Nothing beats the adventure of this beautiful city. Scan through the best things to do in Fond Du Lac before heading out.
The name Fond du Lac means “farthest end of the lake,” which comes from the French expression. This town is located in the east-central state of Wisconsin.
This city has many things to offer, so much so that you may be confused about what to choose. These attractions include historic sites, nature preserve centers, restaurants, and more.
Fond de Lac may be best known for its proximity to Lake Winnebago, but this place has so much more to offer.
This place will surprise you if you want to check off more activities on your bucket list while traveling.
Planning to explore Fond du Lac? Explore the best things to do in Fond du Lac
Fun Things to Do in Fond Du Lac
1. Don’t Miss a Thing at Buttermilk Creek Park
You might have known about the popular occasions at Buttermilk Creek Park, for example, the Music Under the Stars show series that happens each Monday night during the summer.
One more occasion held at Buttermilk Brook Park is the Buttermilk Festival concert series on Wednesday nights all through the summer.
These occasions made Buttermilk Spring Park more well-known to locals and tourists alike. Yet, there are different exercises that you can attempt while visiting this park.
This 20-acre park has an amphitheater where shows and occasions are held.
Buttermilk Creek Park is likewise one of the most amazing spots in Fond du Lac for sports.
It has five lit tennis courts and two b-ball courts. There are likewise two kids’ playgrounds and a huge sledding slope.
If you have any desire to remain somewhat longer and choose to have an outing in the recreation area, Buttermilk Creek Park likewise has a picnic shelter for you.
Sports, shows, picnics – it’s all conceivable at Buttermilk Creek Park.
2. Experience an Adventure at Fairgrounds Aquatic Center and Waterpark
Water adventures are always on the “yes” and “to-do” lists when traveling.
Fond du Lac, Fairgrounds Aquatic Center, and Waterpark will have your back!
They are open from 12 to 8 pm. You can never go wrong with extreme water fun adventures.
This water park has a wide variety of slides and water features to choose from.
For children or adults – they have it all! There are also sand and grass areas that you can stay on if you want to have fun with Mr. Sun.
3. Try Fond du Lac Food
A vacation is never finished without tasting great food suggested by the locals themselves.
Fond du Lac has various extraordinary cafés across the road. One of the first-class food stops is The Sweet and Pungent Pig.
They make their dishes remarkable and zesty by adding bacon.
From informal breakfast to supper, this first-class Bar and Barbecue will cause you to desire bacon goodness.
On the off chance that you love seafood, the following dish is for you.
Salty’s Seafood and Spirits is an award-winning seafood café that offers an unusual menu from starters to lunch to supper.
You can attempt different fish seafood with every feast, and you won’t ever hit a dead end.
In opposition to their name, their dishes have an extraordinary equilibrium of flavors – never excessively salty!
Obviously, you can always remember to give cakes a shot the go. With that in mind, Bryanna’s Pastry kitchen will be your dearest companion.
Exceptionally old portions, flourless chocolate cakes, vivid French macarons, and much more – all ready by a group of enthusiastic pastry specialists.
At Bryanna’s, everything is made with affection; everything feels like home. That is the reason you’ll make want more and more.
Things to Do in Fond Du Lac at Night
1. Have a Drink at Ledgerock Distillery LLC
This is an incredible distillery known for producing quality and unique bottled beverages.
They make the best bourbon, vodka, gin, and using quality natural ingredients, like grains grown on their farms.
This distillery has a great staff that offers great customer service and politely answers questions.
The small-batch craft distillery is open for site tours; tourists learn the entire process of making spirits and donating samples.
2. Grab a Snack at Fat Joe’s Bar and Grill
Fat Joe’s Bar and Grill is a gathering place for locals and visitors alike in Wisconsin; since its opening, the bar has provided guests with a friendly and local atmosphere.
The bar and grill are very nice, with great places on the terrace where patrons enjoy their drinks and live music on the stage.
You’ll make new friends at Fat Joe’s Bar and Grill as you enjoy an energetic and eclectic night out with locals and tourists.
In addition to Garlic Veggie Salad, BBQ Pulled Pork, Avocado BLT Wrap, Dixie Smoked Turkey, Guacamole & Chips, Bacon Cheeseburger, Steakhouse Burger & Sweet Potato Ranch Fries, Caramel Cheesecake, Smoked Ribs & Fries; they also have Smoked Ribs & Fries.
