Summer Fun

smiling kayaker on river

Summer in Wisconsin’s Calumet County offers everything from beautiful trails to scenic lakeshore, from iconic family attractions to outdoor recreation and so much more in between. In fact, no matter the summer activity you choose, you will find you can do it in Calumet County.

 While there are literally dozens upon dozens of choices, we at Travel Calumet thought we would provide a suggested list of 20 great things to do (and see) this summer right here in Wisconsin’s Calumet County.

Visit the Caves at Ledge View

Ledge View Nature Center has caves. These natural holes in dolomitic limestone bedrock were formed first by groundwater, then additionally by meltwater from the Wisconsinan Glaciation thousands of years ago. A lot of sediment came in with the meltwater, too, and some of it’s still here. Four distinct caves offer visitors unique spelunking experiences.

Candlelight cave

Go to High Cliff State Park

One visit and you’ll understand why this is one of the state’s most highly utilized parks! High Cliff is situated high above the water on the Niagara Escarpment, a large limestone arc stretching through Niagara Falls and into Canada. Enjoy cliff faces, wooded areas with hiking and equestrian trails, spectacular lake vistas, and beautiful sunsets. Learn about famed leader Chief Redbird, the limestone village that once stood in the park, or visit the effigy mounds found in the park. Amenities include a swimming area in the lower park, showers, firewood sales, a concession store, and bustling marina.

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Launch your boat at Calumet County Park Harbor

Calumet County Park Harbor is located within Calumet County Park on the east shore of Lake Winnebago. This facility provides 6 launch lanes and plenty of parking spaces for vehicles and trailers. There are restroom facilities, bench seating along the harbor and lake, and kayaks available to rent.

Calumet County Park Harbor

Enjoy Mulberry Lane Farm

An interactive farm experience where people of all ages can interact with and pet farm animals such as pigs, cows, goats, sheep, chickens, bunnies and kittens. Your visit may also include milking a cow and a tractor drawn hayride. Enjoy the cool breezes the country affords during the summer season. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the massive haymow or in the outdoor picnic area.

barn hill_

Play at Lake Winnebago

Lake Winnebago is one of the country’s largest freshwater inland lakes and it is situated entirely within Wisconsin – a rare thing for such a large body of water. Visitors are always surprised by the sheer size of it, taking more than 80 miles to circumnavigate.

Lake Winnebago is perfect for people who love boating, kayaking, fishing and the great outdoors. Lake Winnebago’s proximity to the Niagara Escarpment and relatively shallow average depth mean it’s also ideal for wind sports, so whether your thing is sailing or windsurfing, this is a must-experience destination. And if you just want to chill, Lake Winnebago is the perfect spot to watch a miraculous sunset.

Night swimming in Lake Winnebago

Take in a race at Gravity Park USA

Gravity Park USA explodes as one of the Midwest's most premiere extreme race facilities! Boasting a world class quad and motocross track and new stock car dirt track, Gravity Park USA competes with the biggest and baddest in the racing industry. Races spring through fall with free spectator admission for most motocross and quad events.

Gravity Park from drone

See Ariens Nordic Center

A world-class recreational area, Ariens Nordic Center in Brillion provides a year-round outdoor experience by engaging the community with sports, hospitality, entertainment, and education. Swimming to pickle ball, live music and entertainment, fine dining, hiking and many other amenities await.

Ariens Nordic Center offers a variety of recreational and competitive opportunities across its 5k lighted trail network designed by Morton Trails. Its 3.5k of paved trails, and 20-point Kurvinen Biathlon Range provide a world-class experience for all ages and skill levels.

Ariens Nordic Center from drone

Shop!

Unique, locally owned shops are scattered across the countryside within the many charming communities of Calumet County. Venues range from clothing boutiques to artisan fare, as well as antiques and thrift. Especially popular are the many agricultural related outlets carrying everything from cheese to maple syrup.

shopping at hidden hallow art

Ice cream!

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! And in Wisconsin’s Calumet County, we have great choices that will make you scream with excitement!

