Paddock Lake WisconsinATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Paddock Lake, Wisconsin.
1. Paddock Lake
BEAUTIFUL COMMUNITY LAKE
Paddock Lake stands out as one of the village's greatest features, offering visitors a serene water experience in this small community of approximately 3,200 residents. Visitors can enjoy fishing and boating activities on this picturesque body of water. The lake provides a perfect escape while still being conveniently located between Milwaukee and Chicago.
2. Hooker Lake
RECREATIONAL WATER PARADISE
Hooker Lake is the second beautiful lake that stands out as one of Paddock Lake Village's greatest features. This recreational water paradise offers visitors opportunities for fishing and boating in a tranquil setting. The lake's proximity to other attractions enhances its appeal as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Richard Bong State Recreation Area
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE HAVEN
The Richard Bong State Recreation Area, located in close vicinity to Paddock Lake, offers visitors hiking and horseback riding as well as other recreational opportunities. This outdoor haven spans over 4,500 acres of natural landscape with diverse ecosystems to explore. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy wildlife viewing, camping, and seasonal activities year-round in this expansive recreation area.
4. Aquanut Water Shows
THRILLING WATER PERFORMANCES
Aquanut Water Shows entertain spectators with impressive water skiing performances and stunts on the lakes of Twin Lakes, just about 8 miles from Paddock Lake. Running from May 24 to August 30, 2025, these shows feature skilled performers executing choreographed routines that delight audiences of all ages. Visitors can experience the excitement of this classic summer tradition that showcases athletic prowess on water.
5. Wisconsin Marathon
SCENIC LAKEFRONT RACE
The Wisconsin Marathon is a premier running event taking place in Kenosha on May 3, 2025, approximately 15 miles from Paddock Lake. Runners experience a scenic route along Lake Michigan's shoreline with beautiful views and enthusiastic community support. This well-organized marathon attracts participants from across the region who challenge themselves on this certified course.
6. Kenosha Electric Streetcar
HISTORIC LAKEFRONT TRANSPORTATION
The Kenosha Electric Streetcar offers riders an authentic vintage transportation experience along the lakefront, connecting museums, shops, restaurants, and events throughout Downtown Kenosha. For just $1 or less, visitors can enjoy one loop of this charming streetcar system that serves both as practical transportation and a nostalgic attraction. The streetcar provides a unique way to experience Kenosha's lakefront district while enjoying the historic ambiance of this restored transit system.
7. Simmons Island Beach
ACCESSIBLE LAKEFRONT RECREATION
Simmons Island Beach welcomes visitors with its inviting boardwalk along Lake Michigan and portable mobility mats on the sand during summer days to improve accessibility. The beach hosts regular events at the Kenosha Beach House, including Friday Bonfire Nights from Memorial Day Weekend to Halloween. Visitors can enjoy the scenic shoreline while participating in community gatherings that celebrate this beautiful lakefront setting.
8. Southport Lighthouse
HISTORIC MARITIME TOWER
The 1866 Southport Lighthouse invites visitors to climb its 72 steps for an amazing view of Lake Michigan from May through October. This historic maritime structure offers a glimpse into Kenosha's nautical past while providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. Visitors (at least 8 years old) can access this treasured landmark for $10 or less, making it an affordable historical experience.
9. North Pier Lighthouse
ICONIC LAKEFRONT LANDMARK
The North Pier Lighthouse stands as one of Kenosha's most recognized landmarks, offering the perfect backdrop for memorable photographs. This distinctive red lighthouse marks the entrance to Kenosha Harbor and has become an iconic symbol of the city. Visitors can enjoy the scenic surroundings of this historic structure free of charge while exploring Kenosha's beautiful lakefront.
10. East Troy Electric Railroad
HISTORIC RAILWAY EXPERIENCE
The East Troy Electric Railroad offers special Dinner Trains on May 3, 2025, providing a unique dining experience aboard vintage electric cars about 21 miles from Paddock Lake. This historic railroad also hosts seasonal themed rides like the Bunny Trains scheduled for April 12-13, 2025. Visitors can enjoy the nostalgic charm of electric railroading while traveling through the scenic Wisconsin countryside on one of America's last operating interurban electric railways.
11. Legally Blonde
LIVE THEATRICAL PERFORMANCE
Legally Blonde brings the beloved comedy to the stage in Racine from May 16-18, 2025, approximately 19 miles from Paddock Lake. This theatrical production adapts the popular film into a lively musical performance with energetic dance numbers and memorable songs. Attendees can enjoy professional-quality community theater in a welcoming venue that showcases local talent.
12. re:Craft and Relic Spring Market
VINTAGE & HANDMADE FAIR
The re:Craft and Relic Spring Market welcomes visitors on April 5-6, 2025, in Franklin, about 22 miles from Paddock Lake. This popular market features vendors selling vintage items, upcycled goods, and handmade crafts in a vibrant, creative atmosphere. Shoppers can discover unique treasures while supporting local artisans and small businesses at this well-curated event.
13. Kenosha Beach House
LAKEFRONT COMMUNITY HUB
The Kenosha Beach House on Simmons Island hosts numerous summer events, including the Ultimate Battle of Everything performing arts showdown (May 24-26), the Simmons Island Luau (June 28), and LakeFest (August 23). This community gathering space features weekly Friday Bonfire Nights from Memorial Day Weekend through Halloween, perfect for evening relaxation by Lake Michigan. Visitors can enjoy free admission to most events while having the option to purchase s'more kits for the bonfire nights.
14. Crazy Quilters Quilt Show
TEXTILE ARTS EXHIBITION
The Crazy Quilters Quilt Show displays impressive textile artistry in Mukwonago on March 29-30, 2025, about 24 miles from Paddock Lake. Visitors can admire intricate quilting designs, innovative techniques, and traditional patterns created by talented fiber artists. This exhibition celebrates the enduring craft of quilting while inspiring both practitioners and appreciators of this time-honored art form.
15. Kenosha Lakefront Trolley
SCENIC SHORE TRANSPORTATION
The historic Kenosha Lakefront Trolley transports passengers through Downtown Kenosha and along the beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline during seasonal operations. This rubber-wheel trolley provides an affordable sightseeing experience for just $1 or less per ride. Visitors can hop aboard to enjoy the convenience and charm of this distinctive transportation option while taking in the scenic views of Kenosha's lakefront district.