The Pabst Theater is a legendary Milwaukee landmark, not just for its historical value and architecture, but also for the diversity and quality of the entertainment it features. Designed by Otto Strack and built by Captain Frederick Pabst in 1895, the Pabst was constructed to replace the Das Neue Deutsche Stadt-Theater, or The New German City Theater, which was destroyed in a fire. The Pabst's Baroque interior features a white Italian Carrara marble staircase, a Austrian crystal chandelier, and an elaborate stage-framing arch detailed in gold leaf. The theater, which underwent extensive renovations in 1928 but was restored to its original splendor in 1976, houses a hydraulic orchestra pit, two balconies, two elevators and large, plush seats for added comfort. Past and future performers include B.B. King, Trey Anastasio of Phish, Henry Rollins, comedian Steve Martin and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
The Pabst Theater
144 E. Wells St.
Milwaukee, WI 53202
414-286-3663
pabsttheater.org/
By the 1920s, Alfred Lunt and Lynn Fontanne were considered two of the most popular and respected stage actors in the country. The pair never appeared on stage without each other. Ten Chimneys was a regular retreat for the Lunts, and over the years, it became a hub of creativity for anyone interested in the arts. Their dedication and professionalism provided inspiration to decades of theater hopefuls and acting professionals such as Katherine Hepburn and Carol Channing, who once said "What the Vatican is to Catholics, Ten Chimneys is to actors." Decorated in pieces that were hand-selected by the Lunts between the 1920s and 1940s, the estate hosts tours, exhibitions, workshops and lectures. Reservations are required, so be sure to call ahead. The foundation also features retreats, conferences, internships and other programs for theater professionals.
Ten Chimneys
S43 W31575 Depot Rd.
Genesee Depot, WI 53127
262-968-4161
tenchimneys.org/
Copper Culture State Park is considered one of northeastern Wisconsin's hidden treasures. Situated among 48 acres of wooded land along the Oconto River in Oconto County, the park is home to the oldest dated cemetery in the eastern portion of North America and a 1924 Belgian house museum that holds artifacts dating back to 3000 and 4000 BC. A foot trail through the surrounding woodlands features historical information about the land and the Copper Culture Indians who once lived there. Use of the park grounds as well as vehicle access and admission to the museum, where guided tours are offered, is free. Spend the day exploring the grounds, have a picnic or catch a few fish in the Oconto River while you're there. Museum tours are by appointment only, so call ahead for scheduling.
Copper Culture State Park
Mill Street, ½ mile west of US 41
Oconto, WI 54153
920-826-7304
ocontoctyhistsoc.org/copper%20culture%20state%20park.html
