20 Things To Do In Oshkosh (2024)

Oshkosh, Wisconsin, is on the west shore of Lake Winnebago, the largest lake contained within Wisconsin. It is named for Menominee Nation Chief Oshkosh, whose people inhabited the area for centuries. Oshkosh is not a large city, at around 66,000 people, but it punches well above its weight in terms of attractions. The city hosts the Experimental Aircraft Association’s Annual Fly-In each year, bringing over 500,000 people and 10,000 airplanes into the Oshkosh area.

In addition to EAA fame, Oshkosh is home to the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and contains several art hubs and museums. Natural beauty surrounds the area, with Lake Winnebago providing boating and fishing opportunities and numerous parks and scenic spots. With a long history of native and settler habitation, Oshkosh has been a cultural centre for thousands of years. Here is a list of the top 20 things to do in Oshkosh, but there are many more.

Oshkosh, Wisconsin

20 Things To Do In Oshkosh

1- Visit The EAA Aviation Museum

The Experimental Aircraft Association Aviation Museum is dedicated to the history of aviation.

The museum has several exhibits focused on the history of flight, including aircraft, engines, and artifacts.

It has numerous interactive exhibits, such as a flight simulator and a virtual reality experience.

The museum hosts annual special events, including air shows and fly-ins.

A must for the aviation aficionado, the EAA Aviation Museum is sure to get your curiosity soaring above the clouds.

The EAA Aviation Museum flies at 3000 Poberezny Rd, Oshkosh, WI 54902.

2- Explore The Paine Art Center And Gardens

The Paine Art Center is a historic mansion that has been converted into a museum.

Arts and crafts exhibits and an art gallery provide the viewer with aesthetic delights.

The museum also has lovely gardens, a popular spot for picnicking and walking.

A fabulous way to get in touch with your natural side, the Paine Art Center and Gardens are a must for anyone who has or aspires to have a green thumb.

The Paine Art Center and Gardens thrive at 1410 Algoma Blvd, Oshkosh, WI 54901.

3- Take A Tour of The Menominee Nation Arena

The Menominee Nation Arena is a multi-purpose arena home to the Wisconsin Herd, a minor league basketball team.

The arena also hosts various other events, such as concerts, conventions, and sporting events.

Check ahead to see if your trip coincides with a production of interest.

The Menominee Nation Arena entertains at 1212 S Main St, Oshkosh, WI 54902.

4- Visit The Oshkosh Public Museum

The Oshkosh Public Museum is dedicated to the city’s history and surrounding area.

Exhibit topics include Native American history, the lumber industry, and the military.

It also has special events and programs throughout the year, such as lectures, workshops, and field trips.

If your mind craves information and history during your travels, the Oshkosh Public Museum is a sure bet to soak in the city’s cultural heritage.

The Oshkosh Public Museum educates at 1331 Algoma Blvd, Oshkosh, WI 54901.

5- Check Out The Oshkosh Farmers Market

The Oshkosh Farmers Market is held every Saturday morning in the downtown area.

Visitors can try and buy various local products, including produce, baked goods, and crafts.

It is a great place to buy fresh, locally-grown food and support the local economy.

The Oshkosh Farmers Market has it all for those with a sweet tooth, meat tooth, or beet tooth.

The Oshkosh Farmers Market produces at 547 N Main St, Oshkosh, WI 54901.

6- Take A Hike Or Bike Ride On The Wiouwash State Trail

The Wiouwash State Trail is a scenic trail that follows the Wiouwash River through Oshkosh.

The trail is popular with hikers, bikers, and cross-country skiers, and it passes through several beautiful natural areas, offering scenic views and meditative solace.

You’ll find several amenities like picnic areas, restrooms, and parking lots.

If your favourite way to view a place is at a more human pace, the Wiouwash State Trail is an excellent spot to stretch your mind and legs.

Visitors can access the Wiouwash State Trail via parking in four different communities: Birnamwood, Eland, Wittenberg and Tigerton.

7- Slither Over To Venom Labs

Venom Labs specialises in venom production for use in scientific research and education.

