Why Locals Love Appleton, Wisconsin

Appleton, Wisconsin, sits on the shores of Lake Winnebago—if those names don't scream wholesome Midwestern charm, nothing does. Part of the Fox Cities region, a large urban center that includes cities, towns and villages along the Fox River, this kid-friendly city gave us a timeless American icon in Harry Houdini—and with its excellent Wisconsin food, culture and scenery, it continues to give. Here, we uncover what locals love about their town and discover some of the things to do in Appleton.

Take me out to the ballgame

Baseball, our iconic American sport, has a home at Fox Cities Stadium, where the minor league Wisconsin Timber Rattlers have been delighting fans for decades. If you’re hungry for more than a hot dog, treat yourself to the all-you-can-eat taco option at the Potawatomi Party Deck.

You can't escape Houdini's legacy

Legendary escape artist Harry Houdini may have been born in Budapest, but he claimed Appleton as his hometown. Young Harry was raised here, and his father was Appleton's first rabbi. Experience some of Houdini’s tricks through hands-on activities at the History Museum at the Castle's AKA Houdini exhibit. Then explore the museum to learn more about Appleton's history and other prominent figures from the area.

Wisconsin cheddar's always better

You go to Wisconsin, you eat bratwurst and cheese curds—it's just what you do. Since the ’40s, Jacobs Meat Market has sold German-style sausages and other meats to food buffs who know a good jalapeño cheddar brat when they taste one. Jacobs doesn't ship its products, so you have to make the trip to appreciate this local gem. You’ll pass several cheese shops around town; our favorite is Simon's Specialty Cheese—if you have a sweet tooth, try their chocolate cheese fudge with walnuts, a creamy fudge made with cheddar and cream cheese. Or, you can tour the Union Star Cheese Factory; get ready before you go by reading their website’s “History of Cheese.”

Dig in the dirt and gaze at the stars

While we're on the subject of museums, the Weis Earth Science Museum literally rocks. This mineralogical gallery gives you a chance to touch a fossilized dinosaur bone, walk through a mine tunnel and even control a small earthquake. After you’ve marveled at the earth beneath your feet, it's time to look up. Your kids will love the Barlow Planetarium next door, which offers family-friendly tours through the solar system and laser shows set to Metallica, Led Zeppelin and U2.

Get cultured at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center

Catch major Broadway musicals, touring musicians and stage shows based on your children's favorite cartoons at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center. Even for little ones, there’s not a bad seat in the house—its design offers excellent stage views from any seat. Music lovers: keep an eye on the Fox Valley Symphony Orchestra's impressive calendar, as the Fox Cities PAC is its home venue.

Get your feet (nearly) wet

Surround yourself with nature at the 76-acre Heckrodt Wetland Reserve. Photo Credit: @freckles.and.daydreams

The Heckrodt Wetland Reserve is technically within greater Appleton, but you’ll forget all about the city as you leisurely explore its 76 acres of marshes, prairies, fields and forests. Look for migrating songbirds and native Wisconsin creatures. Then cross Little Lake Butte des Morts on the 1,600-foot Fox Cities Trestle pedestrian bridge.

Ready to travel? Find hotels in Appleton.

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