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Civil War Museum
5400 1st Ave, Kenosha, WI 53140, United States
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Te
Review №1

What an unbelievable surprise! Kenosha has clearly invested a great deal of money and civic pride into developing a museum that rivals anything Ive visited.

Ka
Review №2

I loved this museum! All the info and interactive wax figures were so interesting. I wish I could have spent more time upstairs also. So much interesting things to learn and see.

St
Review №3

Highly recommend, museum is packed full of artifacts and was a great way to pass time.

ja
Review №4

The immersive experience of sounds surrounding every step and attention to detail was very impressive.

Ta
Review №5

Excellent experience! Very informative and lifelike. 360 movie was awesome!

Ek
Review №6

Good museum and great place to vote!

Fr
Review №7

The Museum is pretty awesome! Lots of things to see and you learn some great history. Place is clean and all the exhibits were open when we went which was nice. Staff could be a little friendlier to the younger/teenage crowd, we didn’t get the same level of treatment as the older folks.

fa
Review №8

Well done, tells the story in a great clear way, amazing theater.

St
Review №9

It is great, everyone should see it:)

M
Review №10

Lots of interesting artifacts!

Ca
Review №11

So much more to this place than I expected! Cant wait to return. Could easily spend a couple hours during several visits and keep my interest.

Ja
Review №12

This museum provides an excellent learning experience. In addition to being family oriented, it also has high-level information meant for adults. I would highly recommend this museum.

Su
Review №13

It was a good experience the people at the front desk were helpful. I wish there was more artifacts though.

Te
Review №14

We went to the museum on a whim. It is very family oriented and cozy. We spent a little over an hour with our 9 month old stopping at most of the windows. Staff was very helpful and friendly. I would highly recommend this museum for a school field trip or just a family outing. The information was also great. I had a nice little history lesson.

Tr
Review №15

Neat concept of a museum. They have you walk around in a circle and the way it is organized is unique. There is also a video in the middle part of the tour which depicted the soldiers perspective of the war. If you are a history nerd or want to burn some time this is a good place for you. There is plenty of interesting information around the war and specifically the role Racine played in it.

Ca
Review №16

We took out-of-town family here to learn more about American history. Admission prices were very reasonable. We spent a little over 2 hours at the museum. The museum had appropriate exhibits for children and hands-on learning opportunities. The entire family enjoyed the 360 degree movie. We learned a lot and recommend a visit. There is also a complimentary civil war library available.

Ch
Review №17

This place is so cool. It has neat exhibits, and a ton of information. If youre interested at all in American history, this place is a must to visit. They have military uniforms, cannons, weapons, etc.. from the era, as well as a neat little gift shop in the front. My only regret is that i decided to go a bit too late in the day so i didnt have as much time to meander as i would have liked.

ch
Review №18

It was amazing I loved all the attractions there that I just had to go a second time it’s really informative you learn so much about past history

Su
Review №19

Very nice. You really need to take your time going threw it. Theres a lot to read about that time.

Mi
Review №20

So much more than I expected. Great exhibits and relics.... a very interactive museum that you walk through trains camps and towns.

Jo
Review №21

I managed to get there when there was nobody there, so I had the place to myself which was nice. The exhibits were good. The museum was a tad small, but had a lot of content for its size. My only complaint is that the lighting was dim enough that I was having a little trouble reading the plaques. Other than that, well worth the price! I also enjoyed the fact that they had historical books in the gift shop, not just the normal run of the mill coffee cups and t-shirts. They had those two, but they also had a decent variety for a good price.

Ed
Review №22

High quality exhibits, interactive, and very informative! I will have to come back again.

Sa
Review №23

Its just awesome. Lots of things to see & do!

Er
Review №24

We learned so much today. What a spectacular event. Such knowledgeable people. I will be back!

Ja
Review №25

Great experience . Didnt really like the cost but technically, it was worth it

Su
Review №26

Beautiful building, could better with more exhibits

Je
Review №27

Educational museum delves into how the Civil War was impacted by the Midwestern states. Admission to the museum is donation-based, but there is a charge for the Inspirational 360 degree movie exhibits featuring Civil War artifacts. A research library and separate gallery (currently featuring a civil rights exhibit - summer 2019) occupy the 2nd floor. Could spend a lot of time if youre reading and studying each exhibit. Young children will probably get bored very quickly.

Jo
Review №28

Great source of information regarding the Midwest contribution to the Civil War

Ja
Review №29

Cool artifacts and great info.