The lab produces various products, including snake, spider, and scorpion venom.

This is then utilised in antivenom production, resulting in numerous lives saved.

They also provide educational materials and presentations on venom and venomous animals, as well as tortoises, boas, and other exotic rescues. Venom Labs is a licensed and regulated facility.

It follows strict guidelines to ensure the safety of its products and the humane treatment of the animals from which the venom is obtained.

If your interests slither toward the reptilian, Venom Labs is an experience that will never shed itself from your mind.

The Venom Lab flicks out its tongue at 717 Oregon St, Oshkosh, WI 54902.

8- Go Fishing On Lake Winnebago

Lake Winnebago is Wisconsin’s largest lake and has been a fishing hotspot for millennia, a popular spot for various fish, including walleye, bass and panfish.

There are several public boat launches and fishing piers located around the lake, as well as fishing guides who offer guided fishing trips.

Whether hunting for bluegill or catfish, musky or pike, Lake Winnebago has been thrilling anglers and creating big fish stories for thousands of years.

Lake Winnebago has numerous shore fishing and boat landings available for those who want to wet a line.

9- Play A Round Of Golf At One of The City’s Golf Courses

Utica Golf Course and the Westhaven Golf Club are two of Oshkosh’s golf courses offering the player a great day on the links.

Both courses offer a variety of challenges for golfers of all skill levels and are open to the public, so book your tee time.

Whether a scratch golfer or a beginner, Oshkosh’s courses will surely get you in the swing.

The Utica Golf Course yells fore at 2330 Knott Rd, Oshkosh, WI 54904.

Westhaven Golf Course exposes your slice at 1400 S Westhaven Dr, Oshkosh, WI 54904.

10- Visit The Oshkosh Public Library

The Oshkosh Public Library has several resources for both kids and adults.

The library has a decent collection of books, magazines and DVDs, as well as several computers and internet access.

It also has a variety of programs and events, such as book clubs and story times.

Your thirst for knowledge can be quenched and your hunger for learning will be satiated.

The Oshkosh Public Library curates knowledge at 106 Washington Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54901.

11- Take A Tour Of The University Of Wisconsin-Oshkosh

The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh is a public university located in the city.

The university has several academic programs and facilities, including a library, a student centre, and athletic facilities.

They also host many events and activities for students and the community, such as lectures, concerts, and sporting events.

Originally founded in 1871, the university has a rich history for visitors to experience and appreciate.

The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh is at 800 Algoma Blvd., Oshkosh, WI 54901.

12- Go Shopping At The Outlet Shoppes At Oshkosh

The Outlet Shoppes at Oshkosh is an outdoor shopping centre with stores offering discounts on various products.

The outlets are a great place to find deals on clothing, accessories, and home goods.

Whether you are looking for something you forgot to pack, or things you need when you get home, the Outlet Shoppes at Oshkosh is sure to provide that essential item.

The Shoppes at Oshkosh can be perused at 3001 S Washburn St, Oshkosh, WI 54904.

13- Enjoy A Meal At One Of The City’s Restaurants

The Oshkosh area is home to delicious offerings in various cuisines, including American, Mexican, Italian, and Chinese.

Several restaurants are located in the downtown area and along the riverfront, as well as many fast food options.

Don’t let a gnawing hunger cause travel woes, get in, sit down, and fill up.

Oshkosh’s restaurants can be found all over the downtown area and beyond.

14- Visit the Military Veterans Museum And Education Center

The Military Veterans Museum and Education Center offers a glimpse into the sacrifices of American armed forces personnel and the equipment they used.

The collection of military vehicles is especially noted, so if you are a patriotic gearhead, the Military Veterans Museum and Education Center is a must-see.

Small arms, weaponry, and personal items will immerse the viewer in history and knowledge.

Tours are available, so check to see if they fit your visit.

Overall, the Military Veterans Museum and Education Center offers ample things for perusal, so infiltrate and conquer while you’re in Oshkosh.