A wide variety of drinks are available at Fat Joe’s Bar and Grill, such as iced tea, blood marys, magic punches, and Miller Light.
3. Relax at Coliseum Sports Bar and Grill
Coliseum Sports Bar and Grill is fully equipped with comfortable seating with several flat-screen TVs showing live games.
They offer you the right atmosphere to relax, watch live games and have a beer.
They serve an extensive beverage menu, including raspberry iced tea, lemonade, cranberry juice, pineapple juice, Sprecher’s root beer, unsweetened iced tea, and more.
Things to Do in Fond Du Lac For Couples
1. Relax at Hobbs Woods Nature Area
If you are a nature lover, this has to be your best place in Fond du Lac. Hobbs Woods covers a 60-acre county park dedicated to hiking and all things outdoors.
You will also find beautiful wildflowers while hiking. You can also treat your dogs to an exciting walk, as Hobbs Woods is also dog friendly.
It doesn’t matter when you want to go on a trip. The trail of this county park is accessible all year round.
In winter, it is also a popular place for cross-country skiing.
Relax with nature. Relax in Hobbs Woods Natural Area.
2. Try Volunteering
There is no greater satisfaction than helping others and giving back.
The Fond du Lac area has many organizations and facilities in need of assistance and volunteers.
This may be an unusual thing to do on vacation. Still, the moment you join an organization and decide to help, all that follows are unforgettable experiences you can cherish for the rest of your life.
You’ll see smiles brighter than any smile you’ve seen before, and all those smiles come from you.
Don’t hesitate to add it to your bucket list. Go out there, spread some love and make someone laugh.
3. Test Your Golf Skills at Whispering Springs Golf Club
For all your special events, Whispering Springs Golf Club offers a variety of indoor and outdoor venues.
The golf club offers complete golf facilities on the ground floor and a banquet hall on the upper floor, which is open all year round.
Whispering Springs Golf Club also features a 3,000-plus-square-foot ballroom with walls lined with large windows to let in natural light.
The ballroom has a capacity of two hundred and seventy guests; it is a beautifully designed room, ideal as a meeting space with a ‘T’ shaped bar.
Things to Do in Fond Du Lac For Kids
1. Let Them Play at Kiekhaefer Park
It’s time for some park-hopping!
If other places have beautiful islands close to each other, Fond du Lac has a variety of parks to choose from and is naturally picturesque.
If Lakeside Park is a place where you can take your kids and your whole family, Kiekhaefer is where you can be alone or connect with your friends.
It is a good place for summer walks.
In winter, it’s also an ideal place for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding.
Kiekhaefer is also known for its stunning views, especially when viewed from its tower.
2. Give Them a Good Time at Lakeside Park
Enjoy the soothing magnificence of one of Fond du Lac’s principal attractions.
Situated at the southern end of Lake Winnebago, Lakeside offers 400 acres of land of open amusement space with lots of fun and energizing activities.
In the event that you’re going with your children, Lakeside brings a ton to the table.
With four kids’ sets and mats, your kids make certain to appreciate being in the sun on a wonderful summer day.
Playing the field can be a bit tiring.
Then you can make a couple of strides and see a lot of reasonable fun rides for you to attempt!
You and your kids can encounter a charming train ride. Then, at that point, you would have two additional rides – a whip ride and a carousel.
The good times don’t stop here!
You can likewise appreciate water exercises by leasing kayaks, paddle boats, and kayaks. This allows you to see more of the beautiful perspectives that Lakeside brings to the table.
On the off chance that creatures remain a cherished memory to you, Lakeside also has a unique spot for you.
There is a little petting zoo with hares, goats, and even llamas! After all the fun, there is another spot to visit – the lighthouse.
Initially built in 1933, the lighthouse was an image of Lakeside Park and Fond du Lac.
Assuming that you take a gander at the lighthouse, you will see the enamoring magnificence of the whole lake.
3. Visit the Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac
With the fascinating attractions at the Fond du Lac Children’s Museum, kids can learn while having fun while playing in fun places in Fond du Lac.
It is open Wednesday through Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm, and reservations are not required to visit the museum.