Al
Review №30

I enjoy Civil War history and to learn more about the participants from our own state was interesting.

Pa
Review №31

Very interesting display of photos, clothing and equipment were set in the historical events with period articles and correspondence.

Gi
Review №32

Educational museum that delves into how the Midwest impacted the Civil War. Admission to the museum is donation-based; however, there is a charge for the 360 degree movie and exceptional exhibits featuring Civil War artifacts. It is well worth the charge. There is a gallery (currently featuring civil rights - summer, 2019) and research library on the 2nd floor.

Je
Review №33

Great for a field trip. My daughters class just finished learning about the Civil War and came here on a field trip. The guides were great and kept the kids interest.

PR
Review №34

Interesting and beautiful museum

Mi
Review №35

Hey, you have to know our past.

Ge
Review №36

Went 6/8/19Displayed very well. Clean restrooms. Knowledgeable staff and volunteers to answer questions. Easily located by lake and Metra. Would have liked better signs on #158 from #94. Focus is on upper Midwestern units and less on Virginia like other civil war museums. Nice reference library with civil war magazines and books to look at. Nice assortment of artifacts including weapons.

Je
Review №37

This was a great museum for a good price. It is $9 for a non-resident adult. The main museum is laid out well and packed with so much information. I liked the circular style with the progression from pre civil war to post civil war. One of the best features were the people who talk to you. The railcar was a huge highlight for me and very cool to see. The movie that played in the center was also very good. I liked the gift shop which had more unique items then one would expect. The staff was all very helpful and pleasant. They even had a reenactment camp outside with people in the tent.

Da
Review №38

I was at the Civil War Museum for professional development meeting. We had two guest speakers and we were given team time to work. The accommodations were nice. The room was comfortable and technology used by the presenters worked. The wifi signal was strong. We had view of the Kenosha harbor from our large meeting room. It was a great place for a workshop.

Al
Review №39

My family loves going to visit the local museums when they come see me and this is my little brothers absolute favourite. In the Civil War exhibit, theres a 360° movie that Ive now seen at least three times all the way through and a couple times some of the way through, but every time I see it, I see something new. If flashing lights or gunfire cause reactions for you, youre better off avoiding the movie, but theres still plenty to see. I loved the parts that focused on medicine in the 1860s. There is an entrance fee and itll be more if youre not a Kenosha resident. The gift shop has some amusing gifts but also period-appropriate pieces, like hat pins, for instance. Theres a huge parking lot and its right on the lake within walking distance of more entertainment and food. I think my absolute favorite room was the library upstairs. My daughters favorite place was probably the balcony upstairs - outside. Beautiful views of the lake (with a picturesque lighthouse straight ahead) and a great place for her to get out some wiggles, as she says.

Wa
Review №40

Great experience...one drawback is its very difficult to read the items in the showcase due to the lighting turn down inside the cases. However that wouldnt stop me from returning.

Ph
Review №41

Well worth a visit very informative. Set in a very beautiful place.

Ar
Review №42

Very interesting and unique set up of how things are display

Ma
Review №43

Went for a birthday party very good place very clean

Kr
Review №44

Very interactive. 360 movie was great!

Ty
Review №45

Great bathroom to use during Pokémon go community day, the front desk was very nice

Mi
Review №46

A fantastic place, with real size statues of people feeling like they are interacting to tell you part of the history. The kids enjoyed as well the parents!

Je
Review №47

This is a wonderful museum to bring students as part of their Civil War unit at school. The instructors are very knowledgeable and the program they created for the kids is very good. The 360 degree theater was amazing! I also love going to the gift shop for the unique items they get from WI crafters and businesses.

Li
Review №48

Actually quite informative, fun to see, and friendly staff !

Ja
Review №49

Love the campfire sculpture

Te
Review №50

Great, balanced and factual perspective of a sad era in US history. Scores of hands on exhibits, library, gift shop and a conference room etc make it a comprehensive facility. Well assembled and curated collection. Reasonable entrance fee. A unique museum for a northern state in the US. Popular for school field trips. Very nice educational experience.

jo
Review №51

Dont miss out on visiting this gem if youre in Kenosha. Some parts of the museum have a fee but well worth it. The 360 movie Seeing the elephant was great! And on a nice day dont miss the top level where you can step outside and see beautiful Lake Michigan

Jo
Review №52

It was an interesting stop, very informational, a place for adults, children would have a much better time anywhere else. Very clean, staff was friendly.

