Oshkosh, Wisconsin was named after Menominee Chief Oshkosh and was once dubbed the “Sawdust Capital of the World” due to the number of lumber mills. These days, Oshkosh is a trendy “small town” with a focus on culture and entertainment.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Oshkosh offers two lakes and one river for water activities. There is also access to the Wiouwash State Trail and many great parks.
Trip Length: 2-3 days (though there are enough attractions to fill 3-5 days)
Distance from Chicago: 2 Hours and 24 Minutes
Travel “Flavors”: Architecture, Culture and Outdoors
Itinerary Suggestions
Outdoors
Wiouwash State Trail – a rail trail that is accessible to hikers, bikers, horse-riders and snowmobilers.
Terrell’s Island – a unique opportunity to hike on top of a breakwater. If you visit during the warmer months, you can see the resident pelicans.
Asylum Point Park – stop in to enjoy some time by the water, see the historic lighthouse or walk the trails. If you’re a fan of all things creepy, you may want to check out the Wnnebago Mental Health Institute Cemetery.
Animals
Knigge Farm – many of us who live in or visit the Dairy State actually have no clue how a dairy business operates. Taking a farm tour at Knigge Farm will help you resolve that issue.
Menomonee Park Zoo – this is a pretty tiny zoo (8 acres), but if you have to get your animal fix in (or just marvel at adorable otters), this is the place.
MToxins Venom Lab LLC – this may not be for everyone, but the reptile lovers out there will be in Heaven. I’m hoping for a visit sometime soon, because my oldest son is obsessed with snakes. Watch a demonstration of snake handlers removing venom from snakes (allegedly, for the purpose of creating anti-venoms…hopefully, no one is using it for nefarious reasons) and visit the Serpentarium.
Cruises
On the Loos Riverboat Cruises – take a paddlewheel cruise on the Fox river to Lake Butte Des Morts.
Fin n Feather Show Boats – Another cruise option on the Wolf River and upper lakes.
Museums
EAA Aviation Museum – I was impressed with this museum when I had the opportunity to visit recently. The pack a ton of cool planes (including a Bugatti!) into their space. There is a section for commercial flight and a section for military aviation. I really loved the exhibits highlighting the contributions women made to the field of aviation. During the Summer, aviation fans from all over flock to EAA for the “World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration.”
The Paine – it’s hard to decide in what category to place The Paine. To start with it’s an absolutely gorgeous Tudor Revival-style estate with amazing craftsmanship. They are also an are museum with a permanent collection and some really interesting temporary exhibits. For example, while I’m writing this they have an exhibition on historic footwear. As if that’s not enough, the property also has 20 garden areas including an English-inspired garden and a formal garden. The Paine is definitely a must see attraction.
Oshkosh Public Museum – with permanent exhibits on the early Native American residents and settlers, the museum offers a great opportunity to learn about the history of the area. The crown jewel is the Sawyer residence with it’s Tiffany furnishings and decorations.
Military Veteran’s Museums and Education Center – this museum seems to be focused on medals, military vehicles, and personnel gear.
Performances
The Grand Oshkosh – the oldest (1883!) operating opera house in Wisconsin. Purchase tickets to a performance to see this beautiful building.
Food and Sweets
Leon’s Frozen Custard – when I was a kid growing up in Wisconsin, the only place to get frozen custard was at Mom and Pop custard stands. Since then, chain restaurants have taken it nationwide, but the best experience is still at the local spots. Leon’s has been in business since 1947!
Ardy and Ed’s Drive In – another long standing Oshkosh institution, Ardy and Ed’s opened in 1948! Rollerskating car hops will bring your food to your car.
Hughes Home Maid Chocolate Shop – this chocolate shop has been around for decades and is still operated out of the basement of the family home.
Travel Accessory
I’m a huge fan of the product and gift lists you see floating around the internet because I usually find some new-to-me product for myself, a friend or family member. I’d like to offer you the same inspiration by highlighting a travel accessory in each post.
This section contains an affiliate link. If you use this link to buy something I may earn a commission.
This Anywhere Travel Guide inspires you to take the time to make your trip memorable. It’s not a “guide” as much as prompts to help you truly appreciate each day of your vacation. Since we often allow the busyness of our lives carry over into our travel, we can all use a reminder to stay in the moment.
Final Thoughts
Those are just the highlights that stood out to me. For more information, check out the Visit Oshkosh website. If you use my trip suggestions or if you’ve visited any of these locations in the past, please provide your reviews in the comments. Did I miss something? Please add other itinerary suggestions in the comments, especially if they are off the beaten path. Happy vacationing!