Select Page

As the semester comes to a close, take a look at a list of things do in Oshkosh this summer, including taking a summer class at UW Oshkosh, or signing-up for a campus tour.

1. Art Spot

In an effort to bring together the community and art, Art Spot offers events and workshops to Oshkosh residents. Each event is held at the City Center on Jackson Street. For a list of public and private events, check out the Art Spot calendar.

2. Gallery Walk

Every first Saturday of the month, Gallery Walk provides the community an opportunity to view local art. Located in downtown Oshkosh, the Gallery Walk includes dozens of local art galleries of a variety of mediums.

3. Backlot Comedy House

The Backlot Comedy House located on Main Street provides audience members with entertaining improv, stand-up comedy and open mic shows. Backlot also provides special event services as well as workshop classes.

4. Oshkosh Public Museum

As the second oldest museum in Wisconsin, the Oshkosh Public Museum has a great history. Located on 1331 Algoma Blvd., the museum is home to permanent exhibits along with a major exhibit that changes throughout the year. The featured exhibit that will run until June 14 is called The Art of the Brick, an exhibit built only from LEGO pieces. Visit the museum’s website for more information on hours and admission fees.

5. Paine Art Center and Gardens

The historic Paine Art Center and Gardens is an estate that serves as a museum and more. It is home to various art galleries, exhibits and gardens. The Paine is also host to special events.

6. Grand Opera House

Located on the corner of High Avenue and Market Street, the Grand Opera House opened its doors in 1883. Since then it has been home to public performances, youth events, weddings, meetings and more. Check out the calendar for upcoming shows.

7. EAA AirVenture Museum

While the EAA AirVenture Fly-in during the summer is one of Oshkosh’s largest events, the museum remains open year-round. It is home to more than 200 historic airplanes, movie theaters, galleries, displays and more. Visit the museum’s website for more information on hours and rates.

Fratellos Waterfront Restaurant’s own Fox River Brewing Company is a craft beer brewery and brewpub. The brewery’s handcrafted beers are served at Fratellos Waterfront Restaurant in Oshkosh as well as the Fox River Brewing Company Restaurant at the Fox River Mall in Appleton.

9. The Morgan House

Built in 1884 for Oshkosh Lumber Company’s John Rodgers Morgan, The Morgan House is a Victorian style house located on Church Street in Oshkosh. Tours of this historic site are available throughout the summer.

10. Asylum Point Lighthouse

The Asylum Point Lighthouse can be found in the Asylum Point Park located on Sherman Road in Oshkosh. The quiet park features trails and is home to various wildlife.

11. Kalbus’ Country Harbor

Kalbus’ Country Harbor is the only camping area on Lake Winnebago. The campground includes lakefront campsites, boat launches as well as shower, restroom and laundry facilities.

12. Central Wisconsin Auto Collectors Car Show

Since the 1960s, Central Wisconsin Auto Collectors has been providing opportunities for car collectors and enthusiasts to come together. Each summer the CWAC holds a car show at South Park in Oshkosh. This year’s event takes place Sunday, June 28.

13. Waupaca Boatride Volleyball Tournament

Held at Brighton Acres in Oshkosh, the Waupaca Boatride Volleyball Tournament will be held July 10–12. The event consists of clinics held by Olympic gold-medalist Misty May-Treanor as well as a large volleyball tournament.

14. Lifest

Lifest is one of the nation’s largest Christian music festivals. This summer’s festival takes place July 9–12 at the Sunnyview Expo Center. The event includes a variety of musicians and speakers. The 2015 lineup can be found online.

15. Memorial Day Classic Horse Show

The Sunnyview Expo Center is home to all types of events in Oshkosh including the annual Memorial Day Classic Horse Show. Riders and their horses come from all over the region to compete and participate in this event.

16. Battle on Bago—Summer Edition

The Battle on Bago is an annual fishing tournament that takes place on Lake Winnebago and surrounding waters. This summer the event takes place June 20–21 and aims at promoting outdoor activities and giving back to the community.

17. Irish Fest

From June 11–14 the 7th Annual Oshkosh Irish Fest will take place at the Leach Amphitheater. The festival includes a 5K run, live music, food, vendors and more.

18. EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 5K Charity Run/Walk

On Saturday, July 25, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh will be hosting the Runway 5K Charity Run/Walk. Participants of all ages can run or walk the route on the AirVenture grounds. Proceeds from this year’s event will benefit Clarity Care in Oshkosh.

19. Opening Day Concert

While the EAA AirVenture aviation show is a large event, there are many other events within it. The opening day concert will take place on Monday, July 20 at the AirVenture grounds. This year Dierks Bentley will be headlining the concert.

