NEWS

Inspired by similar architecture tours in Milwaukee and Chicago, Keys to Kenosha will be a new self-guided architecture tour to give residents and visitors alike newfound access to some of the area’s most significant and historic buildings.

From storied churches and Downtown diners to the campuses of Carthage College and UW-Parkside, the new program will open the doors to sites from all across the county with its marquee event on Saturday, Nov. 7.

Officials launched the program with a ceremony at the Simmons Neighborhood Library on May 1.

“We see this beautiful monument that’s in front of us here, and we’re reminded of why this city is so great,” said Mayor David Bogdala, referencing the library “It’s great because it has great people. It’s great because it has great history, and we recognize, and support and cultivate that history.”

The sites

Fifty sites from across Kenosha County will open their doors to tours on Nov. 7. Highlights are expected to include Uke’s Harley-Davidson at 5995 120th Ave., one of the oldest Harley-Davidson dealerships in the world; the Southport Light Station Museum at 5117 4th Ave.; and the McCarthy Transit Center at 724 54th St., also known as the “car barn” for Kenosha’s historic streetcars.

Keys to Kenosha will not be just about historic sites, organizers said. Those who have ever been curious about the inside of a Kenosha Fire Station or wanted to pop into the new luxury Karrick Apartments in the Harbor District, the Nov. 7 event is the day to do so.

Tours will be free and mostly self-guided, allowing participants to choose their own adventure with whatever Kenosha sites appeal to them most.

A full list of sites being planned can be viewed at keystokenosha.com. Some participating sites will have guided tours that will require pre-registration; details will be posted to the Keys to Kenosha website closer to the event.