The Best Hotels to Book in Appleton, Wisconsin
Although it’s not huge, Appleton, Wisconsin, packs in a lot. The creative spirit of the liberal arts college Lawrence University spills out into the city, with attractions such as the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center and Trout Museum of Art. Lined with nature preserves, heritage houses, craft-beer bars and museums, the meandering Fox River splits the town in two – don’t miss sightseeing from the water on a boat tour. To help you plan your visit, we’ve picked the best hotels in Appleton, Wisconsin, for all budgets, and they’re bookable on Culture Trip.
CopperLeaf Boutique Hotel and Spa, BW Premier Collection, for boutique relaxation
Boutique Hotel, Spa Hotel
Traditional Wisconsin hospitality oozes from this charming boutique hotel in downtown Appleton. The modern and cozy bedrooms all have Starbucks coffee, yoga mats for an in-room stretch, and fluffy robes and slippers on request. Choose a suite, and you can soak in your whirlpool bath before getting toasty in front of the electric fire. If you can’t go a day without working out, there’s a fitness center with weights and a Peloton bike. Treat yourself afterward with a relaxing visit to the on-site spa, BenMarNicos.
Courtyard by Marriott Appleton Riverfront, for a family getaway
Chain Hotel
This family-friendly hotel is a great base for exploring the area. Next to Telulah Park, it has walking and biking trails and a nine-hole disc golf course on its doorstep. If you prefer shopping, Fox River Mall is less than a 20-minute drive away. Also, there are plenty of dining choices within walking distance, including Tempest Coffee Collective, Mr Brews Taphouse and Angels Restaurant. However, if you’d rather stay in, visit the Bistro on-site for a healthy breakfast, dinner or evening cocktails.
The Roost Bed and Breakfast, for a home away from home
Bed and Breakfast
The Roost is a real home-away-from-home B&B in Appleton. In a quiet residential neighborhood, it’s designed for comfort and features six boutique suites – most with electric fires and whirlpool baths. You can either rent the whole property or just a room and socialize in the back garden with its screened-in gazebo, bubbling fountain and yard games. If you’re a fan of dogs, you’ll love the friendly house pup, Zada, who will smother you with licks if you let her.
Cambria Hotel Appleton, for welcome treats
Hotel
When you stay at Cambria Hotel Appleton, you’ll be offered a freshly baked cookie on arrival. You’ll also be near the Gardens of the Fox Cities, a mile (1.6km) away, as well as local boutiques, galleries, parks and antique stores. When you’re done exploring, you can chill out in the hotel pool and hot tub before digging into classic American fare at the Social Circle restaurant, which also serves signature cocktails and local craft beers from Wisconsin brewers.
Cobblestone Hotel and Suites-Little Chute, for Packers games
Hotel, Suite Hotel
If you’re looking for a hotel in the Appleton area that’s also close to Green Bay, the Cobblestone is the only spot you need to know. Just off Highway 96 in the village of Little Chute, this boutique hotel is about 21mi (34km) from Lambeau Field, the home of the Packers. With a microwave, a fridge and coffee in your room, you can make yourself at home, while the hearty complimentary breakfast and a swim in the indoor pool will set you up for the day.
Residence Inn by Marriott Appleton, for retail therapy
Chain Hotel
In the heart of Fox Valley, this Residence Inn is within walking distance of Fox River Mall, the largest shopping center in Wisconsin, so be sure to allocate some time for browsing. When you’re all shopped out, melt away your stress in the indoor pool and hot tub. If you need to let off a bit more steam, you can enjoy the on-site fitness suite and off-site partner health club and sports court.
Hampton Inn Appleton-Fox River Mall Area, for a comfortable stay
Chain Hotel
At this Hampton Inn, you’ll find modern, neutrally decorated rooms that are suitable for couples, sharers or families. Fill up at the hot, self-serve breakfast buffet before you head out to explore, or if you’re in a hurry, grab a handy On the Run Breakfast Bag from the front desk Monday to Thursday. If you have time to spare, take a dip in the indoor pool or enjoy a beverage on the terrace.
Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Appleton, for modern travelers
Chain Hotel
Designed with the modern traveler in mind, this contemporary hotel in Appleton is minutes from the airport and even comes with a choice of pillows to ensure you get a great night’s sleep after a long flight. Its location off I-41, directly opposite Fox River Mall, means easy access to plenty of great restaurants, but if you want to make a quick dinner, every room has a fridge and a microwave. If you can’t go a day without exercising, you’ll love the indoor pool and fitness center.
Holiday Inn Appleton, for flying visits
Chain Hotel
If you’re flying into Appleton, this hotel offers a free airport shuttle. Once you’re settled in, several local attractions, such as the hands-on AKA Houdini exhibit at the History Museum at the Castle and the Hearthstone Historic House Museum, are under a 10-minute drive away. Also, sports and ice skating at Community First Champion Center are less than a mile (1.6km) away. Back at the hotel, you can be sure you’ll get a good night’s rest as the blackout blinds make your room as dark as a cave.
DoubleTree by Hilton Appleton, for a welcoming vibe
Chain Hotel
About a 10-minute drive from the airport, this hotel in Appleton greets you with warm chocolate chip cookies. The welcoming vibe continues at the on-site restaurant, where you’ll be plied with gourmet pizza and cherry pie. On warmer evenings, enjoy your meal on the outdoor courtyard deck. If you like a daily dip, head down to the indoor pool or relax in the hot tub.
For more hotel options in Wisconsin, check out our guide on the best hotels in Madison, Wisconsin, for every traveler, bookable on Culture Trip.