Things To Do
in Neenah

Neenah sits along the Fox River in Wisconsin's Fox Cities, offering a friendly, family-friendly atmosphere with riverfront scenery. The city pairs picturesque water views with a tight-knit community of shops, cafes, and parks. Outdoor enthusiasts will find easy access to trails and water activities, while cultural events bring a lively calendar year-round.

It’s a compact, walkable base for exploring the region, with easy access to nearby Appleton and Oshkosh.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Parks
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing stroll through Neenah's beautiful Riverside Park. The peaceful river views and lush greenery make for a perfect morning atmosphere. Enjoy a cup of coffee from a local café as you embrace the serene surroundings.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the nearby Mount Hope Cemetery, known for its picturesque landscape and historic monuments. Take a leisurely walk, soaking in the tranquility and rich history of the site. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy under the shade of sprawling trees.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the Neenah Community Band concert if it aligns with your visit. The energy of live music combined with the warm evening air creates a vibrant atmosphere. Afterward, wrap up the day with dinner at a local restaurant, indulging in some classic Wisconsin cheese curds.

day 2
Art and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day at the Bergstrom-Mahler Museum of Glass, where you can marvel at stunning glass art exhibits. Participating in a morning workshop could offer a unique glimpse into the art of glassblowing. The museum's setting on the shores of Lake Winnebago adds to the inspiration.

afternoon
:

After absorbing the art, take a short walk to downtown Neenah for a delightful lunch at one of the cozy eateries. Explore local shops and boutiques, appreciating the small-town charm and unique finds. Don’t forget to grab a handcrafted souvenir to remember your visit.

evening
:

Wrap up your cultural day with a theater performance at The Fox Cities Performing Arts Center. The lively performances feature regional talents and can be quite a treat. Have a late dinner in the vicinity, savoring the flavors of local cuisine.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-15
🥤Coffee or latte$3-5
🏠1 bedroom apartment (city centre) per month$900-1300
🚗Gasoline (per gallon)$3-4
💻Internet (monthly)$40-70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Compact riverfront town with easy access to outdoor activities
  • Family-friendly with walkable downtown and parks
  • Friendly locals and seasonal markets
  • Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
  • Winter travel can be challenging due to snow and cold

Places to Visit in Neenah

Visit one of these nice places.

Fox River Waterfront at Riverside Park

Golden hour reflections on the water with the river’s flow and subtle bridges in the background.

Downtown Historic District on Main Street

Brick storefronts, classic architectural details, and charming street corners ideal for urban photography.

Neenah Public Library architectural facade

A mix of mid-century modern style and timeless details perfect for exterior shots.

Sunset overlook along the riverfront

Wide skies, silhouettes of trees, and boats at sunset create serene compositions.

Culinary Guide

Food in Neenah

Neenah’s cuisine centers on classic Wisconsin fare, seasonal produce, and comforting riverfront dining. Expect hearty portions, friendly service, and options that cater to families and hikers alike.

Neenah Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cheese Curds

Fresh squeaky cheddar bites, typically enjoyed as a snack or starter at local pubs and casual eateries.

Must-Try!

Friday Fish Fry

Crispy battered fish (often walleye or haddock) served with fries, coleslaw, and lemon—classic Wisconsin Friday dining.

Bratwurst with Sauerkraut

Grilled bratwurst with tangy sauerkraut and mustard, a common menu item at casual spots and beer halls.

Kringle (bakery pastry)

Buttery Danish pastry routinely available in local bakeries; a popular pastry choice with coffee.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Neenah Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and locally made crafts near the riverfront.

Downtown street stalls and seasonal markets

Pop-up stalls during festivals with local snacks, coffee, and treats along Main Street.

Climate Guide

Weather

Neenah experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing with regular snowfall, while summers are generally warm to hot with humidity. Spring and fall bring milder weather and vivid seasonal transitions, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Pack layers and be prepared for rapid weather changes, especially near the river and lake regions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting and Casual Attire

Friendly, informal greetings are common; casual attire is typical for most eateries and venues.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety tips include staying aware near water, driving cautiously in winter conditions, and locking vehicles in downtown areas. Emergency numbers in the U.S. are 911. For health concerns, know the location of nearby clinics and hospitals and carry a small first-aid kit. Always follow posted signs in parks and nature areas and respect wildlife.

Tipping in Neenah

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a tip of 15-20% before tax is standard; tips for bar staff and taxi drivers are customary.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash, credit/debit cards, and increasingly mobile payments; some venues may be card-only.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with occasional humidity; riverfront strolls and outdoor patios are ideal, with long daylight hours.

Fall

Vibrant foliage along the Fox River and downtown streets; great for photography and outdoor markets.

Winter

Cold with possible snowfall; layer up for outdoor photography and cozy indoor venues.

Spring

Mild temperatures with rain showers; best for park walks, blossoms, and early patio openings.

Nightlife Guide

Neenah at Night

The nightlife in Neenah is relaxed and low-key, with a handful of bars and casual venues along Main Street and the riverfront. For broader options, nearby Appleton and Menasha offer live music venues, breweries, and seasonal events. Many locals enjoy a laid-back evening with friends at pubs, often featuring pub fare and local brews. Weekends can bring larger crowds, but the overall scene remains welcoming and approachable.

Hiking in Neenah

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Fox River State Trail

Long, scenic rail-trail for biking and hiking along the Fox River.

High Cliff State Park

Natural overlook with trails and views over Lake Winnebago.

Local nature preserves and park trails

Several preserves and short wooded trails within a short drive offering creekside and forest hikes.

Airports

How to reach Neenah by plane.

Outagamie County Regional Airport (ATW)

Small regional airport near Appleton with frequent domestic flights; about 20-25 miles from Neenah.

Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB)

Larger airport offering more flight options; about 70 miles northeast.

Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE)

Major hub with extensive domestic and international options; about 140 miles south.

Getting Around

Walkability

Neenah has a walkable downtown core with riverfront views, brick storefronts, and pedestrian-friendly streets. The closest attractions and shops are within comfortable walking distance from the riverfront, but some neighborhoods and longer trips require a car. Parking is generally available downtown, with meters and nearby lots. For broader options, nearby Appleton and Menasha are a short drive away and also walkable in suitable weather.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

A large share of residents are families with multiple school-age children.

Retirees

A sizable retiree presence that enjoys parks, leisure activities, and quiet neighborhoods.

Young professionals

A steady influx of young professionals working in nearby cities and universities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Fishing and boating on the Fox River and Lake Winnebago

Popular recreational activities, supported by local clubs and access to boat launches.

Local high school football and basketball

Seasonal community sports with local following and events.

Golf at nearby courses

Several public and semi-private courses in the Fox Cities region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Neenah is generally light to moderate, with heavier congestion during peak commuting hours along major corridors toward Appleton. The area relies mainly on cars, with some bus service and regional transit options in the Fox Cities. Parking downtown is usually available, though popular events can fill spaces quickly. For trips to surrounding cities, roads link to I-41 and US-10 with typical Wisconsin winter driving conditions in season.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Neenah.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most local eateries offer vegetarian options. Look for daily specials, veggie sides, salads, and customizable bowls.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Neenah is supported by local clinics and hospitals in the surrounding Fox Cities area. The nearest major hospitals are in Appleton (ThedaCare and Appleton Medical Center) and Oshkosh, with urgent care centers throughout the region. For routine care, residents typically use a primary care physician in town and nearby specialists if needed.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide