Appleton, Wisconsin Weather by Month

Appleton, located in northeastern Wisconsin along the Fox River, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and scenic beauty. Located approximately 30 miles southwest of Green Bay and 100 miles north of Milwaukee, Appleton is the largest city in Outagamie County and serves as a hub for commerce, education, and recreation in the Fox Valley region. With a population of around 75,000 residents, Appleton offers a blend of urban amenities, small-town charm, and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal destination for visitors and a beloved home for its residents.

Geography

Appleton is located at approximately 44.2619° N latitude and 88.4154° W longitude, in the heart of the Fox River Valley. The city is characterized by its scenic location along the Fox River, which winds its way through the downtown area and provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and waterfront recreation. Appleton’s geography features a mix of urban development, residential neighborhoods, and green spaces, with nearby parks, trails, and nature preserves offering residents and visitors ample opportunities to explore the outdoors.

Population

As of the latest census data, Appleton has a population of approximately 75,000 residents, making it the sixth-largest city in Wisconsin. The city’s population is diverse, with a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees contributing to its dynamic community atmosphere. Appleton’s residents are known for their friendly demeanor, strong sense of community, and pride in their city’s heritage and traditions.

Major Landmarks

Appleton boasts several major landmarks and attractions that showcase its unique history and cultural heritage. The Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, located in downtown Appleton, is a state-of-the-art venue that hosts a variety of concerts, plays, and other live performances throughout the year. The History Museum at the Castle offers exhibits and programs that highlight Appleton’s past, including its connections to the paper industry and the famous magician Harry Houdini, who called Appleton home. Additionally, the Lawrence University campus, with its historic buildings and scenic grounds, serves as a cultural and educational hub for the community.

Climate and Weather Overview

Average Climate Statistics

Appleton experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons with varying temperatures and precipitation patterns. The city’s location in the Upper Midwest influences its weather patterns, with cold winters, warm summers, and moderate precipitation throughout the year.

Table 1: Average Monthly Climate Statistics for Appleton, Wisconsin

Weather by Month

January

January in Appleton is characterized by cold temperatures and occasional snowfall, with average highs around 22°F. The month typically sees light precipitation, with an average of 1.17 inches. Outdoor activities during January may include ice skating, sledding, and snowshoeing in local parks and trails. Indoor activities like visiting museums, attending concerts, or cozying up with a book by the fireplace offer opportunities for warmth and relaxation during the winter months.

February

February brings similar cold temperatures to Appleton, with average highs reaching 26°F. Precipitation levels remain relatively low compared to other months, with an average of 1.14 inches. Outdoor enthusiasts can continue to enjoy winter activities such as cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and winter hiking in the nearby parks and nature preserves. Indoor activities like visiting art galleries, trying new restaurants, or attending theater performances provide options for entertainment and cultural enrichment during the colder months.

March

March marks the transition to spring in Appleton, with gradually warming temperatures and increasing daylight hours. Average highs reach 36°F, while precipitation levels rise to 2.00 inches. The month offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and nature walks in the city’s parks and green spaces. Visitors can also enjoy exploring local farmers markets, attending outdoor festivals, and taking scenic drives as the landscape begins to awaken from its winter slumber.

April

April brings milder and more pleasant weather to Appleton, with average highs around 49°F. Precipitation levels continue to increase, with an average of 2.82 inches. This ideal weather makes April perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking in the city’s parks and along the Fox River. Visitors can also enjoy exploring local gardens, attending outdoor concerts, or taking scenic drives through the countryside as spring blooms and wildlife abound.

May

May heralds the arrival of spring in full force in Appleton, with average highs reaching 62°F. The month experiences moderate precipitation, with an average of 3.43 inches. Outdoor enthusiasts can fully embrace the spring weather by engaging in activities such as gardening, golfing, and fishing in the city’s parks and waterways. Hiking, biking, and birdwatching offer additional opportunities to enjoy the beauty of the season.

June

June brings the onset of summer in Appleton, with average highs climbing to 71°F. Precipitation levels remain moderate, with an average of 3.84 inches. The warmer weather makes June perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking in the city’s parks and along the Fox River. Visitors can also enjoy attending outdoor concerts, exploring local farmers markets, and dining al fresco at waterfront restaurants as the city comes alive with the sights and sounds of summer.

July

July is characterized by warm temperatures and occasional thunderstorms in Appleton, with average highs peaking at 75°F. The month sees moderate precipitation, with an average of 3.48 inches. Despite the occasional rain showers, visitors can still enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming in the city’s parks and waterways. Exploring local trails, attending outdoor festivals, or watching fireworks displays offer additional ways to celebrate the summer season.

August

August continues the trend of warm temperatures and occasional rain showers in Appleton, with average highs remaining at 73°F. Precipitation levels remain moderate, with an average of 3.51 inches. While the weather may be warm, visitors can still find relief by participating in water-based activities such as sailing, paddleboarding, and tubing on the Fox River. Additionally, August is an excellent time to explore local parks, attend outdoor concerts, and enjoy ice cream treats as the summer season winds down.

September

September brings the first signs of fall to Appleton, with average highs dropping to 65°F. The month experiences moderate precipitation, with an average of 3.20 inches. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the milder weather by engaging in activities such as hiking, biking, and birdwatching in the city’s parks and natural areas. September is also a great time to explore local apple orchards, attend fall festivals, and take scenic drives as the foliage begins to change color.

October

October showcases the vibrant colors of fall foliage in Appleton, with average highs around 53°F. Precipitation levels decrease slightly compared to September, with an average of 2.54 inches. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of autumn by participating in activities such as leaf-peeping, pumpkin picking, and corn mazes at local farms and orchards. Hiking, biking, and exploring the city’s parks offer additional opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

November

November brings cooler temperatures and increasing rainfall to Appleton, with average highs dropping to 39°F. The month sees moderate precipitation, with an average of 2.10 inches. Despite the cooler weather, outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and nature walks are still popular choices for visitors. Indoor activities like visiting museums, attending holiday markets, or enjoying cozy nights by the fire offer opportunities for relaxation during the colder months.

December

December ushers in winter in Appleton, with average highs around 27°F. The month experiences moderate precipitation, with an average of 1.35 inches. While outdoor activities may be limited due to the colder weather, visitors can still enjoy seasonal attractions such as holiday light displays, festive markets, and carriage rides. Indoor activities like shopping for unique gifts, attending holiday concerts, or baking holiday treats offer opportunities for holiday cheer and relaxation.