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Appleton

Appleton travel guide

City in Wisconsin, United States

Best time to visitJune to September
Nearest airportATW · 5 mi from centre
Time zoneUTC−5
Population75,644

About Appleton

Appleton is a city, and the county seat of Outagamie County, Wisconsin, United States, with small portions extending into Calumet and Winnebago counties. Located on the Fox River north of Lake Winnebago, it is 30 miles (48 km) southwest of Green Bay and 100 miles (160 km) north of Milwaukee. The city had a population of 75,644 at the 2020 census, making it the sixth-most populous city in Wisconsin. The Appleton metropolitan statistical area had 243,147 residents. Appleton is part of the broader Fox Cities region.

Places to visit in Appleton

  1. History Museum at the Castle

    Museum

    Set in a castle-like former Masonic temple downtown, this museum covers Fox Valley history and features an engaging exhibit on Harry Houdini, the famous escape artist who grew up in Appleton.

  2. Hearthstone Historic House Museum

    Hearthstone Historic House Museum

    Historic · 2 mi from centre

    A Victorian home that was among the first in the world lit by a hydroelectric central station, preserving its original electric fixtures, switches and fine woodwork, with tours explaining early electricity.

  3. Fox Cities Performing Arts Center

    Fox Cities Performing Arts Center

    Entertainment · 1 mi from centre

    The region's main theater venue on College Avenue hosts touring Broadway shows, concerts and comedy, and sits within easy walking distance of downtown restaurants and bars for a full evening out.

  4. High Cliff State Park

    High Cliff State Park

    Nature · 11 mi from centre

    A park on the limestone Niagara Escarpment above Lake Winnebago, with forest trails, ancient effigy mounds, an observation tower with lake views, a swimming beach and a marina.

Where to stay in Appleton

Popular hotels in Appleton, out of 46 properties you can book.

See all hotels in Appleton

Best time to visit Appleton

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Appleton is June to September, when average daytime highs are around 74–81°F and rain falls on about 9 days a month.

MonthTemperature (°F)Rain days
Jan 13° – 26° 6
Feb 15° – 32° 7
Mar 26° – 42° 11
Apr 36° – 53° 12
May 48° – 68° 11
Jun 59° – 78° 9
Jul 63° – 81° 9
Aug 62° – 78° 10
Sep 57° – 74° 7
Oct 45° – 60° 9
Nov 32° – 45° 8
Dec 20° – 32° 10

Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.

Appleton weather forecast

  • Wed 21 Oct 64° 42° 1%
  • Thu 22 Oct 68° 53° 1%
  • Fri 23 Oct 68° 53° 0%
  • Sat 24 Oct 69° 58° 1%
  • Sun 25 Oct 63° 47° 4%
  • Mon 26 Oct 47° 37° 9%

Know before you go

Currency
United States dollar (USD)
Language
English
Calling code
+1
Driving
On the right
Time zone
America/ChicagoUTC−5
Capital
Washington, D.C.

Upcoming public holidays in United States

  • Veterans Day
  • Thanksgiving Day
  • Christmas Day
  • New Year's Day
  • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
  • Presidents DayWashington's Birthday

Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.

Getting to Appleton

These are the airports closest to central Appleton. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.

  • ATW Appleton International Airport5 mi (9 km) from the city centre
Search flights to Appleton

Getting around Appleton

Getting around town is accomplished efficiently and cheaply by using the public transportation system or by taxis. Public buses are reliable and the standard fare is $0.50. Same-day transfers are free. If you are staying downtown in the Raddison or Copperleaf you can easily walk to nearby restaurants bars and shops.

Appleton travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Appleton?

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Appleton is June to September, when average daytime highs are around 74–81°F and rain falls on about 9 days a month.

What is the weather like in Appleton?

July is usually the warmest month in Appleton, with average highs of 81°F (27°C). January is the coolest, with average lows of 13°F (-10°C). The wettest month is typically July, with about 107 mm of rain.

Which airport is closest to Appleton?

Appleton International Airport (ATW) is the closest airport, about 5 miles (9 km) from the centre of Appleton.

What time zone is Appleton in?

Appleton uses the America/Chicago time zone (currently UTC−5). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.

How do I get around Appleton?

Getting around town is accomplished efficiently and cheaply by using the public transportation system or by taxis. Public buses are reliable and the standard fare is $0.50. Same-day transfers are free. If you are staying downtown in the Raddison or Copperleaf you can easily walk to nearby restaurants bars and shops.

What are the best places to visit in Appleton?

Top sights in Appleton include History Museum at the Castle, Hearthstone Historic House Museum, Fox Cities Performing Arts Center and High Cliff State Park. Set in a castle-like former Masonic temple downtown, this museum covers Fox Valley history and features an engaging exhibit on Harry Houdini, the famous escape artist who grew up in Appleton.

Where should I stay in Appleton?

Popular areas for hotels in Appleton include Appleton Area. Well-reviewed options include Hampton Inn Appleton-Fox River Mall Area and DoubleTree by Hilton Appleton.

How many hotels can I book in Appleton?

Destina Holidays currently lists 46 properties in and around Appleton, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.