Planning a quick family getaway? Just a short drive from Chicago or Milwaukee, Kenosha is packed with family-friendly fun—from exploring free museums and spotting colorful murals to browsing local shops and enjoying tasty eats. Use this family guide to Kenosha to help plan all the best things to do, places to eat, shop, and stay in this charming lakeside town!
Disclosure: A huge thank you to Visit Kenosha and partners for hosting us. As always, all opinions are my own. Read full disclosure policy here.
Things to Do
Kenosha Public Museum
A visit to the Kenosha Public Museum is both educational and engaging—and best of all, admission is free. One of the highlights is the museum’s focus on mammoths that were discovered right in Kenosha County. Learn about the Hebior Mammoth, the largest and most complete mammoth ever excavated, and the Schaefer Mammoth, which provided evidence that humans lived in North America 1,500 years earlier than previously believed.
Be sure to visit the second floor to explore the From Curiosity to Science exhibit. This fascinating display traces the evolution of museum collections—from 1600s Cabinets of Curiosity to today’s scientific approach to studying the natural world. Highlights include taxidermy animals from six different ecosystems (including a life-size polar bear), hundreds of specimens and artifacts from around the world, and interactive games that appeal to all ages. The space also includes a rotating exhibit; during our visit, we enjoyed the exhibit Transparent Watercolor collection. Can’t believe these were painted with watercolor!
For kids, the Field Station offers a hands-on play area where kids can explore and learn through interactive activities. Kids will gravitate towards the mini trading post!
Tip: The view of Lake Michigan from the giant windows are amazing.
Dinosaur Discovery Museum
Dino lovers, this one’s for you! The free Dinosaur Discovery Museum is a must-visit. This unique museum explores the fascinating link between modern birds—like ostriches and chickens—and their prehistoric relatives, the theropods. As you walk through the circular exhibit, you’ll take a journey through time, discovering how dinosaurs evolved over millions of years.
The museum is small and easy to navigate, making it ideal for younger kids or those with shorter attention spans. Don’t miss the basement, where you’ll find hands-on dino activities and a peek inside the working lab of the Carthage Institute of Paleontology. And be sure to say hi to “Little Clint,” the smallest T. rex ever discovered!
Civil War Museum
The impressive museum focuses on the Civil War from the perspective of the people from the seven states of the Upper Midwest. It was very well thought out and I highly recommend it to anyone with an interest in history. Be sure to catch the movie “Seeing the Elephant” in the 360-degree theater—one of only three in the nation! It was so cool to be completely surrounded by video and feel like you were part of the action.
The upstairs area is awesome and perfect for kids. They can dress up in period clothing, play a Civil War game, build with LEGOs and Lincoln Logs, put together puzzles, and enjoy a variety of hands-on activities. If you have kids, do NOT miss this! It was also a great way for us adults to unwind and rest for a bit.
Tip: Kids 12 and under are free.
Pro tip: Head upstairs to the second floor to see wonderful views of Lake Michigan!
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 AMCs 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.
Hop on the Streetcar
One of the best ways to explore the museums and lakefront is by hopping on the Kenosha Streetcar. The 2-mile loop takes you past downtown Kenosha and offers a scenic, relaxing ride. At just $1 per person, it’s a fun and budget-friendly way to get around.
Pro Tip: We like parking at the Kenosha Public Museum and hopping on. If you’re staying at The Stella, you are a block away from a stop!
Murals
The mural scene in Kenosha is totally popping! We didn’t get to see as many as I had hoped, but we did manage to track down a few fun ones!
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.
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!
Read all about what you can do on Simmons Island.
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.
See the Lighthouses
There are two lighthouses at Simmons Island. Walk to the Kenosha Harbor to see The North Pier Lighthouse. Although privately owned now, it still serves as active lighthouse for the Kenosha harbor. Definitely worthy stop for photos!
There are two lighthouses at Simmons Island. 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 keeper’s quarters, now a museum, give a glimpse into maritime life of the past. The 1867 Light Station keeper’s quarters was restored and is now The Southport Light Station Museum. The museum focuses on the shipping industry, fishing, lighthouse keepers and the live saving station. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990. is open mid-May through the end of October.
