Day Trip Ideas - Visit Racine County

Day Trip Ideas: Adventurer’s Guide

Kari — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 16:26:05 +0000

At Visit Racine County, we believe that life should be about creating new adventures and experiences that you remember for a lifetime! Explore the great outdoors and discover the possibilities of outdoor activities throughout Racine County. From fishing and boating to hiking and biking—and even freefalling—we have it all!

Get Hooked on Charter Fishing

Whether it’s pulling trophy Coho salmon, chinook salmon or lake trout from a boat on Lake Michigan or leisurely trying for panfish from an inland lake, Racine County is a terrific destination for fishing enthusiasts. Of the more than 300 miles of the Lake Michigan shoreline, the 25 miles in the Racine County area are a “sweet spot” for sport fishing that produces 38% of all fish caught on charter boats in the state of Wisconsin. A good way to try Lake Michigan fishing is through Fishing Charters of Racine, an association with 12 licensed charter captains.

Practice Your Golf Swing

Golf! It’s everywhere in Racine County from the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan to the rolling hills near Waterford. You will find a course for every interest and skill level. Visit our golf page for information on both public and members only private courses throughout Racine County.

Bike Your Way Through Racine County

Explore the scenic beauty of Racine County on two wheels! Racine County is a great place for bicycling in a bicycle-friendly state. With nearly 120 miles of designated bicycle routes and recreation trails, cycling opportunities extend from the Lake Michigan shoreline to scenic countryside in the western part of the county. Former railroad corridors provide easy pathways in several areas of the county. Visit our bicycling page for information on trails throughout Racine County.

Take the Jump and Skydive

If you are looking for the adventure of a lifetime, Skydive Midwest in Sturtevant can help satisfy any thrill seeker. Fly high with your heart pounding, waiting for the aircraft door to open, and experience the rush of freefalling from 10,000 feet! Float under a canopy with views of beautiful Lake Michigan spanning between the city skylines of both Chicago and Milwaukee. Take the plunge with Skydive Midwest for an exhilarating and unforgettable experience!

Be a Happy Camper

Camping in Racine County is the perfect way for you and your family to experience the great outdoors and delight in Wisconsin’s natural beauty! Enjoy a rejuvenating retreat with tall, lush trees, large clean sites, and convenient on-site bathrooms and showers to make your stay enjoyable at all of our campgrounds. Campgrounds are open from mid-April to mid-October. Visit our camping page for more information on the campgrounds in Racine County and make your reservation today. All campgrounds are dog friendly!

Looking for more fun? Visit our Things to Do page for everything going on in Racine County!

Learn More

Skydive Midwest

Skydiving, Sports

13851 56th Rd

Sturtevant, WI

The post Day Trip Ideas: Adventurer’s Guide first appeared on Visit Racine County.

Day Trip Ideas: Beat the Heat

Kari — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 15:51:37 +0000

If you are looking for ways to stay cool in Racine County this summer, this is the perfect itinerary for you! Whether you enjoy water activities, packing a picnic lunch, or indulging in delicious frozen treats, this guide has something for everyone. Beat the heat and make the most of your summer with our list of cool and refreshing activities in Racine County.

Get the Inside Scoop on a Frozen Treat

A sure sign of summer, Racine County is home to many ice cream shops and frozen custard stands. From Divino Gelato Café and Sugar Shack Sweet Shop in Racine to Noble Brothers Waterford Creamery in Waterford and Adrian’s Frozen Custard in Burlington, you will find a variety of delectable frozen treats to beat the summer heat. Check out the ice cream and frozen custard shops in Racine County that offer a variety of flavors and toppings to satisfy every sweet tooth!

Paddle Your Cares Away

An adventure is waiting for you just around the river bends of the Fox and Root rivers in Racine County. The Fox River Water Trail runs 14 miles in western Racine County from a put-in at the Tichigan Conservation Area to a take-out at Burlington’s Bushnell Park. The Root River in eastern Racine County has several beautiful stretches of water. It is accessible from the River Bend Nature Center in Caledonia and from Island Park and the Root River Environmental Center in Racine. Kayak rentals are available through the REC Center, River Bend Nature Center, and Waterford Village Hall. Visit our sports page for information on kayaking and canoeing in Racine County.

Grab a Cold One at the Beer Garden

The Franksville Craft Beer Garden is an exciting community gathering spot in Franksville Memorial Park. As Racine County’s first permanent craft beer garden, the beer garden adds to the historic legacy of the park, which has been a community gathering place since some of the area’s first settlers in 1832. The FCBG serves a rotation of more than 22 Wisconsin craft beers on tap along with cider and wine, in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The beer garden has its own playground and sandbox, and plenty of green space. You will find yard games, board games, music, and lively conversation every day. The FCBG is open Thursday through Sunday from May to October.

Pack a Picnic for the Shade

Racine County is jam-packed full of perfect picnic opportunities for a casual afternoon. Many of our local attractions and county parks play host to wide-open spaces with plenty of room to spread a blanket out and stay a while. Visit our parks page to find the perfect picnic spot this summer!

