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We want to thank Destination Madison for helping to sponsor our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own. 

2) University Life

We are slowly adding state capitals to our collection, as each has its own unique vibe. Madison is also home to the largest university in the state. Since the mid-1800s, the University of Wisconsin has brought Badger Pride to Madison. After settling in, we made our way over to the campus to see what was shaking. Summer classes were in session, so the attendance was far below the roughly 42,000 students who regularly attend. It was easy to spot the badger mascot, as we made our way to Alumni Park to enjoy the relaxed vibe. The warm sunshine enticed us to grab a seat along the lake and enjoy some people-watching. While our itinerary beckoned us to get back to exploring, we lingered in this scenic setting for a while longer.

3) Leisurely Vibe

The University of Wisconsin is situated on the shore of Lake Mendota. With summer in full blaze, we spotted lots of activity. Sailboats and kayaks floated among the waves. Sunbathing was definitely high on the list of leisure activities. As we enjoyed our time on the patio, we soaked up some of those rays for ourselves. Later we would learn about the many firsts that have taken place at the University of Wisconsin. Some notable firsts are: a magnetic observatory, developing standards for testing milk quality, an experimental breeding program, and the country’s first speech clinic.

4) Free Museums

Being a history lover, I enjoy adding museums to our itineraries. Capitals are usually home to the state museum, which offers a broader perspective than many of the local sites. This helps us get a better feel for how things have changed over the centuries. The idea that museums are FREE makes them all the more attractive. During our visit to the Wisconsin Historical Museum, we were surprised to see their openness about past issues in the state. While peddling political influence has been around for many generations, it has usually been done in secret. Their willingness to face past problems was one of the 7 reasons to visit Madison.

5) Honoring Our Heroes

Just a short walk from the history museum is the Wisconsin Veterans Museum. Another FREE attraction, it also has a commanding view of the state capital. This museum showcases the participation of Wisconsin citizens during the past 150 years of wars. We were impressed at the high quality of exhibits found inside this place. So many of the artifacts and images evoke memories that we remember from our younger years. It is a solemn site that reflects on the sacrifices made by so many. The availability of free or low-cost attractions makes Madison an affordable vacation destination.

6) Cheese!

Let’s face it, Wisconsin’s know their cheese. There is a myriad of cheese shops around Madison, but our limited time only allowed us to visit one. Fortunately for us, Fromagination sits on the square that surrounds the capital. This made it an easy destination to visit during our day at the museums. Stepping through the door, our noses picked up the exquisite aromas of tart and tangy cheeses. Once inside, we found ourselves afloat in choices. The staff was more than happy to walk us through their wide variety of cheeses, as well as plenty of accompaniments. We found tons of locally created merchandise, perfect for gift giving. There were even a few specialties that will add some extra zest to our homemade charcuterie boards.

7) Affordable Eats

Travel wouldn’t be the same without the chance to sample some of the local cuisines. We love this part of our job and take the task seriously. Our itineraries are always jammed full of interesting eateries that allow us to get a feel for the restaurant scene. Madison has lots of options and many are quite affordable. Whether you are looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, you will find it here. Along the capital square, we enjoyed burgers from DLux and tacos from The Canteen. As we moved closer to the university, we discovered an amazing breakfast at Short Stack Eatery. Even closer to the school is a street filled with student-friendly eateries, like Parthenon Gyros.

7 Reasons to Visit Madison

Our whirlwind adventure in this university city may have only lasted a couple of days, but we packed a ton of fun into our time. After hitting the ground running, we soon discovered that our exploration would have to be concentrated on the heart of the city. With lodging at Double Tree Hilton Downtown, we were able to park our car and walk everywhere. This is a huge plus in our books, as it allows us to work off a few of the calories we pick up during our exploration. While we are only showcasing 7 reasons to visit Madison, we’re sure you’ll find plenty more. Tell us about some of your discoveries in the comments section below. This will help other readers create a robust itinerary for their next Madison, Wisconsin adventure!

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We want to thank the Wisconsin Dells CVB and Circus World for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

The Fantastic Five

In the 1800s it wasn’t uncommon to have large families. Being a mostly agricultural-based society required a lot of hands to complete the chores. The Ringling (originally Rüngling) family included seven boys. What started as a small group of touring performers would become one of the most recognizable attractions in America. After witnessing a traveling circus in McGregor, Iowa, five of the seven brothers decided to venture into the entertainment business. By late 1882, they had launched their vaudeville-style show. The profits from this endeavor would be funneled back into the business.

Early Days

By the late Spring of 1884, the Ringling brothers opened their first circus. We can imagine that it was quite small, but residents of farming communities would have still been intrigued to see it. Within a couple of years, they had expanded to include their first animal acts. By now, the other two brothers had joined them in this family endeavor. In 1887, the show was renamed “Ringling Bros. United Monsters Show, Great Double Circus, Royal European Menagerie, Museum, Caravan, and Congress of Trained Animals”. We can imagine that this type of bravado would have drawn quite the crowd.

Coming to Town

With each brother bringing their specific talent into play, the circus would continue to expand. Crafty planning ensured the brothers avoided clashes with competing carnivals and circuses. They would often focus on small, neglected villages and towns, where the lack of entertainment meant bigger turnouts. While we have seen circus wagon trains portrayed in movies, we never got to witness one in person. It must have been quite a sight to observe the pageantry proceeding down Main Street, with amazing music, performers, and fantastic creatures in tow.

Wild West meets Circus

By the turn of the century, the Ringling brothers had built one of the largest traveling shows in America. Their largest competitor, Barnum and Bailey, was purchased by the brothers but kept separate for a while. They continued to expand both circuses, until the start of World War I. With attendance diminishing, the brothers combined the two circuses into “The Greatest Show on Earth”. In the meantime, there were still plenty of other sideshows competing for entertainment dollars. Circus World Baraboo has a large warehouse filled with wagons from various circuses and traveling sideshows. As we wandered through the collection, I saw many familiar, and lots of unfamiliar, names. One that I think would have been amazing to witness was Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show.

Changing Perspective

When we hear the word circus, a certain set of images arise. Most involve human and animal acts performed under the big top. In the early days, there was another aspect to the traveling shows. Many included sideshows that showcased human oddities or disfigurements. Often referred to as “freak” shows, they were a secondary form of entertainment. Assembled under their own tent, hawkers would call out to the passing crowd in an effort to pique curiosity. Sometimes the exhibits were artificially created and touted as something like a mermaid mummy. We saw quite a few examples of these during a visit to the Uranus Sideshow Museum. Over time, the public’s opinion of these types of acts changed, laws were enacted to prohibit them, and they disappeared from the circus.

Clowning Around

While we were touring Circus World Baraboo, some of the staff members informed us that their daily circus was scheduled to begin soon. In fact, one was kind enough to offer us a ride over to the big top. Once there, we made our way inside to witness the magic. It wouldn’t be a circus without clowns and sure enough, there were a couple of acts included in the schedule. While we adults enjoyed the comical humor, it was the children in the audience who were enchanted by the hilarity of their actions. Many acts are fairly simple in design, but the smiles they elicit are timeless.

Majestic Acts

The circus is a truncated version of the three rings we witnessed as children. They still include some thrills and chills. Seeing the elephants marching around the ring reminded us of the intelligence of these giants. In the earlier days of Ringling Brothers Circus, the staff would have been tasked with caring for nearly 30 of these creatures. Of course, there were also 500 horses, 15 camels, and a menagerie of lions, tigers, and other animals. That is why there were 25 structures that made up the winter headquarters of Circus World Baraboo. Another exciting display of talent came from the air. While it wasn’t on the scale of a full-blown trapeze act, it was still thrilling for the audience.

Circus World Baraboo

We enjoyed our visit to Circus World Baraboo and found it to be quite intriguing. While we have enjoyed the circus in the past, we hadn’t given much thought to the amount of work required to keep it running throughout its busy season. When we learned that the winter headquarters were in Wisconsin, it really surprised us. I suppose that facing a cold winter would help you focus on the tasks at hand since there would be fewer distractions. Wandering through all of the exhibits can keep a visitor busy for quite some time, so be sure to allot plenty during your visit. This family-friendly attraction is a good way to see how the public’s perspective of entertainment has changed, yet some parts are still just as thrilling.

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We want to thank Destination Madison for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own. 

Capital Eats

Like most metropolitan cities, Madison is chocked full of dining destinations. Within sight of the capitol rotunda, we spotted over a dozen choices. Almost every cuisine imaginable can be found here, but this evening we were hankering for some beef. After wrapping up our visit to the Wisconsin History Museum, we strolled around the square to DLux. We had identified this restaurant during our planning phase, and I couldn’t wait to try it out. While we have tasted burgers from all around the country, it’s not often that we find smash burgers so far North.

