What We Love About Kenosha
Peacefully nestled between Milwaukee and Chicago, Kenosha has a charming small-town feel. But it’s also the fourth largest city in Wisconsin, with a vibrant downtown and plenty to do. Carthage students love Kenosha’s restaurants, cafes, locally owned boutiques, beaches and parks, streetcars, and arts scene.
City streets are easy to navigate. Just about anything is accessible by car or the many public transportation options, including the Kenosha Street Car, buses, and the Lakefront Trolley.
While strolling downtown, admire the artistic murals and beautiful buildings and catch views of the city and lake from the Kenosha Southport Lighthouse.
“Exploring the downtown area has been a joy growing up, with its fascinating museums, vibrant harbor markets, and charming craft fairs that showcase the local art scene.” — Summer Zilisch ’26
Milwaukee and Chicago offer access to big city amenities, transportation, and career opportunities. But the 90 miles in between are packed with something for everyone!
- Shop at the Pleasant Prairie Premium Outlets
- Be entertained at The Bristol Renaissance Faire
- Ski, tube, or snowboard at Wilmot Mountain Ski Resort
- Mountain bike at Silver Lake Park
- Hike at Richard Bong State Recreation Area
- Ride the roller coasters at Six Flags Great America
People in Kenosha are willing to aid Carthage students. There are so many programs at Carthage that partner with Kenosha residents and businesses. Just by saying, “I’m a Carthage student,” Kenosha residents become eager to help students find a job, internship, or anything else they need.
- Internships with local businesses, like Jockey International, Snap-on Inc., LMI Packaging, and more!
- Real-world experiences like nursing clinicals at local hospitals and student teaching in the Kenosha and Racine school districts.
- Collaborating with local government on special projects and assisting small businesses with marketing initiatives.
“I love being able to go down to the Carthage beach and look for beach glass with my friends or just going for a walk by the water.” — Skylar Farr ’26
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- The Kenosha HarborMarket
- Kenosha Kingfish baseball club
- Hawthorn Hollow Nature Sanctuary and Arboretum
- Jerry Smith’s Produce and Pumpkin Farm
- Ice Rink at Veterans Memorial Park
- Church festivals
- Concerts and movies in the park
- Art fairs
“I love the HarborMarket here. I found a new favorite at the market, Fizzy Bizz, who makes dirty sodas that need to be tried at least once. There are many jewelry makers and food vendors, as well as cars to gaze upon, live music, and more.” — Line Wisely ’26
“I love going to Jerry Smith Pumpkin Farm, as it reminds me of going to pumpkin patches when I was younger and brings back many memories! The patch is decorated with different themes, such as Disney and Barbie, and has excellent food and a relaxing hayride. It is a place the whole family can surely enjoy!” — Kelly Sibert ’25
See more things to do in Kenosha at VisitKenosha.com!
From fine dining to late-night pizza delivery; from drive-in burgers to weekend brunch, Kenosha has something to satisfy every craving.
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- Coffee shop favorites, including The Coffee Pot, The Buzz Cafe, BLAK Coffee, and Franks Diner, as featured on Food Networks’ Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.
- In the mood for sushi? Try Soon’s Sushi Cafe or Ono Sushi in Downtown Kenosha.
- Got a craving for German? Go to the House of Gerhard.
- Satisfy your hankering for supper club fare at the HOBNOB Restaurant.
- Need to satisfy your sweet tooth? Get ice cream at Scoops or Sweet Corner Ice Cream.
- Two local favorites within walking distance from campus are La Fogata and Waterfront Warehouse.
- Kenosha’s MANY pizza places, like Kaiser’s, DeRango’s, Ruffolo’s, Valeo’s, or Infusino’s.
- Local breweries like PUBLIC Craft Brewing, Kenosha Brewing, Rustic Road Brewing Company, and 1ofUs Brewing Company.
- And close downtown favorites including Sazzy B, Marina Garden Family Restaurant, Boat House Pub and Eatery, Villa D’Carlo, The Apis, Slip 56, and more!
Say cheese! When you think of Wisconsin, you think of cheese. Check out Visit Kenosha’s restaurant guide to all things cheesy.
“My favorite place is definitely Scoops. The shop is so cute, they have great ice cream, and the best part is that Carthage students get a discount.” — Gianna Feminis ’25
Photo credit: VisitKenosha.com
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- Pleasant Prairie Premium Outlets
- Tenuta’s Italian Delicatessen
- Mars Cheese Castle
- To & From Gift Shop
- Authentique Gift Shop
- Sandy’s Popper
- Peacetree Originals
- Blue House Books
- Equinox Botanical Boutique
“Every year when my family comes up to visit, we always make a pit stop at Mars Cheese Castle to buy all of our favorite cheeses, crackers, and drinks. We lose track of time there, but it is totally worth it in the end.” — Stewart Lilly ’24
“Stepping into Blue House Books is akin to entering a mystical land: the colors and decorations are stimulating, the vibes are immaculate, and the collection of books is diverse and thought-provoking. Be prepared to stay longer than expected, as a simple browse may turn into an hour-long ordeal.” — Lorin Bucur ’26
Photo credit: VisitKenosha.com
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- Kenosha History Center
- Civil War Museum
- Southport Light Station Museum
- Dinosaur Discovery Museum
- Pollard Gallery and Gifts
- Rhode Center for the Arts
- Anderson Arts Center
- Lemon Street Gallery
- Re:Vision Art Gallery
“I love to take my family here whenever they visit. The museum is so interactive and interesting for history majors it even boasts several exhibits that focus on Kenosha’s community impact throughout the years. So much fun!” — Ava Serfling Bennett ’24
Photo credit: VisitKenosha.com
“Kenosha is a wonderful place to attend college. From the charming downtown area to the pier on the lake to the variety of activities offered year-round, I’m so glad Carthage is in a town like Kenosha.” — Nina Werger ’24
Lakeside Living
