The experience you'll enjoy at Memories can't be found at every neighborhood corner, and it's worth the trip. There's a reason we're known as "Your Live Entertainment Destination!"
Whether you'll be joining us for a dinner theater performance or a loved one's special day, we want you to delight in your trip from start to finish.
To kick start your trip-planning process, we've gathered a few ideas to help you plan your itinerary. We hope you find them helpful. Safe travels!
Where is Memories?
Memories is nestled in beautiful Ozaukee County, half-way between Chicago, IL and Door County in Wisconsin. Whether you are looking for just a one-day outing or a multiple-day excursion, Memories is conveniently located just off of I-43.
To get to Memories it only takes approximately:
- 40 minutes from – Milwaukee, WI
- 2 ¼ hours from – Chicago, IL
- 2 hours from – Madison, WI
- 1 ½ hours from – Green Bay, WI
- 2 hours from – Door County, WI
- 6 hours from – Minneapolis, MN
Touring Southern Ozaukee County
Area Attractions
- Cedar Creek Settlement–(approximately 15 miles south of Memories)
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, browse through shops, galleries and a working winery in this restored, 1864 woolen mill on the banks of Cedar Creek. Over 30 stores, artists’ studios and restaurants combine to make your visit relaxing and rewarding.
- Cedar Creek Winery–(approximately 15 miles south of Memories)
Tour one of America’s most noted small regional wineries. Taste and enjoy the award-winning wines from fine, delicate whites to rich, robust reds. Gift shop offers wine-related items from picnic backpacks to wine glasses and gourmet foods. Located in the historic Cedar Creek Settlement. Tours and tastings daily. Tours by appointment.
- Cedarburg General Store Museum–(approximately 18 miles south of Memories)
This 1860’s era frame building houses the Roger C. Christensen collection of antique packaging and advertising art. The collection, which dates from the early 1900’s through the 1940’s, is believed to be one of the most extensive of its kind in the Midwest. Vintage grocery tins, apothecary items and dry goods are among the many items that evoke the essence of the old-time general store. Come see the vintage treasures in the candy counter and share a chuckle over the outlandish claims on bottles of hair cream and health remedies!
- Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts–(approximately 16 miles south of Memories)
Located on an 1850’s farmstead, the museum offers exhibits, classes and events dedicated to the creation, education and preservation of the time-honored fiber arts traditions. In addition to quilt documentation, the WMQFA collects and displays important historical fiber arts. Highlights of some its holdings include: the Joe and Mary Koval Collection, 27 vintage quilts and a large collection of 18th and 19th century fabrics; the James A. Taylor Coverlet Collection, 35 hand-woven, 19th Century coverlets; the magnificent Mariner’s Compass Quilt; a collection of 200 antique sewing machines from treadle to featherweight style and range of other textiles, including knitted pieces, embroidered work, vintage clothing, hats and aprons.
Restaurants:
- Galioto’s Twelve 21–(approximately 15 miles south of Memories)
Owned by Dave and Meg Galioto, this newly renovated and beautifully decorated restaurant, complete with a huge, cozy, arched fireplace is the perfect combination of an upscale, yet casual dining atmosphere. The menu has something for all palettes including steak, seafood, pasta, their Famous Friday Night Fish Fry, a small plates menu, sandwiches, salads and much more! Galioto’s also features a full bar with a nice selection of wine, beer and cocktails. Private rooms are available for parties of 20-100 guests.
- Water Street Brewery– Grafton –(approximately 11 miles south of Memories)
Since 1987, Water Street has been a fixture on Milwaukee’s trendy lower East Side bar ’hood. The company opened a Delafield restaurant in 1999 and Grafton in 2010. Water Street offers a honey lager, Bavarian and raspberry Weiss, a pale ale and the always-fabulous Water Street amber for a nod to its original site. A wide range of intriguing brewery memorabilia, from beer trays to tappers, can be admired at all three brew pub locales. As they say at Water Street, “Come for the beer, but stay for the food.”
