48 Hours to Explore Appleton

Jump into your artsy adventure by exploring the Trout Museum of Art in downtown Appleton. You’ll discover a wide range of ever-changing exhibitions that cover three floors. You and your crew can take an art class and grab a snack in the museum’s cafe for the perfect afternoon together. 

Enjoy an elegant stay at Copperleaf, a boutique hotel, located on lively College Avenue, modeled after European inns. Enjoy craft cocktails at the lobby bar, exceptional dining at the onsite restaurant and luxurious spa services all in one place. You’ll be just one block from the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, making it easy to enjoy outings with friends and family. 

For dinner, gather at Fox River Brewing Company for craft brews and a tasty meal. Choose from woodstone pizza, chicken and waffles, fresh seafood and more as you enjoy the outdoor patio or warm vibes inside. 

Don’t want the day to end? Get tickets to a show at Skyline Comedy Club, known for their impressive lineup of comedians, sure to keep you laughing well into the night.  

Begin your Saturday with breakfast at SAP, a restaurant that sources local Wisconsin ingredients and transforms them into delicious dishes such as lemon ricotta pancakes, corned beef hash and their blueberry smoothie bowl. Don’t forget the coffee from Colectivo! 

Appleton is full of charming small businesses, including the delectable Wilmar Chocolates. Stop in to treat your sweet tooth and get a glimpse of how the sweets are made by hand. You can even design your own custom chocolate bar! Be sure to also check out Eco Candle Company’s flagship store as well as Urban Evolutions, where the rustic elegant furniture and furnishings are made from reclaimed materials. 

Opt for lunch with a view at Fratello’s Waterfront Restaurant. It’s perched next to the Fox River dam, which means flowing water and eagle spotting in addition to delicious fare. 

Just south of Appleton in Neenah, the Bergstrom-Mahler Museum of Glass includes gorgeous galleries and exhibits featuring everything from antique paperweights and Germanic drinking vessels to jaw-dropping contemporary glass sculpture. Take a family studio class and spend time together creating your own masterpieces. 

This city getaway also has plenty of natural beauty to offer, including the trail system at Heckrodt Wetland Reserve in nearby Menasha.  

Wander habitats including forested wetland, cattail marsh and upland forest and explore the expansive Nature Center. There, you’ll find engaging exhibits that give more insight into the natural wonder you experienced, including aquariums with local fish, frogs, turtles and snakes! 

For dinner, dig into savory smash burgers, house smoked barbeque and more elevated pub fare at Mill City Public House. With creative craft cocktails and plenty of local brews on tap, this is a wonderful spot to spend your evening with loved ones. 

Saturday night means it’s time to see a spectacular show at the iconic Fox Valley Performing Arts Center. The schedule here is filled with touring Broadway musicals, plays, ballet, bands, comedians and so much more—check their calendar ahead of time to secure tickets for an unforgettable night.  

Stop into this eclectic neighborhood spot with sunny vibes and delicious breakfast before hitting the road home.

For your last stop, learn about the famous faces and events that made the Fox Cities what they are today. Discover three floors of fascinating exhibits, including one on Appleton magician Harry Houdini, at the History Museum at the Castle.