Fond du Lac, WI
- About the city
- Landmarks
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Transport
- Fond du Lac Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Facilities and Services
Fond du Lac is a city in Wisconsin, United States, situated at the southern tip of Lake Winnebago. It is the seat of Fond du Lac County and is known as the "Gateway to the Kettle Moraine" for its proximity to outdoor recreation areas.
About the city
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.
- Administrative Role: Fond du Lac is the county seat of Fond du Lac County . It is a city within the U.S. state of Wisconsin and serves as the principal city of the Fond du Lac Metropolitan Statistical Area, which includes all of Fond du Lac County .
- Country and Region: The city is located in east-central Wisconsin, approximately 55 miles (90 km) northwest of Milwaukee . The region is part of the Great Lakes watershed and is known for its dairy farming, manufacturing, and outdoor recreation centered around Lake Winnebago and the Kettle Moraine State Forest .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Name Origin: "Fond du Lac" is French for "bottom of the lake" or "foot of the lake" . The city received this name due to its location at the southern end of Lake Winnebago.
- Nicknames: Fond du Lac is often called the "Gateway to the Kettle Moraine" . This nickname reflects its position near the Kettle Moraine State Forest, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts featuring glacial landscape features. It is also sometimes simply referred to as "FDL."
Date of Foundation and Age
Fond du Lac originated as a French trading post in 1785 . The city was laid out in 1835 and settled in 1836 . It was incorporated as a village on March 1, 1847, and then as a city on April 6, 1852 . As of 2026, the city is 190 years old since its first settlement.
Geographic Position and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 43°46′N 88°27′W (43.7718, -88.4397) .
- Key Features: Fond du Lac is situated at the southernmost point (the "bottom") of Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin's largest inland lake . The east and west branches of the Fond du Lac River converge within the city and flow into the lake .
- Elevation: The city's elevation is approximately 760 feet (232 meters) above sea level .
- Setting: Geographically, it is a lakeshore city on a glacial plain.
City Type and Economic Specialization
Fond du Lac is a diversified regional economic hub. Its economy historically relied on lumbering and grain milling but is now based on manufacturing and agriculture .
- Manufacturing Center: The city has a strong industrial base, producing machine tools, agricultural equipment, automotive parts, and outboard motors .
- Administrative Center: As the county seat, it is a center for government and services.
- Tourism Hub: It serves as a gateway for tourists heading to Lake Winnebago, the Horicon Marsh, and the Kettle Moraine State Forest .
Population and Demographics
- Population: According to the 2020 census, the city has a population of 44,678 residents . The larger Fond du Lac metropolitan area has a population of 104,154 .
- City Class: Fond du Lac is a medium-sized city and a regional hub within east-central Wisconsin.
"City's Calling Card"
Fond du Lac, whose name means "bottom of the lake" in French, is a welcoming Wisconsin city located at the southern tip of Lake Winnebago. Known as the "Gateway to the Kettle Moraine," it offers a blend of lakeside recreation, a historic downtown with a riverwalk, and unique attractions like the Historic Galloway House and Village.
Landmarks
Historic Galloway House and Village
This is one of Fond du Lac's premier attractions. The site features a restored 30-room Victorian mansion built in 1880 for Edwin Galloway, surrounded by a recreated 19th-century village . The village includes nearly 30 historic buildings moved to the site, such as a print shop, a chapel, a railroad station, and a one-room schoolhouse, showcasing life from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s . Visitors can step aboard a rare caboose and explore the Blakely Museum on the grounds .
Lakeside Park and Lighthouse
Lakeside Park is Fond du Lac's showcase park, located on the southern shore of Lake Winnebago . Its most iconic feature is the Fond du Lac Lighthouse, a 56-foot structure built in 1933 and restored in 1993. Visitors can climb the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the lake from mid-April to mid-October . The park also features a historic carousel, a miniature train ride, a system of lagoons for canoeing, and a covered bridge. During the Christmas season, it transforms into a spectacular holiday lights display .
Octagon House
This historic house at 276 Linden Street was built in the 1850s for Isaac Brown, a local trader . It is notable for its unique octagonal design and its history as a safe house on the Underground Railroad, with a small space under the porch used to hide runaway slaves. The house is said to be haunted by the spirits of children from the Brown family and was featured on the History Channel show "Hidden Passages" as the "second-most haunted house in Wisconsin" .
