No matter what the season, Lake Geneva is prepared to offer visitors adventurous experiences for lifelong memories. Here, we share our favorite restaurants, hotels, shops and excursions to stumble upon during your stay.
It’s easy to fall in love with Lake Geneva. The southern Wisconsin city is bursting with colors, tastes and adventurous experiences.
Of course, Lake Geneva is beautiful during the springtime, with fresh flowers abloom along its lakeshore path. Summertime is equally lovely, with sunlight shimmering on the lake as visitors kayak, paddleboard and Jet Ski. Vibrant colors intensify the fall foliage, and gentle snowfalls create picturesque views during the wintertime.
Since Lake Geneva’s offerings are plentiful in every season, we’ve picked our favorite restaurants, hotels, shops and attractions that visitors can enjoy year-round. Use this as a guide for planning your next weekend getaway, no matter what month you wish to visit.
Where to Dine
Crafted Americana at The Ridge Hotel: From the cocktails to the cuisine, everything on the menu is made from an artisan approach. Handcrafted creations are a way of life, and premium ingredients are key. The hotel’s creative-contemporary theme lends itself to the restaurant’s eclectic decor. We recommend ordering the cheese curds and an Old Fashioned for an authentic Wisconsin experience.
Next Door Pub & Pizzeria: Pizza and pasta reign supreme, but the friendly service and upbeat atmosphere also are hard to beat. You’ll also find burgers, wings and other American fare on the menu, plus weekend dinner specials and options to customize your own dish. We recommend building your own pizza or pasta, with countless toppings and sauces to choose from.
Sprecher’s Restaurant & Pub: This locally owned joint is committed to craft beer, gourmet soda and delicious German and American fare. We recommend trying the Sauerbraten over Spaetzle, a traditional German pot roast served with a buttery house-made spaetzel pasta and spicy red cabbage. Pair it with a Black Bavarian beer.
Where to Stay
The Baker House: Set in an 1885 Victorian mansion, this intimate hotel embodies luxury, history and elegance. Each room is ornately decorated with period furniture, artifacts and decor, featuring fireplaces, chandeliers and marble bathrooms. Cozy robes, complimentary champagne and free Wi-Fi are all part of the experience.
From the moment you arrive, the staff is prepared to pamper you. A bellhop attends to your luggage and prepares you a drink, while the maid staff fluffs your pillows to exact specification. In the morning, coffee and a light breakfast can be delivered to your door or enjoyed in a common space overlooking the lake.
Roam the well-groomed hallways and discover a music room with live entertainment, a game room and an upscale restaurant serving light, gourmet plates. During warmer months, you’ll also find lakefront lawn seating and several gardens.
Before you leave, make sure to try on some of the hats scattered throughout the hotel and take some photos for lasting memories.
The Cove of Lake Geneva: Great for a family getaway, The Cove of Lake Geneva offers vacation condo living with multiple amenities. Relax and spread out in a one- or two-bedroom suite with a whirlpool, patio/balcony, kitchen/kitchenette and living room with a fireplace and 32-inch flat-screen television.
From your home base at The Cove, you can walk to downtown’s charming shops, the clean and quaint Geneva Lake beach and Riviera Pier, an array of dining options and more. Or, stay on property and enjoy the Cove’s two outdoor swimming pools – including a zero-depth kids’ area – poolside dining, Tiki Bar and private cabana rentals. Indoors, you’ll find a Colectivo Coffee bar, game room, swimming pool and Sprecher’s Restaurant. The Cove also boasts ample space for wedding receptions, corporate retreats and other formal gatherings.
Where to Shop
CornerStone Shop and Gallery: This large-yet-small shop makes gift-buying simple. Browse through an eclectic mix of ever-changing items, such as home decor, unique accessories and accent pieces, high-end giftware, boutique women’s clothing, jewelry, artisan products (including paintings from local and regional artists), ceramics and hand-blown glass, books and much more.
Kilwin’s Chocolates: For a tantalizing sensory and taste experience, indulge with chocolates, ice cream and confections at this local shop, known for its original recipes and friendly staff.
Studio Winery: Owners Doug and Kathy Jackson fused their talents, resulting in a combination winery, art studio and music studio. Doug is a winemaker and musician, while Kathy is a painter and label-designer for each of Studio’s wine bottles. Enjoy a tasting, live music on Saturday nights, or simply drop in to purchase your favorite wines. While you’re there, be sure to enjoy Kathy’s art on the walls.
Where to Play
Lake Geneva Canopy Tours: Gorgeous views await the adventurous of heart. Zip lines, sky bridges and spiral stairways allow you to trek through the trees as charismatic tour guides lead the way. Yes, you can experience the exhilaration all year round, even in the wintertime.
Tristan Crist Magic Theater: Magic, comedy and illusion come together for an hour-long show that entertains kids and adults alike. Tristan Crist, an award-winning illusionist, engages with almost everyone in the audience during his performance. Be sure to say hi to him after the show.
Pro Tip
This guide is just a starting point for families, friends or couples in need of a long-overdue getaway. Check visitlakegeneva.com for special offers and more information on happenings in Lake Geneva.