Day Trips from Appleton
← All Appleton day tripsDay Trips from Appleton: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Appleton, WI. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Appleton
Wolf River Scenic Byway
Wabeno, WI 54566
Just 1 hr 51 min from Appleton, rated 5.0 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive
West Bend, WI 53090
Just 1 hr 9 min from Appleton, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic overlook
Whitewater, WI 53190
Just 2 hrs 18 min from Appleton, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Keyes Peak Scenic Overlook
WI 54121, USA
Just 2 hrs 25 min from Appleton, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Svens Bluff Lookout
WI 54212, USA
Just 1 hr 54 min from Appleton, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Coastal Byway
Ellison Bay, WI 54210
Just 2 hrs 12 min from Appleton, rated 4.8 stars by 101 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
High Cliff State Park Observation Tower
WI 54169, USA
Just 27 min from Appleton, rated 4.8 stars by 151 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
North End of Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive
Plymouth, WI 53073
Just 60 min from Appleton, rated 4.8 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Sunset Point Overlook
Madison, WI 53705
Just 1 hr 58 min from Appleton, rated 4.7 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Rest Area Scenic Overlook
Sheppard, WI 54615
Just 2 hrs 36 min from Appleton, rated 4.6 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Riverfront Parkway - Barton Overlook
West Bend, WI 53090
Just 1 hr 14 min from Appleton, rated 4.6 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Scenic Overlook
Wausaukee, WI 54177
Just 1 hr 32 min from Appleton, rated 4.5 stars by 106 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Appleton
What are the best scenic drives near Appleton, WI?
The best scenic drives near Appleton include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Appleton?
Most scenic drives near Appleton range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Appleton?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Appleton, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Appleton?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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