Why Claire Loves Oshkosh:
A Guide to the city's local businesses and attractions
Oshkosh Wisconsin is a city rich in history and vibrant culture, offering a variety of activities for residents and visitors alike. Whether you grew up here or just visiting, there's plenty to explore. Here is a roundup of my favorite things to do in Oshkosh.
Sweet Treats in the City
Hughes Chocolate is a local gem in Oshkosh that I've been going to for years. Known for its unique location which has been around since 1928, I always enjoyed the whiff of chocolate goodness when you open the door and walk down the steps. Some of my favorites include meltaway, chocolate pudding, Vanilla Creams and Pecan Clusters but whatever you pick you won't be disappointed. I always remember that having Hughes chocolates during the holidays makes it even more special.
Rhapsodies has always been one of my favorite ice cream places in Oshkosh. I love the fun and creative ice cream flavors like Johnny Cashew- Vanilla custard topped with caramel and cashews. Fat Elvis- Chocolate custard covered with peanut butter and banana toppings. Chewy Armstrong- Chocolate custard covered with Snicker and caramel. I'm chocolate obsessed so I always order their chocolate custard with Oreos and hot fudge for the toppings. No matter what you get it's sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Food Favorites in Oshkosh
Chalice is a place that has been a go to place for lunch or dinner spot for me and my family for years. Known for their amazing food and amazing staff I've never seemed to have a bad experience. I always make sure to get their snack mixed with chalice sauce before my main meal comes out, which I always go for chicken bites. But they also have. From mouthwatering burgers, classic Reuben to vegetarian options, there's really something for everyone.
Fox River Brewing Company has been a staple in Oshkosh for many years. People have been enjoying their food and beer since 1995. I always love going there and enjoying the outdoor area. It's a great place to go and enjoy your food outside even when the cold weather creeps in. Their river domes have become a new fun way to have dinner with my friends so get a group together for some good food, beer and enjoy the views.
Drinks On Main
Flights is a new favorite of mine where you can get the ultimate wine experience because a wine bar has opened in Oshkosh. Flights have become the new place where I get together with friends. They offer wine, beer flights, cocktails and even mocktails. I always seem to go for the rose flight or if I want to get a beer I get the Blue Bobber. If you ever get hungry don't worry because you can build your own charcuterie board, with bread from Thunderbird, cheese from Renard's and chocolate from Oaks, you'll never go hungry. I love when businesses hot events, I've been to flights and Fashion with Periwinkle Poppy Boutique which they'll have again on November 14. A few other events are permanent jewelry, live music, painting and sipping. With a wonderful staff, beautiful ambience and wine you can never go wrong with choosing fights for your night out.
Spend The Holidays In Oshkosh
Oshkosh is such a magical place to spend the holiday season, with local businesses getting into the festive sprits with holiday events. I always enjoy seeing the lights and wreaths being put up on Main Street.
Holiday Parade in Oshkosh has been a family tradition of mine from a very young age. My grandfather Ron Nigl owned Rudy's Shoe Repair right on Main Street, so we always got the best seats to see the parades. My favorite has always been the Christmas parade, it's such an amazing parade to get you in the festive spirit.
Celebration Of Lights transforms the city into a winter wonderland, bringing together the community to celebrate the holiday season. Take a drive through the EAA grounds to experience a whole new world for the upcoming holiday season. It's always on me to do this before the holiday season is over.
Shop Local
House of Flowers is a place I've been going to since a very young age since it's one of my mother's favorite places to shop in Oshkosh. I continue to be mesmerized by all their beautiful decor and talented staff. One of my favorite times to go to House of flowers is when the holiday months start to roll in. It's such a welcoming and festive place to get everything you need for the holidays or even when you feel you need something new for your home.
Fremorah has been the place I've gone to when I need something new to add to my closet and every time, I go I seem to end up with a lot more than I thought I would. Fremorah has been the perfect new addition to Oshkosh because it has a lot to offer like vintage, streetwear and designer clothing. But it's more than just a clothing store. Fremorah is an uplifting and inspiring place to shop that allows you to embrace your creativity and individuality with your clothes.
Best Place To Watch A Packer Game
Ratch and Debs a place where all you see is green and gold which of course being from Wisconsin isn't a problem for me. Ratch and Debs are decked out with everything packers, with amazing pizza and cheese curds, everything a Wisconsinite ever needs. A place I've grown up going to for their pizza, I always remember their red and white plaid table covers and the wooden walls.