Cy
Review №53

Today we visited the museum to attend the Radio Girls RGP of The Magnificent Ambersons old time radio show. The cast was excellent. We loved to watch the cast but our favorite part is the Foley artist performing all the sound effects. Please go to this groups productions. It will be an entertaining and nostalgic time.

Je
Review №54

It is a fun and interactive museum. I always learn something new and I have been there over 20 times.

Ca
Review №55

This museum was great. If you are a Civil War buff, I definitely recommend a visit. Located in Kenosha WI.

Je
Review №56

This is great museum for a history class or just by yourself. There is so much information to take in all in one visit, I recommend going multiple times.

Jo
Review №57

Very nice museum for a small city, display were really well done and 360 movie was fascinating

Ri
Review №58

Good local history for a small museum. Somewhat confusing in route to take once inside. Dont expect to be at Gettysburg, but all in all worth it

Em
Review №59

Be prepared to pay to walk through. It isnt the most exciting place, but kids enjoy it and the gift shop has some neat finds!

Jo
Review №60

Very nice museum interesting and informative

Jo
Review №61

Great venue for a wedding. Beautiful views and great space

Ru
Review №62

Absolutely loved it. Very unique Museum. It is actually Interactive. I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommended it.

Ka
Review №63

Worth it!! You learn so much about local history the fee to get it is okay.

St
Review №64

Wow! This museum tells the story of the Civil War form the perspective of the involvement of seven upper Midwest States. The displays help to bring life to the stories. The story being told is captivating. This is one of the best Civil War museums. I highly recommend a visit.

Mr
Review №65

Staff didnt make me and family very welcomed. But museum was interesting.

Da
Review №66

It was a great place to visit with the family. Love the history.

Di
Review №67

Really first class museum!! Lots to see & experience. Would recommend

Co
Review №68

What a great venue for our wedding ceremony! The location was absolutely beautiful with views of the lake from the terrace. In addition to the wonderful location, Kristine and Brenda were amazing! Kristine was amazing with communication leading up to the wedding, including making changes for me as we neared the wedding date. During the rehearsal and ceremony Brenda was absolutely amazing, helping us and working with the photographer to get the terrace set. I would so highly recommend going with the museum for events! Definitely contact them as they have a variety of options for all event sizes!

Ly
Review №69

I enjoyed visiting and seeing their perspective on the Civil War. This was my first visit to a museum related to the Civil War from a northern state. All other exhibits I previously visited were in southern states. The change of perspective was interesting. They have a 360 degree theater for a short movie. I recommend seeing it at least twice since you have to keep turning to view it.

Ju
Review №70

Learned alot about the civil war and how people lived . Very interesting also alot of information.. Please plan for two to three hours at the Civil War Museum.

Ti
Review №71

Great storytelling reminds one of the cause and effect even as far as the midwest.

Gw
Review №72

Clean, beautiful gift shop. Interesting, courteous staff.

Ch
Review №73

Great displays & content especially for a small town museum.

St
Review №74

I admit it. Im a Civil War reenactor. Sergeant, Company E, 6th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry of the famous Iron Brigade. Of course, I love this place. I finally took my wife to this museum. Shes a Texas gal; and has been trying to cultivate an interest in the Civil War. She was really impressed with the place; and enjoyed the exhibits. Sitting in a train car and listening to the other passengers tell their stories. The in-the-round theater shows a 360 degree panoramic movie called Seeing the Elephant. It is loosely based on the Battle of Brawners Farm. It is an intense and moving presentation. When it was over my wife was tearing up. As a matter of fact, I have noticed that most people are misty eyed after watching this movie. Me, too, tough guy that I am. There is a really good research library. If you are a Civil War buff this place is a must for you. If you are not, it is still a very interesting place to spend a couple of hours. This is a top-of-the-line museum. Kenosha should be proud. Make sure you take the time. You will be impressed.

Mi
Review №75

Excellent look at the civil war from the Midwestern perspective. Plenty of artifacts and interactive exhibits that bring the war to life for a modern audience.

Ko
Review №76

Very professional and informative. Interactive and engaging

Em
Review №77

A great interactive museum! I thoroughly enjoyed the short time I was able to spend there, and think it is great for all ages.

We
Review №78

Fantastic 360 video experience, and lots of great information and artifacts about how the Civil War, particularly its affect on Midwesterners of the time.