The Cathedral Church of St. Paul
Serving as the seat of the Episcopal Diocese of Fond du Lac, this cathedral was built in 1884 after a fire destroyed its predecessor . Located at 51 West Division Street, its interior is renowned for its exquisite collection of hand-carved wooden figures, including depictions of the Apostles and numerous angels, originating from Oberammergau, Germany . The cathedral also contains the sarcophagus of Bishop Charles Grafton, a key figure in the diocese's history .
Toll Gate Monument
Located in Roosevelt Park, this monument marks the site of the original toll gate on the Military Trail and Old Plank Road . The historic marker, rededicated in 2025, commemorates the transportation routes that were vital to the region's early commerce and settlement. From the 1850s until 1916, this toll gate collected fees from passing vehicles, helping to fund the development of Fond du Lac .
Buttermilk Creek Park and Greenway Arboretum
Located south of the Historic Galloway House, Buttermilk Creek Park is a large, hilly park featuring an outdoor amphitheater where summer concerts are held . Adjacent to it is the 14-acre Greenway Arboretum, which offers over two miles of hiking trails through restored oak savanna and other native landscapes .
Geography
Water Bodies
- Lake Winnebago: The defining geographical feature of Fond du Lac is its location on the southern shore of Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin's largest inland lake . The lake dominates the city's northern border and provides extensive opportunities for boating, fishing, and water recreation.
- Fond du Lac River: The East and West branches of the Fond du Lac River converge within the city, and the main stem flows north into Lake Winnebago near Lakeside Park . The Fond du Lac Riverwalk is a paved trail that follows the river through downtown, offering scenic views and pedestrian access .
Unique Landscapes and Parks
- Kettle Moraine State Forest: The city is a primary gateway to the Kettle Moraine State Forest, a large glacial landscape located to the south and west, known for its rolling hills, kettles, and eskers . It is a major destination for hiking, camping, and skiing.
- Horicon Marsh: Located southwest of the city, the Horicon Marsh is one of the largest freshwater cattail marshes in the United States . This 50-square-mile (130 km²) wetland is a wildlife refuge, internationally recognized for its abundant bird life, particularly migrating Canada geese .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Fond du Lac has a humid continental climate, which is typical for Wisconsin. It is characterized by warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters .
Average Temperatures
- Hottest Month: July is the warmest month, with an average daily high of 80°F (27°C) and an average low of 61°F (17°C) . The record high is 111°F (44°C), set in July 1936 .
- Coldest Month: January is the coldest month, with an average daily high of 24°F (-4°C) and an average low of 9°F (-12°C) . The record low is -41°F (-41°C), set in January 1951 .
Precipitation and Snowfall
- Annual Precipitation: The city receives an average of 31.45 inches (799 mm) of precipitation per year . June is typically the wettest month .
- Snowfall: Fond du Lac averages 38.0 inches (97 cm) of snow annually. Snowfall is most common from late autumn through early spring, with January and February seeing the highest percentages of snow relative to total precipitation .
Sunshine and Seasonality
- Sunshine: The sunniest and clearest skies occur from June through September .
- Best Time to Visit: The most pleasant time for outdoor activities is during the summer (June-August), when temperatures are warm and ideal for enjoying Lake Winnebago . The spring and fall offer mild weather for hiking in the Kettle Moraine and bird-watching at Horicon Marsh.
Transport
Airports
- Fond du Lac County Airport (FLD IATA): This is a municipal airport located within the city, primarily serving general aviation and charter flights. No major commercial airlines operate out of this airport .
- Appleton International Airport (ATW IATA): The nearest airport with significant commercial service is in Appleton, Wisconsin, located about 30-40 minutes north of Fond du Lac, offering flights to many U.S. destinations .
Bus Service
- Intercity Bus: Fond du Lac is a stop on intercity bus routes. Greyhound and Lamers Bus Lines provide service from the city, connecting it to Milwaukee, Green Bay, and other regional hubs . Megabus, operated by Van Galder, also has a route connecting Fond du Lac to Madison and Green Bay .
- Local Transit: The city has its own public bus service, Fond du Lac Area Transit, which operates on weekdays .
Major Highways
Fond du Lac is a significant road hub, located at the junction of several major highways.
- Interstate 41 (I-41) / U.S. Route 41: This is the primary freeway running north-south through the western part of the city, connecting it to Milwaukee to the south and Green Bay to the north .
