Getting ready for a road trip from Crystal Lake, Illinois to Milwaukee, Wisconsin and not sure where to stop along the way? Don't worry, I've got you covered with the top five popular attractions you won't want to miss!
The halfway point on your trip between Crystal Lake and Milwaukee is the charming city of Kenosha, Wisconsin. Kenosha is known for its beautiful lakefront, vibrant downtown, and historic attractions. It's the perfect place to take a break, stretch your legs, and explore before continuing on to your final destination in Milwaukee.
1. Kenosha Public Museum The Kenosha Public Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in natural history and fine art. The museum's exhibits focus on the natural sciences, decorative arts, and fine arts, with a particular emphasis on the history of the Great Lakes region. Visitors can explore the museum's extensive collection of fossils, Native American artifacts, and European decorative arts, as well as its impressive collection of fine art from the 19th and 20th centuries.
2. Dinosaur Discovery Museum The Dinosaur Discovery Museum is a unique attraction in Kenosha that's perfect for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages. The museum's main attraction is the Carthage Institute of Paleontology, which features an extensive collection of dinosaur fossils, including the world's most complete known dinosaur skeleton. Visitors can also learn about the history of dinosaur discovery and paleontology through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
3. Civil War Museum History buffs won't want to miss the Civil War Museum in Kenosha, which offers a fascinating look at the role of the Upper Midwest in the Civil War. The museum's exhibits focus on the social, political, and economic impact of the war on the region, with a particular emphasis on the experiences of soldiers and civilians from Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. Visitors can explore the museum's extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the Civil War, as well as its interactive multimedia exhibits.
4. Bristol Renaissance Faire If you happen to be traveling through Kenosha during the summer or early fall, be sure to stop by the Bristol Renaissance Faire for a truly one-of-a-kind experience. The Faire is a re-creation of an English village from the 16th century, complete with period-accurate architecture, entertainment, food, and games. Visitors can enjoy live performances, artisan demonstrations, and interactive activities that bring the magic of the Renaissance to life.
5. Southport Light Station Museum The Southport Light Station Museum is a historic lighthouse and museum located on the shore of Lake Michigan in Kenosha. The museum features exhibits on the history of the lighthouse and its keepers, as well as the maritime history of the Great Lakes region. Visitors can explore the lighthouse and its grounds, climb to the top for panoramic views of the lake, and learn about the important role of lighthouses in navigation and safety on the Great Lakes.
In conclusion, the best route for this trip is to take Interstate 94, which offers a direct and scenic drive between Crystal Lake, Illinois and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Along the way, be sure to make a stop in Kenosha to explore its unique attractions and vibrant downtown before continuing on to your final destination. Safe travels!