![When in Central Wisconsin take time for the Horicon Marsh.
The Horicon Marsh area has been inhabited by humans, including the Paleo-Indians, the Hopewellian people and the Mound Builders, since the ending of the last Ice Age. Dozens of 1200 year old effigy mounds were built by the Mound Builders in the surrounding low ridges.[1] Arrowheads have been found dating to 12,000 years ago. Later the region was inhabited by the Potawotomi, primarily to the east of the marsh, and the Ho-Chunk to the west. Seven well-traveled Native American foot trails met at the southern end of the marsh at the present location of Horicon.
When Europeans first arrived in the area, they named the marsh "The Great Marsh of the Winnebagos". The first permanent modern settlement along the marsh was the town of Horicon. In 1846, a dam was built to power the town's first sawmill. The dam held the water in the marsh, causing the water level to rise by nine feet. The "marsh" was called Lake Horicon, and was, at the time, called the largest man-made lake in the world.[citation needed]
In 1869, the dam was torn down by order of the State Supreme Court, which ruled in favor of landowners whose land had been flooded.[3] The area became a marsh once more. In 1883, two sportsmen's clubs reported huge flocks of geese in the marsh, and stated that 500,000 ducks hatched annually, and 30,000 muskrats and mink were trapped in the southern half of the marsh.[4] Both birds and hunters flocked to the area, and the local duck population was devastated. From 1910 to 1914, an attempt was made to drain the marsh and convert it into farmland; these attempts failed, and afterwards the land was widely considered to be useless.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/184221/f493abcd-8f31-420c-9b0c-51acc9693923.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1200&h=500&q=medium)
Photo by Eric & Kristy's Adventures
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7.6 out of 10, Good, (451)
Unwind at this welcoming Waupun hotel offering an indoor pool and soothing hot tub. Enjoy free breakfast, WiFi and parking while exploring nearby Shaler Memorial Park. Guests consistently praise the helpful staff and spotless accommodation.
"Clean rooms and friendly staff."
Debbie
The price is ฿2,089
฿2,371 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Dec - 1 Jan 2026
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (478)
Tranquil retreat with an indoor pool for morning swims and comprehensive fitness centre. Located near Waupun Heritage Museum and Shaler Memorial Park, this hotel offers free breakfast, WiFi and parking in a quiet, safe environment.
"Decent place "
Marty
The price is ฿2,750
฿3,121 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Jan - 5 Jan 2026
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (968)
This centrally located hotel offers complimentary WiFi, daily breakfast, and self parking. Just minutes from Children's Museum and Lakeside Park, with easy access to Fond du Lac County Airport. Travellers consistently praise the exceptionally helpful staff.
"The hotel and room were simple, but clean and well kept. Excellent value, would stay here again. "
Brian
The price is ฿1,618
฿1,836 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Dec - 30 Dec
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1003)
This serene Fond du Lac hotel offers an indoor pool for morning swims and a hot tub for evening relaxation. Clean rooms and helpful staff create a peaceful atmosphere, with extremely quiet halls at night. Near Children's Museum and Riverside Tennis Centre.
"Room was spotless/ staff were Great!"
Michael
The price is ฿1,586
฿1,801 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Dec - 30 Dec
Boarders Inn & Suites by Cobblestone Hotels - Ripon
Boarders Inn & Suites by Cobblestone Hotels - RiponRipon
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (530)
Retreat to this serene Ripon gem offering complimentary breakfast, WiFi, and parking. Unwind in the indoor pool or relax in the hot tub after exploring nearby Ripon College Historic District and Village Green Park. Attentive staff ensure a comfortable stay.
"It was very nice stay"
Kimberly
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (693)
This family-friendly hotel offers an indoor pool, children's splash area, and hot tub for year-round enjoyment. Located near Ripon College Historic District, rooms include microwaves and refrigerators. Guests praise the friendly service and complimentary breakfast.
"Very much enjoyed are staying!"
Janet
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Learn more about Waupun
Known as the 'City of Sculptures,' Waupun showcases impressive public art including the towering 'End of the Trail' statue at Shaler Park. History buffs can tour the Historic Prison Museum while outdoor enthusiasts enjoy fishing and hiking at Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area nearby.
More cheap stays in Waupun
Days Inn by Wyndham Fond du Lac
107 N Pioneer Rd Fond du Lac WI
The price is ฿1,586 per night from 29 Dec to 30 Dec
฿1,586
฿1,801 total
29 Dec - 30 Dec
includes taxes & fees
7.6/10 Good! (1,001 reviews)