Lodging:
- Baymont Inn and Suites– Grafton –(approximately 13 miles south of Memories)
Baymont Inn & Suites combines Midwestern charm with a homey setting. They offer comfortable accommodations with a full range of modern conveniences to make your stay memorable, from free continental breakfast to a heated indoor pool and fully equipped gym. If you prefer to relax, watch your favorite cable TV show or use the free Wi-Fi Internet access in the comfort of your room.
- Hampton Inn and Suites– Grafton –(approximately 11 miles south of Memories)
You’ll find everything you need for a fantastic stay, at a great value at the friendly Hampton Inn & Suites Grafton hotel. Relax and refresh in a cozy guest room and wake up with Hampton’s free hot breakfast. Savor tea and coffee throughout the day in the warm, inviting lobby. Relax in the heated indoor pool or work off some steam in a 24-hour fitness center. Stay productive in the business center with free printing and make use of free high-speed internet access throughout the hotel.
Touring Northern Ozaukee and Southern Sheboygan Counties
Area Attractions
Ozaukee County Pioneer Village–(approximately 11 miles west of Memories)
This unique rural village of yesteryear is nestled in a picturesque setting amidst the rolling Hawthorne Hills. The Ozaukee County Pioneer Village is a collection of over 20 buildings and structures from the 1840’s to the early 1900’s. Homes are fully furnished, barns and outbuildings, plus the original Cedarburg Railroad Depot has been relocated and fully restored here. Open for tours on Saturdays and Sundays during the open season, plus don’t miss the special events!
- John Michael Kohler Art Center–(approximately 26 miles north of Memories)
Offering guided tours of their exhibitions and collections, unique building and grounds—the staff at the John Michael Kohler Art Center will work with you to customize the best possible experience for your group. Choose from guided tours of exhibitions such as: superb contemporary art from around the world, work by Arts/Industry resident artists, the Arts Center's unique collection of works by artist environment builders, and art created in their many community programs. Other possible group activities include: a hands-on art making workshop, a peek inside the five artist-created public washrooms, a tour of the beautifully landscaped sculpture gardens surrounding the Arts Center, an excursion to the nearby artist environment builder site, the James Tellen Woodland Sculpture Garden, a performance by some of the best musicians and dancers from across the globe, shoping in the Arts Center's gift shop, ARTspace and/or enjoy scrumptious meals from the ARTcafe.
- The Kohler Design Center–(approximately 24 miles north of Memories)
The Kohler Design Center is a three-level showcase of innovative product design and technology, creative achievement, and American history. A fusion of old and new, the space offers a comprehensive representation of Kohler Company's state-of-the-art products and stunning examples of the company's contributions to gracious living and interior design. The Kohler Design Center has grown to become a dramatic exploration of design ideas, the quintessence of Kohler's commitment to providing products that contribute to a higher level of gracious living. Every detail is presented with energy and innovation to reinforce the company's image as a leader in technology, color and style.
- Judge Eghart House–(approximately 4 miles south of Memories)
A living example of family life in late – 19th century Port Washington, the Judge Eghart House was built in 1872. Visitors tour the hall, parlor, bedroom, dining/sitting room and kitchen, and see a remarkable collection of Victorian furnishings and household items. Volunteer guides provide information about the house, the Eghart family and life in Port Washington in the late 1800s. Special exhibits focus on topics such as quilts, Christmas traditions, silver, pottery or other subjects pertinent to the Victorian Era or Port Washington history.
- 1860 Lighthouse and Light Station Museum-(approximately 4 miles south of Memories)
The 1860 Light Station & Museum is at 311 Johnson Street in Port Washington atop St. Mary's Hill. It has been restored and serves as a museum depicting the life of a light keep family in the 19th century. Visitors tour the living quarters and the light tower that includes a spectacular view of Lake Michigan. The former generator room has additional museum exhibits that feature historic Port Washington artifacts.
