Make a Weekend of It!

Planning to come to The Gathering a little early or stay a little longer? There are plenty of fun things to see and do in and around Fond du Lac! Whether you enjoy fall scenery, shopping, history, the arts, or simply getting outside for a little fresh air, there are options for everyone.

🍎 Enjoy the Fall

Little Farmer Apple Orchard
Enjoy a classic Wisconsin fall experience with fresh apples, bakery treats, caramel apples, pumpkins, hayrides, and more. Stop by the coffee shop and gift shop located in the historic home, and don't forget to visit the animals!

Lakeside Park & Walk-Up Lighthouse
Take a stroll through beautiful Lakeside Park and walk out to the lighthouse. A great option for enjoying the crisp November air and beautiful lake views. Free.

Hobbs Woods
N4145 Hickory Rd.
This 60-acre county park is a beautiful place to enjoy nature. Explore three miles of nature trails through woods and prairie, with Parsons Creek winding through the park. A self-guided nature brochure is available for those who want to learn more along the way.

Wild Goose State Trail
Bundle up and enjoy a brisk late-fall walk or bike ride along this long, flat recreational trail.

🏛️ History & Local Attractions

Wade House
Open November 7 from 9:30 AM–4:30 PM.
Step back in time and explore the Wade House Stagecoach Inn, Carriage House, Blacksmith Shop, and more. Adult admission ranges from $8–$15 depending on the activities you choose.

🛍️ Shopping & Treasure Hunting

If you love finding unique treasures, vintage pieces, antiques, or great secondhand finds, there are plenty of places to explore!

Thrift Shopping in Fond du Lac:

Second Impressions – N6650 Rolling Meadows Dr.
Autumn's Closet – 516 N. Rolling Meadows
Main Street Fashion – 117 S. Main St.
Nana Bee's Creations & Thrift – 610 Fond du Lac Ave.
MJ's Simply This and That
Flipped
Limitless Finds – 29 3rd Street
St. Vincent de Paul Society – 330 N. Peters
Salvation Army
Goodwill

Fond du Lac and the surrounding area also have numerous antique shops worth exploring!

Holiday Wonder Art & Craft Expo
November 7 at the Fond du Lac County Fairgrounds. Shop handmade goods from more than 90 vendors and get a jump start on your Christmas shopping!

🎨 Explore Oshkosh

Just a short drive from Fond du Lac, Oshkosh offers even more opportunities to explore.

Paine Art Center & Gardens
Open 11 AM–4 PM.
Explore the historic Tudor-style mansion and beautiful grounds. Adult admission is $12.

Oshkosh Public Museum
Explore the historic Sawyer Home and its remarkable Tiffany Studios treasures. The home features original Tiffany leaded-glass windows, light fixtures, wall coverings, and beautifully carved woodwork.

EAA Aviation Museum
Open daily from 10 AM–5 PM.
Explore the fascinating world of aviation and see an impressive collection of historic aircraft. Adult admission is $15; seniors 62+ are $13.

Downtown Riverwalk & Main Street
Bundle up for a crisp autumn walk along the Fox River, then head to Main Street to explore local boutiques, antique shops, restaurants, and murals.

🎭 Visit Plymouth

Downtown Mural Tour
Take a self-guided tour of more than 25 historic murals painted on downtown buildings. Free.

Great Lakes Writers Festival
November 6–7 at Lakeland University. This annual literary event features readings, workshops, and presentations from regional and national authors. Free, registration required.

🧀 Wisconsin Cheese Country

You can't visit Wisconsin without enjoying a little cheese! There are several cheese-related attractions and museums in the surrounding area that make for a fun day trip.

🌄 Coming from the Milwaukee Area?

Consider making a stop at Holy Hill Basilica and National Shrine on your way to or from The Gathering. Situated on the highest elevation of the region, Holy Hill offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, especially in the fall, along with hiking trails and peaceful grounds to explore. The views from the tower of the fall colors is absolutely stunning. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Lake Michigan. Free admission.

Hours: 6 AM–5 PM daily.

We hope you'll take some time to enjoy the area while you're here! Whether you spend the weekend shopping, exploring, hiking, sightseeing, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of coffee with a friend, there's plenty to discover around Fond du Lac and the surrounding communities.

The Gathering 2026

Choose your tickets

Early Registration ticket

Late Registration ticket