Hi everyone and Welcome back to the Travel Section of The Code of Style Magazine, and I’m delighted to share with you this post about “Lake Geneva”, by our Contributing Columnist for Travel, Valerie from Maple Leopard.
I’m Julia (Instagram: @julia.rees_), Senior Travel and Style Editor for The Code of Style. I hope you enjoy this article on Lake Geneva, Wisconsin and I’ll be back to share some more travel inspiration with you again soon!
So, read on to find out more about Lake Geneva from Valerie.
Today I invite you on a tour through Lake Geneva WI; not to be confused with Lake Geneva in Switzerland. Spring fed and crystal clear, Geneva Lake is gorgeous anytime of year.
This beautiful resort town offers endless options for fun in the sun. It won’t take long for you to fall in love with this lakeside gem. The sparkling water and warm breezes will have you in relaxation mode for hours. Chi-town (Chicago) residents consider Lake Geneva their summer playground. Many of them own waterfront homes in the area.
Although Lake Geneva offers activities for fall and winter, it is best to take advantage of this little paradise in the warmer months. Wisconsin temperatures take a deep plunge to the frozen zone, during the winter. The options for summer fun are endless, so I’ve rounded up a few of my favorites!
GETTING THERE
This little slice of heaven is located 1 hour N.E of Milwaukee Wisconsin, by car. Other options for transportation are available. The Milwaukee airport offers shuttles, limousine and small aircraft service to the lake. Coach bus rides can also be reserved.
Lake Geneva is in Southeastern Wisconsin, and 10 miles north of the Illinois border. You can fly into O’hare airport in Chicago, or General Mitchell airport in Milwaukee.
THE BEACH
There are 4 different beaches: Lake Geneva, Big Foot Beach State Park, Fontana, and Williams Bay. Lake Geneva was the only beach I had time to visit. I had so much fun here on a girl’s trip, with my friend from Milwaukee.
If you are a California beach lover, you will love it here! The vibe is reminiscent of the many beaches I’ve visited in SoCal. Lake Geneva charges a cover fee to use the beach of $7.00 per person.
WATER SPORTS & ACTIVITIES
Boating, paddle boarding, jet skiing, kayaking, and lake cruise tours await you. Lake Geneva Cruise Line offers chartered cruises around the lake to view the gorgeous mansions the area is known for. These are beautiful estates that were built by Chicago notables after the “ Great Chicago Fire.” You can book an evening dinner cruise to enjoy with friends, family or your significant other.
Boats, Jet Skis and paddle boards are available to rent. For all the yoga fiends, you can take a class to do stand-up paddle-board yoga.
SHOPPING
Downtown Lake Geneva is a destination for one-of-a-kind shops, and specialty stores. The latest fashion trends, unique pieces of art and stylish home furnishings, are all there. The boutiques and shops will keep you busy for hours.
A fashion shop must see is “ShoShoo.” I had a hard time controlling the shopping urge in this store! The shoes are very unique and whimsical. You’ll find all your favorite brands such as Converse, Mia Report, Lucky Brand, UGG and more.
GOLF
Lake Geneva is home to some of Wisconsin’s best golf courses. It became a golf destination back in the 80’s. The Geneva National Golf Club offers 3 eighteen hole courses that were designed by legendary golfers. The “Arnold Palmer” course is everyone’s favorite, as it winds through the beautiful rolling hills at Geneva National Resort. There is a golfing option for every level of player.
DINING
Area restaurants are known for serving cuisine made from fresh and local sourced ingredients. Dining options are many which include:
- Breakfast and lunch venues located downtown
- Dinner options range from intimate bistros to outdoor seating
- Fine dining can be found a different resorts nestled around the lake
Pier 290 in Williams Bay is one you shouldn’t miss. The president of the Lake Geneva Cruise Line was the mastermind behind this happy eating venue. A 100 year old marina was transformed into the only restaurant sitting right on the water.
It was constructed and refurbished with materials from around the lake. The pier offers stunning lake views, the atmosphere of a modern museum, fresh cocktails, and an outdoor fire pit to enjoy on the sand. I didn’t make it to this restaurant; it’s on the bucket list for next time!
ENTERTAINMENT
If you love to take in performances while on vacation; this city resort town offers great options for entertainment.
- There is a summer concert series with a lakeside view.
- The Fireside Theater is a very popular choice for Broadway style entertainment.
- The Lake Geneva symphony orchestra is a community of volunteers that perform 3 classical concerts per year.
- The Tristan Crist Magic Theatre features magic, comedy and illusions type entertainment.
If you have the time to spend a weekend at Lake Geneva, I highly encourage it. A day trip was great, but would’ve loved more time to explore.
Advice from the Lake: “Cast away troubles, keep things clear, don’t be shallow, jump in and get wet and make ripple. Where ever you go, reflect on life and dream.”
Stay well & I hope we can all get back to traveling soon!
Valerie Hansen
Travel Writer & Photographer, Fashion Blogger ( Maple Leopard : Instagram )
