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Why Fox Point Has Unique Street Signs
Inside: Harbor Fest, sturgeon release, Solly's retirement, Harry Potter night, pumpkins
This week, I listened to the Joshing Around podcast that featured the Milwaukee Harbor District, a unique part of the city with everything from urban kayaking to salvage yards. Read on to learn about this weekend’s Harbor Fest and sturgeon release. Happy adventuring!
Know the North Shore: Solly’s Grille
Solly’s has served up tradition since 1936, when Kenneth "Solly" Salmon first opened Solly’s Coffee Shop. This humble beginning launched what would become one of the North Shore’s most beloved culinary institutions. The restaurant has remained under continuous family ownership for over 83 years, with the Fieber family now at the helm—Glenn Fieber officially renamed it “Solly’s Grille” in 1993. Recently, Fieber announced he’s ready to sell the restaurant and retire. Know anyone who LOVES butter and wants to sling burgers and shakes??
Harvest Fair
Get ready to celebrate the season at the Harvest Fair, happening from Friday, September 26 to Sunday, September 28! Bring the whole family to enjoy beloved activities like Pumpkin Bowling and Make Your Own Scarecrow. Satisfy your taste buds with a variety of delicious offerings from State Fair vendors and explore unique finds at the Farmers Market. See our guide.
Brewers Harry Potter Night
Get ready for a spellbinding evening as the Milwaukee Brewers conjure up the magic of Harry Potter Night at American Family Field on Friday. Fans can look forward to an enchanting matchup against the Cincinnati Reds, with the added thrill of a special appearance by the Schlitz Audubon Nature Center's owl ambassadors, a highlight from last year's event. This year, attendees who purchase a Theme Night ticket will receive a limited-edition Harry Potter beanie, making the night even more memorable. See our guide.
Where to Pick Pumpkins
Above: Barthel Fruit Farm in Mequon
It’s officially pumpkin picking season! See our guide to where to find the best pumpkin farms in the Milwaukee area.
Harbor Fest + Sturgeon Release
Milwaukee Harbor Fest on Sunday promises a delightful hands-on day at the lake. At this free event, running from 11 AM to 3 PM, witness real science in action, participate in conservation activities, and enjoy classic family games, all set against the backdrop of Milwaukee's scenic waterfront. The highlight: The rare opportunity to release a baby sturgeon directly into Milwaukee's Inner Harbor, supporting the restoration of this native species!
Got that Dog
Be the coolest person buying dishwasher pods and a new whirlpool when you head to Grafton for your next weekend Costo adventure. Get 15% off with this link!
More Wisconsin Adventures
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North Shore History: Fox Point’s Unique Signs
For nearly a century, Fox Point has distinguished itself with unique cast iron street signs, featuring black signs with white lettering mounted on wooden posts at village corners. Each sign is topped with the image of a fox with white eyes, a design that earned draftsman Ernest Fiedler a $50 prize in 1927 after a competition with 23 entries.
In 2002, these signs were recognized as historic landmarks by the Milwaukee County Historical Society, which noted their role in shaping local identity and reflecting the influence of the burgeoning automobile culture on urban art.
The North Shore was a favored summer destination for early motorists, suggesting that this popularity may have inspired the distinctive nature of the signs. While road signs across the U.S. typically adhere to uniform standards set by the Federal Highway Administration, Fox Point's signs are grandfathered in, exempt from these regulations and celebrated for their unique contribution to the village's character.
Thanks to WUWM for the history!
See you out there,
North Shore Family Adventures
P.S. Forward this guide to anyone still saying, “What should we do this fall???”
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