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Welcome back to the next chapter of my ongoing road trip adventure! I left behind the bustling cityscape of Chicago and set my sights northward along the winding shores of Lake Michigan, venturing into the charming city of Kenosha, Wisconsin. My stop in Kenosha turned out to be a delightful surprise, filled with music, good food, and pleasant weather.
Upon arriving in Kenosha, I immediately felt a sense of warmth and appeal that the city exudes. The weather was on my side, and I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect evening.
Grooving to the Beats: A Night at 58 Below
As I meandered through the streets, I stumbled upon “58 Below,” a vibrant local bar hosting an outdoor music event called Domfest. The crowd was alive and buzzing with enthusiasm, thoroughly enjoying the live music that filled the air. I found a spot to sway and soaked in the captivating melodies. After a while, I decided to explore the area further, and my walk led me to the inviting waterfront.
The sight of boats gently gliding on the shimmering waters added a touch of magic to the evening. It was a serene and peaceful scene that contrasted wonderfully with the energy of Domfest. This delightful duality of experiences was a memorable start to my Kenosha adventure.
Sway to the Rhythms of Jazz at Sazzy B
Keen to continue the musical theme of the night, I made my way to Sazzy B, a local establishment known for its jazz performances. The soothing sounds of jazz filled the air as I entered, and I soon found myself engaged in lively conversations with fellow patrons at the bar. The combination of live jazz and the warm camaraderie of those around me made for a perfect ending to my evening in Kenosha.
Classic Diner Delights: Breakfast at Franks Diner
After spending the night in my trusty van, that following morning I knew a hearty breakfast was in order. I headed to Frank’s Diner, a historic establishment with a rich past. Throughout the decades, Frank’s Diner has hosted numerous celebrities, including The Three Stooges, Duke Ellington, and Mark Ruffalo. It holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously-operating lunch-car diner in the United States. At Frank’s, I couldn’t resist trying their specialty, the Garbage Plate. This hearty dish consists of five whole eggs mixed into a combination of hash browns, with a choice of meats and cheeses. I opted for American cheese and hash as the meat, savoring a taste of local flavors with each bite. It was quite filling.
A Cheesy Adventure: Exploring the Mars Cheese Castle
Before saying farewell to Kenosha, I couldn’t resist indulging in a quintessential Wisconsin experience – a visit to the Mars Cheese Castle. And don’t worry, it’s not a castle made of cheese, though that would be interesting, wouldn’t it? This unique roadside attraction is a haven for cheese enthusiasts, boasting an impressive selection of dairy delights. I couldn’t resist the temptation to explore its offerings and left with two varieties of sharp cheddar, one aged for a year and the other aged for a whopping 12 years. The quest to discern the nuances of flavor in these aged cheddars added a delightful element of culinary curiosity to my journey.
With Kenosha in my rearview mirror, I continued my northward trek along the western shore of Lake Michigan. As I left the city behind, I couldn’t help but anticipate the adventures that lay ahead, making the road trip to the Arctic Circle all the more exciting. Stay tuned for more tales from the van life journey as I explore new places, flavors, and melodies along the way.
| 58 Below 504 58th St Kenosha, WI 53140 | Sazzy B 5623 6th Ave Kenosha, WI 53140 |
| Franks Diner 508 58th St Kenosha, WI 53140 | Mars Cheese Castle 2800 W Frontage Rd Kenosha, WI 53144 |