Trendy Vibe

Entering into DLux, we were greeted by a funky vibe that reminded us of a 1970s lounge. The bar occupied the center of the space and offered a comfortable place for enjoying a local Happy Hour. The color scheme was muted, which made the colorful artwork pop off the walls. It was the art that caught our attention. An assortment of iconic creations, that are easily recoginzable, filled the canvasses. It certainly provided plenty to examine as we perused the menu.

DLux Dishes

The menu at DLux isn’t limited to burgers, but that’s what we were seeking. We passed right over the soups and salads and headed straight for the beef lovers section. There were six versions to choose from during our visit. Each one was packed with its own unique flavor combinations. We noticed that diners could substitute chicken breast or a vegan option, but it didn’t influence our final selections. We chose the Smoke Show for its combination of cheddar cheese, bacon, onion straws, and BBQ sauce. Everything we would expect from the name. Our second burger was Black & Blue, which uses blackened smash burgers that are topped with bacon, onion jam, and chunks of tangy blue cheese.

Smashed to Perfection

The concept behind smash burgers is crispy outside edges with juicy interiors. DLux has perfected this approach and we were shocked at the size of our servings. When you toss in the substantial sides, it was a lot of food. We knew immediately that we wouldn’t finish our meals, but we gave it a valiant effort. In the end, we left the restaurant plump and happy. Since Madison is such a walkable city, we decided to stroll around and let our dinner settle. This was a meal that we would remember for quite some time and one we are pleased to share with you. When you make your vacation plans for Wisconsin’s capital city, be sure to add DLux to your itinerary. You’ll be glad you did.

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Funky Vibe

It’s not uncommon for us to visit a locally-owned restaurant that has grown into its first brick & mortar. We love finding places like that because we know they got there by being embraced by the locals. It was a little different at Grateful Shed, as here we found food trucks being used in the design of the permanent structure. Stepping through the doorway, we discovered a colorful interior design that begs to be explored. Scanning the room, we spotted a variety of iconic images from days gone by. It was a little like Laugh-In meets roller rink with a side of food truck fun.

Perfect Perch

We decided it would be best to find our seating preference before selecting our food. The list of choices is vast, so it would take a little firsthand knowledge to decide. The floor level has bar seats, as well as booths built into the converted VW microbuses. Heading upstairs, we found more options to choose from. Perhaps we should dine inside a repurposed Greyhound bus. It was almost too much for us, but we finally agreed on our favorite. After our evening of sensory overload, at Wizard’s Quest, we should have been prepared for this type of scene.

Groovy Choices

With this decision made, we were ready to scope out the food truck fun. We’ve attended a few food truck frenzy events, where a variety of trucks all descend upon one location. At Grateful Shed they offer a micro version of that experience. So now we were faced with more choices. Perhaps a couple of slices of pizza would hit the spot. Oh wait, there’s a grilled cheese truck serving up a variety of handheld options. There was also a sweets provider, but we had already made plans for our dessert of the day at a later stop.

Food Fiesta

It was finally decided to check out the Mexican cuisine scene. We have tons of great street taco restaurants in Kansas City, so why not sample the ones in Wisconsin Dells. Pasqual’s Cantina was a popular stop, so we joined the line. They offer six street taco versions and allow customers to mix and match sets of three. We chose Carnitas, Chicken Fajita, and a Gringo. A side of Chips and Guacamole provided some additional protein for our upcoming afternoon of exploring.

Food Truck Fun

Out of all the fun seating options, we couldn’t pass up the VW microbus. Talk about a blast from the past. Our family had one of these during my youth. I can remember the camping trips we took and the excitement they provided, even if we kids usually slept outdoors. We were enjoying our walk down memory lane with all of this food truck fun. Wisconsin Dells is designed as a family-friendly destination. Grateful Shed helps keep the fun rolling with its unique style. What are your favorite food truck dishes?

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Call to Arms

One of the most notable conflicts in America was the Civil War. This is in part due to it being one of the few wars that took place on American soil. While the majority of the skirmishes took place in the southern half of the country, the cost of battle was felt throughout our young nation. While the Wisconsin Veterans Museum focuses on the impacts of war on people from the state, it also includes plenty of general information about the various conflicts.  They also portray the cause and effects with an unvarnished approach that doesn’t take away from the reality of war, which is that they are violent and brutal.

Life in the Fields

While the impact of war is felt throughout a nation, it is the soldiers who suffer the most. Besides the obvious threat of life ending injury, there are other issues that come with battle. Life in camp was filled with hours of drills, inadequate shelter and supplies, and disease. Many Civil War soldiers were farmers who were called into service. Their day-to-day life did not require the same level of discipline that was pushed on them in camp. Long stretches of boredom led to increased alcoholism. One day they may be scavenging for firewood, while the next day may bring the sheer terror of conflict. The ill feelings developed during the Civil War would impact the nation for generations to come.

A World at War

The early 1900s brought a new kind of war to the globe. Horse power had been the means for mobilization for centuries. Industrialization was sweeping the globe and countries raced for dominance. Recent advancements had brought motorized vehicles to the forefront and allowed easily movement of goods and services. Britain had long been the leader of world power, but an arms race was silently growing. The infrastructure improvements across Europe were priming the region for an explosive change. One of the largest underlying reasons for World War I was political instability. The assassination of Archduke Ferdinand is often considered the spark that set off a chain of events, which led to the conflict. As various countries worked behind the scenes, to form alliances, the stability of Europe began to erode. The beginning of the war revolved around aggression between Serbia and Austria-Hungary. Russia backed Serbia, while Germany threw its weight behind Austria-Hungary.

Different Perspectives

The siege cannons of Germany were rolled out in August, 1914. French and British troops were pulled into the conflict as the world was pushed into war. The United States had adopted a wait-and-see attitude, at the beginning of the war. Doing business with both sides forced America to choose neutrality. Germany’s unfettered aggression, against neutral ships, would be part of the reason for the United States involvement in WWI. While the war was still in its early stages, the United States was in the throws of the Mexican Border War. To divert America’s attention from the European theater, Germany attempted to convince Mexico to attack the U.S. southern border. The expectation had been that this would divert America’s attention away from what was taking place across the Atlantic, but it merely increased the United State’s resolve. While WWI would be called “the war to end all wars”, the truth is it was only the precursor of things to come.

Unparalleled Changes

The end of WWI was signified by the Treaty of Versailles, which laid the guilt heavily on Germany. The levying of excessive reparations left Germany feeling unfairly punished. The smoldering resentment would fester over the next couple of decades. Instability still remained across Europe and tenuous treaties were difficult to maintain. Nowhere was this instability more prevalent than in Germany. This void would allow Hitler and the Nazi Party to gain control of the nation. Still angered by their loss in the first World War, Germany formed alliances with Italy and Japan, against Russia. With memories of the previous war still fresh on their minds, Britain and France were hesitant to engage again. While Germany began their march across the European continent, the United States and Russia were focused on their own internal politics.

Bringing War to the Homefront

When the German-Soviet Nonaggression Pact was signed in 1938, it threw Europe into a panic. When Poland was attacked from both sides, it forced Britain and France to respond. By 1941, Germany had launched a push to invade Britain. It was the Royal Air Force’s defeat of the Luftwaffe, in the Battle of Britain, that would cause Germany to shelf this plan. This war would be examined, in retrospect, more than any military action in history. WWII would prove that the horrors of the First World War were only the tip of the iceberg in human suffering. As we explored the Wisconsin Veterans Museum, we were impressed with the details displayed in the exhibits. Each diorama tells a story about the conditions faced by the troops and details how they responded to the situations.

The Forgotten War

Part of the fallout, from the end of WWII, was the division of the Korean peninsula. The Soviet Union and the U.S split the territory in response to Japan’s aggression during the war. Within a few years, two new states had formed with a dividing line along the 38th parallel. Neither side was content staying within their borders and soon war broke out on the peninsula. America had grown wary of the “Communist Threat”, and the U.S. launched into war to prevent its spread. The “Cold War” was the subject of conversations in the war room, as well as the dining table. While the Korean War ended as a stalemate, the Cold War would continue heating up.

Changing Opinions

By the mid-1950s, the attitude about war was changing in America. The Cold War was continuing to escalate and once again the United States looked at trying to stop the spread of communism. Over the next few years, U.S. involvement in the growing conflict would increase. What began as a mission of supplying and training, had grown into a full-scale involvement by the mid-1960s. Back home, there was a growing anti-war movement, which left the troops between a rock and a hard place. Protests painted a negative picture of all combatants, which followed them when they returned home. For the first time in our country’s history, veterans of a foreign war were shunned when they returned home.

