Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Appleton, WI
Appleton sits on the Fox River with access to the Hearthstone Historic House, the Appleton Public Library, and the High Cliff State Park.
The Hearthstone and the High Cliff State Park offer history and nature.
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or browse all12 destinations near Appleton
Holy Hill Scenic Tower
Hubertus, WI 53033
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.9 stars) · 1 hr 26 min from Appleton · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Woodland Dunes Nature Center & Preserve
Two Rivers, WI 54241
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Family destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 1 min from Appleton · fits $20 - $60 budget
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Seven Bridges
South Milwaukee, WI 53172
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 3.0k+ visitors) · 1 hr 53 min from Appleton · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Four Foot Falls
WI 54119, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.8 stars) · 1 hr 59 min from Appleton · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Long Slide Falls County Park
WI 54156, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 57 min from Appleton · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Mountain Lookout Tower
WI 54149, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.4k+ visitors) · 1 hr 28 min from Appleton · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Dave's Falls County Park
Amberg, WI 54102
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.8k+ visitors) · 1 hr 38 min from Appleton · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve
Grafton, WI 53024
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 2.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 41 min from Appleton · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
Rhinelander, WI 54501
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.4k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 7 min from Appleton · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Governor Thompson State Park
Crivitz, WI 54114
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 40 min from Appleton · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Cathedral Pines State Natural Area
Lakewood, WI 54138
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 39 min from Appleton · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Veteran's Falls
WI 54114, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.1k+ visitors) · 1 hr 33 min from Appleton · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Appleton, WI?
The best day trips from Appleton include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Appleton?
Most great day trips from Appleton are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Appleton?
Many of the best day trips near Appleton are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Appleton?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Appleton, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Appleton?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Appleton make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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