Are you and your family trying to decide what to do today? I know my family is always looking for new things to do together and different places to visit. As an Appleton family photographer, I often ask families what their plans are for the weekend and there always seems to be plenty of things to do in Appleton WI. Located at the heart of the Fox River Valley, this city is full of fun and life! There’s an overwhelming amount of unique businesses, family friendly events and delicious restaurants to try. Below I created a list of fun things for you and your family to try based upon my research and what clients have told me.
Things to do in Appleton WI
Explore Downtown Appleton
Downtown Appleton is full of local businesses that vary from boutiques, to a children’s museum, to yoga studios, restaurants and more. There is surely something for everyone in your family downtown. Here are a list of some of the top attractions:
- The Fox Cities Performing Arts Center – Definitely catch a show sometime! They often have different broadway musicals, plays and other performances. There are plenty of shows that are family oriented as well. I plan on taking my daughter to an upcoming show and making a date night out of it.
- Building for Kids – This is a large children’s museum with a variety of hands-on exhibits for kids mostly ages 7 and under. Some of the top exhibits include a Jet where you can experience what it would be like to be a pilot and a construction junction.
- Appleton YMCA – There are so many things to do here! Including open swim, sports, a family fun center and more.
- Katsu-Ya – Hibachi styled food and unique sushi rolls and a warm atmosphere
- Sangrias – Mexican grill with authentic dishes and a fun, colorful atmosphere
For a list of upcoming Downtown events and things to do in Appleton click here.
Head to the Fox River Mall
Everyone likes to do a little shopping and there’s no place better than the Fox River Mall. There is a store here for everyone! You can shop from your favorite brands like Forever 21, the Buckle, Dry Goods, Macy’s, Scheels and others. They also have a large food court with many options for dining including some fast food restaurants and even the Fox River Brewing Company. You will love bringing your family here for all your shopping trips.
Check Out the Local Parks
There are so many things to do in Appleton, WI but one of my favorites is to visit many of the local parks. Nothing is better than relaxing with a cup of coffee and visiting with your friends while your children play together on a totally cool playground. Or maybe you just want to take a walk around the park with your significant other and take in all nature has to offer, either way you are going to want to check out Appleton’s parks! Top favorite parks to visit are:
- Plamann Park for lots of views, trails and even a children’s farm.
- Appleton Memorial Park has a great playground, walking trails, picnic tables and more!
- High Cliff State Park with camp sites and over 1,100 acres to explore you’re sure to never be bored here!
For a list of more parks check out my post Parks in Appleton WI
Watch a Wisconsin Timber Rattlers Games
The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers is a minor league baseball team affiliated with the Milwaukee Brewers. Their schedule typically runs from April – September and it’s something any and all family members can enjoy. They do a great job at entertaining their fans with a variety of on field entertainment and many things to do throughout the stadium. They also have a variety of food and beverages available, not just your typical stadium food. It’s a definite must when visiting the Fox Cities, trust me you won’t be disappointed!
Xtreme Air
This is actually Wisconsin’s largest trampoline park. It’s a great way to sneak in some exercise too haha. Xtreme air has a rock wall, a 360 Slam Dunk basketball trampoline, dodgeball trampolines, a laser maze, extreme jump, jousting, sling shot, a fidget ladder and more. And if you don’t want to jump around with your crazy kids, there is an area upstairs for parents to observe.
Funset Boulevard
This large family entertainment center is a great spot for families to go while looking for things to do in Appleton WI! It’s also attached to a movie theater, so you can make a whole day of it. Funset offers a variety of things to keep you and your family busy including mini golf, batting cages, train ride, playground, bumper cars, laser tag, an arcade, a carousel and even a Hollywood themed restaurant
Altitude Trampoline Park
A fun trampoline park to use of some of that energy your kids have been saving! They offer different programs and activities for jumpers of all ages including Glow parties, Junior Jumpers Jam and dodgeball. Altitude also offers a battle beam, warped wall, ninja course, a wipeout area, ropes course, foam pit and more!
Appleton Axe Throwing
Okay, I know what’re thinking mama. This has to be dangerous, right? It’s actually super safe and is open to kids 12 and older. A trained expert will give everyone instruction before you start throwing and make sure that your family is doing it safely. Appleton Axe offers different game options to play while axe throwing. I personally took some time just to get the hang of it, but after that we started playing different games.
Badgers Sports Park
This is a large family entertainment center and is full of fun things for your family to do! Badger Sports Park has a huge laser tag area, game room packed with arcade games, escape rooms, a virtual reality experience, inflatables, mini bowling alleys, go-kart track, mini golf and batting cages. You and your family are sure to be entertained here for hours.
Thank you for reading my post about things to do in Appleton, WI.
You and your family will find LOADS of things to do here! If you’re wanting an extra special experience, let’s explore a gorgeous field or one of the beautiful parks together for a family session. I’d be happy to help you plan the portraits of your dreams! Say hi!
