A Boy’s Guide to Kenosha

Bruh, what’s there to do… A Boy’s Guide to Kenosha!

Being a mother to boys can be challenging, especially if they get bored. I am a mother of three, two of which are sons, Gage 17 and Jax 12. Probably goes without saying that one still hangs out with me while the other jumps in his car with friends before the sand is out of his eyes. Luckily for me, he knows a lot of local spots in the area that keep him entertained and safe, while I get to hang tight to Jax before he is in the driver seat. Here is a list of some of our favorite spots to visit as a family with boys to help you in your travel plans!

The Great Outdoors

Kenosha offers great hangouts right on the water, and the best part is that no money is needed! My oldest and his buddies frequent Alford Park Beach, taking time to add to the rock cairns. They also like to cruise the lakefront at Kennedy Park – don’t underestimate the power of a drive by the lake when visiting. Nearby is the Kenosha Beach House on Simmons Island (which operates seasonally). Stop in for a quick refreshment and take in the beautiful views and breeze, rent some lounge chairs to sit by the water, or enjoy one of the many weekend events.

Eichelman Park and Beach is where I like to take my youngest for a beach day. There's a nearby splash pad for the warm days and playgrounds for days when the lake water is a little chilled. A second park is right next door, Wolfenbüttel Park. It’s great for a warm day and conversation. My son and I stroll the walking trail while talking about everything and nothing – this one also offers a lot of winding sidewalks, if you’re traveling with your pups it makes for great walks! There are also four great dog parks in the area to enjoy.

Catch and release fishing is a popular past time for my teen. Nash Park is their primary fishing hole but also, they enjoy shore fishing from the HarborPark promenade. (Wisconsin residents and non-residents, 16 years of age and older, require a fishing license to fish in any state waters, regardless of whether they intend to keep the fish or practice catch-and-release.) If you need gear, be sure to check out FISHTECH.

Gage and his friends recently went to see their friends in the pits out at Wilmot Raceway. This is a seasonal activity taking place primarily May through September. Wilmot Raceway is celebrating their 75^th Anniversary Season…Bring on the adrenaline! The dirt track hosts races on weekends, and is super family-friendly.

A great affordable way to appease boys of all ages is to take them out to the old ball game! Kenosha Kingfish are part of the Northwoods League and play on the historic Simmons Field. These games are always full of fun, food, and laughs. We especially love attending on a themed night.

Eats

Everybody knows a way to a boy’s heart is through his stomach. Nothing beats a fresh driver’s license and a drive-in burger spot! Kenosha is home to The Spot Drive-in and Big Star - neither will disappoint a teenager’s appetite or wallet! Gage is more adventurous when it comes to trying out different foods, and as such, he and his friends love Sooshibay. A unique conveyor belt sushi restaurant not only is sushi delicious, but the Ramen is top notch!

Jax’s palate hasn’t quite matured enough for sushi. However, he is one lucky kid to grow up in a town that has an amazing Italian presence because pizza and pasta … he never grows tired of. His top pick for (a plain cheese… insert eyeroll) thin pizza can be found at Tenuta’s Italian Restaurant. Don’t worry they offer grown up toppings, too! Gnocchi is his favorite pasta and Infusino’s Pizzeria offers a generous helping; that way Mom can steal a few bites while still ordering her own dish.

Something both boys can agree on is ICE CREAM! Let’s be honest: I also agree that there is nothing ice cream can’t cure! Scoops Ice Cream & Candy is a must with 36+ flavors and a huge array of toppings. Both boys share their favorite flavor This $&@! Just Got Serious®- I think it’s their way of getting to kind of swear in front of Mom.

Another sweet spot is Smarty's Sweets & Treats. Locally owned and operated and known for their build your own boba drinks, add boba to tea, frappes, Italian soda, or a smoothie. Jax gives the strawberry tea with sour cherry popping boba a 10 out 10 recommendation.

Shopping

My son is currently getting ready for his senior prom! There is not a better place to style him than Mike Bjorn’s! 36+ years helping the young men of Kenosha look their best! Pro kid tip: Crazy sock day at school? Go to Bjorn’s, they will likely be a little big, but you will always find something fun and unusual!

If you have a bookworm or an aspiring author? Check out Studio Moonfall! This bookstore if great for boys who like fantasy or sci-fiction. There are books from local and indie authors. Studio Moonfall’s owner is an author and illustrator himself; check out his amazing coloring books inspired by local Kenosha businesses.

Maybe your son is not into books but likes to build. Go visit Bricks & Minifigs Kenosha. This is the ultimate LEGO experience! You can buy, sell and trade LEGO sets both new and retired. My 12-year-old like to fill a bag of random pieces for all his personal creative masterpieces!

Here are more places that are on the boy’s Kenosha bucket list:

• Boundless Adventures - Climb the ultimate rope course!
• Fizzy Bizz - Signature sodas or create your own!
• Hold My Beer - Maybe a root beer? Axe throwing (ages 10 and up)!
• Red Witch II Sailing Excursion - Act like pirate! Arrgh… Sail aboard the 55’ long sailboat!
• Bristol 45 Diner - 1950s style diner with classic car cruise-in nights on the first, third, and fifth Mondays starting in May.
• Southport Lighthouse – climb the 72 steps to the top of the tower for awesome views and serious bragging rights!

Enjoy!