Places to PLAY

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.

Safari Lake Geneva

Did you know you can go on a safari in Lake Geneva? We were pleasantly surprised with our visit to Safari Lake Geneva. We hopped in the tractor-pulled wagon and stopped every few minutes to feed some of their animals. We saw camels, yaks, mini horses, bison, and more. What a great time!

Tristan Crist Magic Theatre

The Tristan Crist Magic Theatre may be the world’s smallest magic venue with just 50 seats, but it sure packs big fun! Our experience, from start to end, was nothing short of magical during the hour-long show. Don’t forget to hang back after the show for a picture and autograph with Tristan.

Tip: It’s Lake Geneva’s most popular show and smallest theatre, so book tickets well in advance! 

Timber Ridge Resort

Credit: 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!

Geneva National Resort

On Fridays, kids of all levels can learn a thing or two about golf at a drop-in clinic located at the Geneva National Resort.  My kids, with zero golf experience, had so much fun learning the basics of golf like the proper stance and swing.

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.

Lake Geneva Shore Path

If you’re looking for a little quiet time and the weather is in your favor, I highly recommend taking a stroll down the Lake Geneva Shore Path. The designated path around the lake is maintained by property owners so the trail is not all the same and can range from concrete to gravel. Read all about it here. 

Relax

Spring break doesn’t have to mean it’s all about the kids – take some time out for you too! 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

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.

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 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.”

Avant Bicycle & Cafe

A bike store and coffee shop? Such a charming shop in downtown Lake Geneva. The menu changes seasonally but if it’s available, I’d suggest trying the Coconut Latte.

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. 

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

Credit: Paloma Resort Properties

If you’re looking for a hotel with pools (yes, more than one), spacious accommodations with a kitchen, and an awesome location central to everything, then The Cove of Lake Geneva is the perfect family-friendly hotel for you. Plus, it’s connected to one of our favorite restaurants in the area – Sprechers!

Read all about the hotel here.

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