- U.S. Route 151: This highway approaches Fond du Lac from Madison and the southwest, running along the southern and eastern edges of the city .
- Wisconsin Highway 23 (WIS 23): This route runs east-west through the center of the city, connecting it to Sheboygan to the east and Ripon to the west .
Train
There is currently no passenger rail service to Fond du Lac . Amtrak passengers can connect to the city via a Thruway bus service from Milwaukee. However, a future Amtrak route from Milwaukee to Green Bay is planned, which would include a stop in Fond du Lac .
Fond du Lac Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Fond du Lac offers a delightful taste of Wisconsin's culinary heritage, blending classic American comfort food with international flavors and, of course, a strong emphasis on dairy.
Wisconsin Cheese Curds
No visit to Fond du Lac is complete without trying the state's most famous snack: cheese curds. These are fresh, mild cheddar cheese bites that haven't been processed, giving them a unique, squeaky texture when you bite into them. In Fond du Lac, they are typically served deep-fried with a light, crispy coating, often as an appetizer . This dish is a staple of Wisconsin cuisine, celebrating the state's identity as America's dairy heartland. You can find them at many local pubs and family restaurants, embodying the state's love for fresh, farm-to-table ingredients.
Fresh Seafood and Fish Fry
Given its location at the southern tip of Lake Winnebago, Fond du Lac has a strong tradition of seafood, particularly the classic Wisconsin Friday night fish fry. Salty's Seafood is a local favorite, offering a variety of dishes in a light and airy, nautical-themed setting. Their menu features delights like seafood fettuccine, fried shrimp, and Cajun-style catfish, often accompanied by a healthy salad bar . This tradition reflects the region's connection to its lake and a long-standing cultural practice of gathering for a hearty fish dinner, especially on Fridays.
Kelley Country Creamery Ice Cream
For a true taste of local dairy farming, Kelley Country Creamery is a must-visit. This family-owned farm, just outside of Fond du Lac, has been producing premium ice cream since the 1960s . They are famous for their inventive and delicious flavors, such as peach cobbler with oatmeal crumble, amaretto cherry, and pumpkin cheesecake. Visitors can even watch the ice cream being made through a viewing window while enjoying their treats . It's a perfect example of Fond du Lac's agricultural roots and its commitment to high-quality, artisanal food production.
Italian-American Classics
Fond du Lac has a strong appreciation for Italian-American cuisine, with several long-standing family restaurants. Ala Roma Pizzeria is often cited as serving some of the best pizza in the city, along with freshly made calzones and pasta dishes . Similarly, Gino's Italian Restaurant offers a Chicago-style Italian experience, featuring Sicilian salads, stuffed-crust pizzas, and tortellini carbonara . These establishments highlight the influence of immigrant communities on the city's culinary landscape and its love for hearty, family-style meals.
Home-Style American Fare
For classic American comfort food that has stood the test of time, locals head to Schreiner's. A Fond du Lac institution since 1938, Schreiner's is known for its timeless Wisconsin comfort food, including clam chowder and the ever-popular fried cheese curds . It's a place where culinary traditions are preserved and celebrated, offering a taste of the city's history with every meal. Adjacent to Bernie's Pub, it provides a cozy, classic setting to enjoy a meal and a local beer.
Museums
While Fond du Lac itself has museums focused on community and hands-on learning, it is located near the larger city of Oshkosh, which offers a cluster of more specialized and widely-known museums.
Fond du Lac's Museums
- Children's Museum of Fond du Lac (CMFDL): This museum is dedicated to creating hands-on learning experiences for children and their caregivers. Through interactive exhibits and educational programs, it aims to foster creativity, discovery, and curiosity . It's a community-focused space where play is the primary mode of learning, serving thousands of visitors annually .
Museums in Nearby Oshkosh (Approx. 15 miles north)
For a broader range of museums, Oshkosh provides several exceptional options.
- EAA Aviation Museum: This world-famous museum is home to the annual EAA AirVenture convention. It features world-class aviation exhibits, including homebuilt aircraft, antiques, classics, and historic military planes. A highlight is the display of SpaceShipOne, the first privately funded spacecraft to reach space . The KidVenture area offers interactive exhibits and simulators for families.
- Paine Art Center and Gardens: Often referred to as an "American Castle," this historic estate features art galleries within a grand architectural setting, surrounded by 20 stunning garden areas . It presents rotating exhibitions of fine art, from classical to contemporary, making it a cultural gem in the region.