Pe
Review №79

A hidden gem. If youre a Civil War aficionado, this is the place to see great artifacts of the times. Full of history & Wisconsins place in the conflict, visitors can view a state-of-the-art 360° surround film that is the centerpiece of the permanent exhibit. The open rooftop venue is perfect for summer lunches or weddings with fantastic views of Lake Michigan. Library, gift shop & meeting rooms make this a perfect multi-function facility.

Ve
Review №80

I would recommend this Museum. Very cool and the video they show is in a room where the screen wraps around the whole room. Loved it.

Sc
Review №81

This place was awesome. If youre a history person and love to learn about events that shaped our country then this is the place for you to visit. Would definitely visit again and would definitely recommend to anyone.

Ma
Review №82

Very thorough and extensive exhibits describing how the mid-west States were involved in the Civil War. We spent over 2 hours.

Je
Review №83

Excellent museum, even if The Civil War is not your thing, I went because my husband is a history buff and he is very interested in The Civil War history. I truly enjoyed the visit, captured my attention with displays, scenes, and extremely interesting facts, etc. that would interest anyone. Even children would enjoy the visit with enjoyable interactive areas and displays just for kids. I am disabled and use a walker occasionally, more often a wheelchair, the staff was amazingly helpful getting me into the wheelchair elevator to see a civil war movie on a raised platform. The aisles are wide and surface is wheelchair or walker friendly. I dont get out often and always try to make my time out worth it, this was definitely worth it. Due to my pain we had to leave before enjoying the museum in its entirety and we hope to go back again when circumstances allows.

Th
Review №84

Well executed museum with amazing exhibits. Be sure to keep turning around in the 360 movie experience. Very moving.

Br
Review №85

Really fun, unique place. Great to take kids 5 - 15. The intetactive mannequins might be a little scary for littler kids. Well worth the price of admission. Enjoyed the 360° film and exhibits. Very informative.

An
Review №86

My sister- in-law liked it.

De
Review №87

Ok place

Ma
Review №88

Very interesting, worthwhile to anyone wanting to know more about our history!

Ma
Review №89

NOT family friendly! Took my 10 year old daughter and 8 month old son here today to pay homage to Independence Day. Went to the ‘resource center’ which is supposed to be the only kid friendly area of the museum. Within 30 seconds of entering we told my 8 month old son, who CANT WALK that he is violating the required shoes policy. Spoke to Peggy the assistant curator about my concerns all she did was reiterate the policy. I mean he was in a stroller and having shoes wouldn’t protect him anyway. Stay away if you have children unless you want to deal with some ridiculous people ...

Ca
Review №90

I would recommend this Museum. Very cool and the video they show is in a room where the screen wraps around the whole room. Loved it.

Ro
Review №91

This is one of a museum complex in nearby Kenosha, Wisconsin...just a few minutes to the north of Chicago, and it is very worthwhile to make the trip .

Ma
Review №92

Such a fun and educational museum. Highly recommend anyone who is interested in the civil war check it out!

Ja
Review №93

Awesome history and visual experience. Lots to learn

He
Review №94

Very, very awesome museum! Reasonably priced entrance fee. There are maniquins set up that will tell you their story of the war. Very educational and entertaining.

St
Review №95

Beautiful museum! Went here for a Girl Scout event and will definitely come back.

Ma
Review №96

First time going to this museum even though it has been opened for years. And it is totally worth the cost. The production quality is great, and works to tell a detailed story of our nations history.I appreciate that it tells the direct story and doesnt skew to one story or another.

An
Review №97

Wonderful experience. Staff was very professional and knowledgeable!

ke
Review №98

Walked in unexpectedly and was presently surprised. $9 for non Wisconsin residents $5 for Wisconsin residents however there are free parts of the museum which were very much enjoyed. I recommend it

Vi
Review №99

Totally awesome! There were a couple of museums and all of them were really cool. Were coming back with the kids

To
Review №100

A fabulous museum!!! Very impressed!!! Informative and fun. Lived the life sized re-created scenes.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.6 Rating
  • Address:5400 1st Ave, Kenosha, WI 53140, United States
  • Site:http://thecivilwarmuseum.org/
  • Phone:+1 262-653-4141
Categories
  • History museum
  • Historical society
  • Sculpture museum
  • Tourist attraction
  • War memorial
  • War museum
Working hours
  • Monday:10am–4:30pm
  • Tuesday:10am–4:30pm
  • Wednesday:10am–4:30pm
  • Thursday:10am–4:30pm
  • Friday:10am–4:30pm
  • Saturday:Closed
  • Sunday:Closed
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible lift:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
  • Restaurant:No
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