Safari Lake Geneva

Did you know you can go on a safari in Lake Geneva? At Safari Lake Geneva, you can feed exotic animals from the comfort of your car. Animals like emus, Highland cattle, alpacas, and more come running once they see your open windows. For an extra special experience, splurge for a Capybara feeding experience. They are so adorable! Read more about our experience here. 

Tristan Crist Magic Theatre

The Tristan Crist Magic Theatre may have started as one of the world’s smallest magic venues, but even after their move, it still delivers an intimate and up-close experience. Throughout the 90-minute show, we found ourselves constantly wondering, “How did they do that?” From start to finish, the performance was nothing short of magical—both entertaining and immersive. Be sure to stick around afterward for a chance to snap a photo and grab an autograph from Tristan and his team. Don’t miss this Lake Geneva magic show!

Tip: Book tickets well in advance! 

Creative Forces 

We had such a fun time letting our creativity flow at Creative Forces in Lake Geneva. This family-owned studio hand-plasters all their pieces, so there were tons of unique items to choose from. While we painted, the kids loved sipping on soda while us adults cracked open cans of a couple alcoholic beverage. The owners were so friendly and helpful, always ready with tips or ideas. The best part? Our finished pieces were ready to take home in about 20 minutes!

Lake Geneva Shore Path

If the weather’s nice and you’re craving a little peace and quiet, take a walk along the Lake Geneva Shore Path. This scenic path wraps around the lake and gives you a peek at beautiful lakefront homes. Since the path runs through private property, the surface changes—from concrete to gravel and everything in between. Read all about it here. 

Timber Ridge Resort

While the weather may not be suited for the beach, you can still have a warm water getaway by heading to Moose Mountain Falls at Timber Ridge Lodge at Grand Geneva Resort. Guests of the resort can enjoy the waterpark with over 50,000 square feet of splash-tastic fun.  Thrill-seekers will definitely enjoy the two gigantic heated waterslides, but my family prefers lounging around on the lazy river surrounding the waterpark. My three kids were busy splashing away in the Tiny Timbers area with zero-depth entry, little slides, swings, and mushroom fountain.

Geneva Lake Museum

Learn about Lake Geneva’s past at Geneva Lake Museum, which has a recreated Old Town Geneva. If you have a chance take a tour with Jim, who had a wealth of knowledge about the artifacts and the history of the town.

Tip: If you have kids in tow, you’ll want to ask the museum for an I-Spy worksheet of items found in the museum. A genius way to keep them busy!

Dancing Horses Theatre

If you adore horses you will love The Dancing Horses Theatre! Located outside Lake Geneva in Delavan, the show was created from one person’s vision and their love for horses.  My little horse lover was mesmerized by the pretty “horsies” and their dancing and even the acrobatics.  At the end of the show, you can even pet the horses at the end of the show. Afterward, enjoy a 30-minute bird show which features Echo the Singing Parrot (the famous parrot who has starred on America’s Got Talent.)

Tip: During the warmer months, there is also a petting zoo. Guests can also add a backstage tour. Had we had more time, we would have liked to do this.

Black Point Estate

For a truly unique experience, step back in time with a visit to Black Point Estate, the 1888 summer home of Chicago beer baron Conrad Seipp. Accessible only by boat, the tours begins with a scenic cruise on Geneva Lake and continues with a docent-led tour of the estate. Read all about it here.

Truly immerse yourself in the Black Point with this novel! 

Ice Cream Social Tour

Boat tours are super fun, and are made extra special when ice cream is involved! The Ice Cream Social Tour on the Lake Geneva Cruise Line is a great way to experience Geneva Lake while learning fun facts about the mansions dotting the lake shore.

Relax

When it’s time to recharge your batteries, head to one of the many boutique or full-service spas in the Lake Geneva area. You have to admit it – there’s nothing like getting a much-deserved massage. Book at the WELL Spa + Salon at Grand Geneva and enjoy a sauna, steam room, and whirlpool afterward. The Avani Spa at The Abbey Resort is also another fabulous option with a sauna, whirlpool, steam room, and an adults-only pool.

