10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Neenah, Wisconsin
Looking for a relaxed Midwest getaway with small-town charm, waterfront views, and easy day trips?
Neenah, Wisconsin, in
Winnebago County, is a great place to slow down, explore, and enjoy the Fox River and Lake Winnebago area.
Whether you’re road-tripping through Wisconsin, visiting family in the Fox Cities, or planning a weekend escape from Milwaukee or Chicago, here are
10 things to do in and near Neenah that are worth your time.
1. Stroll Downtown Neenah and the Riverside Park Area
If you want to get a feel for the town right away, start in
Downtown Neenah. It’s compact, walkable, and full of character.
You’ll find:
- Historic brick buildings with local shops and boutiques
- Cozy coffee spots and bakeries for a mid-morning pick-me-up
- Casual restaurants and pubs perfect for a laid-back dinner
Just a short walk from downtown is
Riverside Park, one of Neenah’s crown jewels. It sits right on the Fox River with:
- Paved walking paths along the water
- Benches with peaceful river views
- Play areas for kids
On a nice summer evening, you can grab an ice cream downtown and wander down to the park to watch boats glide by. It’s simple, but that’s the charm.
2. Explore the Historic Kimberly Point Lighthouse
At the tip of Doty Island where the
Fox River meets Lake Winnebago, you’ll find the
Kimberly Point Lighthouse, one of Neenah’s most photographed spots.
Why it’s worth visiting:
- It’s a classic, white lighthouse with a red roof and a great “Wisconsin postcard” look.
- The park around it has shady trees, picnic tables, and walking paths along the shoreline.
- Sunrise and sunset views over the water can be amazing on a clear day.
Bring a blanket, some snacks, and just relax by the water. It’s the kind of place that makes you forget about your phone for a while.
3. Learn Local History at the Bergstrom-Mahler Museum of Glass
If you enjoy art museums or unique collections, the
Bergstrom-Mahler Museum of Glass is a must-see in Neenah.
This free museum (yes, free) features:
- One of the largest collections of glass paperweights in the world
- Beautiful contemporary glass sculptures
- Rotating exhibits and special events
Even if you’re not “into art” normally, the colors and shapes of the glass pieces are surprisingly fun to look at. Kids often like it too because the pieces feel almost magical.
The museum sits near the water, so you can pair your visit with a short walk along the shore.
4. Relax at Neenah’s Island Parks and Waterfront Trails
Neenah is full of water views thanks to the Fox River and nearby Lake Winnebago. That means plenty of spots to walk, bike, or just sit and take it all in.
Some local favorites:
- Doty Park – Great for picnics, with riverfront views and walking paths.
- Shattuck Park – Right off downtown, with a pavilion that hosts concerts and events.
- Loop the Little Lake Trail (regional trail) – Connects Neenah to neighboring communities with scenic bridges and boardwalks over the water.
If you like to stay active on vacation, bring your bike or walking shoes. The trails are mostly flat and easy, making them perfect for families or anyone who just wants to stretch their legs.
5. Visit Menasha and the Heckrodt Wetland Reserve (Just Minutes Away)
Right next door to Neenah is
Menasha, another Fox Cities community with a great outdoor attraction: the
Heckrodt Wetland Reserve.
This nature reserve offers:
- Over a mile of stroller-friendly and wheelchair-friendly boardwalks
- Wetlands, forests, and ponds filled with birds, frogs, and other wildlife
- A nature center with educational displays (great for kids)
It’s an easy way to enjoy Wisconsin’s natural side without having to drive deep into the country. If you like photography, bring your camera—early mornings and late afternoons are especially pretty here.
6. Spend Time on Lake Winnebago: Boating, Fishing, and Winter Fun
Neenah sits close to the western shore of
Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin’s largest inland lake. If you enjoy being on the water, you’ll have plenty of options.
In the warmer months, you can:
- Go boating or sailing from nearby marinas
- Try fishing for walleye, perch, and bass
- Rent kayaks or paddleboards from local outfitters (check seasonal availability)
In winter, the lake often becomes a playground for:
- Ice fishing shanties dotting the frozen surface
- Snowmobiling in the surrounding areas
If you’re new to ice fishing or boating, consider going out with a local guide or experienced friend. The lake is beautiful, but like any large body of water, it deserves respect.
7. Take a Short Drive to Oshkosh for the EAA Aviation Museum
Just about 20–25 minutes south of Neenah is
Oshkosh, home to the world-famous
EAA Aviation Museum.
Even if you’re not an airplane buff, this place is impressive:
- Over 200 historic airplanes on display
- Interactive exhibits and flight simulators
- Kid-friendly areas where younger visitors can learn and play
If you time your visit in late July, you might catch
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, one of the largest air shows in the world. Neenah makes a quieter home base if you don’t want to stay right in the crowds.
8. Experience Appleton’s Shopping, Dining, and Performing Arts
About 15–20 minutes north of Neenah is
Appleton, another key city in the
Fox Cities region. It’s an easy side trip if you’re looking for more things to do near Neenah.
Highlights in Appleton include:
- Downtown Appleton – Lively College Avenue with shops, bars, and restaurants.
- Fox Cities Performing Arts Center – Hosts touring Broadway shows, concerts, and special performances.
- Local breweries and taprooms – Great for sampling Wisconsin beer.
This is a nice option if you want a night out, a nicer dinner, or a show while still staying in a quieter town like Neenah.
9. Visit Local Parks and Playgrounds with the Family
Traveling with kids? Neenah has several parks that make it easy to burn off energy without spending a lot of money.
Some family-friendly spots:
- Memorial Park – Large green space, sports fields, and playground areas.
- Washington Park – Neighborhood park with a playground and room to run around.
- Shattuck Park – Right in town, often hosting concerts, markets, and community events in warmer months.
Pack a simple picnic—sandwiches, chips, and a cooler of drinks—and you’ve got a low-cost, low-stress afternoon planned.
10. Taste Wisconsin: Local Eats, Cheese, and Supper Clubs
You can’t come to Wisconsin and not enjoy the food. Around Neenah and Winnebago County, you’ll find plenty of classic Midwestern comfort foods.
Look for:
- Friday fish fry – A Wisconsin tradition, especially in local bars and supper clubs.
- Cheese curds – Fresh or fried; if you get them fresh, they should “squeak” when you bite them.
- Local breweries and taverns – Many offer Wisconsin-made beers and hearty pub food.
If you’ve never been to a
supper club, think of it like stepping back in time: cozy lighting, friendly staff, Old Fashioned cocktails, and big portions. Ask locals for their favorite spots in and around Neenah—they’re usually happy to share their go-to place.
Planning Your Trip to Neenah, Wisconsin
Neenah is easy to reach by car, and it makes a nice base for exploring
Winnebago County and the rest of the Fox Cities. You can:
- Stay in a local hotel or a short-term rental near the water or downtown.
- Use Neenah as a quieter alternative to Appleton or Oshkosh.
- Mix city comforts with time outdoors on the river and lake.
The pace here is slower than in big cities, and that’s part of its appeal. It’s the kind of place where you can actually unwind.
What Would You Do in Neenah?
Have you visited
Neenah, Wisconsin or the Fox Cities before?
- Which parks, restaurants, or attractions did you enjoy most?
- Did we miss one of your favorite things to do near Neenah?
Share your tips and experiences in the comments—your ideas can help other travelers plan their own trip.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who might be traveling through Wisconsin. The more we share, the easier it is for others to discover small-town gems like Neenah.
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