Appleton

Appleton is a city in northeastern Wisconsin that stretches across three counties along the Fox River. The city features a dense network of public parks, riverside trails, and several neighborhoods with residential and commercial zones.

Three riverside settlements merged in 1848 to form the new city, its founding accelerated by the opening of the first paper mill in the region. The installation of a hydroelectric facility in the late 19th century enabled the electrification of streetcars and industrial plants.

The name honors Samuel Appleton, a benefactor from Massachusetts who never visited the city himself. The Riverside Paper Museum today showcases the connection between papermaking and the economic growth of the region.

Most visitors move between the downtown area and the university campus, which can be reached on foot or by bus. Evenings and weekends are busier in the restaurants and theaters along College Avenue.

The first streetcar powered by electricity in Wisconsin ran through the city streets starting in 1889, replacing older horse-drawn vehicles. Magician Harry Houdini spent part of his childhood here, and a small museum recalls his connection to the city.

Location: Outagamie County

Location: Calumet County

Location: Winnebago County

Inception: 1848

Elevation above the sea: 241 m

Part of: Northeast Wisconsin

Shares border with: Buchanan

Website: https://appleton.org

GPS coordinates: 44.28222,-88.41833

Latest update: December 14, 2025 23:57