An indoor/outdoor space of 15,000 square feet and a playground of over 10,000 square feet will ensure kids enjoy learning.
The Children’s Museum also has various events on scheduled dates that may be running during your visit.
Fun and education are guaranteed at the Fond du Lac Children’s Museum.
Indoor Activities to Do in Fond Du Lac For Adults
1. Appreciate Art at Thelma Sadoff Center For the Arts
After hopping from one park to another, it’s now time for Fond du Lac’s next highlight, Thelma Sadoff Center For the Arts.
Thelma is home to many art forms, such as music, film, and art exhibitions. They also offer a place for social gatherings.
Thelma also has classes where students learn to express and explore their creativity.
These courses are available for children and adults.
If you are planning a quick trip to Fond du Lac, purchasing a ticket to enjoy one of Thelma’s world-class exhibits and displays would be nice.
This will surely be one of the most memorable experiences during your trip.
2. Go Bowling at Parkway Bowling Lanes
If you’ve never been bowling before, here’s your chance, stop by Parkway Bowling Lanes.
Parkway Bowling Lanes is a 16-lane bowling alley with children’s bowling, open bowling, and a video game arcade.
In the center is a grill & bar that offers a wide range of unique drinks, including drinks and delicious food.
Parkway Bowling Lanes is available to rent for birthday parties and corporate events.
3. Go Shopping at Forest Mall
Fond du Lac at Forest Mall has been a stress-free shopping center for decades.
It is the best place to get the thrill of shopping, consisting of more than thirty stores.
Each store sells a variety of items from local, national, and international brands, so you don’t have to worry.
It has something for everyone; with many vendors offering authentic and unique products, they won’t disappoint.
Romantic Things to Do in Fond Du Lac
1. Shop for Collectibles at Lightsmith Art Glass
Lightsmith Art Glass is well known for making decorative glass and collectibles.
They educate visitors about how quality, exquisite vases and much other glassware are used in homes and offices.
Lightsmith Art Glass educates people more about glass repair and restoration, including stain removal.
You can buy beautiful souvenirs for yourself, gifts for your loved ones, and wedding or anniversary gifts.
2. Have Lunch Together at Connie’s Diner
Are you a foodie? And looking for a place to satisfy your stomach cravings in Fond du Lac, Connie’s Diner is the best place.
Connie’s Diner serves recognizably American, home-style food and has been serving its customers for many years.
The restaurant prepares meals according to special recipes and styles that make you feel like you are eating an authentic home-cooked meal.
Connie’s Diner offers grilled cheese, double bacon cheeseburgers, onion rings, pancakes, French fries, soup, fish sandwiches, broccoli and cheese, steak sandwiches and fries, ham, cheese, cheese, and mushrooms.
Connie’s Diner offers juice and nice drinks like hot chocolate, coffee, root beer, chocolate milk, soda, Coke, Mt Dew, and more.
The staff is friendly and professional in attending to customers and creating a pleasant atmosphere.
3. Visit Kristmas Kringle Shoppe
The Kristmas Kringle Shoppe is a two-story Bavarian-style store and popular shopping destination.
They offer over seventy themed trees, animated characters, etc.
Kristmas Kringle Shoppe has competent calligraphers who are always ready to personalize your special gift.
Free Things to Do in Fond Du Lac
1. Explore Downtown Fond du Lac
One more fascinating thing to do with regard to Fond du Lac is to investigate its middle.
Downtown Fond du Lac offers a wide variety of products, services, etc. From food to design, from gifts to individual consideration, they take care of you.
The night market is likewise open from 5 to 8 pm.
It is loaded with food stalls, little shops, and live music exhibitions.
New products directly from the farms will likewise be accessible at the farmer’s market, which is open from 8 am to 12 pm.
The best thing about traveling is encountering the things local people generally do.
Shop like a local, eat and explore like a local in Downtown Fond du Lac.
2. Go Hiking Along the Fond du Lac State Park Trails
Extra outdoor physical activities await you on two of Fond du Lac’s famous state trails.
We start the – this is a 34-mile rail Wild Goose State Park Trail that is likewise known for being home to more than 250 types of birds.
These incorporate waterfowl, Canada goose, and numerous others. The Wild Goose State Park Trail is open all year from 6 am to 11 pm.
A state trail pass is likewise not needed for strolling and climbing.
