sourcing.
As the day winds down, attend a special food and wine pairing event at a local winery or restaurant. Relish a multi-course dinner that highlights the flavors of the region, paired expertly with local wines. End your culinary adventure by sharing your favorite dishes and experiences with new friends you’ve made throughout the day.
Begin your day with a healthy breakfast at a local smoothie bar, where you can prepare for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation. After breakfast, head to a local spa for a variety of wellness treatments, including massages and facials designed to help you unwind. Take advantage of the calming atmosphere and expert therapists to truly relax.
After your spa treatments, enjoy a light lunch at a nearby health-focused café that offers fresh salads and wraps. Spend the afternoon participating in a yoga or meditation class at a local studio, focusing on mindfulness and inner peace. This practice will help you center yourself and enhance your overall wellness experience.
As the evening sets in, enjoy a soothing herbal tea at a cozy tea house, reflecting on your day of self-care. For dinner, choose a restaurant that specializes in organic and locally-sourced meals, providing a nourishing end to your wellness retreat. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk in a local park, allowing the tranquility to carry you into the night.