- Oshkosh Public Museum: This museum explores the history and culture of the Lake Winnebago region. Its key exhibit, "People of the Waters," brings Wisconsin's prehistoric past and Native American culture to life through interactive displays . The museum is also known for its collection of Tiffany treasures.
- Military Veterans Museum and Education Center: Designated as the Home of the 359th Transportation Company, Vietnam, this museum honors the nation's military history. It features more than 20 historic military vehicles, including the "Brutus" gun truck, and shares the personal stories of veterans through artifacts like uniforms and small arms .
Sport and Sports Legends
Fond du Lac has a rich history in baseball and is currently home to a popular summer collegiate team, with major college sports nearby.
Historic Baseball Teams
Fond du Lac has been home to numerous baseball teams dating back to the early 20th century. These include the Fond du Lac Webfoots (1907), Fond du Lac Cubs (1908), Fond du Lac Giants (1909-1910), Fond du Lac Mudhens (1911), Fond du Lac Molls (1913), and the Fond du Lac Panthers (1940-1942, 1946-1953) .
Current Professional Team: Fond du Lac Dock Spiders
Today, the city's premier sports team is the Fond du Lac Dock Spiders, a collegiate summer baseball team that has been playing in the Northwoods League since 2017 . The Northwoods League is one of the top amateur summer leagues in the country, featuring top college players from across the nation using wooden bats. Games are a popular summer pastime, offering family-friendly entertainment.
Nearby University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Titans
For a full slate of collegiate sports, the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh (UWO), located about 15 miles north, is a major presence. The UWO Titans compete in the NCAA Division III as part of the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) . The Titans field a wide range of teams, including baseball, football, men's and women's basketball, wrestling, swimming, and volleyball . The WIAC is one of the most competitive Division III conferences in the nation, providing a high level of athletic competition.
Universities and Educational Institutions
Fond du Lac and its immediate vicinity are home to several higher education institutions, ranging from a technical college to a private liberal arts university.
Marian University
Marian University is a private, Catholic university founded in 1936. It offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in nursing, business, and education. The university is known for its supportive community and commitment to service. In 2022, it awarded 382 degrees, making it the second-largest degree-awarding institution in the Fond du Lac area .
Moraine Park Technical College
Moraine Park Technical College is a public two-year college that is part of the Wisconsin Technical College System. It is the largest degree-awarding institution in the area, conferring 1,719 degrees in 2022 . The college focuses on career and technical education, offering programs in fields like manufacturing, information technology, healthcare, and business, directly serving the workforce needs of the Fond du Lac region.
Ripon College
Located about 20 miles west of Fond du Lac in the city of Ripon, Ripon College is a private, highly respected liberal arts college. Founded in 1851, it is known for its rigorous academics and its historic connection to the founding of the Republican Party, which held its first meeting in Ripon in 1854. The college awarded 187 degrees in 2022 .
Nearby University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Approximately 15 miles north of Fond du Lac, the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh (UWO) is a large public university and a significant educational hub for the region. It is part of the University of Wisconsin System and offers a comprehensive array of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. UWO is also known for its strong athletic programs, with the Titans competing in the NCAA Division III .
Healthcare Facilities and Services
Fond du Lac has recently expanded its healthcare infrastructure with a brand-new, state-of-the-art medical center.
ThedaCare Medical Center-Fond du Lac
The most significant development in Fond du Lac's healthcare landscape is the opening of ThedaCare Medical Center-Fond du Lac in April 2025 . This new facility, located at 755 W. Johnson St., is a 25,000 sq. ft. hospital and represents a $35 million investment in the community .
Key features of the new medical center include:
- 24/7 Emergency Department (ED): Staffed around the clock by board-certified emergency medicine physicians, the ED has eight beds and a dedicated entrance to ensure quick access to critical care .
- Inpatient Beds: The hospital has 10 inpatient beds for patients who require observation or overnight care .
- Advanced Imaging: On-site diagnostic services include 24/7 Computed Tomography (CT) scans, X-ray, and ultrasound .
- Specialty Care: The campus also offers select specialty care services, such as cardiovascular care, expanding access to comprehensive treatment .
This new facility is part of the larger Froedtert & ThedaCare health network, meaning patients have a direct connection to a broader system for any required higher levels of care . It significantly enhances convenient, high-quality medical access for the residents of Fond du Lac and the surrounding region.