Notwithstanding, people beyond 16 years old who wish to ride bikes, ponies, cross-country skis, and rollerblades on certain courses should introduce a state railroad pass.
Mascoutin Valley State Park Trail is another state park trail popular in Fond du Lac.
This state trail is partitioned into eastern and western segments.
The eastern segment runs from Rosendale to the town of Affectionate du Lac, and the western area runs between Berlin and Ripon.
This state trail covers a sum of 21 miles. The western part covers 11 miles, while the eastern part covers 10 miles.
Like Wild Goose State Park, Mascoutin is open from 6 am to 11 pm. Similar principles apply to the state section on the path.
It’s most certainly an encounter you would have zero desire to miss.
3. Visit Fond du Lac Public Library
If you’re a bookworm, the Fond du Lac Public Library has plenty for you.
The greatness of this public library does not end with the wide variety of books they have. They will also give you the best treatment.
You can request a tour, and the library staff will accompany you and show you all the library functions. You can even book a librarian to help you personally!
There are also fax machines, copiers, scanners, and even charging stations!
The Fond du Lac Library not only makes it possible for you to learn, but it also makes learning much easier.
Cheap Things to Do in Fond Du Lac
1. Visit the Fond du Lac County Historical Society
In addition to all the fun-filled adventures and breathtaking scenery, Fond du Lac is also rich in culture and history.
The Fond du Lac County Historical Society aims to connect people with history by “inspiring passion, preservation, exploration, and fun.”
They have Galloway House and Village, which is open Wednesday to Friday from 11 am to 4 pm.
2. Visit Fondy Sports Park
This unprecedented park offers great fun for many families at an affordable price.
The park offers several entertainment facilities and equipment, including a lighted golf driving range, a zero-gravity gyroscope, a paintball range, climbing walls, and more.
The park features indoor and outdoor sports batting cages, trampolines, crazy mazes, bumper boats, go-karts, miniature golf, and more.
3. Spend Some Time at Gottfried Prairie & Arboretum
Gottfried Prairie & Arboretum is an approximately 42-hectare property and project established in 1991.
The park was created to showcase the state’s agricultural sector and indigenous plant communities.
Gottfried Prairie & Arboretum offers several hiking trails, ponds, and wildlife. It is home to native prairie grasses and wildflowers, one hundred and seventy-six trees and shrubs, and more.
You can find prairie chicken and other advertised volunteers; the center educates residents through environmental classes and an interactive trail.
Gottfried Prairie & Arboretum is an excellent location for bird watching, biking, cross-country skiing, sledding, and family picnics, with two picnic tables and six benches.
Cool Places to Visit in Fond Du Lac
1. Fondy Aqua Park
Aquapark Fondy offers you and your family exciting activities that will give you chills.
The park features a sandy beach, a big wave water slide, Floom zoom slides, a floating inflatable water park, and more.
Fondy Aquapark also offers a beach house with a deck, pedal boats, paddle boards, kayaks, and lots of fun equipment.
The experience you get here is unmatched and one you won’t easily forget; visit and have fun jumping, climbing up, and splashing around.
2. Taylor Park Pool
Taylor Park Pool was built through a partnership between the Fond du Lac School District and the Fond Du Lac YMCA.
The park has an Olympic-sized swimming pool consisting of 50-meter swimming lanes, including a deep-end pool with a main section deep enough for beginners to practice their swimming lessons.
Taylor Park Pool offers experienced and competent instructors swimming lessons and is open to all ages.
The park also has indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, a pavilion, and a playground, especially for the little ones.
3. Blue Line Family Ice Center
The Blue Line Family Ice Center offers one of the best rinks in the state.
It hosts a wide variety of ice hockey teams, such as Hockey Factory, Fond du Lac Thunder, Fond du Lac High School, Figure Skating Club, and Fondy Blades.
It offers three ice rinks that are always open no matter when you visit.
They offer a full range of equipment for safe skating, including ice skating equipment, so don’t panic if you don’t have the necessary ice skating equipment.
Conclusion
Fond du Lac is a bustling town with historic restaurants, murals, a live music scene, scenic and river views, breweries, shopping centers, and much more.
You should visit because there is always something new, unique and exciting in town.
What’s the delay? Plan that trip already with our checklist of things to do in Fond du Lac.