- Luxembourg American Cultural Society and Center–(approximately 4 miles north of Memories)
Housed in the rebuilt 1872 – Mamer-Hansen stone barn, the Luxembourg American Cultural Society Museum, tells the story of the Grand Duchy, past and present, the history of Luxembourg Immigration to America, and the experiences of the immigrant families. The Research Center is the largest research library for Luxembourg history, culture and genealogy in North America.
Restaurants:
- Newport Shores–(approximately 4.5 miles south of Memories)
Chosen as one of America's best seafood dives in Coastal Living magazines June issue, NewPort Shores’ spectacular view, exceptional food and service provide a memorable dining experience. In addition to an ample selection of seafood, the menu includes chicken and beef entrees as well as sandwiches, burgers and salads. Everything is prepared fresh daily including homemade desserts and soups. Homemade seasonal pies and Schaum Torte are popular favorites to enjoy during your visit or to take home.
Lodging:
- Country Inn & Suites–(approximately 2.5 miles south of Memories)
With its charming décor and convenient amenities, Country Inn & Suites provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere sure to please travelers in Port Washington. Hotel guests will enjoy the convenient location near great fishing, golf, shopping and restaurants. The area's best attractions and major businesses are also just minutes away. During your stay, take advantage of the hotel's great amenities, which include free high-speed Internet access, a Fitness Center, indoor pool and complimentary breakfast every morning.
- Holiday Inn Harborview–(approximately 4 miles south of Memories)
The hotel's lakefront property promises guests scenic views of Lake Michigan and convenient access to Port Washington's top attractions and businesses including Wisconsin's #1 charter fishing port, which offers fishing tours for all skill levels. While staying at Harborview, the hotel's patrons enjoy great amenities, such as free Wi-Fi access, an indoor pool and whirlpool, a fitness center and sauna, a game room and boat dock rentals. Additionally, their on-site restaurant features fresh seafood and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Blue Harbor Resort–(approximately 24 miles north of Memories)
Experience a truly unforgettable lakeside retreat at the Blue Harbor Resort & Spa. Discover pampered serenity at Reflections Spa. Enjoy a day of outdoor adventure or indoor waterpark fun. Delight in delicious dining and sip the perfect cocktail on the lakeside patio. Endless lakeside views are waiting for you. Nestled on the Wisconsin shore of Lake Michigan, the spacious guest suites and beautiful condominiums offer a wide variety of configurations, including lavish villas with kitchens. Relax in a lakeside suite with amazing balcony views, take advantage of your own in-room Jacuzzi tub. Blue Harbor accommodations include admission to their indoor waterpark and feature all the comforts of home including high-speed wireless internet!
- The American Club–(approximately 24 miles north of Memories)
Escape to where village charm meets old-world elegance. The American Club once provided housing, meals and recreational facilities for immigrant employees who could not afford housing. Today, The American Club is a Forbes Five-Star Resort Hotel and the Midwest’s only AAA Five Diamond Resort Hotel providing unique, luxurious décor that creates a singular quality experience room by room.
Fabulous Fall Foliage, Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive Tour
This tour is a perfect way to enjoy and experience the beauty of fall foliage or simply the breath-taking terrain of Wisconsin any time of the year! The Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive is a designated scenic route in southeastern Wisconsin that links the two units of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. The route traverses through scenic and historic areas, including landscape shaped by glaciers from the latest ice age, known as the Wisconsin glaciation. Lasting from about 100,000 to 10,000 years ago, massive lobes of ice (up to two miles thick) collided here, causing tremendous pressure, friction and buckling of the land surface. As the glacier retreated, moraines, drumlins, kames and eskers were formed. Many lakes, bogs, wetlands and potholes are also a direct result of glacial activity.
Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive generally follows county and local roads. It begins near Whitewater – at the southern expanse of the Kettle Moraine State Forest's southern unit, the drive takes a northeast trek and passes through six counties: Walworth, Jefferson, Waukesha,Washington, Fond du Lac, and Sheboygan. The route's northern terminus is near Sheboygan County Broughton Marsh Park northwest of Elkhart Lake. The drive passes by various opportunities for recreation and tourism in the Kettle Moraine area.
