Given Lake Geneva’s central location in the Midwest, it’s particularly primed for impromptu trips this summer. Travelers will be rewarded with recreation on three lakes, a remarkable shore path running through the backyards of opulent estates, lots of golf, and a foodie scene that surprises even the most seasoned Lake Geneva visitors. Start planning now for a summer road trip with the kids that you (and they!) will remember for a lifetime!
What to Do and See
Ride along on the U.S. mailboat tour offered by Lake Geneva Cruise Line and marvel at mail delivered to piers by mail jumpers with the boat never slowing down. It’s one of the few places left in the country where mail is still delivered by boat.
Visit
Safari Lake Geneva , a unique conservation park featuring a variety of species, addax to zebu, living in virtually free-range conditions.
- Plan a side trip to East Troy Railroad Museum where you can ride the historic electric trolleys and coaches through urban and rural landscapes, followed by an outing to Old World Wisconsin where you can step back in time to 19th century Wisconsin and explore the state’s immigrant past.
- Helen Rohner Children’s Fishing Park has fishing areas for children, a butterfly garden, worm digging areas, and nature trails. Four Seasons Nature Preserve features a Storybook Trail that follows the imaginative story of a migratory bird family.
- See the look of awe in their faces when taking in a show of grand illusions at the Tristan Crist Magic Theatre.
- For those who have always loved horses, don’t miss the chance to see a performance at The Dancing Horses Theatre. Consider the package that includes a backstage tour.
Toys You’ll Feel Good About
Let the kids pick out a great educational toy or game at Allison Wonderland , family owned and celebrating 50 years in business this year.
Where to Eat
- Treat them to cheese curds from Wisconsin’s own Ellsworth Creamery during lunch at Popeye’s , another 50th anniversary destination.
- Cool off with a chocolate-dipped frozen banana at Going Bananas. This Coney Island-style sweet shop is located in the Riviera Building.
Where to Stay
- Consider “gramping,” a new trend of grandparents taking their grandchildren camping to share their knowledge of the outdoors. Set up a tent, trailer, or RV at Big Foot Beach State Park, where you can explore five miles of hiking trails and take a dip in Geneva Lake.
- While the waterpark is the main draw at Timber Ridge Lodge , there are also creative projects for the kids in the resort’s activity room. Keep score during a game of mini golf to see who fares better, the kids or the grown-ups.
- The Lake Geneva Lodge has a wonderfully kitschy, up north feel, with an outdoor pool, firepit area for s’mores, and individual cottages. Walkable to downtown.
- A good value proposition, and with two indoor pools including a kiddie pool to boot, can be had at the newly renovated Comfort Suites Lake Geneva.
Most of all, have FUN!
