While Simmons Island is best known for its beach, there’s so much more to explore! From visiting two historic lighthouses to diving into the city’s past at the Kenosha History Center and the Southport Light Station Museum, it’s a great spot for history lovers and curious explorers alike. Let’s see what else you can do at Simmons Island in Kenosha.
Fun fact: Simmons Island is actually a peninsula.
Simmons Island Beach
For the ultimate beach day, Simmons Island Beach was everything we could want. It was never too crowded, and with plenty of shoreline, everyone had space to spread out. Although the water was ice cold on our 80-degree day, we quickly warmed up with the blazing sun.
Big plus? The portable mobility mats, which made it much easier for everyone to navigate the sand.
Kenosha Beach House
For all your beach needs, the newly reopened Kenosha Beach House delivers. This historic 1934 building—listed on the National Register of Historic Places—has been restored and offers everything you need for a fun day at the lake – concessions, rentals, a beer garden, and a budget-friendly gift shop in case you forget any beach toys or gear. We couldn’t resist grabbing nachos and ice cream, and we even tried something new: body boarding!
Even better? Admission and parking are completely free!
Pro tip: It’s a great spot to hunt for seaglass—we found a few little treasures! And there’s even a playground nearby to keep the kids entertained.
Kenosha History Center
Did you know Kenosha has a rich history in industry and the automobile industry? If you want to learn about Kenosha’s rich history, a visit to the Kenosha History Center is a great way to learn. Plus, it’s free! Upon entering, you’re greeted by a nostalgic display of timeless toys that generations have cherished.
My car afficionados, my husband and older son, really enjoyed seeing the AMC on display.
On the other side, you can actually walk through scenes from Kenosha’s past, like an old-school classroom, an apothecary, and more.
Bonus: Don’t miss the Miniature Statue of Liberty, which originally stood in Civic Center Park back in 1950.
See the Lighthouses
If you are a fan of lighthouses, you’re in luck. There are not one, but two lighthouses on Simmons Island. Take a walk over to the North Pier Lighthouse, located at the Kenosha Harbor. While it’s now privately owned, it still operates as an active lighthouse and makes for a perfect photo op!
The Southport Lighthouse built in 1866 operated until 1906 and is now seasonally open for tours along with the Keeper’s house/museum. In my past visit, I’ve taken the 72 steps to go to the top of the lighthouse. Definitely worth it if you have time!
The 1867 lighthouse keeper’s quarters has been restored and is now the Southport Light Station Museum. Take a look into Kenosha’s maritime past, with exhibits on the shipping and fishing industries, lighthouse keepers, and the nearby life-saving station. It’s open seasonally from mid-May through the end of October and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1990.
Dining Options Nearby
When hunger strikes, you’ll find plenty of dining options just a short drive away. We tried two nearby spots and loved them both! For delicious Chinese food, Mr. Yee’s hit the spot. And for a classic Wisconsin fish fry, Fin & Ale did not disappoint—we especially loved the perch sandwich. And of course, don’t skip the cheese curds!
Final thoughts of Simmons Island in Kenosha
Simmons Island Beach is great, but there’s so much more to discover on Simmond Island! Be sure to check out both lighthouses and take some time to learn about Kenosha’s fascinating history at the Southport Light Station Museum and Kenosha History Center.
Looking for more Kenosha fun? How about this awesome playground!
Want to make a staycation out of it? We LOVED our stay at The Stella Hotel in Downtown Kenosha just minutes away.
