Mount Pleasant - Racine, WI

Mount Pleasant's agricultural history dates back to 1842 when the first settlers moved to the shores west of the Root River. The township was established in the same year, and the town hall was built in 1890. Mount Pleasant was finally incorporated as a village in 2003 and has been rapidly developing its residential and commercial areas ever since.

Enjoy nearby attractions such as the Racine Heritage Museum and the Racine Art Museum for a taste of history and culture. Don't miss the village's annual events like the Halloween costumed run along Pike River to get to know your neighbors.

Mount Pleasant's forested acres and rural atmosphere create a humble dining scene with a few hometown grills and fast food restaurants. Head to nearby Racine for a wide selection of culinary styles to suit every taste, from zesty Mexican dishes to hearty breakfast plates and fresh kringle.

Georgie Porgie's stands as a local favorite in Mount Pleasant, serving up a chocolate pretzel sundae that's like magic to your taste buds. The decor alone keeps you coming back for more with its fun treefort design complete with a replica tree and a knothole for call-in orders. Be sure to try the burger of the month for a unique culinary creation like a mac and cheese burger, or go for a classic like the pizza burger or cheddar melt.

For a home-style breakfast, head to Racine to check out Kiss the Cook. Order a unique omelette like the Veg Head or Jose Can You See Me Now served with a side of fresh fruit for a meal that looks as good as it tastes. If you have a big appetite, don't hesitate to order the biscuits smothered in a thick gravy and topped with poached eggs. You may have a small wait, but with food this fresh, the locals still make this their regular hangout.

If you crave Mexican cuisine, stop by Jose's Blue Sombrero in Racine for staples like enchiladas alongside unique creations like Korean street tacos and the famous seafood burrito. Don't forget to order a specialty margarita like the spicy mango, dreamsicle or sangria. One of the best-kept local secrets is Jose's happy hour featuring cheap margaritas and a free taco bar.

Only a few bars such as the lounge at The Summit Restaurant dot Mount Pleasant's rural landscape, but Racine and other neighboring towns draw in the nocturnal crowd with live music and an energetic nightlife scene. Step into Cabbage Heads Tavern just north of the village in Franksville for cold beer, sandwiches with homemade chips and a friendly Northwoods vibe. Listen to music on the Internet jukebox, and choose from eight thirst-quenching taps.

Mount Pleasant's scattered layout makes it a car-dominant community, but its location just off Interstate 94 makes for an easy commute to downtown Milwaukee. When running your errands, enjoy plenty of free parking throughout the village. Rideshare services like Uber don't service the area, but you can call Yellow Cab for a quick ride into downtown Racine.

Hop on one of the buses from Belle Urban System from the bus stops along Washington Avenue and the eastern edge of the village. You can also catch a train from the modern Amtrak station for a speedy commute to Milwaukee or Chicago.

Scattered amenities and cold winters make running errands on foot a bit of a hassle, but many residents take advantage of bike lanes along roads such as Stuart Street and Frontage Road for an eco-friendly alternative during the warmer months.

Mount Pleasant's natural attractions provide the perfect escape from the daily grind. Head to Pike River Pathway to bike or jog down several miles of paved trail dotted with benches and bike racks for a light workout with scenic views. Along the path, stop by Stewart-McBride Park to eat your lunch in the picnic pavilion, let your kids play on the sprawling playground or play a game on the sand volleyball courts. This park also features two groomed softball diamonds.

Head to Lake Park to find thick grass, picnic tables and a small playground on the shore of Lake Michigan. Stop by to walk your dog as you enjoy breathtaking views of the water.

Despite its convenient locale along Interstate 94, Mount Pleasant maintains a low cost of living for the Milwaukee area thanks to its rural, small-town setting. Expect to pay around $604 a month for a one-bedroom apartment.

Taking the bus into downtown Racine costs $2.00 for a one-way trip or $4 for a day pass. Residents generally pay 11 percent below the national average for gas, and going out for a beer set you back around $3 to $4.

Mount Pleasant's retail scene is still developing, but residents find all their basic amenities from groceries and pharmacies to auto shops and pet stores. Drive down the retail strip along Washington Avenue, and check out the Village Center shopping plaza for chains including Kohls, Linda's Hallmark Shop, or Advanced Auto Parts and some fashion mainstays and beauty supply stores. If you're looking for antiques and unique gifts, check out the local boutiques scattered throughout Racine and Sturtevant.

Tucked away in an old school building, School Days Mall Antiques in Sturtevant creates a unique shopping experience with several levels and antiques strewn around classrooms, a gym and even a library. Find everything from vintage lampshades and antique chairs to cast-iron skillets and hundreds of vinyl records. Be sure to check out the sale tables, and stop by during the holidays for a big collection of Santa figurines and Christmas dishware.

Signature Flowers by Randy, located on Taylor Avenue, ranks as a popular florist in Racine. Shoppers love the fresh arrangements, same-day service and competitive prices offered at the shop. Brides-to-be may want to consider setting up a consultation to discuss wedding spreads for the big day.

For your weekly groceries, get some discount food items at ALDI or pick up some staples at the Village Food & Liquor Mart. Thanks to Racine County's strong agricultural community, you also have a wide selection of farmers markets within a short driving distance, including the Sturtevant Farmers Market, the Saint Andrews Farmers Market and the Downtown Racine Farmers Market.