Places to EAT

Oakfire

With a prime location in front of Geneva Lake, Oakfire is a great spot to drop by after a day on the lake or beach or after perusing downtown. They offer amazing Neapolitan style pizza (try their Margherita pizza with Bufala Mozzarella. Oh so good!) The kids gave two thumbs up for their delicious Mickey Mouse-shaped pizzas.

Lake City Social Lake Geneva

Located at The Cove of Lake Geneva, Lake City Social serves up ‘comfort food with a modern twist’ in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Everything we tried—from the flavorful nachos and tender pork belly to the juicy smash burger and fresh tuna bowl—was spot on. And yes, their giant pretzel absolutely lives up to the hype!

Hawk’s View Golf Club

Fridays in Wisconsin mean one thing—fish fry! Hawk’s View Golf Club came highly recommended, and now we know why.  You can order your fish fry three ways: fried, baked, or beer-battered. Naturally, we had to try them all—and while they were all delicious, the beer-battered version was the winner.

Don’t miss the corn fritters (so good!) or the potato pancakes as sides. We also tried the baked white fish and the double stack burger—and according to my husband, the burger was out of this world!

Going Bananas

Conveniently located by Riviera Beach at the Riviera near the boat docks, Going Bananas is the perfect sweet stop right in the heart of all the Lake Geneva fun. Sippin’ a piña colada straight out of a pineapple while munching on chocolate-dipped bananas? Yes, please! The kids had a blast customizing their bananas with fun toppings like sprinkles and Fruity Pebbles.

Next Door Pub & Pizzeria

We love, love ordering pizza on vacation, and one place we always crave when we’re in the Lake Geneva area is Next Door Pub. On our last visit, we actually visited the restaurant and enjoyed it even more. The joint has received numerous awards so you know you won’t be disappointed. You must, MUST, order the giant soft pretzel with three different sauces. O.M.G.

Lake Geneva Pie Company

My husband and I discovered this great pie place when we were celebrating our anniversary. We each had a slice of pie and we were immediate fans. In fact, whenever we are in the area the craving for pie always hit. We love it that much!

Tip: Get a pie to go. Make sure to check their hours before visiting. 

The Coffee Mill

Located down the street from The Abbey Resort, The Coffee Mill is one of those hip coffee spots with a fun chill ambiance and better yet amazing coffee! Locals love it and have voted it “Best of Walworth County.”

Simple Cafe

If we are craving a breakfast place, Simple Cafe has our vote. It’s a cute, bright restaurant and the food is unbelievable. You have to try the Croque Madam and the Korean Rice Bowl.

240 West

Located at The Abbey Resort, this marina side restaurant not only offers fantastic views but amazing innovative food. The food was innovative, wonderfully presented, but most of all delicious! Read all about our romantic dining experience here. 

The Porch Lake Geneva

Located a few blocks from Geneva Lake, The Porch has plenty of outdoor and indoor seating. The bright and modern coffee shop serves coffee, baked goods, and food. On our visit, I loved the signature bourbon maple + vanilla latte as well as the ice chai latte. Our favorite spot is by the chess set on the super comfy brown leather sofas. The outdoor seating with Adirondack chairs is perfect for hanging out and sipping your coffee!

Kilwins

Located just one block from the lake, Kilwins is our go-to spot for ice cream. They also make their own fudge and chocolate, but really you can’t go wrong with anything here.

Want to learn more? Read more about these places to eat in Lake Geneva. There are so many options!

Places to STAY

Villas at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa

Located at Grand Geneva Resort, the newly renovated Villas were our home away from home. We absolutely loved it! It was gorgeous and spacious with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a living room. Plus, it had all the amenities a family could ever ask for — a fully stocked kitchen with full-size appliances, a fireplace, and a laundry! Since we stayed on the Grand Geneva’s property we could also take advantage of their amenities including the waterpark and fitness center. Read all about our fabulous “home away from home” at The Villas.

The Abbey Resort & Spa

Located on the other side of Geneva Lake, lies one of our other favorite places to stay when visiting the area – The Abbey Resort & Spa. One of the best things about the resort is the number of family-friendly activities they offer.   From watching movies at their small theatre or pool to roasting s’mores at the bonfire or creating crafts, your family will never be bored!  Read all about our latest visit here.

The Cove of Lake Geneva

Read to see why the hotel is perfect for families here.

Have you been to Lake Geneva? What are some of your favorite spots?