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Appleton is a city of about 75,000 people on the Fox River in northeast Wisconsin, in the Fox Cities area near Green Bay. It was founded in the 1840s around Lawrence University and grew on paper mills powered by the river's falls. In 1882 Appleton's Vulcan Street Plant became the world's first hydroelectric power plant to serve homes and businesses.
College Avenue, the city's main street, is lined with restaurants, shops and the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, which hosts touring Broadway shows. The History Museum at the Castle tells the story of the area and of Harry Houdini, the famous escape artist who grew up in Appleton.
The Fox River has trails and locks to explore, and Pierce Park and the Fox River Trail are popular in summer. Lawrence University sits on the river bluffs near downtown, and the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers play minor league baseball at Neuroscience Group Field. Lambeau Field in Green Bay is about 30 minutes north.
Appleton's main downtown street, lined with restaurants, bars, coffee shops and local stores, running past Lawrence University and the performing arts center. It is the center of festivals and nightlife. Park in a city ramp and walk the avenue end to end in an hour.
Local history museum in a 1920s Masonic temple with a castle-like facade, best known for its exhibits on Harry Houdini, who grew up in Appleton. Other galleries cover the region's people and industries. Allow about an hour; check opening days before you visit.
Victorian mansion from 1882 that was the first home in the world lit by a centrally located hydroelectric station on the Fox River. Guided tours show the original light fixtures, woodwork and hands-on exhibits about electricity. Check tour times, as hours are limited.
Museum in a former paper mill on the Fox River that explains how paper is made, with hands-on exhibits, a paper-making station for kids and the Paper Industry International Hall of Fame. It is a good family visit. Allow an hour; check opening days in advance.
Downtown performing arts center on College Avenue, opened in 2002, hosting Broadway touring shows, concerts, comedy and the local symphony. Its main hall is the region's largest stage. Buy tickets early for Broadway shows and park in the ramp next door.
Contemporary art museum on College Avenue with changing exhibitions of regional, national and international artists, plus classes and family workshops. It is compact and easy to visit in under an hour. Check the website for current shows and free admission days.
Liberal arts college founded in 1847 on a bluff above the Fox River, known for its conservatory of music. The campus has historic halls, a riverside walk and free student concerts. Visitors are welcome to walk the grounds; check the conservatory calendar for performances.
Wooded park on a bluff above the Fox River on the west side of Appleton, with a historic pavilion, playground, picnic areas and paths through tall trees. It hosts summer concerts and events. It is a pleasant place for an evening walk; parking is free.
Large nature preserve just north of Appleton with miles of trails through woods, wetlands and meadows, plus a nature center with exhibits and programs. Trails are used for hiking in summer and cross-country skiing in winter. Bring insect repellent in warm months.
Minor league baseball team affiliated with the Milwaukee Brewers, playing at a stadium on the north side of Appleton. Games feature cheap seats, promotions and fireworks nights. The season runs April to September; buy tickets online for weekend games.
Saturday morning market that fills College Avenue downtown from summer into fall, with local produce, cheese, baked goods, flowers, crafts and live music. It is one of the largest farmers markets in the area. Arrive early for the best selection and bring cash.
Free music festival held over several days each August in downtown Appleton, featuring hundreds of shows by emerging artists in bars, cafes, parks and outdoor stages along College Avenue. Pick up a schedule, plan a route and book rooms early for festival weekend.
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