Spend a Day at North Beach

Receiving many national accolades including “Best Beach in Wisconsin“ (FamilyDestinationsGuide.com), voted #4 “Best Freshwater Beach” (USA Today), and “Top 10 Family Friendly Beaches” (Parents magazine), North Beach is a hit among residents and visitors alike to catch some waves and some rays in the summertime. Come and spend the day on 50 acres of pristine sand and blue water located a few blocks from downtown Racine. Visit our North Beach page to learn more.

Make a Splash at a Waterpark or Community Pool

Bear Paw Adventure Park at Jellystone Park-Camp Resort in Caledonia is an all-inclusive adventure park with amazing options for all thrill seekers. Try out your skills on the Midwest’s largest floating water park or relax on Bear Paw Beach. The SC Johnson Community Aquatic Center at Pritchard Park in Racine features a lap pool, recreation pool, zero-depth pool, water slides, and other features. Adjoining building has concessions, changing area/showers, and shaded lounge area.

Looking for more fun? Visit our Things to Do page for everything going on in Racine County!

Learn More

Adrian's Frozen Custard

572 Bridge St

Burlington, WI

Bear Paw Adventure Park

Attractions, Outdoor

10006 Seven Mile Rd

Caledonia, WI

Divino Gelato Cafe

Pet Friendly

245 Main St

Racine, WI

Franksville Craft Beer Garden

Beer Garden, Nightlife

9614 Northwestern Ave

Franksville, WI

Island Park

Dog Parks, Parks

1700 Liberty St

Racine, WI

Noble Brothers Waterford Creamery

100 S Jefferson St

Waterford, WI

North Beach

Sports, Swimming

100 Kewaunee St

Racine, WI

River Bend Nature Center

Attractions, Canoeing, Event Venues, Fishing, Hiking, Kayaking, Parks, Sports, Wedding Venues

3600 N Green Bay Rd

Caledonia, WI

Root River Environmental Education Community Center (REC)

Outdoor

1301 W 6th St

Racine, WI

SC Johnson Community Aquatic Center

Sports, Swimming

2800 Ohio St

Racine, WI

Sugar Shack Sweet Shoppe

530 Monument Square

Racine, WI

The post Day Trip Ideas: Beat the Heat first appeared on Visit Racine County.

Day Trip Ideas: Architect Enthusiasts

Kari — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 19:43:56 +0000

Racine County has fascinating architecture, local history, home-grown art, and much more! If you’re an architecture enthusiast, here’s a curated itinerary for you to enjoy exploring our county! Many places listed are on the National Register of Historic Places.

The DeKoven Center

600 Caron Butler Dr., Racine

The DeKoven Center began as Racine College, founded and chartered in 1852. Its first building was constructed that same year, and is now part of the East Building paralleling Lake Michigan. In 1859, Dr. James DeKoven came to Racine College from St. John’s School in Delafield to become Warden of the College. It was Dr. DeKoven who gave the campus its focus, modeling the quadrangle on English colleges, with faculty and students living on the campus and eating together in a common Refectory, today known as the Great Hall.

The old college motto,”Vigeat Radix” (May the Root Thrive), is as appropriate today as it was in the early 1850s. The work of the DeKoven Foundation thrives today, with Taylor Hall, the gym, and the pool as its retreat center. St. John’s Chapel stands in the middle of one of the oldest intact collegiate quadrangles in America and hosts numerous weddings and services each year. Wedding receptions are held in both the Assembly Hall and the Great Hall. St. Mary’s Chapel has striking carved wood reredos and an altar, unusual clear glass Gothic windows, and a baby grand piano.

Visit dekovencenter.org

Racine City Hall

730 Washington Ave., Racine

Built in 1930, Racine City Hall was designed by J. Mandor Matson in the Neoclassical architectural style. The first mayor to occupy offices in this building was William J. Swoboda, a socialist elected in 1931, 1933, and 1935. The building is clad in limestone. The first floor windows and entrance have Roman arch surrounds, and the second and third floor windows are six-pane rectangular casements separated by pilasters on the façade of the entry bay. A simulated balcony exists over the main entrance. A decorative cornice runs the perimeter of the building just below the roofline. The words “Racine City Hall” are in relief just above the third floor windows on the front façade.

View Property Record for more information

Racine County Courthouse

730 Wisconsin Ave., Racine

The Racine County Courthouse was designed in 1930 by Holabird & Root Architects of Chicago, Illinois (their famous architecture includes Soldier Field, Wrigley Field Hand-Turned Scoreboard, and Center Field Bleachers). Constructed at the cost of $1.5M, the art deco style building was completed and occupied in July 1931. In 1984, the building was remodeled and repaired at the cost of $7M. Reaching 155 feet high, this 11-story building has a sub-basement and basement. The exterior is faced with Bedford limestone from Indiana. Materials used in and throughout the building are stone and marble. There are six courtrooms finished in American Walnut, Austrian and English Oak.

