10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Looking for a laid-back Midwest getaway?
Fond du Lac, Wisconsin might surprise you. This small city on the southern tip of Lake Winnebago has lakeside views, local flavor, and plenty of ways to slow down and enjoy life.
Whether you’re road-tripping from Milwaukee or Chicago, visiting family, or just curious about central Wisconsin, here are
10 things to do in and around Fond du Lac that are worth the drive.
1. Relax By The Water At Lakeside Park
If you do only one thing in Fond du Lac, make it
Lakeside Park. Sitting right on the southern shore of
Lake Winnebago, this huge park is the city’s pride and joy.
You’ll find:
- A historic lighthouse with views of the lake
- Beautiful walking and biking paths
- Playgrounds and picnic shelters
- A small petting zoo in summer
- Boat rentals and fishing spots
On a warm evening, the park feels like the whole town’s backyard. Couples walk the paths, kids chase ducks, and locals cast a line off the pier.
If you love sunsets, plan to be here as the sun goes down. The sky over Lake Winnebago lights up in shades of orange and pink that look almost unreal.
2. Climb The Lighthouse For A Classic Lake Winnebago View
Inside Lakeside Park, you’ll spot a charming
white lighthouse that looks like it’s straight off a postcard. Yes, you can actually climb it when it’s open.
From the top, you’ll get:
- Wide views of Lake Winnebago
- A great look at Lakeside Park from above
- Prime photo spots for your Instagram or family album
On a clear day, you can see boats gliding across the water and kids playing below. It’s simple, but there’s something peaceful about just standing up there and letting the breeze hit your face.
3. Explore The Wild Goose State Trail
If you like getting outside but don’t want anything too intense, the
Wild Goose State Trail is perfect. This former railroad line runs through Fond du Lac County and offers flat, easy paths for:
- Biking
- Walking or jogging
- Snowmobiling in winter (on designated sections)
The trail stretches for about 34 miles, but you can hop on for just a short section. You’ll pass through fields, wetlands, and quiet countryside. In fall, the colors can be stunning.
Bring water, a light jacket, and maybe a small snack. It’s a simple way to clear your head and enjoy Wisconsin’s natural side.
4. Step Back In Time At The Fond du Lac County Historical Society & Galloway House
Curious about how people lived here more than 100 years ago? Head to the
Fond du Lac County Historical Society and the
Galloway House and Village.
This spot includes:
- A grand Victorian-style mansion (the Galloway House)
- A historic village with old-time buildings
- Artifacts and displays from Fond du Lac County’s past
Walking through the village almost feels like stepping onto a movie set. You can peek into a one-room schoolhouse, old barns, and other restored buildings.
If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll enjoy seeing how different life used to be—before smartphones, streaming, and even electricity in some cases.
5. Visit The Children’s Museum Of Fond du Lac (Great For Rainy Days)
Traveling with little ones? The
Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac is a lifesaver on a rainy or chilly day.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Hands-on exhibits for kids to touch, build, and explore
- Imagination play areas
- Special events and seasonal activities
Instead of hearing “I’m bored” every five minutes, your kids can burn off energy while learning and playing. It’s not huge, but it’s well-designed and very family-friendly.
Tip: Check their website for hours and any special programs during your visit.
6. Enjoy Local Flavor At Downtown Fond du Lac
Downtown Fond du Lac is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore for an afternoon or evening.
You’ll find:
- Locally owned coffee shops and cafes
- Cozy pubs and restaurants
- Boutiques and specialty shops
- Public art and murals
It’s the kind of place where you can grab a latte, wander into a local shop, then settle into a bar for a Friday fish fry—very Wisconsin.
If you’re into festivals and markets, keep an eye out for:
- Downtown farmers markets
- Seasonal events and live music
Downtown nights feel relaxed and friendly, like the whole city came out to say hello.
7. Hit The Slopes (Or Summer Trails) At Nordic Mountain & Nearby Ski Areas
If you’re visiting Fond du Lac in the colder months and don’t mind a short drive, there are several ski and tubing options within an easy radius.
One popular choice is
Nordic Mountain, roughly an hour away, which offers:
- Downhill skiing and snowboarding
- Snow tubing
- Terrain parks for more advanced riders
Closer to Fond du Lac, you’ll also find smaller hills and winter recreation spots throughout Fond du Lac County and nearby counties.
In warmer months, these areas often switch to:
- Hiking and mountain biking trails
- Disc golf
- Scenic chairlift rides (at some resorts)
So whether you’re into ski runs or summer trails, you’ll have options for outdoor fun beyond the city limits.
8. Drive The Kettle Moraine Scenic Routes
Fond du Lac County sits near the
Kettle Moraine, a region shaped by ancient glaciers. That may sound like science class, but in real life it means rolling hills, interesting land formations, and pretty countryside drives.
Take a few hours to:
- Follow one of the scenic routes south and east of Fond du Lac
- Stop at overlooks and small parks along the way
- Pack snacks or a picnic for a pull-off with a view
In fall, the changing leaves make this area especially beautiful. It’s a simple pleasure: windows down, your favorite playlist, and miles of peaceful scenery.
9. Fish, Boat, Or Ice Fish On Lake Winnebago
If you enjoy time on the water,
Lake Winnebago is the main attraction. It’s one of the largest inland lakes in Wisconsin, and Fond du Lac sits right on its southern edge.
Depending on the season, you can:
- Launch a boat for a day on the water
- Try your luck fishing from shore or from a boat
- Go ice fishing in winter (a true Wisconsin experience)
Locals are serious about their lake. On summer weekends, you’ll see trailers heading toward the boat launches at all hours. In winter, small “villages” of ice-fishing shacks pop up on the frozen surface.
If you’ve never tried ice fishing, consider booking a guide so you can learn the basics safely.
10. Sample Wisconsin Comfort Food & Supper Clubs
You can’t talk about things to do near Fond du Lac without mentioning food. This is Wisconsin, after all.
Look for:
- Friday fish fry at local bars and supper clubs
- Cheese curds (fried or fresh)
- Hearty burgers and sandwiches
- Classic Wisconsin cocktails like the brandy Old Fashioned
Supper clubs in and around Fond du Lac offer that old-school Midwest charm: dim lighting, friendly bartenders, and portions that leave you very full and very happy.
If you’re the type who plans your trips around meals (no judgment—I do too), you’ll have no trouble finding someplace cozy to eat after a day at the lake or on the trail.
Planning Your Trip To Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
A few quick tips for visiting Fond du Lac and Fond du Lac County:
- When to go: Summer and early fall are great for lakes and trails. Winter is ideal if you like ice fishing, skiing, or snowmobiling.
- How long to stay: A weekend is enough for the highlights, but 3–4 days lets you explore more of the county.
- Getting around: A car makes life easier, especially if you want to hit trails, nearby ski areas, or scenic drives.
Fond du Lac isn’t a loud, flashy city. It’s more of a slow-down-and-breathe kind of place. Lakes, trails, history, and comfort food all create that small-town Wisconsin feel that’s easy to fall for.
What Would You Do First In Fond du Lac?
Would you start with a walk through
Lakeside Park? A climb up the lighthouse? Maybe a Friday fish fry or a peaceful drive through the Kettle Moraine?
I’d love to hear what sounds most fun to you.
Share this post with a friend who’s always up for a road trip, and
drop a comment with:
- Your favorite thing to do in or near Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
- Any hidden gems you think other travelers should know about
Your ideas can help other people plan their own Fond du Lac adventure.
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