Racine
Bisected by the winding Root River, the city has many residential areas and about 900 acres of parkland. Like many Wisconsin cities, it has a multiethnic population, but the emphasis is Danish. West Racine is often dubbed “Kringleville” for its bakeries specializing in Danish kringle. Filled with fruit and sweet nut fillings, the pastry can be enjoyed at any number of area bakeries.
Racine boasts a rich industrial history that includes Case Tractors, In-Sink-Erator food waste disposers and S.C. Johnson (formerly Johnson Wax) household products, all of which had their humble beginnings in Racine County.
Racine's architectural legacy includes five buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, among them the 1939 landmark S.C. Johnson Administration Building at 1525 Howe St. The outstanding architectural features are highlighted along with a look at the company's history and philosophies. You can also tour the Research Tower, the Golden Rondelle Theater and Fortaleza Hall and watch a 20-minute film originally shown at the 1964-65 World's Fair. Guided tours are offered Wednesday through Sunday, March through December. Reservations are required; phone (262) 260-2154.
The 1880 Wind Point Lighthouse is said to be the oldest and tallest in operation on Lake Michigan. The grounds are open to the public, but reservations are required to tour the building; phone (262) 639-3777. Downtown Racine is the site of ReefPoint Marina, with some 1,000 boat slips, and Racine Civic Centre Festival Park.
Shopping
The Regency Mall, I-94 exit 335 to 5538 Durand Ave., includes Boston Store among its 115 stores. The shops in 7-Mile Fair, 2720 W. 7 Mile Rd. at I-94 in Caledonia, feature antiques and collectibles. Downtown Racine offers a variety of boutiques.