Organizers today announced the Keys to Kenosha event, to be held Nov. 7 at more than 50
sites of interest.
Inspired by similar annual events in Milwaukee and Chicago, Keys to Kenosha is a unique,
self-guided architectural tour offering exclusive access to a curated collection of businesses,
historic sites, creative spaces, and other hidden gems in the community.
Participating sites include some locations that are not always accessible to the public,
offering a rare, behind-the-scenes look at Kenosha’s built environment and vibrant
heritage.
“Kenosha is a thriving community with a proud history, distinctive architecture and a story
to tell on every block,” Mayor David Bogdala said. “Keys to Kenosha is an exciting
opportunity for residents and visitors to explore truly remarkable spaces across our
community. We’re thrilled to welcome everyone to experience our city in a new and
meaningful way.”
Kenosha County Executive Samantha Kerkman said the county is pleased to partner with
the city and others on this new event. The historic Kenosha County Courthouse and the
new Kenosha County Human Services Building, to open later this year, are among the
featured sites.
“We’re proud to include our century-old Courthouse with the soon-to-be completed
restoration of its Ceremonial Courtroom and our state-of-the-art center for Human Services
in this tour of many of the Kenosha area’s most interesting and historic locations,”Kerkman said. “Keys to Kenosha will showcase our community’s architecture and culture in
new ways for lifelong residents and visitors alike.”
Participating sites will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7.
Some will offer docent-led tours and other scheduled activities, while others will provide
visitors with a purely self-guided experience. There will be no admission fees to participate,
and RSVP or registration is not required.
Participants will gain access to a diverse mix of the following categories:
• Arts & Cultural
• Civic
• Commercial
• Educational
• Family Friendly
• Historic
• Housing
• Manufacturing
• Sacred Spaces
• Sustainability Focused
More details about the sites, including an interactive story map and curated tour
recommendations, will be added over the coming months on the event’s website,
https://www.keystokenosha.com.
Keys to Kenosha is supported through the generous donations of its primary sponsors:
Jockey International, Partners in Design Architects, Snap-on Incorporated, and Uline.
“Our team could not be more excited to be a co-sponsor of the inaugural Keys to Kenosha
event alongside three iconic Kenosha companies in Jockey, Snap-on, and Uline,” said Jeff
Bridleman, a Principal with Partners in Design Architects.
“When we were approached to
participate in the planning and financial support of this effort, our team was fully behind
the concept as it aligns with our goals of engaging in and supporting the community that
we serve.”
The event will also offer an opportunity to showcase the Kenosha area as a destination for
tourists, noted Dennis DuChene, President of Visit Kenosha.
“Keys to Kenosha is a wonderful new event concept that is sure to be a success with visitors
to the area, allowing access to some of Kenosha’s most iconic and historic spaces,” DuChene
said. “Self-serve tours are a popular attraction for history buffs, multi-generational
travelers, and first-time visitors, allowing people to explore at their own pace. The event is
a welcome addition to the fall calendar in Kenosha.”
Additional information about the tour sites and other event highlights will be announced
throughout the summer and fall.