In Sherwood there are Papa B's Pizza & Barbecue, located just outside High Cliff State Park, as well as Frogg's Ice Cream on Hwy 55, Dairy Queens in Brillion on Hwy 10 and in Chilton at its Hwys 32/57 location, Culver's in Harrison on CTH KK, and Scoops Ice Cream House in Chilton at its Hwys 32/57/151 location.

boy with large ice cream cone

Visit a Nature Center

Brillion Nature Center is home to 6.5 miles of trails giving hikers a chance to view wildlife in marsh, pond, forest, and prairie habitats. Trails are open from 7:00 AM to sunset. A boardwalk trail leads to a large viewing platform that extends out into the marsh. From the platform, watch for ducks, sandhill cranes, herons, and nesting osprey. Aquatic insects and frogs can be found in Jason's Pond. Wisconsin fish, reptiles, and amphibians can be viewed inside the nature center. A restored prairie is home to over 50 species of wildflowers

Ledge View Nature Center has trails for exploring and hiking. Climb the 60-foot observation tower for a panoramic view from atop the Niagara Escarpment.

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Golf

Golf Digest ranked Wisconsin the top state for public golf courses in the United States in 2024 and 2025. One challenging 9-hole course (Braun’s Deer Run Golf Course in Brillion) and two competitive 18-hole courses (Hickory Hills Country Club in Chilton and High Cliff Golf Course and Event Center in Sherwood) await!

Golf Art Shot

Enjoy the Tiki Bar at Waverly Beach

The Tiki Bar was built to bring relaxation and entertainment outside with fun for the entire family. Sip a cool drink or have a great meal at this great destination spot on the shores of Lake Winnebago.

Waverly Beach Tiki Bar

Take in live music at Wolf and Fox Winery

Upon arrival, you will be struck by the breathtaking beauty of the property, especially the barn dating back to the 1800s. The well-preserved original wood beams and flooring makes for stunning visuals. Live music on stage within the barn and great wine compliment this beautiful event location, family farm, and winery all in one.

Woelfel Winery music performance on stage

Cut the Rug at The Crystal Ballroom

With its tall windows, crystal chandeliers, and performance stage, the Crystal Ballroom is a beautiful event space that showcases live music. However, its statement piece is the fully restored 2,500 square foot floating hardwood dance floor that accommodates numerous regularly scheduled dancing events, ranging from Western Line dance to Tango, from Ballroom to Swing. Put on your dancing shoes and hit the floor.

people dancing at The crystal ballroom

Step back in history

Visit one of the many historical places and museums in Calumet County. In Brillion, there are the AriensCo Museum and the Brillion Historical Museum & History House. In Chilton, visit the Calumet County Historical Society Museum, and in New Holstein make sure to visit the Timm House, a Greek Revival styled home built in 1873, and the Pioneer Coner Museum with its diorama of old New Holstein.

Timm house in New Holstein

Take a drive on 55

Wisconsin Highway 55 starts at a strategically placed scenic wayside overlooking Lake Winnebago at Highway 55 and US151. Highway 55 runs north within eyeshot of the eastern shore of the rural side of Lake Winnebago. Lake Winnebago is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the U.S. and is one of the largest lakes in the nation entirely within one state. It is even visible from space. Follow the road past topography of serene shorelines, rolling hills and rocky cliffs.

Lake Winnebago view from highway

Go camping or RVing

Camping in the natural landscape of Calumet County is an experience all its own. Whether reserving a lakeside site at Calumet County Park, a wooded site at High Cliff State Park, or a deluxe cabin at Lakeview RV Park and Cabins, spending the night in the great outdoors can’t be beat in Calumet County.

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Go to the Calumet County Fair

No better way to end your summer than at the Calumet County Fair in Chilton over the long Labor Day Weekend. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, live music, delicious fair food, and unique events, the fair also features exhibits from local youth groups like 4-H and FFA, showcasing the community's agricultural talents. The Calumet County Fair is known as the biggest little fair in Wisconsin. Come and experience the fun.

Midway food at Calumet County Fair

Visit a supper club

What better way to end your fun-filled summer day than at one of Calumet County’s 8 unique supper clubs. Calumet County is known as the Supper Club Capital of the Midwest®.

A supper club is a wonderful dining experience that is like no other. You don’t need a membership to enjoy these unique establishments, just bring your appetite. A typical meal may include a relish tray, bread, soup, salad, an entrée and ice cream drink for dessert. The supper club is an iconic Calumet County and Wisconsin experience.

people with menu ordering food at a supper club