20. Time Community Theater

Located in downtown Oshkosh, the Time Community Theater is a volunteer-based, non-profit movie theater. There are free movie screenings every Friday. Check out the event calendar for all of the upcoming screenings.

21. 4th of July Veteran’s Parade

This year the parade will begin at the corner of Ceape Avenue and Main Street and will make its way towards Menomonee Park. The parade will begin at 9 a.m.

22. Oshkosh Giants Baseball

The Oshkosh Giants is a semi-pro baseball team part of the Wisconsin State League and Northeastern Wisconsin League. The Giants play at Oshkosh North High School’s E.J. Schneider Field. Check the schedule to see upcoming games.

23. Gus Macker 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament

The fourth annual Gus Macker tournament in Oshkosh will take place Aug. 15–16 on Main Street. There will be 3-on-3 basketball games, a slam dunk contest, 3-point shot contest and more.

24. Wisconsin Football Coaches All-Star Game

Each summer the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association hosts an all-star game at UW Oshkosh’s J.J. Keller Field at Titan Stadium. On Saturday, July 18 there will be multiple games featuring Wisconsin area high school players.

25. Winnebagoland BMX Club of Oshkosh

The Winnebagoland BMX Club is a sanctioned USA BMX track for bikers of all ages and skill levels. The club hosts different races and clinics throughout the year and is located at 300 Jackson St.

26. Winnebagoland Art Fair

The Winnebagoland Art Fair began in 1957 and is one of the oldest art fairs in the state. This fine arts and craft event will take place on June 14 at South Park in Oshkosh. The outdoor event is will feature food vendors and live music.

27. Winnebago County Fair

The 2015 Winnebago County Fair takes place Aug. 4–9, 2015, at the Sunnyview Expo Center. The fair features auto racing, rodeo, fireworks, live music, family activities, exhibits and more.

28. EAA AirVenture Fly-in

This annual aviation show in Oshkosh is one of the largest events during the summer. The week-long show includes air shows, workshops, presentations, exhibits and more. The event draws crowds from all over the world. This summer’s show takes place July 20–26, and for a schedule of this summer’s show, visit the EAA website.

29. Country USA

Labeled America’s largest country music festival, Country USA is an extremely popular music event hosted each summer in Oshkosh. The five-day event features top country musicians June 23–27. To see the 2015 lineup, visit the Country USA website.

30. Rock USA

Similar to Country USA, Rock USA is a four-day music festival in the summer featuring well-known rock musicians held this year July 15-18. The 2015 lineup is now available. Both Country USA and Rock USA take place at Ford Festival Park off of Interstate 41.

31. Waterfest

Taking place at the Leach Amphitheater on the Fox River, Waterfest is a music festival that brings together friends, family and the community. The performance lineup for this summer’s event has been posted to the Waterfest website. Waterfest takes place on various Thursday evenings.

32. Sawdust Days

From July 1–5, the Sawdust Days festival takes place at Menominee Park in Oshkosh. The festival includes live music, food, attractions and more. On July 4, viewers can see the largest fireworks display in the Fox Valley.

33. Oshkosh Main Street Music Festival

At the end of July, the Oshkosh Main Street Music Festival will feature more than 100 musicians, artists, comedians and entertainers. While the performers have yet to be announced for 2015, keep an eye on the website for the full list.

34. TJ’s Harbor Restaurant

Sitting right on Lake Winnebago, TJ’s has some great views and is boater-friendly. The restaurant has a great seafood selection as well as sandwiches, pasta dishes and other entrees.

35. South of the Border

For the past decade, this family owned restaurant has been offering homemade Mexican food. South of the Border is a nice spot for a sit-down lunch or dinner and also has great happy hour deals.

36. Dockside Tavern

Dockside Tavern has established itself as a great restaurant and bar that is located right on the Fox River. With live music, boat docking and a 6,000 square foot outdoor patio, Dockside is perfect for summer meals.

37. Glass Nickel Pizza Company

Located on Jackson Street, Glass Nickel is known for their great specialty pizzas. The menu also includes various appetizers, pastas, sandwiches and more. The restaurant chain also prides itself on green efforts, including alternative fuel delivery vehicles and eco-friendly ovens.

38. Chalice Restaurant

While it might not be the largest restaurant, the Chalice offerers amazing food in a cozy environment. The Chalice has a huge menu with offerings ranging from burgers to salads to fish and more.

39. Gardina’s Wine Bar & Cafe

Gardina’s has been serving a wide range of wines and food since opening in 2010. The cafe is also home to its own McKnight & Carlson Wines. The family owned business provide a space for lunch or a sit-down dinner.

