Between Green Bay And Madison Is A Lakeside Day Trip Village With Scenic Trails, Local Eats, And Nearby Shops

The next time you find yourself in one of Wisconsin's major metropolises but itching to get out of the city's hustle-bustle for the day in favor of exploring someplace new, take a look off the beaten track and consider a visit to the charming Village of Fox Crossing. This vibrant hamlet of just under 20,000 residents encompasses parts of multiple suburban communities and is a hub of trails, local shopping opportunities, and tasty cuisine to partake in — making it well worth a day trip out to visit. So pack up the car and get moving for a fun and engaging excursion that offers access to nature and to abundant independent establishments. Just check before you hit the road to ensure that you're up to date on the best ways to make sure your dollar goes the furthest on a road trip.

Located in Winnebago County, Fox Crossing is described by residents as a safe and upscale area. As Century 21 Ace Realty points out, Fox Crossing is "in the heart of several transportation corridors." It's conveniently situated a 40-minute drive along I-41 from Green Bay, and it's also under two hours by car from Madison, making it a doable destination for a one-day adventure from either city. Without a car or aiming to reduce carbon emissions? Valley Transit, the area's regional bus system, has routes between Fox Crossing and the nearby, larger hubs of Appleton, Grand Chute, and elsewhere. And if you're traveling to the area from further afield, you'll likely want to fly into Appleton International Airport (ATW), which is only about four miles, or an eight-minute drive, away from Fox Crossing. No matter how you slice it, a day trip to Fox Crossing is simple and accessible. 

Wisconsin is perhaps best known for its cheese — and, indeed, the so-called "Swiss cheese capital of the USA" is located just an hour from Madison. But rest assured that dairy delights aren't all that Wisconsin has to offer in the foodie arena. If you're coming to Fox Crossing in hopes of a delectable meal, you won't be disappointed: There are numerous eateries to choose from in and around Fox Crossing and adjacent Neenah. 

One popular option is Town Council Kitchen and Bar, which bills itself as offering "modern food and drinks made with timeless techniques from local, seasonal ingredients." This local spot has been a community mainstay since it opened its doors in 2016. Here, you'll find a unique mix of New American flavors, French culinary techniques, and fresh ingredients depending on the season. From Saturday brunch dishes ranging from chilaquiles to tiramisu French toast, to dinner entrées like pork chops or vegetable curry, there are options here to suit a wide array of palates. Pro tip: Don't miss the weekly Cheeseburger Thursday special. Diners speak highly of Town Council's food and overall ambiance, with one Google reviewer going so far as to glowingly report: "Five stars across the board — this was an exceptional dining experience from beginning to end, with welcoming service and a comfortable, inviting atmosphere."

If it's steak that you're after, snag a table at Wissota Chophouse, a sophisticated yet easygoing spot specializing in high-quality Angus steaks. Opt for a ribeye or a Wagyu burger, or keep things light with a seafood dish, soup, salad, or chicken. And you'll definitely want to save room for shareable bites like steak flatbread (or, if you and your dining companions are feeling brave, a unique choice like buffalo fried alligator).

There are myriad shopping opportunities in the vicinity, mostly in neighboring Neenah and Appleton. For a charming first stop, pop into Red Door Mercantile, located in Neenah's historic downtown and less than a 10-minute drive from Fox Crossing. Red Door Mercantile bills itself as being "filled with gifts you don't see everywhere else," and visitors praise the "wonderful" staff as well as the array of wares for sale — particularly around the holidays. For a more traditional shopping experience, there's also Fox River Mall, approximately eight minutes from Fox Crossing, which boasts popular fashion brands such as Lululemon, American Eagle Outfitters, H&M, and others. And for more retail therapy after your time here, continue on to Whitewater, an underrated city for shopping near Milwaukee.

Rather be outdoors than on a shopping spree? This lakeside village boasts scenic trails to wander. Lace up your shoes and embark on the charmingly named Loop the Little Lake Trail, often referred to simply as "the Loop." Clocking in at three and a half miles in total, this paved trail is a potpourri of sidewalks, bike lanes, trestles, and off-road trails, and it connects Fox Crossing with the neighboring communities of Neenah and Menasha. This trail has its origins in the 1990s, when it began with a railroad trestle that linked Fox Crossing with Menasha, located just across Little Lake Butte des Morts. Over the years, the route was expanded, with construction of the full Loop finished in 2018 — a labor of love by all three communities. Today, you can enjoy what one Google reviewer describes as a "super pretty trail" for a kid-friendly and gorgeous walk, bike ride, or run. Park at the trailhead at Fritse Park, where you'll also find restrooms, a playground, and other amenities.