New World Perspective

There is no glory in battle worth the cost required to attain victory. As our world’s political environments continue to evolve, we will face unknown threats. The Wisconsin Veterans Museum details how the battlefield has morphed from open fields of engagement. These days, the fight has moved into the cities and left our soldiers facing an unknown enemy. We can be assured that American troops will rise to the occasion, as they have in the past. It is also obvious that the political aspirations of various leaders will continue to create wars well into the future. If only we could change our direction and give peace a chance.

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Hidden Gem

Lost Canyon Horse Tours have been operated by the same family for the past 55 years. Needless to say, they are well versed on every nook and cranny along the way. We arrived near the start of their day and found this offered us a tour for two. After getting acquainted with the steeds who would be hauling us, it was time to climb aboard our chariot. The surrounding landscape shelters public views of the treasure awaiting beyond the tree line. Our guide welcomed us for our memorable excursion into the Wisconsin Dells version of the Magnificent Mile.

Wisconsin’s Deepest Canyon

As our wagon slowly progressed, we moved into the beginning of the cliff-walled gorges that make up Lost Canyon. The trees didn’t so much disappear as they just migrated up the cliff walls. All around, we were surrounded by the green vegetation and shaded crevasses. Seeing the sandstone layers stacked one upon another was something that we never expected to find in Wisconsin. We sat in awe as the ravine ebbed and flowed like an invisible river. All around us, the beauty of nature unfolded in front of our eyes.

Traveling Through Time

Our guide was adept at coaxing his horses through the narrow corridors. At times, it felt as though there was no way the wagon would fit. The team slowly plodded along and the clip-clop of their hoofs echoed through the canyon. That was the only sound that disturbed the air. The Lost Canyon Horse Tours was an opportunity to commune with nature in an undisturbed fashion. It was so peaceful that we spotted deer lounging along the path. Clearly, they were used to the wagon traffic and barely acknowledged our existence.

Close Quarters

We began to believe we were the only humans around, until we saw an approaching wagon. Our guide pulled the wagon to the side and we watched the other tour group pass. It appeared to us that the crowds were beginning to increase, as the morning turned into afternoon. The slow pace of the Lost Canyon Horse Tours allows guests to soak in all of the natural beauty. While our boat tour had us rushing to take in the views, here we felt like time was barely moving. We were truly enjoying the relaxed pace.

Lost Canyon Horse Tours

Our excursion into Lost Canyon gave us an up-close view of the unique natural features of the Wisconsin Dells. Add in the backstories provided by our tour guide and we finished our visit with a better understanding of this region. While many visitors to the area are concentrating on the myriad of waterparks, we preferred to embrace the nature of the area. Traveling through ravines, that have barely seen any sunlight in thousands of years, was unimaginable. We left the attraction with a newfound appreciation for slot canyons. It was clear that there is much more to the Dells than waterslides and swimming pools. Who else loves these types of attractions?

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We want to thank Destination Madison for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own. 

Down on the Corner

Our morning had already been filled with activity, including a visit to the Wisconsin Historical Museum. The afternoon would gear up with another museum and a tour of the capital, so our time was limited for lunch. The choice of The Canteen had been made long ago, during our planning phase. Tons of positive reviews had piqued our interest in sampling some South-of-the-Border dishes. We landed on the doorstep just as the staff was unlocking the door for a new day of service. I’m sure we looked anxious, but the truth is, we were!

First Dibs

Sure enough, we were the first customers of the day. Our server led us to a table in the galley-shaped dining room. Bright colors and decorative accents surrounded us from all angles. The use of handwoven bowls adds an extra pop of color, as does the flower-themed wallpaper. Heavy wooden tables and chairs lend a comfortable feeling to the space. Our first surprise came when our server brought out a serving of Duritos instead of the traditional chips & salsa. These crispy wagon wheels of puffed wheat are kicked up with the addition of chili-lime tajin spice. It’s a light and airy snack that quickly became addicting.

Seafood Success

We would have loved to linger over our mealtime, but the clock was ticking. I was looking for a filling meal that brought some interesting flavors to the table. The Canteen offers nearly a dozen options of tacos-by-the-twos. (A fun way to call out a pair.) Being just a stone’s throw from Lake Monona, I opted for Fish Tacos. This particular choice can be grilled or Tecate beer-battered, which I preferred. Red cabbage slaw, citrus salsa, cilantro, and Morita crema add their unique flavors and textures to the dish.  Each taco is served on a pair of white corn tortillas, which is helpful to hold in all of the flavors. A squeeze of lime and I was ready to devour these twins.

Big ‘Ole Burrito

Crystal had been snacking on some Chips and Queso Dip while perusing the menu. When she selected the Classic Burrito, it was no surprise to me. Packed to bursting with Mexican rice, refried black beans, and savory chicken; it was calling her name. The flavors don’t stop there, as they also toss in avocado, Chihuahua cheese, and creamy poblano sauce. A cup of salsa verde is provided for those wanting to kick it up a notch. This over-plump offering was sure to challenge her appetite.

Madison’s Tempting Taqueria

If only time would have been on our side, we could have swung back by for their Happy Hour. We would have enjoyed sampling one of their signature margaritas, as well as checking out more of the taco variations. Unfortunately, the life of travel bloggers does come with its own burdens to bear. Still, we were thrilled to have this opportunity to enjoy Madison’s tempting taqueria on the square. With lunch under our belts, it was time to return to our explorations. So much to see and do, but so little time. Perhaps you will have a chance to linger and enjoy this downtown destination.

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We want to thank the Wisconsin Dells CVB and Wizard Quest for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Tempting Paths

Our first stop in Wisconsin Dells had been an exploratory adventure on the Dells Boat Tours. After taking in the unusual landscape, we were ready to explore downtown. Broadway is the main drag through town and the street is lined with restaurants and shops. During our research phase, we had seen ads for Wizard Quest, and we were intrigued by the pictures we found. The idea of banding together to explore a fantasy world filled with clues seemed like a great way to spend an evening. Once we stepped through the entrance, we knew it was a great choice. Admission to the attraction gives guests two hours to solve as many mysteries, as possible.

Intriguing Characters

The attraction is broken into four worlds; air, water, earth, and fire. Each area is decorated according to its theme. Corridors and pathways lead explorers from one adventure to the next. Along the way, we met some interesting characters, who would offer up a combination of quests and clues. I’m not sure how many quests they have, but we found that they present a variety for all age groups. We noticed groups with varying ages of participants, and all seemed engrossed in their quests.

Fantastic Scenes

Crystal and I chose to forego attempting the quests and just explore the space. The creators have done an amazing job of building a space that completely draws you in. We were enjoying seeing the details that make up each of the realms and we spent the first hour just wandering around. There is plenty of space for each team to get lost in their adventure, and we would watch groups scurrying from one area to the next.

It’s All in the Details

While taking it all in from a distance is fun, it wasn’t until we began diving into the details that we began to discover the wonders of Wizard Quest. Countless dioramas are hidden behind windows and tucked away in corners. Each tells a piece of a story that meshes into one of the adventures. While we were not looking for specific clues, it was obvious that many were strewn within these scenes. The level of detail is astounding and we soon became compelled to discover as many of these spaces, as possible. It looks like we were on our own type of quest.

Teamwork for the Win

Wizard Quest was designed to work as a team-building experience. With such a large space to explore, we noticed some of the same teams passed by over and over. It was hard to tell if they were doing one quest or possibly had moved on to subsequent adventures. It was handy having these others around, as we often would piggyback directions off of them. The labyrinth of passageways can certainly get you turned around and we would often wonder how others got into areas we were missing.

A Clue Takes Shape

It was by chance that we spotted a team disappearing behind a hidden door. Seeing this added a new level of intrigue to our visit. Our new mission was to discover as many of these secrets, as possible. In this room, we found that the teapot was the trigger. By tilting it forward, onto the small pot, it triggered a hidden doorway nearby. Now we were getting places. We would need to return to all of the previously explored areas to see what we had overlooked. Before long, we found ourselves completely engrossed in our mission.

Discover the Wonders

While we have no idea which adventure includes a treasure room, we do know that we found it. Our two hours were drawing to an end, but we felt like we had accomplished a lot. With so many individual quests to embark upon, we can see Wizard Quest as the type of place that begs for multiple visits. Even without any particular direction, we still had a blast. It goes to show that you are never too old to discover the wonders of exploration. Who would you include in your Wizard Questing team?

