by Jamie Sheridan
Wisconsin captures the best of summer with its rolling hill topography, roaming freshwater rivers, numerous lakes, charmingly landscaped neighborhoods, and details only found in classic paintings or described in Jane Austen novels. Our cities and villages, each surrounded by pristine countrysides, are connected through thoughtfully planted parks and tree canopied rail-to-trail systems. The best way to experience these stunning views in our vast backyard can be captured with a picnic!
A perfect prescription for a designated pause, picnics aren’t reserved for hopeless romantics. They’re for anyone longing to step away in search of respite, inspiration, exploration, and best of all, connection with each other and with nature. The greater Appleton region is saturated with the most delicious picnic-perfect parks just waiting for the next big discovery.
You don’t have to be an avid outdoors person to plan a picnic. Pretend to be a minimalist. Refrain from overthinking it and avoid setting a time limit. Whether it’s that maple-shaded nook you notice during the morning commute or that dreamy swinging park bench you’ve been saving for another someday, gather some picnic basics (including this guide), or pick up your favorite take-out along the way. When you get to your picnic destination, find a spot, set your phone aside and commit to it five minutes at a time, focusing on the views and sounds. Release the worries of the day and embrace the moment. Expect the unexpected.
Picnic Essentials
Water bottle – remember, it can be refilled
Backpack or handbag – easy to pack, to carry in and to carry out (including wrappers)
Sunscreen – super important, even in the shade
Blanket, beach towel, portable hammock – Roll it up and pack it. Find one for one to six people.
Hand sanitizer – for peace of mind before snacking
Easy, Earth-friendly snacks – granola bars, protein balls, veggie sticks, apples, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to inspire some childhood nostalgia, or take-out from a favorite restaurant
Book, journal, sketchpad – jot down and record sights, sounds and inspiration
Camera – capture a favorite scene to print and frame as a reminder of each picnic adventure
Picnic-Perfect Parks of Appleton
Peabody Park, Appleton
Located along North Green Bay Road in the registered neighborhood of Peabody Park, this gem of an urban getaway is situated on a tree-lined ravine featuring a playground and picnic shelter. The park crosses the road where it runs along the northern edge of the Fox River with breathtaking views! A favorite spot for group photos at sunset, Peabody Park also attracts kayakers and fishing enthusiasts with plenty of space for a quiet picnic far from distractions.
Lutz Park, Appleton
Whether you walk from the beautiful Pierce Park or start from the bluff views at Alicia Park, the route via Mason Street on South Lutz Drive to Lutz Park is a must-see experience! Situated near the Appleton Yacht Club, the entire property is a picnic-lovers paradise with views in every direction. Lutz Park has a playground, a gazebo and a boat launch. Enjoy a picnic spot under a tree or on a swinging bench next to the Fox River. Then walk the fishing pier for views of river waterfowl against the backdrop of the Memorial Street Bridge.
Erb Park, Appleton
One of the most sought-after neighborhoods for homebuyers surrounds this beautiful urban park! Home to the recently renovated Erb Pool, which offers summer swim lessons and the annual Bird Bath swim meet, this park has plenty of attractions for everyone including tennis and basketball courts and a soft-surface playground. Towering oak and hickory trees are what picnic lovers pine for all year, providing plenty of shade throughout this charming getaway.
Memorial Park, Appleton
Home to an expanse of carefully planned community spaces and the City of Appleton Parks and Recreation Office, Memorial Park is a perfect landing spot for picnic enthusiasts. With plenty of parking lots and paved trails, this park has a fishing pond, the Scheig Garden Center, ballparks, three playgrounds and its landmark sledding hill. Picnic tables and benches are plentiful as well as shaded grass areas from tree-lined forests and just-right trees for hammocks and inspiration.
“There’s something for everyone in our city parks—whether it’s a quiet walk beneath the trees, a game with friends, or a family picnic. Step outside and discover the beauty and energy waiting in every corner of our green spaces.”
Dean Gazza, City of Appleton Director of Parks and Recreation
Picnic-Perfect Parks of the Greater Appleton Region
Black Otter Park and Alonzo Park, Village of Hortonville
The picnic gazebo and kayak launch at Black Otter Park serves as a recreational and nature access point with a surprising view of the ever-serene Black Otter Lake. Connected by a charming walking bridge, Alonzo Park has a fabulous new play area for younger park enthusiasts with its own picnic options for young families.
“We recognized the need to update Alonzo Park by adding modern amenities that will benefit Hortonville families for generations. The addition of the splash pad and large playground provides activities for children of all ages and abilities to enjoy during their visits.”
Nathan Treadwell, Village of Hortonville Administrator
Riverside Park, Kaukauna
Some parks are worthy of a picnic any time of year! Riverside Park, located at Wisconsin Avenue and Riverside Drive in Kaukauna, belongs in a 1950s film or a Norman Rockwell painting. In the summer, catch a local softball game from a picnic spot on the hill above the diamond in the bowl. Walk beneath enormous maple and oak trees creating a most magnificent ceiling of summer and fall foliage. The River Street entrance offers a quiet riverside picnic experience with a boat launch and fishing piers.
Doyle Park, Little Chute
While this seemingly hidden-gem park is known for hosting the massive, annual Great Wisconsin Cheese Festival each June, the beauty of this space is all about location! The pool, courts and stage area make it an all-inclusive day trip for regulars but also features quiet spaces for those looking for pause. Doyle Park connects to nearby Heesakker Park via the Island Park trail system, for an entire picnic excursion.