Visit racinecounty.com

Firehouse 3 Museum

700 6th St., Racine

Engine Company No. 3 was formed in 1849, one year after Racine was incorporated as a city. The volunteer company was made up almost exclusively of Welsh immigrants. The company’s original home was located on 7th Street between Main Street and Wisconsin Avenue, and was used used as a firehouse until 1868. A new building on 6th Street was constructed in 1881 and designed in a Victorian Italianate style by David R. Jones, an architect from Madison, Wisconsin. The two-story cream brick building features a tower, stone accents, stilted segmental arched windows and front door, and a denticulated cornice. Two years after Engine Company No. 3 moved into their new home, the Racine Fire Department changed from volunteer service to a professional company. Several alterations were made to the building over the years, but it was partially restored in 1987 and today is used as a firefighters museum.

Visit racinefirebells.org

SC Johnson Administration Building and Research Tower

1525 Howe St., Racine

The largest commercial project designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the SC Johnson Administration Building, was completed in 1939. The Great Workroom of the building contains almost one-half acre of floor space. From its 43 miles of Pyrex glass tubing to the soaring dendriform columns that are nine inches in diameter at the base and 18.5 feet at the top in the Great Workroom, it is truly a unique work of art that reflects the innovation and adventure that are still the spirit of SC Johnson today. The ceiling is supported by large golf-tee shaped columns that have been termed one of the most advanced structural supports in modern architecture. These columns soar 31 feet from floor to ceiling. The primary color used throughout the building is Cherokee Red. The furniture was also designed by Wright to add efficiency and beauty.

The adjacent 15-story Research Tower opened in 1950 and became the birthplace for several of SC Johnson’s most trusted brands, including Raid, Glade, OFF!, and Pledge. The tower is an example of cantilever construction with an inner core extending 50 feet into the ground that provides support for the 16 million pound structure. Last used in 1982, the tower was dormant for decades before undergoing an extensive interior and exterior restoration. It reopened for public tours in May 2014. To schedule a tour, visit their website.

To learn more or plan your trip around visiting each of his buildings in Racine County, visit our page dedicated to Frank Lloyd Wright.

Golden Rondelle Theatre

1525 Howe St., Racine

The Golden Rondelle Theater was constructed for the SC Johnson Wax pavilion at the 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair. It was brought back to Racine and placed on a new base, which was designed by the Taliesin Associate Architects to complement the existing buildings of the SC Johnson corporate headquarters. The Golden Rondelle hosts many community and educational events and offers a rotating schedule of films. Tours of the SC Johnson Administration Building and Research Tower and the adjacent Fortaleza Hall are available for groups of 20 or more. To schedule a tour, visit their website.

To learn more or plan your trip around visiting each of his buildings in Racine County, visit our page dedicated to Frank Lloyd Wright.

Johnson Foundation Wingspread Conference Center

33 E. 4 Mile Rd., Wind Point

Herbert F. Johnson, Jr., commissioned Frank Lloyd Wright to build Wingspread, his 14,000 sq. ft. Prairie style home, which was completed in 1939. One of the largest Wright-designed private homes, it featured many characteristics of Wright’s organic architecture such as horizontal lines and low ceilings. Wingspread has four wings, each created for specific purposes. The home was occupied for 20 years by Mr. Johnson and his wife, Irene Purcell, and their two children, Karen and Sam. In 1959, they donated the home so it could be converted into the conference center, which it is now known as The Johnson Foundation at Wingspread.

When entering Wingspread, you will begin to understand Mr. Wright’s emphasis on manipulation. The compressed entry ceiling pushes you into the grandeur of the Great Hall with its central wigwam. Narrow hallways are an additional way to encourage you to move through quickly and realize the gathering spaces. The multiple fireplaces draw you to the large gathering spaces, which were to be used for family and social time. The wings of Wingspread were designed to separate the public and private spaces. Numerous windows allow the outdoors to be brought indoors, a goal of Mr. Wright’s architecture. The free Wingspread tour highlights remarkable features such as the home’s disappearing dining table, its teepee-inspired clerestory ceiling in the great room, and the cantilevered “Romeo and Juliet” balcony bedroom. To schedule a tour, visit their website.

To learn more or plan your trip around visiting each of his buildings in Racine County, visit our page dedicated to Frank Lloyd Wright.

Wind Point Lighthouse

4725 Lighthouse Dr., Wind Point

The Wind Point Lighthouse is the oldest and tallest working lighthouse on Lake Michigan. The 108-foot structure was built in 1880 to warn ships away from the shallow waters off Wind Point. The beacon, magnified by a Fresnel lens imported from France, was originally a mineral oil lamp. A lighthouse keeper and two assistants were needed to maintain and operate the light 24 hours a day. The light can be seen 19 miles away. The light was later converted to electricity and the lighthouse became fully automated in 1964. Today, the building serves as Village Hall and home of the Wind Point Police Department. The hall and south lawn of the grounds are available to rent for weddings and special events. A rigorous climb up the 144 steps delivers spectacular views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding countryside. The lighthouse tower is open for public tours on certain dates during the year. Reservations are recommended, but not required. The lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

Visit windpointlighthouse.org

Racine Harbor Lighthouse and Life Saving Station

Reichert Ct., North Pier at Entrance to Racine Harbor

Built in 1866, the lighthouse was designed in the Queen Anne architectural style. It stood on a rock filled crib two hundred feet off shore. In 1903, the light was moved to a steel tower further out on the north pier. Also that year, a two-story life saving station with a pyramidal-roofed lookout tower was completed. In 1915, the Life Saving Service merged with the U.S. Coast Guard and the island status of the lighthouse ended. The pier was filled in and piling pulled from under the structures. The buildings now stand on a man-made peninsula built out from the mainland over a period of years. In 1973, the U.S. Coast Guard discontinued its service in Racine. Today, the lighthouse and life saving station serve as quarters for the Racine County Water Safety Patrol.