40. Dublin’s Irish Pub

Dublin’s offers the Oshkosh area a taste of Ireland with Irish drinks and food items. The pub is home to a large selection of beer on tap as well as bottles and has a large menu with many Irish-influenced dishes.

41. Mahoney’s Restaurant and Bar

Mahoney’s is located right next to the Wisconsin Street bridge only a couple of blocks from the UW Oshkosh campus. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and offers traditional dishes with a modern twist.

42. The Roxy Supper Club

The Roxy Supper Club is an award-winning fine dining restaurant located on Main Street in Oshkosh. The restaurant features breakfast, lunch and dinner menus as well as a catering service.

43. Jade Dragon

Located right across from the UW Oshkosh campus, Jade Dragon is home to a wide variety of Chinese dishes. The restaurant offers dine-in, take-out and delivery options.

44. Pilora’s Cafe

Pilora’s Cafe is located on Main Street and prides itself on great coffee and food. The cafe offers breakfast and lunch items as well as a deli selection for those looking for fresh salads, breads and desserts.

45. Becket’s Restaurant

This contemporary restaurant is located in downtown Oshkosh’s City Center right along the Fox River. Becket’s serves an exquisite menu with items such as steak, fish, chicken and pasta dishes.

46. Jansen’s Restaurant

As a popular local spot, Jansen’s has a reputation for great pub food. The restaurant offers lunch and dinner options and is located at 344 Bowen St. Be sure to check out the fish fry as well each Friday.

47. The Brooklyn Grill

The Brooklyn Grill has a 1940s atmosphere and is located in a building that dates back to the 1800’s. The restaurant offers a variety of burgers, wraps and gourmet sandwiches as well as a large martini list.

48. Planet Perk

Planet Perk is located downtown Oshkosh and offers award-winning coffee along with breakfast and lunch items. The cafe also offers catering options for any events or meetings.

49. La Sure’s Bakery

Whether it’s homemade pies, cookies or cakes, La Sure’s has delicious bakery items available. When looking for any treats for a special occasion, be sure to stop by La Sure’s.

50. Two Brothers Family Restaurant

For the past 25 years Two Brothers Family Restaurant has been locally owned and operated. With a breakfast, lunch and dinner menu, the restaurant is sure to have something everyone will enjoy.

51. Benvenuto’s Italian Grill

This Italian restaurant is a great spot for a quick lunch or a nice family dinner. Items including soups, sauces and meatballs are made daily from scratch. Benvenuto’s is host to any special events as well.

52. Rhapsodies Gourmet Frozen Custard

Rhapsodies Gourmet Frozen Custard is family owned and prides itself on its homemade frozen custard made daily. Along with custard, Rhapsodies offers various sandwiches, sides and sundaes.

53. Bangkok Thai Cuisine

Located right off of the Fox River and near the UW Oshkosh campus, Bangkok Thai Cuisine offers authentic Thai dishes at a great price. This restaurant is perfect for anyone looking for a kick to their dish.

54. Leon’s Frozen Custard

Since 1947 Leon’s Frozen Custard has been serving delicious custard and sandwiches at its location on 121 W. Murdock Ave. With a throwback 1950’s theme as well as carhop services, Leon’s has nostalgia written all over it. Grab some custard to help cool off during the warm weather of the summer.

55. Ardy & Ed’s

Previously named Southside A & W Drive In, this restaurant changed its name to the Ardy & Ed’s Drive In in 1972. The business has continued as a drive-in restaurant since, serving its famous draft root beer along with a variety of burgers, sandwiches and hot dogs.

56. Lara’s Tortilla Flats

Lara’s Tortilla Flats is family owned with direct ties to Mexican culture, and is the perfect place to enjoy a variety of Mexican cuisine. From tacos to burritos to enchiladas and many more, Lara’s has a wide variety of Mexican dishes to choose from.

57. Lou’s Brew Cafe and Lounge

Since opening in 2012, Lou’s Brew has become a popular spot for many UW Oshkosh students and community members. The Lou’s Brew menu includes coffee, specialty drinks, bakery and breakfast items, sandwiches and more.

58. Polito’s

Craving a huge slice of pizza? Be sure to visit Polito’s Pizza, located right next to the UW Oshkosh campus. Polito’s has a wide range of both traditional and specialty pizzas, including macaroni and cheese pizza. Stop by for a quick slice or two, or even get a full pizza!

59. Fratellos Waterfront Restaurant

With a prime location right on the Fox River, Fratellos is the perfect summer spot for lunch or dinner. It has a huge menu ranging from fish options to pasta to pizza and more. Dine inside in The Fieldhouse, or enjoy the nice weather outside in patio seating.

