Location: Lake Geneva
Top Things to do in Lake Geneva
10 Things to Do in Lake Geneva That You Shouldn't Miss
Take a long deep breath and kiss your stresses good-bye: this lovely, year-round resort town offers a laid-back atmosphere that lets you slowly unwind. Beach buffs can don their swimsuits and head for one of several beaches on seven-mile-long Geneva Lake, which also offers a plethora of water sports. Leisurely cruises on restored historic yachts and replicas of paddle wheel steamers carry passengers past stately lakefront summer mansions, including some Victorian estates. Landlubbers can take a self-guided hike around the perimeter of the lake, which stretches some 21 miles. Laid-back, however, doesn't mean there isn't plenty to do. Choose from museums, a water park for younger kids, the world's largest refracting telescope at Yerkes Observatory, entertainment at the Belfry Music Theatre or greyhound racing. Winter is even quieter but no less filled with fun. Head to The Mountain Top, a popular family ski spot, or choose from horseback riding, skating, ice boating, hayrides or sleigh rides. Whatever time of year you go, Lake Geneva will charm you.
Restaurants in Lake Geneva
1. Tristan Crist Magic Theatre
Overall Ratings
5 based on 594 reviews
The Tristan Crist Magic Theatre features world-class magic, comedy and illusions in an entertaining 60 minute performance. Located in beautiful Lake Geneva, WI. Open year-round, reserve your tickets today to witness this incredible show.
Reviewed By Shadw20 - Yorkville, Illinois
My family attended this show based upon all of the reviews we saw on Trip Advisor. It didn't disappoint. We were amazed at the show that Tristian Crist put on and we have been back twice since. Our family loves magic shows and have been to several in Las Vegas. This is a great little theater with an excellent show for everyone!
2. Black Point Estate
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 160 reviews
This mansion was once the summer estate of 19th-century beer magnate Conrad Seipp.
Reviewed By Jerry B - Branson, Missouri
We were on a road trip through Wisconsin with HQ at the Dells in a Time Share. Black Point Estate (Mansion) has all the elements of historical reviews of the local Very Rich inhabitants and their struggles through good and bad times. You'll love coming here and also driving around the lake and seeing other estates around the area. Great "green" healthy restaurant in town. They even have a book box outside the restaurant. Take a book. Leave a book. Novel idea (No pun intended)
3. Geneva Lake Shore Path
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 609 reviews
This lovely 21-mile walking path, around Geneva Lake, takes pedestrians by impressive homes and quiet lakeside neighborhoods. A two-mile swath on the West End offers a manageable stroll, lovely views, and passes landmarks such as the Abbey Resort and Fontana Spa and popular local eateries like Chuck's.
Reviewed By Rachel R - Chicago, Illinois
A wonderful walk along the lake in any season. We prefer to start downtown at the beach entrance and head counterclockwise around the lake for as long as you like, then head back. Interesting houses to view along the way.
4. Geneva Lake
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 410 reviews
Get this straight: The city is Lake Geneva, the lake is Geneva Lake. Hop aboard a classic yacht for a cruise around the second deepest lake in Wisconsin (135 feet deep and 21 miles around) which is the focal point of a popular resort area also known as "the Newport of the West."
Reviewed By Sun_Fun-Mom1908 - South Elgin, Illinois
In October the beach is free. The lakefront in downtown Lake Geneva is the major attraction in this area. Lots of people, shops, restaurants, and just items of interest within about a 3 square mile area along the lake front. So beautiful and lots of fun. Make sure you go into the lakefront mini mall called the Riviera building and enjoy some flavored popcorn at Nina's Popcorn shop. We had salted caramel kettle corn that the kids are still raving about. Yum! Take the Lake Geneva Sundowner cruise to watch the sunset...absolutely beautiful. Get there early and sit on the right side of the boat for best shoreline views.
5. Geneva Lake Museum of History
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 131 reviews
Reviewed By Charmaine H - South Dakota
I was in awe of the Geneva Lake Museum. Upon entry, it resembles a small info center/gift shop, but once you enter the main door you are thrown back in time to enjoy wonderful historic exhibits.
We enjoyed a group breakfast here with time to explore the exhibits, including the special Shoe exhibit. I loved the elaborate foot binding shoe specimen...so dainty and elaborately made.
A great visit whether with family, friends, or colleagues.
6. Studio Winery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 133 reviews
Studio is an urban winery. Yes, we make all of our small batch wines onsite. But we are much more than that. Both of our owners are artists. Doug is a musician & our winemaker. Kathy is an artist & our label designer. Art Studio, Music Studio, Wine Studio. Come in and enjoy a tasting, glass or bottle of wine. We have two wine tastings to choose from. Our Musician series tasting is $6 for 5 wines made from locally grown grapes. Our Premier tasting is $12 for your choice of 5 wines made mostly from West Coast grapes. Bottle prices range from $14 to $48, and glass prices from $6 to $12. Wines range from sweet, fruity whites to bold, dry reds. Beer and light bites also available. Wine tastings and wine by the glass daily 11-5:30 open until 6, and Saturdays 11-3 open until 9 with live music from 4-8 pm. May through October closed Tuesday. Nov through April, closed Tuesday and Wednesday. No reservations necessary except for groups of 6 or greater. Please, no carry-ins of any type.
Reviewed By emerald307 - Fort Walton Beach, Florida
We had been looking forward to going to this wine tasting all summer, but didn't like any of the wines that we tasted...plus the tasting cost $12! We have enjoyed tastings in Washinton state, Oregon, California, Virginia, Wisconsin, Hilton Head and etc. and have NEVER paid $12!!
The samples given were also very small, but served very attractively on an artist palate.
What a shame that they take advantage of being in Lake Geneva.
7. Riviera Beach
Overall Ratings
4 based on 139 reviews
Public beach on Lake Geneva popular with swimmers, sunbathers, hikers and boaters.
Reviewed By sbecon - Maryland
This little beach met our needs and was worth the price of admission. The restrooms were relatively clean (for beach restrooms). The sand was nice. The lake water was cool. And the floating docks were a treat for the kids.
Centrally located in the cute town, this was a great place for the kids to work out some energy. It was Monday and the beach got a little crowded in the afternoon. Otherwise, no complaints.
8. Timber Ridge Waterpark
Overall Ratings
4 based on 168 reviews
Reviewed By Noel J - Evanston
This was our second visit to the water park and our granddaughters had so much fun that we had to return for another visit this year. The constant vigilance of the life guards is great and the facility is exceptionally clean for all the traffic. The place was filled with young families and everyone seemed to be having fun.
9. Lake Geneva - Visitor Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 23 reviews
Reviewed By Allen21096 - Chicago, Illinois
We stopped in at the Lake Geneva Visitor Center to see what other things might be interesting to visit and see. We found that the staff was very friendly and extremely helpful. There are plenty of brochures and the staff was knowledgeable about all of the places that we asked about. It is definitely worth a stop, if you are exploring the area.
10. Mountain Top at Grand Geneva Resort
Overall Ratings
4 based on 63 reviews
Resort offers skiing and snowboarding over fifteen challenging slopes plus a Halfpipe and Fun Park for all ages and skill levels.
Reviewed By m b - Manchester, United Kingdom
Great skiing. Now I cheated and went on a weekday. It was absolutely perfect. There were maybe 5 other skiers on the whole mountain, so it was unlimited lift rides and unlimited skiing. It was like having a private personal mountain for the day.
Inexpensive too and Bob, the manager is extremely hospitable and pleasant. I will be back!
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