Need a Lake Michigan getaway with beaches, architecture, and kringle? Head to Racine! Located between Milwaukee and Chicago, Racine offers lakefront relaxation, iconic Frank Lloyd Wright designs, and a thriving arts and culinary scene. Whether you’re walking the shoreline, admiring modernist buildings, or biting into the state’s best Danish pastry, Racine blends culture, history, and Midwestern charm.

Racine, WI Highlights:

  • For Adventurous Travelers: Kayak or sail on Lake Michigan – Launch from North Beach or Reefpoint Marina and enjoy blue waters and cool lake breezes.
  • For History Buffs: Tour the SC Johnson Headquarters by Frank Lloyd Wright – See stunning architecture and visit the Wright-designed Research Tower and Golden Rondelle Theater.
  • For Shoppers: Visit the Racine Art Museum Store and local downtown boutiques – Discover handmade crafts, art, and Wisconsin-made goods in a walkable setting.
  • For Couples: Stroll the Lake Michigan Pathway – Walk or bike along the scenic waterfront trail with lighthouse views and sunset spots.
  • For Families: Spend the day at North Beach – This award-winning, kid-friendly beach offers lifeguards, concessions, and plenty of sand for play.

Best Time to Visit Racine, WI

The best time to visit Racine is late spring through early fall (May–October), when the lakefront comes alive with festivals, farmers markets, and beach weather. Summer is ideal for swimming and sailing, while fall brings crisp air and autumn events.

How to Get to Racine, WI

  • If you are traveling by car: Racine is along I-94, about 30 minutes south of Milwaukee and 1.5 hours north of Chicago.
  • By Train: Amtrak and Metra serve nearby cities like Sturtevant and Kenosha, with connections to Racine via bus or car.
  • By Air: General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) in Milwaukee is about 30 minutes away and offers frequent domestic service.

Where to Stay in Racine, WI

  • DoubleTree by Hilton Racine Harbourwalk – Modern lakefront hotel with a pool, marina access, and walkability to downtown.
  • Christmas House Bed & Breakfast – A Victorian-era mansion offering elegant rooms, homemade breakfast, and historic charm.
  • Clarion Pointe Racine–Mount Pleasant – Budget-friendly lodging with easy highway access and comfortable amenities.

Best Things to Do in Racine, WI

Wind Point Lighthouse


Climb to the top and admire lake views on a scenic summer trip.

Wind Point Lighthouse

© Henryk Sadura/stock.adobe.com

The lighthouse is in the village of Wind Point, north of Racine. It was built in 1880 and placed in the National Register of Historical Places 100 years later. The Wind Point Lighthouse was initially built as a 108 foot tower, keeper's quarters and fog horn which was heard ten miles into Lake Michigan. In 1899, residences were added for two assistant keepers. The brick memorial path bears the names of all who worked on the lighthouse. In 1924, the light was electrified and in 1964 it was automated and the foghorn dismantled. The premises are open for tours on certain days of the year and the hall can be hired for private events.

4725 Lighthouse Drive, Racine, WI 53402, Phone: 262-639-3777

Racine Zoo


See exotic animals and enjoy lakefront views on a fun family outing.

Racine Zoo

© Racine Zoo

The Racine Zoo was started in 1923 when Jacob Stoffel donated a number of animals to the park board. Other animals were added and the Racine Zoological Society was formed. Today there are more than 100 species of amphibians, birds, mammals and reptiles. The zoo is visited by 125000 people per annum and has a membership program. Animals Depend On People Too (ADOPT) enables patrons to sponsor the upkeep of certain animals. Field trips are organized by the staff. Safaris and behind-the-scenes tours are offered on the premises. 'Wild' children's birthday parties can be held at the zoo or at home.

2131 North Main Street, Racine, WI 53402, Phone: 262-636-9189

Hot Shop Glass


Watch glassblowing demos and explore local art on an unusual creative visit.

Hot Shop Glass

© Hot Shop Glass

Racine has a history of glass blowing. The Prairie School established a hot glass shop as part of its art department in 1969. In 2005, a growing community of glass blowing artists collaborated to establish a glass blowing studio and gallery. Dilapidated stables in downtown Racine were restored for the purpose. Tours and instruction are available for groups and individuals. In two hours trainees can learn to make a paperweight or ornament. There are seasonal classes, such as making hearts for Valentines Day and pumpkins for Halloween. Studios are rented by the hour and the artists' work is for sale in the gallery.

Hot Shop Glass, 239 Wisconsin Ave., Racine, WI 53403, Phone: 262-833-0095

Racine Art Museum, Racine


Look at contemporary crafts and explore exhibits on an affordable cultural trip.

Racine Art Museum, Racine

© Racine Art Museum

In 1938, the widow of Charles A. Wustum bequeathed the family home to the city for an art museum. The 12 acre property on the edge of town was across the street from the Horlicks factory. The first exhibit opened with 96 paintings by Wisconsin artists. This was augmented by 294 woven articles from the New Deal's Work Progress Administration (WPA). Today it houses 9500 articles, the largest and most significant craft collection in Northern America. The museum has moved to an 1874 bank building, tripling the area available for display. The original Racine Art Museum has been upgraded and is being used as an education center.

What to do if you are traveling with kids:

River Bend Nature Center


Hike forest trails and spot wildlife on a peaceful spring nature walk.

River Bend Nature Center

© River Bend Nature Center

The River Bend Nature Center was established with the mandate to protect the River Bend, an area unsuitable for agriculture but ideal for outdoor recreation and environmental education. For almost 50 years the 78 acre center was run by the YWCA. It was sold to Racine County and the work continued. Thousands of children and their families have enjoyed learning and making memories there. There are ponds, river frontage, woodlands and hiking trails to explore. The buildings can be hired for meetings and team building. Equipment for canoeing and kayaking are for hire. Kayaking, woodwork and archery classes are offered.

