Summertime in the Heart of the Valley

Enjoy close proximity to trails and one-of-a-kind waterfront adventures as you explore the Fox Cities communities that are known as the Heart of the Valley.

Kaukauna, Kimberly, Little Chute and Wrightstown are just some of the quaint communities that make up the area of the Fox Cities known as “Heart of the Valley.” Deeply rooted in the rich history of the area’s papermaking industry, each community enjoys its own unique qualities enhanced by the scenic backdrop of the Fox River.

Beautiful snap shot of 1000 Islands Environmental Center in Kaukauna

The Great Outdoors…
Lose yourself in nature at 1000 Islands Environmental Center as you venture over seven miles of trails and boardwalks along the banks of the Fox River. There are also fishing piers and a nature center.

Kayak rentals can be found at a self-serve station in Kimberly at Sunset Park. Access a tame section of the Fox River with mostly undeveloped shoreline for a peaceful paddle. Head out on the 7-mile Loop the Locks trail which will take you through a mix of historic downtowns, parks, past paper mills and along the lower stretch of the Fox River.


For The History Buff…
Known as the "mansion in the woods," Grignon Mansion is the historic home of pioneer and fur trader Charles Grignon. Public tours are open the first and third weekend of the month from 10am to 4pm or call (920) 766-6101 for a private showing . Little Chute Windmill is a fully functioning 1850’s windmill and the areas tallest tourist attraction. Tours run approximately 30 minutes in length and are available Wednesday – Saturday from noon to 4pm.


Hit the Greens…
Countryside Golf Club is an 18-hole public golf course. It’s moderately hilly with elevated greens and is enjoyable for all level of players. With links that can be enjoyed by all players, Royal St. Patrick’s 18-hole public course boasts well-groomed fairways and pleasing views of natural spaces.


Listen to Some Music…For Free!
Little Chute Community Band has weekly concerts on Wednesdays throughout the summer. Visit beautiful Doyle Park at 7pm to catch the show.

Cheese curds from Simon’s Specialty Cheese

Cheese Please…No visit to Wisconsin is complete without cheese. Stop by Simon’s Specialty Cheese for fresh squeaky cheese curds and unique Wisconsin theme gifts. Feeling more like ice cream? Then Lamers Dairy is the place to be. You can catch them bottling their award-winning milk from their 30-foot viewing window most mornings, Monday through Friday.

A Bite to Eat...Need a tasty morning pick me up? Try Il Bar Coffeehouse, Seth’s Coffee or Kaukauna Coffee & Tea. You will love Patty & Pablo’s for bold Mexican and American inspired eats made from scratch. Texas style BBQ lovers will rejoice at the brisket and pulled pork at Peters' Boyz BBQ. Picking a favorite side dish will be next to impossible because they’re all that good. It’s a win win situation at Electric City Lanes where you can keep the kids entertained and feed them at the same time. 313 Dodge for a seasonal tapas menu and featured cocktails and craft beer.

Cathy Trebatoski

Author

Cathy Trebatoski

Visitor Experience Manager

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