University of Wisconsin–Madison

A Perfect Day in Racine, Wisconsin

For this multi-generational UW Law family, Racine offers something for everyone. Here, Lauren Devine ’15 and Thomas Devine ’78 share their guide to a perfect summer day in America’s Kringle Capital.

Thomas and Lauren Devine

Early Bird Gets the Coffee … and the Kringle

Lauren: Pick up a latte from Wilson’s Coffee and Tea, a local shop that roasts its beans to perfection, and head over to North Beach to take in the sun rising over Lake Michigan.

Thomas: If you are visiting Racine, kringles are an absolute must. My recommendation: the cherry kringle from Bendtsen’s Bakery.

Lauren: Next, head to the Racine Farmers Market to sample cheese, bread, and Bloody Marys. Still hungry? Try brunch at the Blue Bear or Out of the Pan.

Life Is Better at the Big Lake

Lauren: Rent a bike from Third Coast Bikes and explore the miles and miles of bike paths that span the city. Ride to the Wind Point Lighthouse, one of the oldest and tallest lighthouses in operation on Lake Michigan, and climb to the top for breathtak­ing views.

Thomas: With over 2,500 feet of sand, a stunning lighthouse, and of course, the great lake, Racine boasts some of the best fresh­water beaches in the country. I love watching the weather come in on the big lake.

Destination: Downtown

Lauren: For lunch, grab a Spanish tapa or two at Olde Madrid and explore the quaint and unique shops that line Main and Sixth streets, such as Art Metals Studio, Seebecks, Dimples, Lornacopia, and the Racine Art Museum Gift Shop.

Thomas: Racine boasts some beautiful historic buildings, includ­ing the J-Wax Frank Lloyd Wright Building and the Heritage Museum, a former Carnegie Library. While downtown, my first choice for lunch is Asiana. The spicy green mussels are to die for, and Kim, the owner, is delightful.

Beer and Beats

Thomas: Head to the Reefpoint Brew House to enjoy a locally crafted beer and grab a seat on the deck overlooking the harbor. Watch freighters and boats come in, and take in a Lake Michi­gan sunset.

Lauren: Racine has a vibrant music scene. Get a copy of the local newspaper and plan your night accordingly. End your night with dancing at Envi — the DJ is sure to get you on your feet!

Details:

  • Wind Point Lighthouse – 4725 Lighthouse Dr
  • Bendtsen’s Bakery – 3200 Washington Ave
  • Wilson’s Coffee and Tea – 3306 Washington Ave
  • Out of the Pan – 550 State St
  • Racine Farmers Market – 700 State Street
  • North Beach – 100 Kewaunee St
  • Reefpoint Brew House – 2 Christopher Columbus
  • Envi – 316 Main St
  • Art Metals Studio – 332 Main St
  • Seebecks – 402 Main St
  • Racine Art Museum Gift Shop – 441 Main St
  • Dimples Imports – 416 Main St
  • Racine Heritage Museum – 701 Main St
  • Lornacopia – 310 6th St
  • Olde Madrid – 418 6th St
  • Asiana – 423 6th St
  • 3rd Coast Bicycles – 401 6th St
  • J-Wax Frank Lloyd Wright Building – 1525 Howe St
  • Blue Bear – 2920 Taylor Ave

Interview Compiled and Edited by Karen Koethe