First settled by Paleo-Indians 13,500 years ago, Kenosha is a family-friendly lakeside city in Wisconsin. While its Lake Michigan shoreline is its most popular feature, Kenosha is also home to a vibrant promenade, an authentic electric streetcar system and a range of one-of-a-kind museums.

Things to do

Nicknamed “the nation’s attic” the Smithsonian Institution has three affiliate museums in Kenosha. Encompassing fine and decorative arts and natural sciences, the highlight of The Kenosha Public Museum is the skeleton of a woolly mammoth that was killed by a prehistoric man some 14,500 years ago. Visitors can also learn about ancient American wildlife in The Dinosaur Discovery Museum, while those with interest in more recent history will enjoy the interactive galleries at Kenosha’s Civil War Museum.

To learn about Kenosha’s own history, take a day to explore The Kenosha History Center. Further exhibits are on display in the Southport Light Station, a converted Victorian lighthouse.

In the summer months, Kenosha is a great spot to catch live music. Outdoor jazz performances take place at Veterans' Memorial Park, and the local symphony orchestra performs in Reuther Central Auditorium. For a local experience, check out the Kenosha Pops Concert Band when they play on the bandstand in Pennoyer Park.

Getting around

The streetcar line connects Kenosha’s Metra station with the downtown area and uses electric trolley buses. Regular buses service eight routes around the city, and the lines are colour coded for ease of navigation.