Play at the awesome inclusive playground
One of our favorite stops in Kenosha, the Dream Playground at Petzke Park is a must-visit! Built by the community and fully accessible, it’s a fantastic place where kids of all abilities can play side by side. Plus, you have to love the nod to all things Kenosha including the AMC rambler, lighthouse, ship, streetcar, and a mini Meijer!
Where to Eat
Scoops Ice Cream & Candy
Located in Downtown Kenosha, this local favorite scoops up the ever-popular Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream—with over 36 flavors to choose from! Always a must-stop when we’re in Kenosha.
Cooper’s Uptown
Cooper’s Uptown is seriously underrated when it comes to food—everything we tried was so, so good! We sampled a bit of everything: a cozy soup and salad combo with a tuna salad sandwich, a fresh and flavorful quinoa salad, and a smashburger my son inhaled in seconds. But the real star? The breakfast smashburger—stacked with a fried egg, crispy bacon, cheddar, and maple bacon onion jam on thick Texas Toast. I’m still dreaming about it!
And don’t miss the nostalgic soda fountain—old-school vibes and the shakes and malts are absolutely worth the stop!
Pro tip: Be sure to browse the shop on the other side—it’s packed with fun finds like souvenirs, gifts, local goods, and even cigars.
Mr. Yee’s
Craving Chinese food? Mr. Yee’s delivered big flavors and satisfied all our cravings. We devoured the pan-fried noodles, Szechuan beef, Mongolian beef, orange chicken, and crab rangoon—each dish was spot on and absolutely delicious!
Fin & Ale
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!
Church and Market
This was another Downtown favorite of ours – delicious eats on the rooftop! Everything we tried – chorizo tacos, a brunch burger, biscuits and gravy – was amazing! If the weather is in your favor, head to the rooftop. Great vibes here!
1844 Table & Mash
Located at The Stella Hotel, 1844 Table & Mash is a vintage supper-club-inspired restaurant that truly impressed. Everything we tried—from the must-have Wisconsin cheese curds and rich French onion soup to the Prime Rib Saturday special and flavorful Portobello Ragu Pappardelle—was absolutely delicious. We ended the meal on a sweet note with the Citron Tart.
Read more about our dinner and stay here.
Crow’s Nest
Come for the views, stay for the cocktails at Crow’s Nest Rooftop Bar. Located at the rooftop of The Stella Hotel, the Crow’s Nest Rooftop was the perfect way to end the day – cozy fire pits and sweeping views of downtown Kenosha and Lake Michigan!
Fizzy Bizz Soft Drinks
The soda creations here are so much fun! You can build your own—start with soda water, still water, or your favorite soda, then mix in flavored syrups and even a splash of cream for something totally your own. Or keep it simple and choose one of their signature creations (they’re delicious too!).
Tip: If it’s available, don’t skip the root beer cookie. So good!
Where to Shop
Blue House Books
I absolutely adore this bookstore! It’s thoughtfully curated, and you’ll find yourself wanting to browse every cozy nook and cranny. Their kids’ book selection is fantastic, and there’s even a small used and bargain section—plus a free bookshelf for more treasures!
Inner Child Comics and Collectibles
The eye-catching murals outside draw you in, but it’s the wave of nostalgia that hits once you step inside this comic, collectibles, and toy shop. Pure fun from start to finish!
Equinox Botanical Boutique
I’ve always been fascinated by plants—even if I don’t exactly have a green thumb. But stepping into Equinox Botanical Boutique gave me hope! The shop is filled with stunning plants of all kinds, and the warm, welcoming vibe made it even better. Their sweet pup may be one of the friendliest shop dogs ever—and my daughter fell in love instantly.
Coopers Uptown
Not only does Coopers Uptown serve up amazing food and delicious shakes and malts but shopping here is a blast! You’ll find local goods, kitchen items, jewelry, Kenosha and Wisconsin souvenirs—even cigars. So many cute things all in one place!
Where to Stay
Just steps from Lake Michigan, The Stella Hotel & Ballroom is a stylish boutique hotel right in the heart of downtown Kenosha. The building dates back to the early 1900s and has been beautifully updated with modern amenities while keeping its vintage charm. It’s the perfect spot to stay while exploring shops, restaurants, art galleries, and more nearby. Plus, Scoops Ice Cream is right across the street.