View Property Record for more information

Racine Masonic Center

1012 Main St., Racine

The Racine Masonic Center features two historic structures blended together. A three-story Italianate mansion built in 1856 was joined by the Masonic Temple in 1922. The mansion was built by early Racine businessman Henry Durand and his family who lived there until 1890 when Otis Johnson purchased the home. It was later acquired by Frederick Robinson who undertook an extensive renovation in 1906 and provided for the home to be sold to the local Freemasons. The mansion was deeded to the masons in 1922 and in 1923, the grand lodge rooms and dining facilities were added to the back of the mansion on the Wisconsin Avenue side. The temple portion was designed by local architect Edmund Funston. The Racine Masonic Center closed in November 2021. Click here to learn more about the history of the Henry S. Durand Mansion.

Racine County Visitor Center

14015 Washington Ave., Sturtevant

The Racine County Visitor Center is the home of the Racine County Convention and Visitors Bureau, the county’s official tourism promotion and development organization. Built in 2000, the building was designed by Ken Dahlen/Genesis Architecture of Racine, Wisconsin. They were given the task of designing a building with a “Frank Lloyd Wright/lighthouse” feel. The 4,000 sq. ft. facility contains a 2,000 sq. ft. visitors center, restrooms, meeting room, kitchenette, offices, and a partial basement. Local, regional and state brochures are available for free at the visitors center.

Learn More About Us

Other Architectural Buildings

Want to delve deeper into Racine County architecture? Below are houses and more buildings with stories of historical significance. (All photos are from the Wisconsin Historical Society.)

Emily Baker House, 116 10th St., Racine
Emily Baker allegedly built this house in 1894 as an addition to an existing house, which had the address of 939 Main St. After the addition, the house faced East Park and 10th St., so 939 Main St. disappeared as an address. It was designed in the Dutch Colonial Revival architectural style, but has the irregular plan of the Queen Anne style. It served as both a private residence and a nursing school dormitory. Today, it operates as the Christmas House Bed & Breakfast.

J. I. Case Headquarters, 700 State St., Racine
Founded in 1844, the J. I. Case Company helped transform Racine into an important manufacturing city. Jerome Case developed a threshing machine that efficiently separated the grain from the stalk and cleaned the chaff from the grain in one operation. Soon his company became Racine’s largest employer and the world’s leading threshing machine manufacturer.

In 1904, when Case introduced the first all-steel thresher, the company built a new headquarters in the Beaux-Arts Classical style. Inspired by the much-admired Boston Public Library, architects Wilson and Guilbert utilized two-story arched windows separated by classical pilasters along the length of the façade. Classical moldings trim the cornice, and a low-hipped tile roof crowns the building. The entire composition rests atop an elevated basement. Above the central entrance is Case Company’s logo of an eagle perched on a globe. The grand interior space, two stories high, was divided into separate floors in 1957.

Chauncey Hall Building, 338-340 Main St., Racine
Built in 1883, the Chauncey Hall building was designed by Edward Townsend Mix in the German Renaissance Revival architecture style. From the late 1920s until the mid-1950s, the building was home of the Pokorny Drug Store. Other occupants included a men’s clothing store (circa 1887), upholsterer, food co-op, dress shop, and an architect’s office. In 1994, a bistro restaurant occupied the first floor.

Eli R. Cooley House, 1135 S. Main St., Racine
This house was built circa 1851 by Lucas Bradley for Eli R. Cooley, a hardware dealer and Racine’s third mayor. It was designed in the Greek Revival architectural style. In 1942, William and Amanda Kuehneman bought the house and carefully restored it. The house is considered perhaps the best remaining example of a Greek Revival house in Wisconsin.

Julia M. and August Charles Frank House, 1520 College Ave., Racine
Built in 1894, architect A. L. Flegel designed this house in the Queen Anne architectural style. It has a two-story domed tower on one corner and a three-story tower with open third floor on the opposite corner, bays and dormers, carved panels, and a doric spindlework porch. The house was built for Julia and August Frank next door to her parents, Ernest and Martha Hueffner (see Thomas Jones House). Mr. Frank was a financier, lecturer and explorer from Egypt who brought the mummy that is at the Racine Heritage Museum. he house was supposedly modeled after a French chateaux the Franks saw during their travels. They lived in the house until August’s death in 1927.