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Life Up North

The Wisconsin Historical Museum is nestled in a multi-story building on the capitol square. Visitors can begin on a higher floor, which takes you back the farthest in time. The early days of settlement, in Wisconsin, were comprised of fur trading and lead mining. As immigrants flowed into the state, they brought with them their customs and skills. Learning to coexist in nature required the construction of communities, which surged with even more newcomers. It was an abundance of natural resources that drew the first settlers to the area.

Tourism Growth

As the state grew in population, word got out of the impressive natural beauty that could be found here. Tourism would blossom in the late 1800s, as affluent citizens looking for ways to escape their urban settings. Hunting lodges and fishing villages became meccas for sports enthusiasts. The Wisconsin Dells would draw throngs of visitors with its surreal landscapes. When the automobile finally arrived on the scene, it increased the availability of access to these recreational sites.

Power of Politics

During this same timeframe, the landscape was also changing on the political scene. All of the big business growth would lead to the rise of an oligarchy of wealthy businessmen. Wielding their riches as a motivator, these business leaders influenced the political leaders to create policies that favored industry. By the late 1880s, the state had reached a tipping point, which would require reform to correct.

Wisconsin Historical Museum

As we made our way through the displays, the history of Wisconsin politics was laid bare in front of us. By the later part of the 1800s, the dynamics of the state had changed drastically from its agricultural beginnings. The explosive growth of industry and technology fueled the rise of city populations. Dangerous working conditions and poor pay were commonplace. The voting public demanded reform and this ushered in an opportunity for ‘Progressives’.

Stirring the Pot

In 1891, a political leader attempted to bribe attorney Robert La Follette, to fix a court case. This infuriated the lawyer, who became a leading force in the movement to reform the political landscape. La Follette spent the next few years traveling the state to speak out against the corruption that came from lumber and railroad barons, as well as corrupt politicians. In 1900, he was elected governor on his pledge to bring reform to Wisconsin. Within a few years, progressives had won races in a variety of political positions. With this newfound support, La Follette was able to institute changes that broke the painful hold of corruption.

Beyond the Politics

While the Wisconsin Historical Museum has plenty of details about political issues, it also provides a glimpse at other aspects of daily life. An annual event that draws visitors from far and wide is the Wisconsin State Fair. This event began in 1851, which is only 10 years after the first fair in America began in New York. Since its origin, it has only been canceled six times. The early days focused primarily on agricultural activities. Over the years, it has expanded to include entertainment events that range from musical guests to a carnival midway. In 2011, the Guinness Book of World records certified the world’s largest Cream Puff. We have to wonder how many people were able to get a taste of the 126 lb. creation.

Another Capital City

Our tour of the Wisconsin Historical Museum opened our eyes to a wide array of stories from the past. This FREE museum is a great start for gaining a perspective of the progression of advancements in the state. Armed with all of this newfound knowledge, we were ready to head out into the city for some in-depth exploration. Madison has the distinction of being the capital city, as well as home to the University of Wisconsin. With so much to see and do, and all easily walkable, we knew this visit was going to be historic. While we may not be badgers, we can certainly appreciate the laid-back vibe of this city. Have you ever visited Madison, Wisconsin?

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We want to thank the Wisconsin Dells CVB for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own. 

Heading Out

Dells Boat Tours offers a few options for visitors. Since we only had time in our schedule for one trip, we chose the Upper Dells Tour. The boats offer seating options inside the cabin or on the top deck. With the sun bearing down on this particular afternoon, we opted to remain in the shade. Before long, we headed off on our two-hour tour up the river. The Wisconsin Dells are a 5-mile gorge that was carved into the underlying sandstone. It is estimated that this change occurred about 15,000 years ago.

Aged Formations

During that time, a portion of North America was covered in a glacial sheet. The glaciers never rested atop the Dells, but the melting ice did create a huge lake nearby. The waters were held back by an ice dam, which allowed the waters to build to a depth of around 150 feet. A sudden failure of this dam resulted in a catastrophic flood. As the water rushed through the area, it cut deep grooves into the sandstone resulting in the slot canyons. As the waters receded, the newly formed landscape came into view.

Popular Place

The Upper Dells Boat Tour includes two disembarkation stops. As the pilot guided us toward the first one, we took in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The Wisconsin River is a popular destination for water enthusiasts. An assortment of nooks and crannies is perfect for exploring. Quite often, we would spot boaters who had parked along the shoreline to enjoy the amazing views. We also noticed that the cliffs allow swimmers to jump from many of the ledges into the sparkling depths. This is a great way for water lovers to beat the summer heat.

Stop #1 – Witches Gulch

Time flew by and we soon found ourselves pulling into our first stop. After disembarking, we filed along a wooden plankway that led into the hillside. In no time, we found ourselves passing through a series of slot canyons where sunshine struggled to reach the bottom. Each turn opened a new world of wonders. I found myself fascinated by the vegetation growing along the walls, as well as the notably lower temperature of the canyon. The walk leads back to a rest area where we found concessions and restrooms. After a short break, we retraced our steps back to the boat.

Stop #2 – Stand Rock

The boat churned across the river and landed at our second stopping point. This would be one of the most well-known formations in the Wisconsin Dells. Climbing the bank, we found the path that led to Stand rock. This singular outcropping was made famous by photographer H.H. Bennett. He began as a portrait photographer but quickly realized that landscape photos were more lucrative. It was his photos that drew many of the early visitors to the area. His creation of a stop-action shutter allowed him to capture movement for the first time. To prove its effectiveness, he had his son leap the small gap over to Stand Rock. It took a few tries, but he was finally successful. These days, they use a dog to replicate this famous event.

Heading Back

After viewing the leap, it was time to make our way back to the boat. The return ride offered more views of the surrounding landscape. It felt like time whisked by, and soon we were docking back at our starting point. As we disembarked, we left with the memories of the amazing adventure. The sun was growing low in the sky, so our thoughts turned to our evening meal and entertainment. After climbing the stairs back up to street level, we took a moment to look out over the Wisconsin River. We knew that we were in for many more thrills to come.

Dells Boat Tour

Our time in our second Wisconsin city had only just begun, but we were already impressed with the area. Being a family vacation destination, many visitors come here for the waterparks. We intended to show how travelers can have an awesome time without getting wet. Our first excursion was a complete success and we were looking forward to what the next couple of days would bring. Having this opportunity to see Wisconsin’s slot canyons up close was the perfect way to begin our visit. Time to see what else we could uncover. Have you ever visited the Wisconsin Dells?

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We want to thank Visit Kenosha and the local businesses for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own. 

Dinosaur Discoveries

Kenosha is visitor-friendly, as it has a nice selection of museums that are FREE to the public. When you add in the low-cost streetcar, all ages will enjoy exploring the downtown region. We liked riding this refurbished transportation option, which runs on a two-mile loop that carried us right by many of these attractions. At one stop, we were delivered by the Dinosaur Discovery Center, which is small but filled with wonderful specimens. It certainly got me in the mood for seeing more prehistoric history.

Back to the Present

Following the streetcar route toward the lake brought us to the Kenosha Public Museum. This is another free stop and tells the story of this region before immigrants arrived. We picked up on the dinosaur story and proceeded to move forward in time. We discovered that mammoths once roamed this region, and were hunted by the natives who occupied the lands. The historical timeline kept pushing us forward until we arrived at the local trading post that would have been found around the area. (You can read more about these two museums here.)

Growing a City

As we do in many cities, we like to get the background early in our visit. A tour of the Kenosha History Center offered us a view of how the city developed. Getting a personalized tour by the executive director certainly helped us get a better grasp of some changes that have occurred over the years. Little did we know, but Kenosha was a major player in the automotive industry for decades. Armed with a better understanding of the city, our escape to Kenosha was rolling along. (You can learn more Kenosha history here.)

Lighting the Way

No matter how many times we see Lake Michigan, its size never fails to impress us. The use of lighthouses along the shoreline is an obvious choice, especially in a city that was a major port. A visit to the Southport Light Station Museum sheds light on the history of Kenosha Harbor. While the landscape has changed since the early days, there is still a lot of fascination surrounding this 150-year-old structure.  (You can read more here.)

Unheralded Heroes

Not all museums in Kenosha are limited to the history of Wisconsin territory. At the Civil War Museum, the focus is on a group of states in the Upper Midwest. Stretching from Iowa to Ohio, the participants from this area had mixed feelings about the war. Even with these reservations, an almost unending supply of supplies and soldiers would flow out of these states. (You can read more about the museum here.)

