Why Live in Historic Central Neighborhood
Appleton’s Historic Central Neighborhood is known for its vintage homes and active local culture. The area features homes built between the mid-19th and early 20th centuries, showcasing traditional and cottage-style architecture. Residents participate in community activities like group clean-ups at Arbutus Park, walking tours, and wine nights. The neighborhood association hosts events such as Porchfest, where local bands perform on front porches. College Avenue offers a range of locally-owned eateries, boutiques, and vintage shops. Notable dining spots include the Appleton Beer Factory and The Cozzy Corner, known for its soul food and BBQ. Significant landmarks include the 140-year-old Zion Lutheran Church and St. Thérèse Catholic Parish, which houses the Saint Teresa School and Loaves & Fishes of the Fox Valley, a food assistance program.
For those interested in things to do, the neighborhood offers the annual Mile of Music festival on College Avenue, featuring 200 musicians across 40 venues. The Downtown Appleton Farm Market runs from June through October, and the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center hosts Off-Broadway shows. The Trout Museum of Art provides workshops and summer camps, with plans for a new facility near Lawrence University by 2025. Parks like City Park and Erb Park offer seasonal events and recreational facilities, including swimming pools and an ice-skating rink.
Students in the area attend schools within the Appleton Area School District, with Appleton North High School receiving high ratings for its athletic and arts programs. The neighborhood is safer than the national average, with bike lanes and Valley Transit bus stops providing convenient transportation options. Personal vehicles are necessary for longer commutes, with Ascension St. Elizabeth Hospital located a mile south and Appleton International Airport six miles west. Green Bay and Oshkosh are 30 and 20 miles away, respectively.
