As we celebrate everything that makes our city so special, we also want to celebrate you. This list of 50 Reasons to Love Oshkosh highlights the people, places, and experiences that shape our community every day. Thank you for being part of the Discover Oshkosh story and for loving this city as much as we do.
Lake Winnebago Sunsets
- Take a stroll along the riverwalk and take in the incredible views of a Lake Winnebago sunset!
Friendly Faces Everywhere
- The Oshkosh area is full of life, laughter, and friendly people. Get out and explore the community today!
The EAA Aviation Museum & AirVenture
- The world's largest aviation event and an Oshkosh staple, EAA is celebrating 73 years in 2026
- Looking for some fresh Wisconsin cheese curds with an unbeatable view? Any of our waterfront dining options are going to leave you wanting more!
- A premier Saturday farmers market, we have over 150 vendors offering a variety of fresh produce, treats, and more!
Four Beautiful Seasons
- In Oshkosh, you don’t just get four seasons- you get snow globe winters, fresh-happy Springs, Winnebago Summers, and flannel-worthy falls, all in one beautifully unpredictable year.
Menominee Park Beach & Views
- 109-acre lakeside destination with a free Zoo? The views are endless!
Miles of Biking & Walking Trails
- With over 44 trails in Oshkosh, there is sure to be one that becomes a fast family favorite.
Cozy Coffee Shops
- Whether you are looking for the perfect cup of joe or a cozy spot to curl up and read a new favorite book, we have the perfect spot for you!
Historic Downtown Charm
- A downtown so great that Johnny Depp’s movie, Public Enemy, was shot here!
- Live music, good vibes, waterfront views- join us for a Summer concert series you won’t soon forget!
Craft breweries, distillery & cidery
- Blu Bobber, Frootenany’s, Dry-ciders, and scratch-made spirits? Oshkosh has something for all taste buds.
The Only Cruisin’ Tikis boat in Wisconsin
- Looking for some unique fun? Hop on our floating tiki boat and enjoy the waterways with friends!
Waupaca Boat Ride Volleyball Tournament
- The World’s Largest outdoor volleyball tournament? Yup, Oshkosh has it!
Chocolate Shops & Sweet Treats
- Homemade chocolates from a basement and a candy shop that opened in the 1800’s?! You have to see these places to believe them!
Fishing Year-Round
- Casting for Walleyes or spearing for Sturgeons, come on out and try to catch your next trophy fish!
The Holiday Season Celebrations
- Nostalgic Christmas parades and cozy storefronts are our jam! The magic of the Holiday Season runs deep all around Oshkosh!
Pedal Trolley Rides
- Honk honk, pedal trolley coming through! Take a ride with some friends through our downtown and find your new favorite pit stop!
- Don’t have your own gear? We have a place to rent it so you don’t miss out on the fun!
- Zac Brown Band, Lainey Wilson, and Wiz Khalifa?! Only in Oshkosh!
Oshkosh Arena Events
- Home of the Wisconsin Herd and so much more- it is family fun for everyone!
The Grand Opera House Shows & Concerts
- The Grand Opera House is a historic downtown Oshkosh gem, bringing world-class performances to the heart of the city.
UW–Oshkosh Pride
- Flash is the one for the job, spreading UW-O cheer all around our beautiful town!
Free Menominee Park Zoo
- Mr. Reeves, our resident Bear, loves when people visit! Make sure to stop by to see our other furry friends; we have about 40 to see!
- Deep fried or grilled? Cajun or garlic? We have a fish dish for everyone to try!
- A classic cheeseburger with a root beer float chaser? Name a better combo! We have two classic drive-ins to pick from, and you can’t go wrong with either!
Outdoor Recreation & Activities
- Outdoor recreation in Oshkosh offers everything from boating and fishing on Lake Winnebago to scenic biking and walking along the Wiouwash Trail, making it a perfect spot for year-round adventure.
Sailing Adventures
- Sailing has a long history in our community. Established in 1869, the Oshkosh Yacht Club provides experiences that include lessons, racing, social events, dining, and more.
- With our endless activities, strong school systems, and year-round fun, Oshkosh is such a great place to raise a family.
- If you’re in town, be sure to stop by one of Oshkosh's many murals! Collectively located, these murals make a great route for an afternoon stroll.
Weekend Brunch Spots
- Name a better combo than weekends and brunch! We will wait…
- Good vibes only! Our outdoor patios will have you wanting to hang out even longer in Oshkosh!
Antique & Vintage Thrift Stores
- Looking for your next treasure? Oshkosh has plenty of places to spend your afternoon digging and finding!
Outstanding Restaurants
- Calling all foodies! We have your next favorite bite, we know it!
The Paine Art Center & Gardens
- The Paine in Oshkosh is the kind of place where history, art, and seriously beautiful gardens all show off at the same time—like stepping into a Gilded Age postcard right in the heart of the city.
Year-Round Golf
- Looking to play 9 or 18? Indoors or outdoors? Glow in the dark? We have it all!
Friday Night Lights & Community Sports
- This kind of Friday-evening tradition where fans pack the stands to cheer on teams like Oshkosh North and Oshkosh West in fall matchups against area rivals.
- Birthday parties, retirement parties, you name it- we have the gift for you!
- The Oshkosh Public Museum brings the city’s history to life inside a stunning historic mansion, where art, artifacts, and local stories all come together under one beautiful roof.
Community Spirit
- Oshkosh shows up for each other in big ways and small moments.
- Where locals gather, stories are shared, and friendships grow.
Boat Days
- With easy access to the water, boat days on Lake Winnebago and the Fox River are a way of life here.
Art, Culture & History
- Oshkosh’s rich history and vibrant arts scene shine through our museums, galleries, and cultural events.
Great Lodging Options!
- Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying awhile, Oshkosh offers welcoming places to rest and recharge.
- Bringing thousands together each summer, filling the city with music, faith, and community.
Restaurant Week & Craft Beer Week
- These beloved weeks celebrate local flavors, creative chefs, and the breweries that make Oshkosh unique.
- The Milwaukee Bucks' NBA G League affiliate brings high-energy basketball to the Oshkosh Arena
- Fire Escape sparks creativity in Oshkosh with hands-on DIY projects and art classes that bring people together.
Friendly Faces Everywhere
- No matter where you go, you’re greeted with a smile that makes Oshkosh feel like home.
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