Historic Dining

“Visit Like a Local” is more than just a motto for us. Whenever we travel to new destinations, we like to seek out all kinds of businesses that support local life. Most of these are easier to identify because the patrons are all from the nearby region. This is especially true for our dining choices. Breakfast at The Coffee Pot was an easy decision and finding it was a breeze, thanks to the retro neon sign. Once inside, it was obvious that this is a local hangout. (You can see our breakfast here.)

Massive Meals

Another good indicator of local life is longevity. During our escape to Kenosha, we found that there are many restaurants that have been in business for years. Frank’s Diner has been serving up massive plates of comfort food for over 90 years. You don’t get that kind of reputation without doing something right. This diminutive diner is tight on space, but loose on serving sizes. You will want to bring your biggest appetite when visiting this Kenosha iconic landmark. (Read more about Frank’s here.)

Chew-Chew Train

We may not be traveling with children, but sometimes the two of us can be the biggest kids in the room. This was certainly the case when we stopped by Choo-Choo Charlie’s for lunch. Located right by one of the stops along the streetcar route, it was the perfect dining option after riding the rails. This train-themed restaurant offers up family-friendly meal choices that include some outrageous shakes. We picked the S’Mores galore, which provided plenty of sugar rush for our afternoon of discovery. To top it all off, our meal was delivered by model train.

Lakeside Dining

Every trip has to start with a first taste, and for us, it came at the Boat House Pub & Eatery. Located next to a marina, we could hear the gulls as we headed inside. We met up with our new friends, from Visit Kenosha, who were perfect hosts. With four meals to photograph, we were able to capture a nice cross-section of the menu, in our article on this local favorite. It also gave me my first walleye dish in quite some time. (You can see the other meals here.)

Getting Our Irish On

Crystal may have the Irish blood in our marriage, but I’m just as fond of the cuisine. After spending some time outdoors, on a blustery day, we were ready for some heartwarming comfort food. No need to worry about finding it at Ashling on the Lough, this place has a menu filled with plenty of good options. Toss in some Irish drinks, and an owner with a great Irish accent and this was turning into quite a celebration. (You can read more about it here.)

Historic Home-base

No stay is complete without the perfect lodging. Our escape to Kenosha gave us a chance to check out The Stella Hotel & Ballroom. This newly opened boutique lodging option is gushing with ambiance. Located in the heart of downtown, it is easy walking distance to just about everything. If your feet are tired, the streetcar line is just a block away. Our room was amazing, and the hotel also boasts a superb in-house restaurant. (You can see much more about The Stella here.)

Other Tastes of Kenosha

We are betting that some of you think we eat a lot when we travel. Well, you don’t realize just how much energy it takes to complete an action-packed itinerary like ours. This means that between meals, we will sometimes need a little boost, which was easy to find in downtown Kenosha. There are some cute specialty shops that serve up interesting, and delectable treats. Whether you are looking for a diminutive dessert pie, uniquely flavored popcorn or an unusual cone for ice cream, you can find it here. By the way, this is why we walk everywhere!

Saying So Long

By now, it should be obvious why we chose Kenosha as our first Wisconsin city. The place is packed full of fun for all ages. With so many cheap or free attractions, you can keep everyone satisfied without breaking the bank. That will leave you with plenty of cash for those special treats you find between meals. Speaking of meals, you won’t go hungry, since their Midwest hospitality shines through at mealtime. Isn’t it time for you to start planning your own escape to Kenosha, Wisconsin on the shores of Lake Michigan?

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We want to thank Visit Kenosha and the Kenosha museums for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Traveling Through Time

Being so close to the lake, the land is relatively flat, so walking is a breeze. Most of our travels, in Kenosha were done by this method. As we were walking, we saw one of the city’s restored streetcars pass by. We knew immediately that we had to hop a ride on one. With a low $1 per ride cost, ($3.50 for all day pass) it’s an affordable way to see the downtown from a different perspective. The beautifully restored electric cars travel on a 2-mile loop that runs from the lake shore to the train station. We loved the nostalgic feel, and it is a popular attraction with kids, as well.

We started off at the Dinosaur Discovery Center, which offers an interesting perspective. This museum may not be huge, but it has a nice collection of specimens. The focus of the exhibits is exploring the connection between dinosaurs and birds. When viewing the skeletons of large predators, like the T-Rex, it can be easy to forget the connection to the winged creatures we see all around us today. While our scheduled time was limited at this location, I was not passing up an opportunity to capture plenty of images from this place. Now that we had a small taste of dinosaurs, we were eager for more. Time to move closer to Lake Michigan.

The Earliest Days

Once we reached the Kenosha Public Museum, it was time to get down to more discovery. Here we would have a chance to learn the historical background of this Upper Midwest city, and the surrounding region. As we passed through the time line of prehistoric history in Michigan, we learned about the changing landscape. Long ago the land was covered in water, as part of a huge seabed. This wasn’t limited to Michigan, as it was actually most of North America. Strange creatures patrolled the murky depths, seeking prey for sustenance. Fossils even show that there were coral reefs located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

Putting Some Skin on Them Bones

As the waters receded, dry land became more abundant. Millions of years passed, but the days of the dinosaur finally dawned. While there are few dinosaur remains found in this area, it is almost a certainty that they patrolled the land looking for food. Traveling through time, with the aid of the exhibits, showed us how the ever changing landscape became what we see today. We enjoyed the addition of a few dinosaur models, that showed what they may have looked like with skin. Sometimes it can be difficult to imagine the finer details of these mysterious creatures by only seeing their skeletons.

Changing Landscape

Moving through the museum, we started traveling through time again. Our next stop brought us to the Ice Age, where glaciers covered the upper portion of North America. Over thousands of years, these glaciers advanced and retreated, carving out the spaces that would become the Great Lakes. When we looked out over the shore of Lake Michigan, it was hard to imagine an ice sheet so large that it covered farther than the eyes could see. Of course, the glaciers also created some unique landscape features, by dragging boulders and debris along their path.

Hunting Mammoths

Continuing forward in time, we came to the period where humans were inhabiting the lands in and around modern day Kenosha. A key discovery, in 1964, was made in a nearby farm. Portions of a tusk and hip bone, from a Woolly Mammoth, would eventually lead to uncovering even more. It wasn’t until the early 1990s, that the real importance was made about this discovery. Small marks on the hip bone suggested the use of tools. After an in-depth excavation of the original site, a nearly complete skeleton was uncovered. The scientists had uncovered the oldest known mammoth that was butchered by humans west of the Mississippi River.

Living Off the Land

The next series of exhibits had us traveling through time to the point where many of the native American tribes had established semi-permanent homes in the region. A combination of farming, fishing, and hunting provided the food for these communities. It was the Potawatomi tribe that originally named the are Kenozia, which means “place of the pike”. The nearby rivers were home to thousands of fish that migrated upstream from Lake Michigan. This ever-flowing supply of food attracted the attention of the early trappers, as well.

Bringing the Past to Life

An old path existed between what is now Chicago and Green bay. Known to the native tribes as the Jambeau Trail, it was formed by the receding glaciers. Used by the natives, as well as trappers and traders, it was named for the French settler, Jaques Vieres. He established a trading post at nearby Skunk Grove, which served the inhabitants of the region. The Kenosha Public Museum even has a small trading post located inside of the museum. Here we could see some merchandise that would have been found in those days. As interest in the area escalated, settlers began arriving from the east. By 1833, the majority of the Native Indian tribes had ceded their lands and moved west.

Back to the Present

We wrapped up our explorations on the first floor and made our way upstairs. Here we discovered exhibits that focused on the world as it exists today. A series of displays allow guests to explore the six localized ecosystems, that mimic those found around the globe. This area includes some interesting interactive exhibits. Visitors can play games designed to see how animals and humans find food and water. Videos show scientists doing in-field research. We also saw short videos that explain how we could make a positive impact on our planet.

Loving the Low Cost Attractions

We were enjoying exploring Kenosha, Wisconsin and its assortment of low cost entertaining attractions. In one afternoon, we were able to visit two free museums, as well as take a ride on a historic streetcar. There was still time for us to stroll along the art-lined walkway that runs along the lakefront. All of these options are enjoyable for all ages, so perfect for a family vacation. With the sound of gulls squawking in the background, we paused for a quick selfie in front of the museum. Our time in Kenosha was showing us that Wisconsin would clearly need to be explored in greater detail. For now, we were happy soaking up this lake city’s atmosphere. How many of you are dino-fans?

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We want to thank Visit Kenosha and Stella Hotel for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Embracing the Past

The Stella Hotel & Ballroom is certainly a beauty to behold. The lobby is a welcoming space that beckons visitors to relax for a bit. Throughout the hotel we found reconditioned wood and terrazzo flooring. The retro wallpaper patterns speak of days long ago. In places, we could see the exposed brick and support beams that are the bones of the building. We had a chance to check out the ballroom, which was being prepared for a wedding. The huge space has an air of elegance that reminded us of the early 1900s.