60. Caramel Crisp & Cafe

Located one block off of Main Street, Caramel Crisp & Cafe is a quick walk from campus. Since 1933 the cafe has been serving customers delicious treats such as ice cream, popcorn, caramel corn, bakery items and now serves a lunch menu.

61. New Moon Café

In need of a coffee and a spot to relax? With comfy couches and an inviting atmosphere, New Moon Café is the perfect spot. The menu includes hot and cold drinks, breakfast and lunch items as well as wine and beer. Keep an eye on the café’s Facebook page for live music shows.

62. Tamara’s The Cake Guru

As the 2015 Wisconsin Bakers Association Bakery Operation of the Year, Tamara’s offers a selection of incredible cupcakes and cakes. Whether it’s a wedding or a birthday, custom orders can be made for any type of event.

63. Manila Resto

Manila Resto serves a variety of sushi and Filipino cuisine. With frequent live music and a modern space, Manila is a great spot to grab a nice dinner. Keep tabs on their Twitter account for updates on events, specials and other news.

64. Christiano’s Pizza

Homemade dough without artificial preservatives is made each morning at Christiano’s. Add in some fresh ingredients and real Wisconsin cheese and you’ve got yourself a great pizza. Head over to the Oshkosh location at 1964 S Koeller St. or order online.

65. Hughes Chocolate

Located in a residential basement, Hughes might not seem like a big operation, but is said to have some of the best chocolate in the Fox Valley, it serves delicious homemade chocolates. Although the physical location is closed during the summer months, chocolate can still be shipped via online ordering.

66. Oaks Candy

For more than one hundred years, Oaks Candy has been producing tasty chocolates and sweets. From create-your-own boxes to chocolates to candies and more, Oaks is a must for any sweet-tooth.

67. Terry’s Bar

Looking to expand your food horizons? Check out the different meats available at Terry’s Bar on Main Street including alligator, buffalo, elk, kangaroo and more. Grab a drink and enjoy the great burger selection at Terry’s.

68. Summer Scoops at Reeve Union

During the summer, ice cream is served outside of Reeve Union on the UW Oshkosh campus. Multiple ice cream flavors are available for 50 cents per scoop during lunchtime.

69. Boating Rentals

Spend a day on the water and enjoy the Fox River right in Oshkosh. Visit Lakeside Marina for any pontoon or fishing boat rentals.

70. Oshkosh Photography Group

The Oshkosh Photography Group (OPG) is a casual group of photographers of all levels. The OPG holds monthly meetings to meet up and socialize as well as various photo shoots throughout the year.

71. South Park

Located off of South Park Avenue and Georgia Street, South Park is a beautiful park that is home to baseball, basketball and tennis courts, a playground, picnic shelters and even a water splash pad for children.

72. Soccer Saturday

The Oshkosh Youth Soccer Club (OYSC) has events throughout the summer including the Soccer Saturday tournament. From July 10–11, the tournament will take place at the Winnebago County Park featuring teams of all ages.

73. Pollock Community Waterpark

There’s nothing better than cooling off in the hot summer weather at a pool. The Pollock Community Waterpark in Oshkosh features swimming areas, water slides, diving boards, concessions and more.

74. Oshkosh Lanes

Oshkosh Lanes is a bowling alley in Oshkosh that features bowling, a bar and grill, outdoor volleyball courts and more. Oshkosh Lanes is located on 275 N. Washburn St.

75. Oshkosh YMCA

The Oshkosh YMCA offers programs and events for all ages. The YMCA has facilities that help promote youth development, healthy living and community involvement. There is always something to do at the YMCA in the summer.

76. Oshkosh Cinema

With great deals including a student discount, the Oshkosh Cinema is a great destination for movie lovers. The Marcus Oshkosh Cinema is located off of the freeway on 340 S. Koeller St.

77. Oshkosh Public Skate Park

Located at 1650 Taft Ave. in Oshkosh, the local skate park is home to a large concrete park with various features including stairs, rails and ramps.

78. Settlers Mill Mini Golf

Settlers Mill offers activities for all ages. There is an 18-hole outdoor mini golf course as well as an indoor arcade. Settlers Mill is located on 3025 S. Washburn St.

79. The Otter Street Fishing Club

The Otter Street Fishing club hosts multiple fishing events each year to help improve fishing on the Lake Winnebago system. One big event is the annual walleye tournament held over Father’s Day weekend in June. The organization puts money back into projects to help the betterment of fishing.

80. Fishing on the Fox River

The Fox River in Oshkosh is a popular spot for fishing that attracts fishermen from the surrounding area. Rainbow Park sits along the river and has a boat launch.