3600 N. Green Bay Road, Racine, Wisconsin 53404, Phone: 262-639-1515

Reef Point Marina


Stroll the docks and admire boats on a relaxing retirement afternoon.

Reef Point Marina

© fotografci/stock.adobe.com

The Reef Point Marina is owned by Racine County and managed by F3 Marina, a leader in their field. It is a safe harbor, with gated access and security guards. There are 921 slips and two permanent piers. Electricity, water and WiFi are included in the slip fee. A restaurant, store, laundry and fueling station are situated on the premises. There are two heated pools, a picnic area and a fish cleaning area. The marina is close to historic downtown Racine where restaurants, shops, museums and galleries are to be found. The marina is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

#2 Christopher Columbus Causeway, Racine, WI 53403, Phone: 262-633-7171

Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:

Racine Heritage Museum


Discover local history and see vintage exhibits on a quick educational trip.

Racine Heritage Museum

© Racine Heritage Museum

The historical museum building was once a Carnegie Library. It is a two-story Beaux Arts style / Renaissance Revival building made out of Bedford limestone. In 1962 the Racine County Museum was formed and in 1982 merged with the Historical Society. The Racine Heritage Museum has a large archival collection and several permanent collections. These include material about the factories that started in Racine, such as Johnson Wax and Horlicks; the Underground Railway and the Abolitionist movement; the role of the harbor; and Frank Lloyd Wright in Racine. Tribute is also paid to Laurel Clark who died on the Columbia shuttle.

Racine Theatre Guild


Watch live performances and enjoy community talent on a fun weekend night out.

Racine Theatre Guild

© aerogondo/stock.adobe.com

The Racine Theatre Guild was established in 1938 by 26 people and $13. Through the tireless work of volunteers and a small professional staff, the theatre became the first in Wisconsin to own its own building. Productions have toured in Europe and Japan. The guild has participated in international theatre festivals and hosted its own. There are annual children's theatre, jazz, comedy and concert programs. The education program includes classes, outreaches and field trips to theatres in Chicago and New York. There are regular auditions, appeals for volunteers and membership drives.

2519 Northwestern Ave., Racine, WI 53404, Phone: 262-633-4218

Eco Justice Center, Racine


Tour gardens and learn sustainability practices on a kids-friendly educational outing.

Eco Justice Center, Racine

© Eco Justice Center

This environmental education center was started by Racine Dominicans in 2004. They bought 15 acres of land with a 1912 farmhouse on it. Several alterations were undertaken to make outbuildings functional, and a greenhouse, education center and retreat were added. The Youth Farm Corps works on the farm in summer, raising, preparing and selling crops and interacting with the farm animals. The center hosts spring and summer ecological camps, and organizes tours and field trips. There are regular community events such as farm-to-table dinners, trail runs and the annual fall festival. The farm is open 7 days a week.

Eco Justice Center, 7133 Michna Rd, Racine, WI 53402, Phone: 262-681-8527

Where to Eat in Racine, WI

  • O&H Danish Bakery – A must-visit for kringle, Wisconsin’s official state pastry, available in dozens of flavors.
  • Blue Bear – Farm-to-table café offering breakfast and lunch with local ingredients and healthy options.
  • Wells Brothers Pizza – A Racine institution serving thin-crust pizza and Italian-American classics since 1921.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Racine Fourth Fest (July 4) – One of the largest Independence Day parades in the Midwest, followed by fireworks and community celebrations.
  • Party on the Pavement (September) – Annual street festival with food, music, artists, and downtown vendors.
  • Holiday Lights at the Zoo (December) – A family-friendly light display and seasonal fun at the Racine Zoo.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Racine, Wisconsin:

  • Milwaukee (30 min) – Visit breweries, the Milwaukee Art Museum, and the lakefront in Wisconsin’s biggest city.
  • Kenosha (20–25 min) – Ride electric streetcars, visit the Dinosaur Discovery Museum, and shop outlet malls.
  • Lake Geneva (1 hr) – Enjoy boating, boutique shopping, and lakeside dining in this scenic resort town.
  • Chicago (northern suburbs) (1 hr) – Explore museums, restaurants, and Lake Michigan shoreline without the downtown traffic.
  • Bong State Recreation Area (45 min) – A quirky, sprawling outdoor park for hiking, stargazing, birding, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Where is Racine located?
    • Racine is situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, 22 miles south of Milwaukee.
  • What is Racine’s industrial history?
    • It has a history of being a factory town.
  • What major brands are associated with Racine?
    • Case's heavy machinery, Johnson's chemical and cleaning products, and Horlicks malted milk are global brands associated with the city.
  • What historical and architectural attractions can be found in Racine?
    • There are several buildings listed on the National Register of Historical Places, and Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural work is well represented.
  • What cultural and environmental initiatives does Racine prioritize?
    • Arts, culture, and environmental issues feature high on the city's list of priorities.

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming gardens. Delta Hotels by Marriott Racine – A stylish stay with great amenities. Visit the Racine Zoo – Enjoy lakefront views and diverse animal exhibits.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and great for lakefront activities. DoubleTree by Hilton Racine Harbourwalk – A waterfront hotel with scenic views. Relax at North Beach – A beautiful sandy beach along Lake Michigan.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and colorful fall foliage. Christmas House Bed & Breakfast – A charming historic inn. Explore the Wind Point Lighthouse – Climb to the top for breathtaking views.
Winter (December-February) – Cold and snowy, perfect for a cozy getaway. Fairfield Inn Racine – A comfortable and affordable stay. Try famous Racine kringle – A delicious Danish pastry from local bakeries.

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