First Impressions

With 80 rooms to choose from, we were lodged in one of their Heritage Suites. Complete with a living room, separate bedroom, and oversized bathroom, this would be the perfect spot for any weekend getaway. A small wet bar offered us a fridge to keep our local purchases cool (We love chocolate!), as well as a Keurig to get us going in the morning. With TVs in the living room and bedroom, as well as WiFi, we were easily able to stay connected to the world.  The muted colors were accented by the small splashes of color and interesting light fixtures. It was obvious that a lot of attention had been put into the redesign of this place.

Fun and Games

Our exploration uncovered more unique amenities inside the Stella Hotel & Ballroom. An exercise room offers space to burn off some of the calories we take in at all of the local eateries, like Frank’s Diner just a couple of blocks away. (You can see the plates at Frank’s here.) Nearby, we located a game room filled with over-size versions of some classics. It looks like the perfect place to have family game night or just a friendly couple’s competition. We love boutique style lodging destinations, since they will usually have a laundry list of amenities. If we had not been doing so much research on Kenosha, we would have been tempted to hole up in the hotel for a couple of days.

Distinctive Dining

With an amazing room and plenty of in-house distractions, the only thing we would need would be food. Fortunately, the Stella Hotel & Ballroom has that covered, as well. For breakfast and lunch, guests can choose from a wide menu at The Cafe. We did take the opportunity to sample The 1844 Table & Mash, their flagship restaurant, for dinner one evening. The same beautiful craftsmanship comes through in this space, as it does in the balance of the hotel. As we passed the whiskey bar, on our way to our table, the hostess explained that they offer 30 different whiskies, bourbons, and ryes. There are some people we know who would love to spend some time sampling their collection.

Kicking it Up a Notch

Knowing that we would be heading out for ice cream later that evening, we decided to try to keep our meal light. Unfortunately, the best made plans often go awry. The chef was eager to show off one of their premier appetizers, and soon we were facing a dish of Chicken Pops. (Pictured at top of page) After polishing off these delectable bites, it was time to get down to the main courses. When I saw Stella’s Burger on the menu, it immediately called to me. Made with 3 cuts of beef. and a slice of pork belly, it sounded delicious. The burger is topped with cheddar and an onion confit, and comes housed inside of a brioche bun. It had so many levels of flavor and paired well with their well-seasoned steak fries.

Soup and Salad

Crystal decided to go in a lighter menu direction than I had. She started with French Onion Soup Au Gratin. The rich and flavorful soup is made with slow cooked onions, which helps impart plenty of flavor to the dish. Before it is served, the presentation is made complete with a crown of bread and grated cheese. What a wonderful way to warm up on a cool evening. To compliment this dish, she added a Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken. While I may sometimes chide her for the dishes she selects, they both looked rather delightful. She pointed out to me that she was showing our readers that there is a wide range of meal choices at the restaurants we visit. I suppose that I will need to get used to taking photos of salads.

In the Middle of the Action

Our visit to Kenosha, Wisconsin was another reminder of how many cities have pedestrian friendly downtown areas. With our lodging at the Stella Hotel & Ballroom putting us in the heart of the action, we were able to park our car for the majority of our visit. The landscape of this portion of the city is fairly level, so no big hills to climb. With a sensible grid system for the streets, it was easy to locate attractions, dining, and shopping options. Toss in the electric streetcar, and we found this Midwestern city to be a perfect place for all ages to explore. Doesn’t this sound like the a great place to visit?

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We want to thank Visit Kenosha and The Coffee Pot for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Hanging With Locals

They have an outdoor patio area, named the “Garden of Eatin”, but we saw a spot in the front window that was calling our name. Inside The Coffee Pot, diners were concentrating on their breakfasts. This place is a no-nonsense eatery, designed to give you a solid start to your day. We did hear some friendly banter taking place, which was a sign that most of the people were regulars. Of course, when someone new pulls out a camera, it can certainly quiet a crowd. Fortunately, the food was keeping them all in place, while I snapped a few photos. The place isn’t huge, but it still offers plenty of seating options that reminded us of the road trip days of the 1960s. We were beginning to see a pattern of long standing breakfast stops in Kenosha. (You can read about another one here.)

A Hearty Start

On this trip, we were doing a three city tour, with Kenosha as number two. Today was the last morning in town, so we wanted a hearty breakfast to tide us over during our drive to the next destination. Crystal decided that dining old school would work best for her. Eggs and bacon are standard fare, but we were surprised to find that The Coffee Pot uses homemade bread. They actually offer four varieties of their thick sliced bread. Crystal chose the standard white, but could have picked wheat, marbled rye, or even gluten free, if she had wished. I was enjoying the fun design of the formica table tops, that reminded me of my childhood years.

Sweeten It Up

With the decor whisking me back to my younger years, I guess it also influenced my meal selection. When I saw the Stuffed French Toast on the menu, I was intrigued. Made with two slices of their fresh baked bread, it is stuffed with a whisked cream cheese filling. This makes the filling lighter in consistency, so it was a perfect blend. They offer to top it with a fruit of choice, but I was struggling to pick. Our server finally suggested I just do a blend of fruits, and the problem was solved. Knowing that I would need some protein to tide me over, I added a side order of sausage to round out my meal. Little did I know that it would be so substantial.

Dining Old School

With all of this food laid out before us, it was time to dig in. There is something special about these types of diners. I’m not sure whether it is the atmosphere, the food, or just hanging out with the locals. It makes you feel closer to the community you are visiting, which is the goal we were wanting to achieve. By the end of our meal, we felt like one of the locals, as everyone around us had warmed up to our presence. (Once they got over me taking so many photos.) Later, as I was doing my research for this article, I discovered that there is a Coffee Pot Inn on the second story of the restaurant’s building. Evidently, we could stay just a few steps away, and be dining old school every morning. That’s something we will have to keep in mind for our next visit. Would you consider staying in an apartment above a restaurant?

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We want to thank Visit Kenosha and the Civil War Museum for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own. 

Honoring All Soldiers

After our introduction to Peggy, it was time to begin our visit. There is a gallery that is dedicated to all of those that have served. “Solidarity of Soldiers” is a collection of statues that are posed as they gather at an evening campfire. It has images that range from the Revolutionary War through present day conflicts. As we wandered through the statues, it brought a sense of patriotism and respect for the sacrifices of so many.

Taking the Tour

Our next portion took us into the main series of galleries, that make up the bulk of The Civil War Museum in Kenosha. This museum focuses on seven of the Upper Midwest states. These include; Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio. The first series of exhibits paints a picture of the atmosphere that existed in the region leading up to the war. The Upper Midwest would play a significant role for the Union forces, as it supplied raw materials, food, and most importantly around 750,000 able bodies.

War Comes to America

Industry was expanding rapidly into the Upper Midwest, as the first whispers of the war were heard. When the first shots rang out at Fort Sumter, in early 1861, patriotic fervor spread quickly. While parents tried to hold their kids back, many youngsters felt that the war would be over in no time. Of course, not all communities were so supportive of the war effort. The first significant anti-draft riot took place in Port Washington, Wisconsin.

Interactive Exhibits

A really nice feature at The Civil War Museum in Kenosha is the life-size dioramas. Some of these are interactive, like the train pictured above. Set up to resemble an actual passenger car, some benches have room for visitors to sit with the statues. This triggers each passenger to tell a short story about their reason to be on the train. It’s interesting to hear the various details from each person on board, as they made their way east to the battleground region.

Interesting Artifacts

It seems like each Civil War museum we visit has some unique artifacts, which we have never seen. The badges and tokens used by slave owners tells a story of how slaves were “rented” out to other landowners, businesses, and even the local governments. These are just a few of the interesting artifacts found at The Civil War Museum in Kenosha.

Life in the Fields

A soldier’s life in Civil War camps was very tedious. The reality is that not much time was spent on the front line of battles. Those who enlisted, or were drafted, expected excitement to be commonplace. The reality quickly set in, when days were spent doing seemingly endless drills. The romance of battle came from the nostalgia of the Revolutionary War. Since this had occurred a few generations prior, memories of war were no longer based on reality. Twice as many soldiers would die from disease than from direct battle wounds.

The Costs of War

The Civil War Museum in Kenosha tackles some other issues that were associated with the long days of idleness. Alcoholism was a plague among officers, who had ample access to whiskey. It was also used as a stimulant for injured soldiers, but supplies wavered as the war drug along. While in many camps alcohol was prohibited, an illicit supply seemed to be plentiful.

