Things to Do in Kenosha, Wisconsin

During our short Wisconsin visit we discovered there are quite a few family-friendly things to do in Kenosha. We found interesting museums, great restaurants, a classic ice cream shop, gorgeous lighthouses and the fun Jelly Belly visitor center and tour. What I really enjoyed was seeing the five colorful restored electric streetcars zip along a 2-mile loop. Riders get to enjoy views of Lake Michigan shoreline, HarborPark, two historic districts and the downtown business district.

Also along the route you will catch a glimpse of Kenosha’s two pretty lighthouses. The Southport Lighthouse, aka Old Kenosha Light, was replaced by the vibrant red Kenosha North Pier Light in 1906. My husband took the photos below. You can see how striking the red looks against the dreary sky.

As for restaurants there are plenty of choices. I love American-dream stories and Gerhard’s is a perfect example. This restaurant was founded by a German immigrant who arrived in the States in 1954. Today, Gerhard’s is a thriving German-American restaurant with a delicious menu and happy atmosphere. In fact, this was one of the friendliest restaurants we’ve ever visited. Not only was the staff superb but the other customers made conversation across the tables.

If you’re in the mood for Italian food in Kenosha, the 50-year old Villa D’ Carlo is your place. Be prepared for hefty portions and everything tasting so good you’ll likely leave very full (note the to-go bag in the photo below). We found this place to be very family-friendly with kid-approved food and you can draw on the table – something that’s always a hit with my children!

The most locally-inspired restaurant has to be the Boat House Pub and Eatery. As the name implies, this waterside restaurant offers an assortment of fish dishes in a nautically themed environment and has beautiful views of Lake Michigan And, yes, the fish and chips are delicious!

I can’t think of anything better to enjoy on vacation than ice cream! Kenosha’s Scoops ice cream shop is located in the renovated Orpheum theater. Not only is the interior decorated like a classic style ice cream shop but the treats are delicious and creative. I devoured a cone of banana fosters while my husband enjoyed the Guinness ice cream – yes like the beer! – and both kids had cones topped with birthday cake ice cream.

As you can see, whether you’re in town for a day or two weeks and looking for things to do in Kenosha, you have a nice selection. You may learn more about this charming Wisconsin town on our host’s site – Kenosha Area CVB.