Jefferson Park, Menasha
The updated Jefferson Park is a jaw-dropping feast for the eyes! With a brand-new playground, ballfield, renovated pavilion, and a social space with a stage, firepits and a bocce ball courts, this park has become a vibrant community destination. A new pavilion will also open after the annual, Neenah-Menasha CommunityFest Fourth of July celebrations (go to: nmcommunityfest.org for more details). Jefferson Park is well maintained with mature trees and ample space for solace seekers to enjoy a quiet break along the walking trail tour on the northern shore of Lake Winnebago. With its iconic swimming pool and plenty to explore at any age, this park is an all-day summertime go-to. Be sure to pack enough sunscreen to stay a while!
“Designed for comfort and connection, Jefferson Park is the perfect place to picnic with the blend of natural beauty and upgraded amenities. With a revitalized boat launch arriving in late 2025 and a brand-new pool on the horizon, there’s even more to look forward to.”
Megan Sackett, City of Menasha Director of Parks, Recreation and Forestry
Kimberly Point Park, Neenah
The Kimberly Point Park Lighthouse beckons visitors to witness the sunrise from across the lake above High Cliff State Park. The lakeside parking is ideal for a car picnic lunch break or, park the car and take a picnic bag for a stroll through the beautiful Riverside Park with its sunset views of downtown Neenah. The awe-inspiring picnic options are endless!
Memorial Park, Neenah
Accessible from two locations, the south section of the Neenah Memorial Park and its landmark hill, features open spaces and play equipment. The north section, nestled along a wooded area with a connecting trail system, features soccer and baseball fields and play equipment. A quiet sunset picnic on the hill or along the tree lined trail offers a truly unforgettable summertime experience!
“Grab your picnic basket, soak in the scenic waterfronts, and make the most of Neenah’s stunning parks!”
Michael Kading, City of Neenah Director of Parks and Recreation
Riverside Park, Oshkosh
The beautiful Riverside Park at 600 S. Main St. in Oshkosh feels worlds away yet close enough to find parking and an easy stroll to a restaurant for a take-out picnic. Along the Riverwalk Trail find a spot where the Fox River meets Lake Winnebago on a quiet afternoon or moor along the docks during one of the summer concerts at the nearby Leach Amphitheater.
Buttermilk Creek Park, Fond du Lac
Once home to a manmade island, this popular park, at 700 S. Park Ave. in Fond du Lac, was renovated to retain its landmark hill with views of Pier Elementary School and quiet surrounding neighborhoods. A picnic shelter, a playground and tennis or pickleball courts, make this a great picnic spot for quiet reflection or family gatherings. Buttermilk Park is conveniently located less than a mile from Gilles Frozen Custard Drive-In—a picnic-perfect treat!
Calumet County Park Harbor, Hilbert
The Calumet County Park Harbor, located at N6150 County Road EE in Hilbert, has the most incredible sunset views along the eastern edge of Lake Winnebago! The chapel area, located above the harbor, is available to rent for wedding services or gatherings, but when not in use, it’s open to the public. The chapel area bluff view offers an unforgettable picnic experience! Or, enjoy a picnic along the lakefront where swings, playgrounds, and park benches trace the shoreline. The county park includes 82 campsites and only charges fees for camping and boating. Visitors can enjoy a series of mountain biking and hiking trails looping through the Niagara Escarpment as well as a boat launch with kayak rentals. Parking is free!
High Cliff State Park – Upper Park Day Use Area, Sherwood
High Cliff State Park is for nature lovers who enjoy endless picnic options. Managed by rangers and park staff as well as the Friends of High Cliff, this state park features 120 campsites and three picnic shelters (lower, pine and upper pavilion) available for reservation. Visitors can explore its five trail systems, playgrounds and beach access at the northeast curve of Lake Winnebago. To picnic along the breathtaking bluff of the Upper Park Day Use Area, take the roadway up to the Tower Parking Lot or hike the Redbird Trail. Day parking passes or 12-month passes are available to purchase at the entrance.
“Picnic opportunities are plentiful throughout the park and vary by whatever scenic sight you want to enjoy. Using contributing funds to match the Wisconsin DNR Knowles Nelson Stewardship grants, the Friends of High Cliff State Park have purchased many new ADA compliant picnic tables which are available at the shelters and strategically placed all over the park for great views.”
FOHC Board Member
More Picnic-Perfect Spaces
Cedar Harbor Home Décor and Gifts, at 611 Morrison St., has its own secret backyard garden welcoming visitors to a one-of-a-kind pause with the birds and sounds of nature.
Bubolz Nature Preserve, at 4815 Lynndale Drive, offers year-round access to maintained trails and picnic spaces throughout this sprawling property.
Newton Blackmour State Trail and Duck Creek Trail, east from the Seymour trailhead, toward Green Bay is a peaceful stretch for walking or biking, with beautiful picnic and photo opportunities along the way!
Pittsfield Town Hall Park on the Mountain Bay Trail, at 4862 Kunesh Road has a humble “Field of Dreams” picnic spot under a grove of trees with views of the Wisconsin countryside.
This article was originally published in the July 2025 issue of Appleton Monthly Magazine.