Returning Changed

In almost every Civil War museum we have visited, there is an exhibit that details the prolific injuries that were a result of the battles. The use of “minie ball” bullets, which had the tendency to shatter bones, required the removal of limbs, instead of attempting to repair a wound. In battlefield hospitals, surgeons faced an almost endless line of injured soldiers, so little time was allowed for triage and complicated surgery.

Audiovisual Amazement

As we continued our tour, Peggy broke from the predetermined path to lead us to a special portion of the museum. The Civil War Museum in Kenosha is one of only a handful of museums to offer  a 360° movie experience. She led us to the theater, where a crowd was assembling. The lights dimmed and soon we were engulfed in an amazing audio-visual experience that drew us into the battlefield. As the story of three war participants unfolded around us, in the panoramic 10-minute film, we found that it also incorporate ground motion to add to a complete sensation.

Civil War Museum in Kenosha

With our visit complete, we thanked Peggy for her amazing detail. The Civil War Museum in Kenosha is a good spot to gain a better understanding of the important role that the people of the Upper Midwest played in the “war between the states”. Their use of life-size dioramas really helps bring the history to life. For those that enjoy Civil War history, this is definitely a stop you will want to add to your travel list. Of course, you will also want to check out some of the other museums in downtown Kenosha. (Here’s a link to the Kenosha History Center nearby.) With so many great sites to see, as well as the views of Lake Michigan, Kenosha, Wisconsin should be on your vacation destination radar.

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We want to thank Visit Kenosha and Ashling on the Lough for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own. 

Shaking Off the Chill

Our exploration of the area had included tours of two nearby museums. Afterwards, we attempted a stroll along the Promenade, that is lined with statues. With a chilly wind blowing in from the lake, it wasn’t long before we decided to forego this walk. Fortunately, the Happy Hour at Ashling on the Lough starts at 3:00. It was a bonus that the restaurant is easy walking distance from the park. As we made our way there, we enjoyed the view of the Southport Marina.

Avoiding the Crowd

Our visit on a weekday meant that when we arrived many people were still at work. The interior of the restaurant is filled with rich colors and plenty of wood. It has a welcoming appeal with an informal atmosphere. The kind of place that makes casual conversation easy to enjoy a couple rounds of drinks. The hostess showed us to a table that offered a view of the lake. As we took in our surroundings, the chill began to wash away.

Warming Elixirs

We decided that a couple of hot drinks would aid in warming up our insides. They have an assortment of warm beverages, so we chose a couple that offered completely different flavors. My Irish Coffee is a well known drink that included a quality Irish whiskey, brown sugar, and some fresh whipped cream on top. Crystal avoids caffeinated drinks in the evening, so she chose the Hot Cherry Pie. A mixture of hot cider and cherry schnapps means that this drink will warm you to your toes. As we sipped our drinks, we investigated the dinner menu.

Pie Education

Now that we were able to take off our jackets and really relax, it was time to pick our evening meals. Since we were dining a little early, we wanted hearty dishes that would tide us over for the night. For me, I couldn’t imagine anything better than a nice baked pie, but then came the decision. Would I pick Shepherd’s Pie, made with lamb or Cottage Pie made with beef? I decided to lean toward the beefy blend, which worked out deliciously. Once I poked through the golden crust of mashed potatoes, I discovered a hearty filling inside. The shredded beef was tender and moist. Combined with tender vegetables, this substantial dish packed plenty to hold me until morning.

Irish Tradition at Ashling on the Lough

Here is where I point out that only one of us has Irish roots. Crystal’s maiden name is McCoy, so I’m pretty sure she felt really comfortable in an Irish restaurant. When I had researched this place, I had even guessed what dinner entree she would pick. Sure enough, she chose the Fish & Chips. At Ashling on the Lough, they serve fresh cod in a beer batter made with Smithwick’s Irish Ale. This adds an amazing undertone to the fillets, which were fried to golden perfection. Toss some steak fries and coleslaw in the mix and you have the makings of an Irish classic. Another bonus is the homemade tartar sauce, which Crystal enjoyed heartily.

Warming Up to Kenosha Weather

Now that our bellies were full, and the chills had been run off, it was time to head back outdoors. The gray skies were still there, but the winds were beginning to die down. We had still a few more stops to make, before bedtime. If you have followed us for very long, you realize that we pack a weeks worth of sights into two or three days. With hearty meals to fuel us, like the ones we had at Ashling on the Lough, we knew that we would have plenty of energy to keep going. For now, we were just glad to have found a great way to chase off the chill. What are some of your methods to warm up on chilly days?

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We want to thank Visit Kenosha and Franks’ Diner for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own. 

Iconic Interior

In the 1920s, the Jerry O’Mahony Company, in New Jersey, was producing prefabricated diners that could be shipped all over the nation. Anthony Franks saw a golden opportunity and ordered the delivery of one to Kenosha. What started as a long galley shaped eatery, was enlarged in 1935 to make room for additional diners. With a constant flow of hungry diners, the kitchen needed to be expanded in the 1940s. For 75 years, the Franks family operated the business at 508 58th Street, which is just a couple blocks off of the streetcar route.

Breakfast – “Oh Yeah”

As we entered the diner, we could feel the nostalgia. The long counter laid out almost the entire length of the original restaurant. The fry cook was hard at work preparing a variety of dishes for the customers who beat us there. Over the murmur of conversations, we heard a phrase that would bring many smiles to our faces that morning. “Oh, yeah!” Those who have visited Franks’ Diner recognize this saying, and immediately picture the person who uses it. We will leave that little mystery for you to discover during your morning meal.

Double the Space

We decided to sit in a booth, which means we had to move to the addition that was added in the 1930s. It was cool to see the original stenciled name along the side of the car. With some hot coffee to satisfy us, we took some time surveying the menu. We struck up a conversation with a local sitting nearby. He pointed out that he enjoys the massive plates at Franks’ Diner on a regular basis. When I asked for a meal suggestion, he immediately mentioned the “Garbage Plate“. The name intrigued me, so I scanned the contents of this unique dish.

Mega Meal

I knew Crystal wasn’t going to pick that for her breakfast, and I was right. Instead, she went for Franks’ Homemade French Toast. Made using their homemade bread, she had them include a serving of their strawberry topping. To get some protein in her meal, she included a side of two fried eggs. Little did she know, the meal she ordered would be enough for two people. Of course, I would be busy with my own massive plate, so she was on her own. I did sneak a small taste and found that the use of their own bread really knocks this one out of the park.

Massive Plates at Franks’ Diner

Let’s get back to our conversation with our fellow diner. When he made his suggestion, he did add a small disclaimer. He noted that the Garbage Plate comes in half or full plate. His suggestion was that I looked like a half plate guy. After reading the description, I realized he had hit that nail on the head. My order arrived and dwarfed Crystal’s French toast. The dish begins with 3 eggs (5 for a full plate). These are mixed into a concoction made from hash browns, onions, green peppers, and 1 meat choice, which for me was their ground sausage. I tore into the dish with zest, but by halfway I knew I was fighting an uphill battle. While I gave it a decent try, it became apparent that this was a fight I would not win.

Common Ground

The massive plates at Franks’ Diner have drawn a lot of attention from celebrities across the country. In earlier days, the Three Stooges, Lawrence Welk, and even Liberace dropped in to spin a stool. In more modern times, a variety of newscasters have tested the chow, as well as Mark Ruffalo of Avengers fame. As we sat in our booth, I noticed a signed poster of a famous foodie hanging nearby. It seems like Crystal and I keep finding ourselves crossing paths with Guy Fieri, host of Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. In Little Rock, Arkansas, we had our visit postponed a day, so that he could tape an unexpected episode at a local restaurant. (You can read about The Root Cafe here.) We feel like we must be picking the best stops to be dining in such good company. You’ll definitely want to add your name to the list of diners who tested the massive plates at Franks’ Diner.

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We want to thank Visit Kenosha and the Kenosha History Center for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own. 

Our Time Traveling Tour Guide

Our arrival was expected, and we were greeted by Chris Allen, Executive Director. His passion for Kenosha history is obvious, as he seemed to know some of the most obscure facts. We started our tour with the earliest visitors being with the Western Emigration Company. At this time, the town was named Pike Creek for a tributary of the same name. By 1836, the land for the town had been platted and more settlers were arriving.

Growing a City

In the following years, the town grew and moved from log cabins to frame homes. The standard businesses, needed to support a growing population, opened up in what is now the downtown area. Growing as an important shipping port, the name was changed to Southport in 1837. These days, that name survives as a south-side neighborhood. As we made our way through the exhibits, we could imagine the lakeside town bustling with activity. Children rushing off to school, as the adult residents performed their daily tasks.

