Appleton, Wisconsin Vacation Rentals
Explore 35 rental homes and villas in Appleton, Wisconsin for your next vacation or business travel. With private vacation home rentals, enjoy a more personalized stay and a wide range of amenities such as Air Condition Homes, Best Affordable Homes and Great for Groups. With a wide range of homes to offer, pricing can start as low as $82 per night with homes containing as many as 6 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. However you're looking to experience your stay, Homes and Villas by Marriott has your next vacation home waiting.
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Appleton Overview
Nestled along the tranquil Fox River, Appleton, Wisconsin, is a hidden gem that offers an enchanting mix of cultural richness, historical charm, and natural beauty. This picturesque city is not only known for its friendly community and vibrant downtown but also for its array of famous attractions that promise an unforgettable experience.
Step into the Victorian elegance of the Hearthstone Historic House Museum, a marvel of innovation as one of the first homes to be illuminated by hydroelectric power using the Edison system. This architectural treasure invites visitors to immerse themselves in the grandeur of the past with its authentic period furnishings and groundbreaking features.
The cultural heartbeat of Appleton thrives at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, where the stage comes alive with Broadway productions, stirring concerts, and diverse performances year-round. Art aficionados will be drawn to the Trout Museum of Art, where a kaleidoscope of collections and exhibitions awaits to inspire and captivate.
For a hands-on educational adventure, The Building for Kids Children's Museum offers interactive exhibits that blend learning with fun, while the Barlow Planetarium at the University of Wisconsin-Fox Valley unlocks the mysteries of the cosmos with its captivating astronomy programs.
Appleton's outdoor allure is undeniable, with High Cliff State Park providing breathtaking vistas of Lake Winnebago and City Park offering the perfect setting for a leisurely picnic or a friendly game of tennis. Pierce Park's summer concert series and Telulah Park's skate park add to the city's diverse outdoor offerings.
Enhance your stay in Appleton by choosing a private home rental, where you can savor the luxury of having a space all to yourself, many of which are pet-friendly, ensuring your furry companions can join in on the fun. Imagine lounging by your own swimming pool on a warm summer day, a feature that is not uncommon in Appleton's rental homes, adding a splash of relaxation to your visit.
While Appleton may not be known for its beaches, the city's waterfront along the Fox River provides a serene backdrop for strolls and picnics, and the nearby Lake Winnebago offers ample opportunities for water activities.
Culinary delights abound in Appleton, where you can indulge in everything from cozy cafes to elegant dining establishments serving a world of flavors. Be sure to indulge in the local specialty—Wisconsin cheese—at one of the charming farmers' markets.
Appleton's robust economy, anchored by manufacturing and healthcare, complements its educational prowess, showcased by institutions like Lawrence University. Sports fans can revel in the excitement of a minor league baseball game at Fox Cities Stadium or tee off at one of the city's pristine golf courses.
In essence, Appleton is a destination that weaves together the threads of history, culture, and nature into a rich tapestry of experiences. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an action-packed getaway, Appleton's blend of attractions and the added comfort of a private home rental with potential poolside leisure make it an idyllic place to explore and unwind.
Cultural Attractions in Appleton
Appleton, Wisconsin, is a city that offers a rich cultural experience for those who appreciate the arts, history, and local customs. The city's vibrant arts scene is showcased in numerous art galleries and live music venues.
Art enthusiasts will find the Trout Museum of Art to be a must-visit. It features rotating exhibitions of contemporary and classic artwork from local and international artists. However, it's worth noting that its permanent collection also includes folk art, Haitian art, Native American art among others. The Bergstrom-Mahler Museum of Glass houses an impressive collection of glass paperweights and contemporary glass sculptures.
For those interested in history, the History Museum at the Castle provides an opportunity to learn about the broader Fox Cities region's history through interactive exhibits. The Hearthstone Historic House Museum offers a unique glimpse into Victorian-era life as it was the first house in the world to be powered by hydroelectricity.
Live music is a significant part of Appleton with venues like the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center offering performances ranging from Broadway shows to concerts by world-renowned musicians. It's important to note that Mile of Music Festival is an annual event held over four days in August that brings together hundreds of artists for live music throughout downtown Appleton.
Local customs can be experienced at Appleton's weekly Downtown Appleton Farm Market where visitors can sample locally grown produce and artisanal foods while interacting with locals. Octoberfest is another great way to immerse oneself in local traditions; this annual fall festival features live music, arts & crafts, and specialty foods.
In terms of transportation within Appleton, Valley Transit bus service covers most areas within the Fox Cities region but may not cover every area within Appleton city limits. Rental car services are also available for those who prefer driving themselves around town. Despite its sizeable area coverage, downtown Appleton is quite walkable with many attractions located within close proximity to each other.
In conclusion, whether it's exploring art galleries, attending live performances, or immersing oneself in local customs at farmers markets or festivals - Appleton offers a variety of cultural experiences that cater to diverse interests.
