Wisconsin Getaway: 48 Hours to Explore Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva has long been popular for its gorgeous mansions and picturesque natural scenery. It also makes for the perfect romantic getaway, with chic restaurants and plenty of attractions to enjoy together. Read on to discover an inspirational itinerary ideal for a romantic escape.
Day One
First, a quick tutorial before you arrive at your destination. While it’s commonly referred to as Lake Geneva, this resort-filled community includes Fontana and Williams Bay as well, all located on Geneva Lake. The lake is spring-fed, deep and crystal clear, and is the sparkling gem that ties everything together on this trip.
10:30 a.m. – If you can swing it, arrive for the morning tour of Black Point Estate and Gardens perched on a bluff overlooking the lake. This Queen Anne “summer cottage” was built by Chicago business mogul Conrad Seipp in 1888, and has subsequently been managed by four generations of his descendants. You’ll arrive by Lake Geneva Cruise Line, departing from The Riviera docks in downtown Lake Geneva. The tour lasts about three hours and gives you and your special someone a scenic welcome to the area.
1:30 p.m. – For a peek at the exteriors of the exquisite mansions that line the lake, walk the Lake Geneva Shore Path, which literally takes you through the yards of the estates. While it’s more than 20 miles to do the full loop, it is broken into four smaller sections.
For more outdoor adventuring, bring your bikes and ride one or all of the five color-coded segments of the Lake Geneva Bike Path. The various segments take you through the city as well as natural areas.
3 p.m. – Check in and make yourself comfortable at the Baker House, where every room has a view of the lake and a cozy fireplace. The sister property to this historic inn is Maxwell Mansion, circa 1856, making it the oldest mansion in town. It’s tucked just a few blocks away in the village. Enjoy the bocce ball court and heated outdoor pool open through mid-October to swim under the stars.
Both inns are adult-only, making them perfect for a romantic escape. Another adult-only option is Seven Oaks B&B, offering the genuine hospitality of a small English inn, with the owners hailing from the U.K.
On the other end of the spectrum is the sprawling Grand Geneva Resort, with high-end dining, golf course, spa and even a riding stable. The Abbey Resort in Fontana has a full marina for boat lovers. The casual yet refined Ridge Hotel has an outdoor veranda with a 12-foot-long fire pit for enjoying together in the crisp evening air.
6 p.m. – Keep the festive vibe going with dinner at Pier 290 in Williams Bay. Choose outdoor seating for the best views of the lake and check their schedule ahead of time for live music. Oakfire is another great choice, with a full menu of Napoletana-style pizza.
Day Two
9 a.m. – Great Eggs serves omelet wraps made to order. Enjoy with a cup of coffee and some homemade bakery items to start your day.
10 a.m. – Shopping options are almost endless here, so you’ll want to map out boutiques that call to you. Cornerstone Shop & Gallery presents its merchandise just as an interior design pro would. Browse this light and airy space for Lake Geneva and nautical items, original art and fine linens.
Delaney Street Mercantile is chock full of home décor items. Find local treasures from the Lake Geneva fine jewelry collection at Chinawest Jewelers. This mainstay shop, in business for over 40 years, custom makes all its beautiful pieces.
Noon – Relax and enjoy a delicious lunch at Simple Café, where the mantra is “changing the world one bite at a time.” The menu emphasizes artisan producers from the region, plus they’re committed to eco-conscious practices. Pop into their bakery right next door for fresh croissants to go.
1 p.m. – Grab your clubs for a round of golf. Serious golfers will want to book a tee time at one of the Geneva National courses. Choose the Arnold Palmer, Gary Player or Lee Trevino course. Or, check out the Lake Geneva Golf Trail, which offers information, specials and nine-and-dine packages for Walworth County’s 19 courses.
5 p.m. – After 18 holes, pamper yourselves with a massage at one of the area’s many spas. The WELL Spa + Salon at the Grand Geneva Resort has several shared treatment rooms plus side-by-side pedicure chairs too. And at Avani Spa located in the Abbey Resort, you can enjoy a deep tissue massage and other signature body treatments together.
Add to your spa glow with a wine tasting at Studio Winery + Lake Geneva Distilling. The husband/wife owners of this urban winery have perfected blends of local and imported grapes for delicious and unique flavors. It’s also part art gallery and part recording studio, with live music performances year-round.
6 p.m. – If the two of you consider yourself foodies (or want to be), book a class at the Lake Geneva School of Cooking. Chef John Bogan teaches classes that feature signature dishes from all around the world. The school is located in a historic 1913 building, but Chef John is so welcoming you’ll feel like you’re noshing in his home kitchen.
If you want to stay out of the kitchen this trip, there are plenty of options for wining and dining. The Geneva Inn’s Waterfront Restaurant offers an impressive wine list and equally impressive views.
Downtown, try the farm-to-table Sopra Bistro whose menu includes dishes like fried duck confit nuggets and rosemary braised lamb shank served with gnocchi.
Day Three
Sunrise – For a truly unforgettable end to your getaway, book a sunrise hot air balloon flight with Lake Geneva Balloon Company. As you float over the city and surrounding countryside, you’ll be sure to remember this special moment for years to come.
Visiting Lake Geneva in winter? Explore this snowy itinerary for the magical city.
