Living in New London is all about boating and fishing
Two rivers shape life in New London: the Wolf River and the Embarrass River. “It’s known for fishhooks and beer,” says broker Sandy DuFrane with Century 21 Ace Realty. “The Wolf River runs through New London and brings in a lot of fishermen. Appleton also has a river through it, but it’s such a metropolis.” Walleye and sturgeon fishing are big local attractions, but the Wolf River is also popular for boating and kayaking. Restaurants and houses overlook the waterways, so locals can boat up to their destinations. While New London has most of what residents will need, Appleton is still close by, just 21 miles away.
Sturgeon fishing on the Wolf River and Hatten Park’s amenities
Boating and kayaking on the rivers, especially the Wolf River, are popular. “There’s the Sturgeon Trail built along the Wolf River, and that’s where you go in the spring for the sturgeon spawning,” DuFrane says. Statues of sturgeons sit along the paved pathway, where people can catch sight of the massive fish, which sometimes reaching 6 feet in length. Hatten Park is the largest city park and includes playgrounds, baseball diamonds, a disc golf course and basketball, volleyball and tennis courts. The New London Aquatic and Fitness Center has an indoor pool and gym. Mosquito Hill Nature Center offers 3 miles of hiking and snowshoeing across its 441 acres. In the fall, it is open for deer hunting.
Single-family homes along and off the river in New London
Some homes sit along the river, offering private docks that jut into the water and offer easy access for boaters and fishers. Beyond the river, New London’s Cape Cods, Nationals, New Traditionals and ranch-style houses sit along wide streets where the lawns run right to the curb. Driveways often lead to detached garages tucked behind houses. Trees drop leaves on front lawns, and streetlights add some light for those walking the dog after dark. Home prices typically start around $150,000 and can price as high as $370,000.
Riverside restaurants and coffee shops in downtown New London
The Wolf River hugs New London’s small downtown, so restaurants overlook the water. El Tequila Mexican Restaurant and Cantina has outdoor seating and an indoor dining area with colorful tables and chairs. Familiar Grounds serves coffee, pastries and sandwiches and has a patio with a garden right along the riverbank. “The Waters is right on the Wolf River, and it has a back area with a deck that overlooks the river,” DuFrane says. “You can boat right up.” It mostly serves tenderloin, seafood and burgers, and it always has the Packers game on during football season. New London residents can choose from Festival Foods, Aldi and Walmart for grocery shopping.
New London’s public schools have technical education programs
The School District of New London includes four elementary schools, a middle school and a high school and receives a B rating from Niche. New London High School has a technology education program, where students can take construction, woodworking and metalworking classes.
New London becomes New Dublin for Irish Fest each March
Every March, New London ditches its official name and becomes New Dublin for its week-long St. Patrick’s Day Grand Parade Irish Fest. The festival kicks off with people dressed as leprechauns replacing London with Dublin on the town sign, though most consider the parade the official start of the festival. “It’s huge, and it’s the biggest parade in the state,” DuFrane says. "It brings in maybe 60 to 80 thousand people.” An Irish music festival follows the parade, and the rest of the week is full of music performances and Irish specials at local restaurants. Fall Fest includes a classic and antique car show along Werner Allen Road. Live music sets the backdrop, and people can check out over 250 local vendors.
Getting around New London and the Appleton area by car
While New London locals can get to downtown’s restaurants by boat, they will need a car to get around the rest of the city. Shawano, Wyman and Division streets are major thoroughfares through New London, linking to amenities like the grocery stores and ThedaCare Medical Center-New London. Meanwhile, those looking to get to Appleton can take Wisconsin Route 15. Appleton International Airport is about 17 miles away. Those trying to see the Packers at Lambeau Field can get up to Green Bay via Wisconsin Route 54.
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Written By
Caroline Ernst