The house remained vacant until 1941 when it was purchased by restaurateur Arthur Meyer who operated the Park Place Tea Room and catering service out of the house. During the 1950s, Don Hutson, former Green Bay Packer, lived in the house. From 1965 to 1968, George and Dorothy Neilson lived in the house their eight children. In 1973, Jim and Pat Dickert bought the house and began restoration. In 1988, Doug and Gail Julius purchased it and opened it as the College Avenue Bed & Breakfast. They added the garage and driveway, finished the attic, and renovated other parts of the house. In 1997, Tom and Vanessa Reynolds purchased the house and extensively restored the exterior.

Thomas P. Hardy House, 1319 S. Main St., Racine
In 1905, Frank Lloyd Wright designed this house in the Prairie School architectural style. The house was built on a bluff along Lake Michigan for Thomas P. Hardy, a Racine attorney. The front of the three-story stucco house faces Lake Michigan. The house is almost flush with the sidewalk and the hill has a steep drop towards the lake. Two entrances punctuate the wall and lead to a narrow central corridor that serves as a secondary buffer between the street and the primary living spaces at the rear of the house. The limited fenestration at the front of the house contributes to the overall impression of privacy with a thin band of square-shaped windows running below the second story soffits and very small rectangular windows set back into the wall on the first story. Large windows in the living room and an upper story balcony create expansive views of the lake. For more information, visit Frank Lloyd Wright Sites.

Janes Elementary School, 1425 N. Wisconsin St., Racine
Among Racine’s oldest schoolhouses, the Fourth Ward School was the first schoolhouse built on this site in 1855 by architect Lucas Bradley. He designed the two-story cream brick High Victorian Italianate building with a cupola similar to two other ward schools of the same plans (Third Ward School known as Winslow Elementary School and Fifth Ward School known as Garfield School). In 1883, James Gilbert Chandler designed the additions that removed what was left of the original school. A close examination of the building reveals fine brickwork and detail. The tall, cylindrical tower, high-pitched gables, and ornamental sheet metal trim are features of the picturesque French Chateauesque style that Mr. Chandler favored. When the additions were made, the school was renamed Janes School in honor of Lorenzo Janes, one of Racine’s first lawyers who owned much property on the northside and donated the land for the school. He served the territorial council of Wisconsin and was publisher of Racine’s first newspaper called Racine County Argus.

Helen and Herbert Fisk Johnson House, 1725 Wisconsin Ave., Racine
In November 1895, Herbert Fisk Johnson and his father, Samuel Curtis Johnson, each bought a parcel of land next to each other on the east side of Wisconsin Ave. (see Caroline and Samuel Curtis Johnson House). In 1898, this house was built in the Georgian Revival architectural style. The house has returned eaves and round arch windows with keystone in the dormers and a Palladian motif door with sidelights and gable window. The two-story portico was added in the 1960s.

Caroline and Samuel Curtis Johnson House, 1737 Wisconsin Ave., Racine
In November 1895, Samuel Curtis Johnson and his son, Herbert Fisk Johnson, each bought a parcel of land next to each other on the east side of Wisconsin Ave. (see Helen and Herbert Fisk Johnson House). In 1903, Mr. Johnson, founder of S. C. Johnson & Son, designed this house in the Gothic Revival architectural style. The house is a small, brick cottage with steeply sloping, intersecting-gable roofs, bargeboards, and lacy woodwork on the front porch. The interior features parquet floors laid by Mr. Johnson. An attractive formal garden to the south of the house was created in 1935 and was restored in 1968.

Thomas Jones House, 1526 College Ave., Racine
Built in 1878, this house was built by Thomas and Jane Jones in the High Victorian Italianate architectural style, but is asymmetrical in form. Mr. Jones was a lumber dealer with Jones, Knapp & Co. The exterior of the house is Milwaukee brick with a stone foundation and wood trim. It has paired brackets under the eaves, carved stone lintels, a two-story bay on the front, barge boards in the gable, and elaborate heavy porch supports. In 1887, Ernest and Martha Hueffner purchased the house. Mr. Hueffner was a dealer in leather with a wholesale leather store. He also one of the founders and later president of the Manufacturers’ National Bank. He served as a Racine alderman for a number of terms and as Racine mayor from 1879 to 1880. The Hueffners had nine children. Their daughter, Julia, married August Frank and built a house next door (see Julia M. and August Charles Frank House.). Mrs. Hueffner died in 1916 and Mr. Hueffner died in 1922. The house remained in the family until it was sold to Donald Evans in 1939. In 1943, Jerome and Margaret Weichers purchased the house and did a lot of renovation, including electrical and plumbing. In 1962, Kenneth and Ellen Schaffer purchased the house. In 1998, Roy and Sharon Ramquist purchased the house and renovated it room by room, brining it back to its original beauty.

Manufacturers’ National Bank, 441 S. Main St., Racine
Refaced in 1919, the Manufacturers’ National Bank was designed in the Neoclassical architectural style. In 1871, the first bank to be founded in Racine (1845) merged with another to form the Manufacturers’ National Bank. A year later, they leased this building and, in 1876, became its owner. Originally a three-story brick, Italianate structure, the building was completely refaced in 1919.