Area Attractions
- Holy Hill–(approximately 37 miles southwest of Memories)
More than 500,000 people from all over the world visit the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Help of Christians, at Holy Hill each year. Some come to admire the beautiful architecture of the neo-Romanesque church built in 1926, others make a pilgrimage to Holy Hill to worship, to meditate or to pray for healing. Regardless of what brings people to Holy Hill, they are bound to be touched by its peaceful environment and to be renewed in body, mind and spirit. Holy Hill was declared a Shrine with "Portiuncula privilege" by Pope Leo XIII in 1903. As a result of the increasing number of pilgrims, the Discalced Carmelites of Bavaria were invited to staff the Shrine in 1906. On November 19, 2006, the Shrine was elevated to the status of Basilica. They welcome you to come and visit Holy Hill's 435 beautiful acres of peace and beauty. Whether it has been a while since visited, or you've never been there in person, there is no time like the present!
- Hawks Inn–(approximately 55 miles southwest of Memories)
This Greek Revival Inn, built by Nelson P. Hawks, has been described as an "unsurpassed example of an early stagecoach stop." It was the center of social and political life in the frontier village of Delafield, Wisconsin. Built two years before Wisconsin became a state; Hawks Inn welcomed farmers in search of a homestead, trappers, traders, territorial politicians, and miners in search of a strike in the lead mines of western Wisconsin. Renovated and refurbished as a historic site, Hawks Inn is a Wisconsin Landmark on the National Register of Historic Sites. Modern visitors will find it easy to imagine themselves as pioneer travelers when they step across the threshold of Delafield's historic Hawks Inn.
- Old World Wisconsin–(approximately 67 miles southwest of Memories)
Journey back to the past of the late 19th century at Old World Wisconsin — a vivid re-creation of the working farmsteads and settlements established by European immigrants in America's heartland. Discover teams of oxen and horses working in the fields, the farm folk preparing hearty meals over wood-burning stoves, and the heirloom plants in well-tended gardens. Stroll through the Crossroads Village and chat with the town blacksmith or the keeper of the general store. Discover the true spirit of early Wisconsin.
- Wade House–(approximately 35 miles northwest of Memories)
Return to the time of stagecoach travel and see a community where Yankee refinement met the Wisconsin wilderness. At Wade House, you can: tour the Stagecoach Inn, watch sparks fly at the Dockstader Blacksmith Shop, see the water-powered Herrling Sawmill, be amazed in the Wesley Jung Carriage Museum, enjoy scenic beauty on a Horse-Drawn Wagon Ride, meet Abe Lincoln at Civil War Weekend, have lunch at the Greenbush Cupboard Café and shop at the gift store.
State Parks and Forests Accessible via the Scenic Drive:
Kettle Moraine State Forest—Northern Unit
- Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit
- Kettle Moraine Red Oaks State Natural Area
- Johnson Hill Kame State Natural Area
- Spruce Lake Bog State Natural Area
- Butler Lake and Flynn's Spring State Natural Area
- Dundee Kame, (also known as Dundee Mountain and White Kame)
- Crooked Lake Wetlands State Natural Area
- Kettle Hole Woods State Natural Area
- Haskell-Noyes Memorial Woods State Natural Area
- Spring Lake State Natural Area
- Milwaukee River and Swamp State Natural Area
- Kewaskum Maple-Oak Woods State Natural Area
- Milwaukee River Floodplain State Natural Area
Kettle Moraine State Forest Units
Kettle Moraine State Forest—Southern Unit
- Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit
- Clifford F. Messinger Dry Prairie and Savanna Preserve(16 separate units)
- Ottawa Lake Fen State Natural Area
- Kettle Moraine Low Prairie State Natural Area
- Scuppernong Prairie State Natural Area
- Eagle Oak Opening State Natural Area
- Kettle Moraine Oak Opening State Natural Area
- Bluff Creek State Natural Area
For even more ideas of great places to visit in our area, be sure to check out the websites below: