23 BEST Things To Do In Fond du Lac Wisconsin 2024

Are you looking for the best things to do in Fond du Lac Wisconsin? If so, this post has you covered! Read on to learn about the most amazing activities available in this scenic town at the foot of Lake Winnebago.

Fond du Lac is an outdoor-lovers paradise with hiking, biking, birding, and camping opportunities galore. Anyone who loves water sports will love swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and even kiteboarding or windsurfing from the sandy beaches of Fond du Lac.

There is also plenty of family fun available, with beautiful parks, aquatic obstacle courses, beaches, and museums.

Interested in adult activities? Book a flight at the aviation museum, nab tickets to a concert, check out a famous distillery, play golf, and shop until you drop.

You’re going to love these best things to do in Fond du Lac.                                           

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23 Things To Do In Fond du Lac Wisconsin

Enjoy wonderful outdoor adventures, paddle and fish on the water, get creative in a maker space, visit museums, go hiking, visit amusement parks, and more! Read on to discover the top things to do in Fond du Lac.

1. Have Fun at Fondy Aqua Park

One of the best things to do in Fond du Lac is to spend a day at Fondy Aqua Park. The park is located on the shores of Lake Winnebago and features a huge sandy beach, picnic area, floating obstacle course, zoom slides, and dueling slides. There are also zip lines and water equipment rentals.

One of the advantages of going to Fondy Aqua Park is that you can choose the package that best fits your family and budget.

Want to have a picnic and swim day? Get a beach pass! Looking for more excitement on the water? Choose the Aqua Park or Open Water pass. Just want to go canoeing, paddle-boarding, fishing, kayaking, or row-boating? Rent your preferred water equipment by the half hour.

Fondy Aqua Park is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

2. Tour Historic Galloway House and Village

If you’re interested in history, Galloway House and Village are a worthy stop. This 15-acre property is home to a mid-Victorian mansion, 25 historic buildings, and a museum. Reviewers call it a three-for-one experience.

Set aside 2 to 4 hours for the visit. Start off with a guided tour of the lavish mansion to gain an inside look at the lives of a 20th Century family. Next, wander the village on a self-guided venture. You’ll see multiple businesses such as a post office, railway station, beauty salon, and toy shop.

It’s fun to see what Fond du Lac might have looked like back when it was founded.

You won’t want to miss the museum, which is filled with intriguing artifacts from the town. Some favorites include flyers dropped by Charles Lindbergh after his historic flight, and artillery shell casings decorated by WWI soldiers during their time in the trenches.

The Historic Galloway House and Village is usually open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. It is run by the County Historical Society.

Tip: Want more history, go on a historic walking or biking tour of Fond du Lac!

3. Catch a Game at Herr-Baker Field

Take me out to a ball game! If you love baseball, catching a game at Herr-Baker Field could be a fabulous thing to do in Fond du Lac.

This field is a hot spot for Division III and WIAA baseball games.

Herr-Baker Field is at Marian University and features a stadium, bleachers with comfortable seats, lighted dugouts, restrooms, locker rooms, a Kid Zone with a bouncy house, concessions, and more.

This is a fan-friendly stadium and is perfect for seeing a future MLB star in play. Enjoy watching the local Dock Spiders team doing what they do best.

Herr-Baker field is great for groups of friends or family.

4. Get Curious at the Children’s Museum

Sign up for fantastic family time by heading to the Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac. This museum features many innovative exhibits designed to get kids learning, exploring, and having fun.

There are also multiple programs available such as science labs, courses, and parent support groups.

When the weather is nice, your kids can play outside as well.

This is a fun place to have a good time and connect with your kids. Build at the block wall, get crafty, compete against each other in air hockey, put on a puppet show, or check out the interactive stock market.

The Children’s Museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the weekend. It is closed on Mondays.

5. Hike, Camp, & Learn at Marsh Haven Nature Center

If you don’t mind driving 25 minutes from Fond du Lac, consider visiting the Marsh Haven Nature Center. This wonderful natural paradise is a perfect spot to go hiking and learn about the animals who live in the Horicon Natural Wildlife Refuge.

Hike three miles of trails beneath soaring trees and through rolling prairies and marshland. Explore the Griffith Bird Gallery for insight into waterfowl, raptors, and other birds. Head to the Respect Our Earth theater for a wolf presentation, raptor program, and other wildlife education talks.

Check out the art gallery. Add birds to your birding list by seeing what feathered creatures are visiting the feeding center. Head to the observation tower. Or go tent camping on a grassy strip with views of Lake LaPresto.

The hiking trails are free, and open to visitors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. mid-April through mid-December.

6. Nab a Show at Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts

Another one of the best things to do in Fond du Lac is visiting the Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts. This non-profit offers street concerts with top performers, indoor films, art sales from famed artists, and concerts in the Great Hall.

There are occasional expos and art classes available, as well as ongoing music, art, and theater programs for local students.

Check out the free art exhibits in the Susan O. Ahern Contemporary Wing and the lower level. You can also join one of the Thelma Center paid classes, such as charcoal drawing. Fun!

The Thelma Sadoff Center is open from Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is closed on Sundays and on certain holidays.

7. Go to the EAA Aviation Museum

Take your trip to a whole new level by visiting the Experimental Aircraft Association Aviation Museum. This museum is one of the biggest museums of its kind in the world. It features hands-on exhibits for kids, vintage aerodrome rides, four movie theaters, and over 200 planes.

Some of the planes you can see at the EAA Aviation Museum include a 1944 North American F-51D Mustang, a 1938 Bugatti and a 1977 Ryan.

The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, it also holds fun events such as their annual EAA Wright Brothers Memorial Banquet or their Flight at the Museum beer tasting and dining experience.                

8. Visit Ledgerock Distillery

Enter the world of all-natural spirits by visiting Ledgerock Distillery. This family farm is perched on “The Ledge,” an area between Eden and Fond du Lac Wisconsin.

The distillery grows all its own grains and distills its own spirits on location. If you visit, you’ll get to see every part of the process from the wheat and corn fields to the storage buildings to the fermenter, to the bottling and labeling hub.

You’ll also learn what makes Ledgerock spirits so delicious. Taste their small-batch spirits including Frostbite Gin, Back 40 Moonshine, Retzer Farm Bourbon, Vodka Traditional, and Farm Boy Bourbon Whiskey.

Head over Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for a farm tour (hours may differ during the holidays). Visit on a Saturday if you want cocktails.

9. Get Festive at the Kristmas Kringle Shoppe

Are you one of those people who love to listen to Christmas music all year? Or who loves shopping for Christmas months in advance? If so, you’ll adore the Kristmas Kringle Shoppe in Fond du Lac.

This two-story Bavarian-style store empowers you to celebrate Christmas 360 days of the year. It’s also a perfect spot to pick up gifts for other seasons, animated figures, themed Christmas trees, glass ornaments from all over the world, and more.

You can also make gifts extra special by getting them personalized in-house. Add a hand-calligraphed note created by one of the Kristmas Kringle calligraphers.

The Kristmas Kringle Shoppe is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

10. Play Golf at Whispering Springs

Whispering Springs Golf Club is an incredible destination for golf lovers. The 18-hole course was designed in 1996. The scenery changes as you work your way from hole to hole. Each one is different, offering plenty of challenges to keep things interesting.

Practice your strategy and skills while enjoying the rolling meadows and grasses of the front nine and then the old trees of the back nine woodlands.

Choose between a nine holes or 18 holes game, either walking or riding. There are special rates for “Twilight Golf” in the afternoons and evenings as well as junior, and senior rates, and weekend and weekday specials.

The summer season begins in May.

11. SUP, Windsurf, or Kitesurf on the Lake

If you’re visiting Fond du Lac during the summer, getting out on the waters of Lake Winnebago is a must!

Enjoy a tranquil paddle board outing, or try your hand at kiteboarding or windsurfing.

Not so sure about those water activities? You can also go kayaking, canoeing, or sailing.

Many water equipment rentals are available at Wind Power Surf Shop. The owner was the Windsurfer of the Year in 2006 and also a World One Design Racing Champion. He and his staff are friendly and experienced. They’ll get you set up for an awesome day of fun on Lake Winnebago.

Alternatively, you can also rent some water equipment from Fondy Aqua Park or Lakeside Park.

Free or Cheap Things to Do in Fond du Lac Wisconsin

Spending time in Fond du Lac doesn’t have to be pricey. Check out these free or cheap things to do in Fond du Lac!

12. Hike Wild Goose State Trail

Don your hiking shoes and head out to Wisconsin’s vast Horicon Marsh. This National Wildlife refuge is teeming with birds, beautiful prairies, lush marshes, arcing oak groves, and farmland.

You can hike, jog, or bike the 34-mile trail that leads from Fond du Lac to Juneau. It leads along the western side of the Horicon Marsh.

If you like birding, take your binoculars along because this is a fabulous area to spot over 250 migrant bird species.

No trail pass is required to use the Wild Goose Trail, making this a top-notch free activity.

Note: Pets are allowed on the trail as long as they remain on a leash the entire time.

13. Walk the Mascoutin Valley State Park Trail

Another fun free thing to do in Fond du Lac is walking the Mascoutin Valley Trail.

This trail is 21 miles long and goes from Fond du Lac to Rosedale, and between Berlin and Ripon. (There is a small gap between the two sections located on private property).

The Mascoutin Valley Trail is operated by Fond du Lac County, Winnebago County, and Green Lake County. It was built on a railroad corridor that leads past wetlands, prairies, Eldorado Marsh, and farmland.

Runners, hikers, walkers, and bikers all make use of the Mascoutin Trail. It is relatively flat and is surfaced in crushed stone. The scenery has a desolate beauty.

Tip: Take plenty of water as there are no restroom facilities.

14. Create at Idea Studio Makerspace

Whether you’re looking for a rainy day activity in Fond du Lac, or a tranquil indoor moment, you’ll love Idea Studio. This Makerspace is operated by the local library and offers drop-in classes for free.

Get creative by painting some of your own glassware with colorful alcohol inks. Make friendship bracelets, fuse beads, and upcycled electronic jewelry. Cut a design out of Shrinky Dink sheets, have fun with lego, or contribute to the latest community project.

You can also try your hand at origami, adult coloring, or creating musical loops on a Kaossilator synthesizer.

Drop-in projects require no training, and are either free or very inexpensive. These projects are available to all visitors of the space.

The Idea Studio is typically open from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Mondays through Thursdays, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Fridays, and 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays.

15. Enjoy Lakeside Park

Pack a picnic and spend a lovely day at Fond du Lac’s iconic Lakeside Park.

This great park features a petting zoo, amusement rides, a waterfront recreational area, a lighthouse, ziplines, and kayak rentals to get you out on the water.

There are also splash pads and four different playgrounds perfect for having fun and cooling off in the summer heat.

At the free petting zoo, you and your kids can say hello to goats, llamas, and other animals. You’ll also learn how to care for the animals from friendly guides.

Walk and bike on the paths, go on a carousel or whip ride, or climb to the top of the lighthouse for views of Lake Winnebago.

Want to get out on the water? You can rent paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes to get your arm workout for the day.

Eat your picnic at one of the plentiful tables, or go all out and barbecue on one of the grills.

Finish off with creamy scoops of ice cream from a local vendor.

16. Swim & Play Sports at Taylor Park & Pool

Pop your sports bag in the trunk and don your swimsuit, cause it’s time to head to Taylor Park and Pool! This fun Fond du Lac pool and sports center is the place to be, especially on hot summer days.

Have a fabulous time enjoying an open swim or lap swim in the pool. Play basketball or tennis on the courts, have a picnic or set your kids loose on the playground.

The picnic area, playground, and sports courts are open year-round (as long as weather permits) and are first come first serve. The pool is open from early June until late August. Check ahead for the open pool and lap swim hours.

Admission to the pool for non-resident adults costs $4.50 during the day and $2.50 in the evenings. Non-resident kids pay $2.50 for day time and $2 for evening swims.

17. Visit the Basilica and National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians

If you don’t mind a bit of a drive, another interesting stop near Fond du Lac is Holy Hill. This church, known as the Basilica and National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians, is 50 minutes from Fond du Lac, on the outskirts of Milwaukee.

The complex is open to visitors who come to see the beautiful stained glass, impressive church building, the soaring Scenic Tower, and rare statue of Mary housed inside Shrine Chapel.

On a clear day, be sure to climb the 178 stairs to the top of Scenic Tower. The structure is 192-feet tall and offers stunning panoramas of the Kettle Moraine regions.

In the Shrine Chapel, take a quiet moment to admire the ivory and gold-leaf statue of Mary. The statue Our Lady of Holy Hill was exhibited at the 1876 Philadelphia World’s Fair and made by Pustet Co. in Munich.

There is also a café and gift shop you can check out while you’re there.

Note: The scenic tower is open from April through October.

Things To Do In Fond du Lac Wisconsin In The Winter

Are you visiting Fond du Lac Wisconsin during the winter months? If so, this section is for you. Learn about snowy outdoor adventures, Christmas shows, ice fishing opportunities and more!

18. See the Lakeside Park Christmas Light Show

Although Lakeside Park already gets a mention on this list, it’s worth bringing up again because of its Christmas light show. The picturesque park turns into a snowy wonderland shimmering with Christmas lights, animated displays, and holiday tunes.

The show runs from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily between Thanksgiving night and New Year’s Day.

Park your car in the lot across from the display, turn off your headlights, and tune into radio 89.1 FM for the music.

The Lakeside Park Christmas Light Show lasts about 30 minutes and is completely free.

19. Enjoy Wintry Sports

Another amazing thing to do in Fond du Lac in the winter is go sledding, skiing, and snow-showing.

If you have sleds, head to Buttermilk Creek Park to slide down the massive sledding hill there. Take hot cocoa in a thermos to warm up under the picnic shelter between rounds of screaming fun.

Gottfried Prairie & Arboretum is another great spot for sledding and cross-country skiing.

Kiekhaefer Park is a 7-acre prairie perfect for skiing and snowshoeing. Fun fun!

20. Ice Fishing on Lake Winnebago

Did you know that Lake Winnebago is one of the best places to go ice fishing in Wisconsin? During the bone-cold months, there may be up to 10,000 cars parked on the frozen lake. Wow!

Join the winter fishing festivities and try catching white bass, perch, walleye, and sturgeon.

Fishing guides in the marinas can warn you away from weak ice and pressure cracks. Be extra careful around islands and near the shore, unmarked reefs, and sandbars.

Check out the Wisconsin fishing regulations for information on fishing in Lake Winnebago, season dates, and more.        

21. Catch an Event at Ziegler Winery

Enjoy an afternoon out and about by visiting Ziegler Winery in Malone! This charming rustic winery is 23 minutes from Fond du Lac.

It’s worth a bit of a drive if you like wine tasting, finger foods, and music events. Aside from the wine selection, one of the big draws is the tasting room, which was once a stable. The renovated building is gorgeous, spacious and welcoming.

Ziegler Winery also hosts fun events. In the winter, you can enjoy wreath making, carriage rides, Christmas caroling, cookie decorating, jazz concerts, Christmas shows, and musician features.

During a tasting, you can learn a lot about the vineyard and hand-crafted wine. There is also an appetizer menu and four craft beer selections.

Enjoy the fireplace during the winter. In the summer, relax on the back patio or go on one of the wine walks through the forest.

22. Shop in Downtown Fond du Lac

Shopping is another cheery thing to do in Fond du Lac in the winter. Head downtown to pick up Christmas gifts, souvenirs, or something special for yourself.

One cool spot to check out is Lightsmith Art Glass. Folks at this shop create unique and eye-catching designs to add a special touch to your life. You can buy jewelry, tiffany lamps, Christmas ornaments, stained glass, stained glass kits, and more.

Head by Lightsmith Art Glass between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, or make an appointment in advance.

Another great shop to add to your list is Lilian’s of Fond du Lac. This is a well-loved women’s clothing store that also sells jewelry, shoes, and accessories.

Lunar & Lake Book Market is a premier store for hand-picked, high-quality books and novelty gifts. It’s definitely worth a stop!

23. King Pin Lanes Bowling

Escape the cold outdoors and head to King Pin Lanes for an amazing night of food and bowling fun!

King Pin Lanes is 15 miles south of Fond du Lac (about a 25-minute drive). It’s worth a little outing to enjoy a prime time bowling, eating, and enjoying friends and family.

This bowling alley is a cross between a restaurant bar and a bowling establishment. The food is fantastic, especially the wings, fries, and ranch chicken wraps. (Tip: try the spicy garlic wings).

The staff at King Pin Lanes ensures you have a great time, no matter your age.

It’s easy to schedule a lane ahead, hold an event there, or drop by on Wednesday & Thursday nights to “Bowl Your Brains Out.” This special deal lets you play as many games as you can fit into 2 hours for only $9.        

What Is Fond du Lac Known For?

Fond du Lac Wisconsin is known for its outdoor activities, history, architecture, and music. This United States city is a perfect destination for hikers, watersport enthusiasts, and history buffs.

Thanks to its proximity to Horicon National Wildlife Refuge, there are many great trails for hiking, biking, walking, and birding.

Fond du Lac means “Foot of the Lake” because it is on the southern point of Lake Winnebago.