McClurg Building, 245 Main St., Racine
Built in 1857, the McClurg Building was built by Alexander McClurg in the High Victorian Italianate architecture style. Built to house offices of Racine’s first railroad, the Racine and Mississippi Railroad. It also housed the first public library, the first Turkish bath, the first municipal court, and first vaudeville and movie theaters including the Bijou Theatre.

Daniel Olin House, 1144 Main St., Racine
Built in 1868, architect Lucas Bradley designed this house in the Italianate architectural style. The house was made of cream brick with brackets under the eaves, moulded window hoods, a bay on the side, and paired brackets and round arched windows in the cupola. In 1878, Daniel and Mariette Olin lived in this house. Mr. Olin was a mayor and worked in the railroad business. He ran the first passenger train from Milwaukee to the Mississippi River in 1852. He came to Racine as the general superintendent of the Western Union Railroad, which became a part of the Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul. Mr. Olin died in 1893 and Mrs. Olin lived in the house until her death in 1909.

John and Eliza Palmeter House, 1547 College Ave., Racine
Built in 1904, this house was designed by Guilbert and Rugh in the Neoclassical architectural style. The house was made of cream brick with brickwork quoins, stone lintels with keystones, a half-round sunporch and rectangular entry porch, and dentilled eaves. The house was owned by John and Eliza Palmeter, a childless couple who devised their estates to the providing of a home for elderly women of limited means. Mr. Palmeter worked as a carriage maker and later established a successful real estate agency. He died in 1889 and left his estate to Mrs. Palmeter who incorporated the John H. Palmeter’s Old Ladies Home before she died in 1895. The building opened in 1905, and for nearly 90 years, this residence provided a home for the fortunate old ladies who lived here. It eventually became too costly to operate and closed in 1993.

St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church, 1100 Erie St., Racine
Built in 1924, Francis Barry Byrne designed this building in the Neogothic Revival architectural style with a unique mix of prairie school and art deco influences. Its unusual design is believed to have been inspired by Mr. Byrne’s work with Frank Lloyd Wright on the Unity Temple. The building features sculptures by Alfonso Ianelli who also worked with Mr. Wright.

Winslow Elementary School, 1325 Park Ave., Racine
Among Racine’s oldest schoolhouses, the Third Ward School was the first schoolhouse built on this site in 1855 by architect Lucas Bradley. He designed the two-story cream brick High Victorian Italianate building with a cupola similar to two other ward schools of the same plans (Fourth Ward School known as Janes Elementary School and Fifth Ward School known as Garfield School). In 1897, James Gilbert Chandler designed the additions that remodeled this building. He added dormers and the tall entrance pavilions with ornamental sheet work. The school was renamed after Horatio G. Winslow, a well-known local educator.

Learn More

DeKoven Center

Event Venues, Wedding Venues

600 21st St

Racine, WI

Golden Rondelle Theater (SC Johnson)

Attractions

1525 Howe St

Racine, WI

Racine County Visitor Center

Visitor Center

14015 Washington Ave

Sturtevant, WI

SC Johnson Administration Building

Attractions

1525 Howe St

Racine, WI

SC Johnson Research Tower

Attractions

1525 Howe St

Racine, WI

Wind Point Lighthouse

Attractions

4725 Lighthouse Dr

Wind Point, WI

Wingspread Conference Center

Attractions

33 East 4 Mile Rd

Wind Point, WI

The post Day Trip Ideas: Architect Enthusiasts first appeared on Visit Racine County.

Day Trip Ideas: Families – West of I-94

Kari — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 17:08:38 +0000

Observe more than 100 different species of animals at the Racine Zoo, hand-feed the Masai giraffes, walk among wallaroos and kangaroos, and take a ride on the Zoo Choo Express train
Walk along the Lake Michigan shoreline at North Beach, go swimming, build sandcastles, play volleyball, and enjoy live music and snacks at the North Beach Oasis in summer
Enjoy lunch at Kewpee Sandwich Shop (a Racine landmark since 1927)
In the summer on Friday afternoons, listen to live music at Monument Square
Shop the charming boutiques for unique items

Learn More

Apple Holler

Attractions, Dining, Wedding Venues

5006 South Sylvania Ave

Yorkville, WI

Cotton Exchange

Dining, Event Venues, Wedding Venues

345 Hickory Hollow Rd

Waterford, WI

Country Rose Bakery & Cafe

19319 Washington Ave

Union Grove, WI

Modine-Benstead Observatory

Attractions

112 63rd Dr

Union Grove, WI

Noble Brothers Burger Shop

309 West Main St

Waterford, WI

Noble Brothers Waterford Creamery

100 S Jefferson St

Waterford, WI

The post Day Trip Ideas: Families – West of I-94 first appeared on Visit Racine County.