Learning Experience at Kenosha History Center

We always try to find some take-away from each museum we visit. This is fairly easy to do, since each destination has its own unique story to tell, and the Kenosha History Center does as well. When I saw this small informational card in a drugstore exhibit, I was surprised that I had not learned this already. I always wondered what significance the red and white pole had, and here I finally found the answer. Had you ever heard this explanation? The city continued to thrive and by 1850, it was time for the city to change it’s name one last time.

Recognizable Artifacts

We left the long ago history section to start working ourselves forward in time. As we made our way to another gallery, we paused beside a toy exhibit from days gone by. While kids these days would see all of these as antiques, some of us may recognize them from our childhood. It was interesting to see so many memories all contained in one exhibit. See any that you recognize?

Growing Commerce

By the turn of the century, the economic landscape was also changing. Kenosha would become home to an assortment of manufacturers straining to produce this new-fangled contraption called the automobile. Some of the names may be familiar. Lafayette, Rambler, Hudson, AMC, and Jeffery (Which would become Nash) all joined in the rush to fill the rapidly growing demand to fuel America’s car craze. Did you know that Jeffery first used a steering wheel, but public concern had them switch to the tiller style steering? The automotive industry thrived for decades in this harbor city, but faded away toward the end of the 1980s.

Accessible Information

A handy feature at the Kenosha History Center is the use of QR codes on informational placards. If you have a reader installed on your phone, you can scan the code to learn more about the exhibits. Of course, if you don’t have the technology available, you can still enjoy the artifacts on display. I was certainly thrilled to see the Red, White, and Blue AMC muscle cars on display. These were made in limited numbers, so to find a variety in one place is almost unheard of these days.

Bringing The Past Back

The old AMC lakeside plant was demolished in 1990, and the space was turned into Harbor Park. Today this area is filled with modern housing, marina, and an outdoor park. After our tour of the Kenosha History Museum, we took a stroll along the boardwalk in Harbor Park. This scenic walkway has great views of lake Michigan on one side and some unique sculptures on the other. As we walked, we caught sight of one of the city’s historic electric streetcars. You will certainly want to hop a ride on this fun mode of transportation.

Prepared for More

Now that we understood how the city formed, we were ready to begin exploring more of the downtown area. While light showers were passing through the region, we weren’t about to let that dampen our enthusiasm. After all, we had only learned a sliver of what makes Kenosha, Wisconsin the city it is today. Time to lace up our walking shoes and hoof it on over to our next stop. How often do you check out the local history centers in the places you vacation?

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We want to thank Visit Kenosha and Boat House Pub for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own. 

Making New Friends

When we visit a new city, we enjoy meeting some of the staff from the Visitors Bureau. On this trip, we were able to meet up with Meredith and Laura from Visit Kenosha. These two ladies would fill us in on all of the great sights we would be found throughout the city. We had arranged to meet for lunch on a weekday since it would mean the restaurant wouldn’t be crowded. Our seating allowed views of the nearby marina, which helped put us into a maritime mood. While Crystal chatted with our new friends, I wandered the restaurant checking out the nautical decor. By the time I returned to our table, it was obvious that I was holding up our lunch. The ladies had ordered a starter of Ocean Waves, which are fried ribbons of potato, served with Ranch Dressing.

Getting Her Greens

Time to get down to meal selection. As we nibbled on our first taste of Kenosha cuisine, we pored over the menu. With four people at the table, it offered a chance to showcase more dishes than we would normally feature. Crystal took this opportunity to select from the greenery portion of the menu. The Chicken & Fruit Salad is a colorful plate filled with pineapple, mandarin oranges, and cranberries. These are piled on a bed of mixed greens and topped with a sliced, crispy chicken breast. It was definitely the first of many picture-perfect dishes to arrive at our table.

Nautical Nibbles

Meredith went for the Yacht Club, which is the Boat House version of a Club Sandwich. Smoked turkey and hickory smoked bacon are the stars of the dish. Toss on some Wisconsin Cheddar and you get some tang mixed into the flavors. (We would be finding a lot of Wisconsin cheese on this trip.) All of this is piled on a Ciabatta roll, which makes for a delightful presentation. A side order of crispy french fries rounded out her meal.

Aye, Aye Admiral

We love it when we visit a restaurant that finds interesting ways to present classic dishes. Over the years, we have sampled many steak sandwiches, with too many being unimpressive. The Boat House kicks theirs up a notch with beautiful presentation. Laura chose Admiral Steak Sandwich, which is built on a pretzel roll. Tender tips of filet are mixed with sauteed mushrooms and grilled onions. Another nod to the french fries made me think they must be a delightful side choice. Our first taste of Kenosha was turning out to be quite a success.

Go Big or Go Home

Who could come to the shore of Lake Michigan and not try some local cuisine? It looked like it was up to me to sample some of the fruits of the fisherman, so I went for it all. Walk the Plank is a chance to sample plenty of Michigan classics all in one meal. The star of the show is Parmesan Crusted Walleye served on a wood plank. These filets were light and flaky, just as I had imagined. My meal was accompanied by potato cakes, which are a dish that we don’t find in Kansas very often. A bowl of the house Cole slaw added extra color and flavor. There was even a small dish of their applesauce to sweeten the deal. By the time I finished, there was no question that my hunger had been squashed.

Our First Taste of Kenosha

With a couple of days of dining and exploring ahead of us, Boat House Pub made a good start. Our first taste of Kenosha had certainly whet our appetites to see more of what this lakeside city had to offer. We said our goodbyes to Meredith and Laura and started off on our way. With daylight burning, we wanted to make sure we made the most of every minute. We were sure that there would be plenty of other delectable meals awaiting us during our visit. Our hope is that we can spark your desire to sample some of the interesting eateries that are found all over North America.

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We want to thank Visit Kenosha and the Kenosha History Center for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own. 

Early Days

The lands in this region were inhabited by Native Americans, who called it Kenozia. In the 1830s, the U.S. government opened the area for settlers, who began flocking to this lake shore region. The name was changed to Pike Creek when the first post office was established. As shipping increased on the lakes, this area became an important port. It would be renamed Southport in 1837. The name was changed again in 1850, when it became Kenosha. Inside the Southport Museum, we could read about how the area changed over time.

Shine a Light on Kenosha Harbor

Our tour guide was Chris Allen, Executive Director of the Kenosha History Center. He offered up tons of historical information about the city and the lighthouse. As he walked us through the various details associated with lighthouses, we were amazed to learn about this community’s link to this maritime necessity. The museum has examples of different lenses that are used for ship safety. As we made our way through the light keeper’s house, he taught us more and more about an area we had never studied. The earliest form of warning light was provided by a fire lit on top of a platform, which sat on a 10 foot tall stump.

The Reason for Lighthouses

On the second floor of the museum building, we came to an exhibit on shipwrecks in Lake Michigan. The information helped shine a light on Kenosha Harbor and the lake it hugs. Over the years, around 3,000 ships have sank in Lake Michigan. While all of the Great Lakes are dangerous, Lake Michigan is the deadliest. Running over 300 miles from north to south, the long, exposed shorelines allow for serious rip currents. Chris explained that the numerous wrecks are popular with divers. These days, salvage is no longer allowed, as the sites are protected.

Humble Living

The Southport Lighthouse was originally constructed in 1866, by the U.S. government. It was designed to be the first light that sailors heading north from Chicago would see. Back on the first floor, we made our way to the back half of the structure. This portion is dedicated to showing the living quarters for the lighthouse keeper. We can imagine life in these cozy quarters with its amazing view of the lake. Unfortunately, the lighthouse was built too far from the harbor to be effective.  A new beacon was built further out on the pier in 1906, and the Southport Light Station was eventually retired.

Round and Round We Go

These days the structures are resigned to the purpose of educating the public about the importance of lighthouses. The 55 foot tall tower is open for visitors on the weekends and by special appointment. We made the climb up the 72 steps to the light platform at the top. During our climb, Chris told us about one of the light-keepers who had lost his right arm. The requirement of carrying a bucket of kerosene up the steps meant that he traveled without the ability of holding the handrail. It was surely a difficult trip, since the steps are steep and narrow. Once at the top, we enjoyed the views of Kenosha and the lake.

More to Explore

Back on ground level, we thanked Chris for his offer to shine a light on Kenosha Harbor. He had done an amazing job at explaining the importance of lighthouses. We paused for a selfie, as we listened to the gulls flying at the nearby shoreline. With a new found respect for these silent protectors, we were ready to go explore more of the vibrant downtown. Have you ever climbed up a lighthouse?

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