Family friendly activities in Appleton
Appleton, Wisconsin, is a wonderful place for families with children. The city houses the Building for Kids Children's Museum, which provides interactive exhibits that promote learning through play. Here, children can explore a treehouse, operate a crane at the construction site exhibit or even pretend to be a firefighter in the fire truck exhibit.
The Paper Discovery Center is another interesting location in Appleton. This unique museum introduces children to the art and science of papermaking through hands-on exhibits and workshops. While they offer demonstrations and activities related to papermaking, it may not be possible for children to create their own paper from scratch to take home.
For those who love nature, High Cliff State Park is an excellent choice where families can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking amidst picturesque scenery. The park also has a playground that's perfect for younger children.
Animal enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Menominee Park Zoo. This small zoo is home to various animals including alpacas, wallabies and reindeer. However, contrary to some information available online, there may not be a miniature train ride at this zoo offering views of Lake Winnebago.
Lastly, make sure not to miss an event at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center. This center organizes family-friendly performances throughout the year including musicals, concerts and ballets.
With numerous activities catering to children's interests and curiosity, Appleton makes an ideal destination for families.
Outdoor activities in Appleton
Appleton, Wisconsin, is a city that caters to those who have a deep appreciation for the outdoors and natural wonders.
High Cliff State Park, one of the area's most frequented natural attractions, is situated on Lake Winnebago's eastern shore. It offers visitors hiking trails, picnic spots, and camping facilities. The park's namesake limestone cliff provides breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings.
The Gordon Bubolz Nature Preserve is another location that nature enthusiasts should not miss. This expansive 775-acre preserve houses diverse habitats such as wetlands, forests, prairies, and an apple orchard. It offers several miles of trails for summer hiking or winter cross-country skiing.
For those who enjoy water activities, Fox River runs through Appleton offering boating and fishing opportunities along with scenic views.
Appleton also boasts numerous city parks ideal for leisurely walks or picnics. One such place is Memorial Park which spans over 139 acres featuring a large playground area, sports fields/courts, and a disc golf course.
Bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts will find Heckrodt Wetland Reserve particularly interesting with its 3 miles of trail through forested wetland, wetland meadow, and prairie habitats. The reserve hosts many bird species as well as other wildlife like deer and foxes.
In summary, Appleton's varied landscapes provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating fishing or simply soaking in the beauty of nature.
Weather in Appleton
Appleton, Wisconsin is characterized by a humid continental climate, experiencing four distinct seasons with varying temperatures throughout the year.
During the summer months from June to August, the weather is generally warm and humid. Average high temperatures are in the 80s Fahrenheit, but during heat waves, they can exceed 90°F. This period also sees a significant amount of rainfall which contributes to Appleton's lush green landscapes. It's important to note that thunderstorms are not uncommon during this time and can be more frequent and severe than just "usually brief". In fact, summer is the peak season for thunderstorms and tornadoes in this region.
The winter months from December to February are typically cold with snowfall. Average high temperatures hover around freezing point while lows can drop into the teens. The amount of snowfall varies significantly from year to year - some winters see minimal snow while others experience substantial snowfall. On average, Appleton receives about 50 inches of snow annually making it an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Springtime in Appleton from March to May is a transitional season with temperatures gradually warming up from the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit accompanied by occasional rain showers. However, spring tends to be more variable with larger temperature swings compared to fall.
Fall season from September through November offers a steady transition between summer and winter with cooler temperatures ranging from high 60s in September down to low 40s by November end. Both spring and fall offer beautiful scenery - blossoming flowers in spring and vibrant foliage in fall.
The most popular weather conditions for visitors occur in late spring through early fall when temperatures are mild making outdoor activities such as hiking and boating most enjoyable. However, if you're fond of winter sports or enjoy snowy landscapes, visiting during winter would be perfect for you.
Transportation in Appleton
Appleton, Wisconsin, is a city that offers a variety of transportation options for travelers. Visitors can access the city by air through the Appleton International Airport - Outagamie County Regional Airport, which provides numerous flights to and from various destinations across the country. For those who prefer ground travel, Appleton can be reached by car or bus via U.S. Highways 41, 10, and 441.
Once in Appleton, there are several options for getting around. The Valley Transit bus service operates within the city and some nearby suburbs, offering an affordable and convenient way to travel. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available for those who prefer a more direct route.
Cycling enthusiasts will find Appleton quite bike-friendly with numerous bike lanes and trails throughout the city. Bike rentals are available for those who wish to explore on two wheels.
Downtown Appleton is quite pedestrian-friendly with many attractions, restaurants, shops, and parks within walking distance of each other. However, to explore areas outside of downtown or visit attractions further out like the Bubolz Nature Preserve or High Cliff State Park, some form of transportation will be necessary.
In summary, whether you're arriving by air or ground transport, looking to navigate the city by bus or car, or hoping to explore on foot or by bike, Appleton offers a range of options that cater to every traveler's needs while keeping in mind that some outer lying areas may not be covered by public transit.