Day Trip Ideas: Outdoors

Kari — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 17:01:02 +0000

Walk the nature trails at River Bend Nature Center in Caledonia or rent a kayak or canoe to paddle down the Root River
When you work up an appetite, grab a bite to eat at Soup Shanty or Buca’s Bar & Grill in Caledonia
View the beautiful grounds of historic Wind Point Lighthouse (public tower climbs on the first Sunday from June through October)
Fuel up with a cup of coffee or tea at Mocha Lisa Coffeehouse in Caledonia before or after visiting the lighthouse
Golf at one of the six public golf courses in Racine County (Ives Grove Golf Links, Johnson Park Golf Course, Rivermoor Golf Club, Shoop Park Golf Course, Washington Park Golf Course, and Browns Lake Golf Course)
Play miniature golf at Mulligan’s Mini Golf and Driving Range and if you get hungry, Buddy’s Sports Grill is on-site
Observe more than 100 different species of animals at the Racine Zoo, hand-feed the Masai giraffes, walk among wallaroos and kangaroos, and take a ride on the Zoo Choo Express train
Relax at North Beach, go swimming, build sandcastles, play volleyball, and enjoy live music and snacks at the North Beach Oasis in summer
Fish the Root River or Lake Michigan (you can even charter a boat)
Eat at Joey’s Yardarm or Chartroom Restaurant in Racine

Learn More

Browns Lake Golf Course

Golfing, Sports, Sports Facilities

932 Browns Lake Dr

Burlington, WI

Buca's Bar & Grill

Dining, Nightlife

4234 Douglas Ave

Racine, WI

Buddy's Sports Grill

Dining, Nightlife

6633 Douglas Ave

Racine, WI

Chartroom Food & Spirits

Dining, Pet Friendly

209 Dodge St

Racine, WI

Ives Grove Golf Links

Golfing, Sports

14101 Washington Ave

Sturtevant, WI

Joey's Yardarm Bar & Grill

Dining, Nightlife

930 Erie St

Racine, WI

Johnson Park Golf Course

Golfing, Sports

6200 Northwestern Ave

Racine, WI

Mocha Lisa Coffeehouse

Pet Friendly

2825 4 1/2 Mile Rd

Caledonia, WI

North Beach

Sports, Swimming

100 Kewaunee St

Racine, WI

Racine Zoo

Wedding Venues

2131 N Main St

Racine, WI

River Bend Nature Center

Attractions, Canoeing, Event Venues, Fishing, Hiking, Kayaking, Parks, Sports, Wedding Venues

3600 N Green Bay Rd

Caledonia, WI

Rivermoor Golf Club

Dining, Golfing, Sports

30802 Waterford Dr

Waterford, WI

The post Day Trip Ideas: Outdoors first appeared on Visit Racine County.

Day Trip Ideas: Indoors

Kari — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 20:42:24 +0000

Visit the Racine Art Museum (RAM) and RAM’s Charles A. Wustum Museum of Fine Arts
Explore the Racine Heritage Museum in Racine (admission is free)
Learn how to blow glass or fuse glass at the Hot Shop Glass in Racine (registration required)
Shop charming boutiques for unique items in Downtown Racine
Eat at Kewpee Sandwich Shop, Red Onion Café or Reefpoint Brew House in Downtown Racine
Drive the seven rustic roads in Racine County while also viewing the Quilts on Barns (get your free map at the Racine County Visitor Center)

Learn More

Hot Shop Glass

Art Studio

239 Wisconsin Ave

Racine, WI

Kewpee Sandwich Shop

520 Wisconsin Ave

Racine, WI

Racine Art Museum

Art Gallery, Shopping

441 Main St

Racine, WI

Racine Heritage Museum

701 Main St

Racine, WI

RAM's Charles A. Wustum Museum of Fine Arts

Art Gallery, Wedding Venues

2519 Northwestern Ave

Racine, WI

Red Onion Cafe

Dining, Wedding Venues

555 Main St

Racine, WI

Reefpoint Brew House

Dining, Event Venues, Pet Friendly, Wedding Venues

2 Christopher Columbus Causeway

Racine, WI

The post Day Trip Ideas: Indoors first appeared on Visit Racine County.

Day Trip Ideas: Sports Enthusiast

Kari — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 20:35:35 +0000

Go fishing along Lake Michigan
Check out the Root River Steelhead Facility in Racine
Go golfing at Ives Grove Golf Links in Sturtevant
Dine at The Summit Restaurant in Mount Pleasant

Learn More

Ives Grove Golf Links

Golfing, Sports

14101 Washington Ave

Sturtevant, WI

Root River Steelhead Facility

Fishing, Sports

2200 Domanik Dr

Racine, WI

Summit Restaurant & Cocktails, The

Dining, Wedding Venues

6825 Washington Ave

Mount Pleasant, WI

The post Day Trip Ideas: Sports Enthusiast first appeared on Visit Racine County.

Day Trip Ideas: Beer Lover

Kari — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 20:28:32 +0000

Take a trip to DP Wiggly in Racine for beer making supplies
Raise a pint at Littleport Brewing Company in Racine, 1 of Us Brewing Co. in Mount Pleasant, The Runaway Micropub and Nanobrewery in Burlington, and Low Daily Taproom in Burlington
Dine at the historic Chances Food and Spirits in Rochester
Thursday through Sunday in the summer, enjoy a rotation of craft beer, live music, food trucks, yard games, a children’s playground, and lively conversation at Franksville Craft Beer Garden

Learn More

Chances

Dining

205 W Main St

Rochester, WI

Franksville Craft Beer Garden

Beer Garden, Nightlife

9614 Northwestern Ave

Franksville, WI

Littleport Brewing Company

Brewery, Nightlife

214 3rd St

Racine, WI

Low Daily Beer

Brewery, Nightlife

700 North Pine St

Burlington, WI

Runaway Micropub & Nanobrewery, The

Brewery, Nightlife

109 East Chestnut St

Burlington, WI

The post Day Trip Ideas: Beer Lover first appeared on Visit Racine County.