The Military Veterans Museum and Education Center preserves history at 4300 Poberezny Rd, Oshkosh, WI 54902.

15- Catch A Show At The Grand Opera House

The Grand Opera House is a multiplatform theatrical smorgasbord. Whether you need a comedic laugh, a heartfelt musical performance, or want to see a play, the Grand Opera House has a seat for you.

Concertgoers can revel in the opulence of the turn-of-the-century venue and soak in the history dating back to 1883.

Returned to mostly original condition, the Grand Opera House is sure to delight, entertain, and leave the viewer with a fantastic and memorable experience.

The Grand Opera House performs at 100 High Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54901.

16- Go Canoeing Or Kayaking On The Fox River

The Fox River offers a unique and ancient experience in Oshkosh.

If you didn’t bring your canoe on the plane, no problem, there are numerous canoe and kayak rental companies, as well as guided tours available through certain providers.

A beautiful and scenic way to enjoy a waterway that has supplied food and transportation for Native Peoples for centuries, the Fox River is sure to rush into your heart and memory.

The Fox River can be accessed at numerous locations, including a kayak launch at 6850 Fond Du Lac Rd, Oshkosh, WI 54902.

17- Rock At The Leach Amphitheater

The Leach Amphitheater is an outdoor concert venue in Riverside Park along the Fox River.

It is a popular spot for live music and other events and has a capacity of around 7,000 people.

The amphitheatre has a stage and a grassy area for seating, and it is a great place to enjoy a concert or other outdoor event.

A popular destination in the summer months, it hosts several events throughout the season, including concerts, festivals, and outdoor movies.

Check ahead to see if the Leach Amphitheater is hosting a show of interest during your visit to Oshkosh.

The Leach Amphitheater rocks at 303 Cape Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54901.

18- Visit Winnebago County’s Nature Preserves

Winnebago County’s Nature Preserves are a great area to escape the city and enjoy the beauty of nature.

With five different preserves available, you can bask in serene nature and take in the history at archeological conservation sites.

With miles of hiking, biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, Winnebago County’s Nature Preserves are an excellent way for everyone to explore and appreciate the region’s natural resources.

Winnebago County’s Nature Preserves can be found at Coughlin Community Natural Area, Lasley Point Archaeological Site, Shangri La Point Nature Preserve, Waukau Creek Nature Preserve, and the Waukau Creek Dam.

19- Get Your Hole-In-One At Glow In The Park Indoor Mini Golf

Glow in the Park Indoor Mini Golf offers fun for all ages with a unique ambience.

Large art pieces give the golfer the experience of falling down Alice’s rabbit hole.

Mad hatters share space with pumas while the golfer navigates carnival-themed holes.

A psychedelic walk toward a challenging putt makes Glow In The Park Indoor Mini Golf anything but par for the course.

Glow In The Park Indoor Mini Golf putts its way to glory at 300 S Koeller Street, Oshkosh, Wisconsin 54902.

20- Find Your Wild Side At The Menominee Park Zoo

Menominee Park Zoo is home to 30 to 50 animal exhibits, depending on the season.

The Zoo is open from the beginning of May to the end of September and offers visitors the chance to view the wild inhabitants of our world and learn about the different habitats that support those faunal neighbours.

The Zoo is free to the public, thanks to a large donation by a local family.

If you’re visiting Oshkosh in the summer, the Menominee Park Zoo is a fantastic spot to absorb the knowledge available by observing the animal kingdom first-hand.

The Menominee Park Zoo growls and howls at 520 Pratt Trail, Oshkosh, WI 54901.

The City of Oshkosh and the surrounding Winnebago area have supported people, plants, and animal life for longer than records have been kept. Since the first European settlers landed around 1836, the Oshkosh area has been a hub of activity and commerce that continues to evolve and grow.

A vibrant cultural experience still awaits, with higher education and museums displaying that ancient history. Add that to the fact that Oshkosh is a world-famous aviation hotspot and you have a recipe for a great trip. Whether on the river, the golf course, or in the air, you’ll enjoy these things to do in Oshkosh.

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