Racine and neighboring Kenosha stretch out along Wisconsin's southeast side, toes lapped by the waters of Lake Michigan. Both cities can claim strong industrial roots, but modern efforts to clean up, from lake-front face lifts to new culturally oriented construction, have made Racine and Kenosha increasingly popular stops in this part of the state.
Racine, an easy drive down from big bustling urban center, Milwaukee, has one big blockbuster site that attracts a lot of traveler attention ? the Racine Art Museum ? a truly fine exhibit space featuring folk art and crafts from around the country. Though that should rank at the top of a "must-see" list, visitors certainly shouldn't leave town without having a look at the intriguing architecture of the Golden Rondelle Theater or making the quick trip out to see Windpoint Lighthouse. Those looking for wildlife can wander the Racine Zoological Gardens, or explore Riverbend Nature Center's easy trails.
Steer south to Kenosha to see boats bobbing at their moorings in the waters splashing Harborpark then head inland for a bit of atmosphere and access to museums like the Kenosha Public Museum and the Kenosha County Historical Museum. It would be a crying shame to come this far and not spend some time on the sparkling blue expanse spread out beyond the city, and hopping a charter boat to cast off for trout and salmon is a fine way to do it. Shoppers should note that there are two different sets of outlet stores in the vicinity ? bring comfortable walking shoes!
Anyone with a sweet tooth won't want to miss a Wonka-esque tour around the Jelly Belly Center in Pleasant Prairie, a few miles from Kenosha.
Racine is 33 miles south of Milwaukee and 10 miles north of Kenosha.
