About this city
Also known as: The Fox Cities' Heart
Appleton is the cultural and economic heart of the Fox Cities metropolitan area, beautifully situated along the Fox River in eastern Wisconsin. Established as a trading post and chartered in 1857, the city is historically renowned as the home of Lawrence University and the site of the world's first hydro-electric central station, which illuminated the hearths of early industrial pioneers. Today, it thrives as a vibrant hub of manufacturing, paper production, and healthcare, blended with a richly preserved historical downtown, tree-lined residential neighborhoods, and an active arts community.
Location & Administrative
Transportation & Accessibility
Weather & Timing
Economics & Local Vibe
Practical Tourism Metadata
Suggested stay: 1–2 days
Discover the illusionary world of the city's most famous son at the History Museum at the Castle's Harry Houdini exhibit, enjoy a Broadway-caliber production at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, and explore the hands-on science and local history exhibits along the scenic riverbanks of the Paper Discovery Center.