81. Oshkosh Speedzone

The Sunnyview Expo Center is home to Oshkosh Speedzone, a one-third mile dirt racing track. The Oshkosh Speedzone features stock cars, sprint cars and more.

82. Golfing in Oshkosh

There are multiple golf courses in Oshkosh for all ages and skill levels. There are 10 golf courses within a 15-minute drive of Oshkosh, including Westhaven Golf Club, Lake Shore Municipal Golf Course and Lake Breeze Golf Club.

83. Geocaching in Oshkosh

Geocaching is an outdoor activity where participants navigate different routes or trails via GPS coordinates to find geocaches. It is a great way to get out and explore the area. Check out some of the routes others have created in Oshkosh.

84. Horseback Riding Lessons at Glen Valley Farm

The Glen Valley Farm offers horseback riding lesson programs for all ages. The expert instructors will help you learn how to ride even for those without any previous experience.

85. Oshkosh Public Library

Located in downtown Oshkosh, the Oshkosh Public Library has been a part of the local community for more than 100 years. The historic building features unique architecture and has opportunities for anyone to read, learn, research and connect with others.

86. Volunteering

Take some time this summer to give back to the community and volunteer in Oshkosh. There are numerous volunteer opportunities including the Boys & Girls Club of Oshkosh, Oshkosh Area Humane Society, Habitat for Humanity and more.

87. Summer Volleyball

There are plenty of opportunities to play sand volleyball during the summer in Oshkosh. There are sand volleyball courts at the Student Recreation and Wellness Center at UW Oshkosh. Various bars also have summer volleyball leagues such as The Bar, Terry’s Bar and Legends Sports Bar & Grill.

88. Billiards

Looking to join a billiards league or just play casually? There are a couple great options on Main Street in Oshkosh. The Magnet and The Varsity Club both have a large number of tables

89. Kayak on the Fox River

The outdoor activities branch of the UW Student Recreation and Wellness Center offers many different pieces of equipment for rent. When it’s nice out, there are even one and two-person kayaks as well as standup paddleboards. Check out the full list of equipment for the different rates.

90. Wiouwash State Trail

Part of the Wiouwash State Trail runs through Oshkosh and the rest of Winnebago County as well as directly through the UW Oshkosh campus. The trail is great for walking, running or even biking.

91. Menominee Park & Zoo

Located a mile from the UW Oshkosh campus, Menominee Park is a great spot to relax and enjoy the weather. The park includes a small beach, playground, large fields, trails, basketball courts and even a zoo! There are also paddle boats available to use on the pond in the park.

92. The Outlet Shoppes

Located off of I-41, The Outlet Shoppes at Oshkosh include various outlet stores. With more than 30 outlet stores, there’s something for everyone. Check out the directory for a full list of stores.

93. Winnebago County Park

The Winnebago County Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities. There are baseball and soccer fields, fishing ponds, a disc golf course, an archery range, various trails and more. Check out the map online for directions.

94. Best Friends Dog Park

Located in the Winnebago County Park, this dog park is the perfect spot for any pet owners. Here dogs can exercise off-leash in the fenced area of the park and socialize with other canine friends.

95. Oshkosh Farmers Market

The Oshkosh Farmers Market takes place every Saturday morning starting in June on Main Street. The market features more than 100 vendors and is home to many homegrown farm products. Starting this summer in July, there will also be a Wednesday evening market at South Park located off of South Park Avenue and Georgia Street.

96. UW Oshkosh Athletics Summer Camps

Throughout the summer there are nearly 40 sports camps and clinics at UW Oshkosh. Each of these offer youth the opportunity to work closely with a collegiate athletic program. Campers have the chance to experience the campus through living in the dorms, eating meals on campus and participating in various sports.

97. UW Oshkosh Academic Summer Programs

The PreCollege programs at UW Oshkosh provide an opportunity for future students to experience the college environment. There are summer residential programs in various areas such as science, technology, engineering, mathematics, teacher education, nursing, business, mass media and college preparation.

98. Take a Summer Course

For current students, there are multiple summer courses available. These are useful when trying to gain more credits to help graduate early or on time. The summer session is also open to students from other UW System colleges.

99. Tour the UW Oshkosh Campus

Tours of the UW Oshkosh campus are available throughout the summer. Campus tour guides will take you throughout the beautiful campus showcasing all of the campus buildings and features.

100. Take a walk on a born learning trail

Located at Roe Park and Franklin Elementary School in Oshkosh, the Born Learning trails installed by the Oshkosh Area United Way provide children and their families an opportunity to participate in activities that stimulate learning.