Day Trip Ideas: History Buff

Kari — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 18:00:21 +0000

Downtown Racine is an artsy, hip, historic lakefront town. Our nationally recognized art museum, hands on art studios, theaters and galleries featuring incredible regional talent are here for you to discover. We have an unbelievable selection of locally owned restaurants (Asian, Pakistani, Spanish, Italian, Mexican, Greek, Thai, Cajun), the largest beach on this side of Lake Michigan, Frank Lloyd Wright architecture and AMAZING shopping, you can easily fill a day exploring!

For more ideas exploring history visit: racinedowntown.com/delve-into-history/

Heritage Walking Tours

701 Main Street
262-833-0095
racineheritagemuseum.org
Tours Saturdays at 10:30am May-Sept.

The tour is a 1.1 mile, 2 hours long walking tour that focuses on the history of Downtown Racine.

Architectural Tour

racinedowntown.com/delve-into-history/

Self-guided, mobile friendly exploration of Downtown Racine’s beautifully preserved architecture and marvel as you learn about the amazing businesses that have occupied these historic buildings through the years.

Underground Railroad

716 College Ave.
262-632-1686

firstpresracine.org

First Presbyterian Church offers a tour to view what was probably a former stop on the escape route for slaves & includes a tunnel where slaves have hidden and walls of quilts that tells a story.

SC Johnson Tower Tours

1525 Howe St.
reservations.scjohnson.com

The tour features the Frank Lloyd Wright designed Administration Building and Research Tower, as well as Foster + Partners-designed Fortaleza Hall

Indian Motorcycle

522 6th St.
262-456-6598

rideracine.com

View some motorcycles in this completely renovated building that was a Nash dealership in the 1940’s. Many of the original features are preserved or repurposed.

Museums

With not one, but two premier museums – the Racine Art Museum, known for its contemporary craft and art, and the Racine Heritage Museum, which delves into the local history – visitors can immerse themselves in a diverse range of exhibits. Additionally, the Fire Department Museum offers a unique glimpse unto the firefighting history of Racine.

Learn More

First Presbyterian Church of Racine

Church

716 College Ave

Racine, WI

Fortaleza Hall (SC Johnson)

Attractions

2515 Howe St

Racine, WI

Racine Art Museum

Art Gallery, Shopping

441 Main St

Racine, WI

Racine Heritage Museum

701 Main St

Racine, WI

SC Johnson Administration Building

Attractions

1525 Howe St

Racine, WI

SC Johnson Research Tower

Attractions

1525 Howe St

Racine, WI

The post Day Trip Ideas: History Buff first appeared on Visit Racine County.

Day Trip Ideas: Art Inspired

Kari — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 17:53:37 +0000

For more ideas exploring the arts visit: racinedowntown.com/arts-galleries/

Hot Shop Glass

239 Wisconsin Ave.
hotshopglass.com
262-833-0095

A gallery of one of a kind blown glass art made on site. Stop and watch local artists create & engage. Popular glass blowing and glass fusing classes offered by reservation.

Racine Art Museum

441 Main St.
ramart.org
262-638-8300

Home to the largest and most significant contemporary craft collection in North America. Experience this impressive collection of work in ceramics, fibers, glass, metals, polymer, and wood.

Public Art

Immerse yourself in this year’s public art project: a whimsical display of butterflies, each telling a unique story through its design and placement. You’ll also discover a living gallery around every corner. From past years’ projects, such as rocking chairs, 4-foot ‘Love’ signs, and charming bistro tables perfect for a reflective pause.

Architecture Tour

racinedowntown.com/delve-into-history

Enjoy your exploration of Downtown Racine’s beautifully preserved architecture and marvel as you learn about the amazing businesses that have occupied these historic buildings through the years.

6th St. Theatre

318 6th St.
overourheadplayers.org
262-632-6802

A local community theatre troupe with a huge following! This black box theatre features original productions, including ‘Snowdance’ the 10 minute comedy festival with shorts submitted from all over the world.

Live Music

Multiple Locations

Downtown has a plethora of live music options. During summer, head to Monument Square, Reefpoint Brew House, Chartroom, or Smoke’d on the Water for live music all weekend. Looking for something more elegant? Check out the Racine Symphony.

Learn More

Hot Shop Glass

Art Studio

239 Wisconsin Ave

Racine, WI

Racine Art Museum

Art Gallery, Shopping

441 Main St

Racine, WI

Racine Symphony Orchestra

Music

800 Center St, Suite 120

Racine, WI

The post Day Trip Ideas: Art Inspired first appeared on Visit Racine County.