The lake draws thousands of fishermen and is especially famous for sturgeon and walleye. It’s also a wonderful place for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, kiteboarding, and windsurfing.

Historic buildings, art centers, wineries, distilleries, and interesting shops round out the experience for travelers to Fond du Lac.        

Where To Stay In Fond du Lac

If you’re wondering where to stay in Fond du Lac Wisconsin, consider these top two options.

✔ Holiday Inn Express & Suites

The Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Fond du Lac is a three-star hotel with modern guest rooms and a free hot breakfast.

Rooms at the Holiday Inn feature a comfortable bed, large work desk, ergonomic chair, flat panel TV, microwave, refrigerator, and enhanced bathrooms.

Additional amenities include free wifi, a swimming pool, and a top-notch fitness center.

Guests loved the friendly staff and the comfortable and quiet rooms.

The hotel is relaxed, and conveniently located only four miles from Lakeside Park, four miles from the Children’s Museum, and five miles from Gottfried Prairie and Arboretum.

✔ The Audubon Hotel and Event Venue

If you plan to enjoy lots of activities at the Horicon Marsh, staying at the Audubon Hotel and Event Venue could be a great choice.

This historic hotel dates back to 1896 and features an eye-catching exterior, spacious rooms, soaking tubs, and classy furnishings.

Amenities include a restaurant, bridal suite, free wifi, and free parking.

The Audubon Hotel and Event Venue is conveniently located 4 miles from Horicon Marsh and a 4-minute walk from the Mayville Historical Society. It is a 30-minute drive from Fond du Lac.        

Where To Eat In Fond du Lac

Wondering where to eat in Fond du Lac? Check out these wonderful eateries at the foot of Lake Winnebago.

✔ Urban Fuel Coffee Station

Urban Fuel Coffee Station is one of Fond du Lac’s hidden gems. This great café features amazing coffee, delicious food, and an inviting atmosphere that is warm, classy, and rustic.

Menu options include sandwiches, wraps, and salads. Drink a yummy latte, or kick back with a cocktail or a glass of their house wine.

Urban Fuel is open Wednesday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

✔ The Sweet & Salty Pig

Savory flavors and sweet contrasts get front and center at The Sweet & Salty Pig, one of Fond du Lac’s most popular eateries.

Customers love the food, service, and drinks at this restaurant.

There are vegetarian options, amazing grilled cheese sandwiches, pasta dishes, fabulous fries, incredible burgers, and more.                                        

✔ Salty’s Seafood & Spirits

If you love seafood, you’ll love this whimsical nautical bar featuring amazing seafood dishes, delicious salads, and steaks.

With a Key West atmosphere, great specials, and happy hours, there is a lot to love at Salty’s.

Customer’s raved about the huge variety of fish and shrimp dishes, the great service, and good prices.  

✔ Theo’s 24 Prime Steaks Seafood & Wine Bar

If you’re looking for something upscale or a special night out, consider heading to Theo’s 24 Prime Steaks Seafood & Wine Bar.

Amazing steaks, mouth-watering hamburgers, outstanding crab cakes, ahi tuna, deep spicy gumbo, and more delicious food await at Theo’s. Enjoy drinks at the bar, a sleek minimalist atmosphere, and excellent staff.                                        

✔ Kelley Country Creamery

What better way to finish off a tasty meal than with ice cream? And what better place to enjoy frozen treats than an old-fashioned sun porch overlooking a working farm?

Kelley Country is a family-run creamery offering 22 different flavors every day.

The selection frequently changes, with new, seasonal, and specialty flavors added to the menu often.

Depending on the day, you may get to try Honey Wagon, Kahlua Almond Fudge, Jalapeño, Lemon Meringue Pie, Mexican Hot Chocolate, Peach, and many more ice cream flavors.

There’s even a special viewing window so you can watch the ice cream making in action.

Don’t forget to chill on an old-timey rocking chair while you get your sugar fix.

Conclusion: Things To Do In Fond Du Lac Wisconsin

Fond du Lac is one of Wiscon’s best-hidden gems. This area is a hot spot for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys scenic and historic charm.

You can go hiking, biking, kiteboarding, and shopping. You can make a project at the local makerspace, go to music concerts, visit the aviation museum, bowl your brains out, swim, and take a historic biking tour.

No matter what you decide, you’re bound to love these wonderful things to do in Fond du Lac Wisconsin!

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