Looking for a fun place to travel this summer? Look no further than Lake Geneva, Wisconsin! Nicknamed the Newport of the West, our quaint town is the perfect location for day trips or extended vacations for families and couples young and old. It is one of the most popular destinations in Wisconsin – especially in the summer when you can get out and enjoy the beautiful lake! With a variety of different activities to enjoy, there is something for everyone in the town that we call home!
Things to Do in Lake Geneva
With loads of activities for everyone to enjoy, you’re sure to find something to do every day of your visit to Lake Geneva! From shopping to outdoor activities to family friendly, here are the top 12 things to do in Lake Geneva.
Things to Do Outside
For those who want to maximize their time outdoors, play and attend sporting activities, or get out on our glorious lake, here are some of the best things to do in Lake Geneva outside.
1. Go on a cruise with Lake Geneva Cruise Line.
Want to really experience life in Lake Geneva? Then get out on the lake! Have the best view to see the grand mansions and hear the unique history aboard a boat tour with Lake Geneva Cruise Line. Enjoy narrated, sightseeing tours, meal cruises, and our world-famous US Mailboat Tour.
2. Explore the Geneva Lake Shore Path.
Walk, talk, and gawk as you get an up-close view of the mansions that line the shores on the Geneva Lake Shore Path. The path is approximately 26 miles long and spans around the entire lake. To walk the entire path takes about 8 hours, but don’t worry – you can enjoy it in smaller sections and make stops along the way! A Lake Shore Path guide is available for purchase to learn more about the history of some of the most iconic mansions.
3. Zip through the trees with Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures.
Take to the skies to explore the treetops and ropes courses at Lake Geneva Ziplines and Adventures! This tour is great for families and kids (of most ages) and corporate team-building fun. The best part? Get the chance to race side-by-side with a partner on the dual racing line at the end of the tour!
4. Swim at the beautiful public Riviera Beach in downtown Lake Geneva.
Lay out in the sand, swim, or build a sand castle at the Riviera Beach in downtown Lake Geneva! Surrounded by shops and restaurants, it’s one of the best things to do in Lake Geneva, WI on a summer afternoon! The beach is open to the public from May 25 – September 2 at a cost is $10 per person. Make sure to get there early and pick out the best spot for your umbrella or sun shade!
5. Go paddle boarding or kayaking with rentals from Clear Water Outdoor.
Museums & Fun Experiences
Hey history buffs and fun-seekers, here’s a special list of fun things to do in Lake Geneva just for you.
6. Learn the area’s unique history at the Geneva Lake Museum.
Wonder why all these mansions are here and what life was like when Lake Geneva got its start? Check out the Geneva Lake Museum for interesting history about the area including stories, pictures and artifacts of the families who moved up to the area after the Great Chicago Fire, why they had to deliver mail by boat, and local historical landmarks. Love Dungeons and Dragons? Visit the special exhibit dedicated to the popular game that was invented in our small town!
7. Enjoy the magic show that will make you a believer at the Tristan Crist Magic Theatre.
Experience the enchantment at the Tristan Crist Magic Theatre, where disbelief turns into wonder. Witness astounding illusions, from sawing a person in half to making a motorcycle vanish into thin air. Each captivating performance, features special guest appearances and endless excitement, that delights audiences of all ages. Tickets are available for $48 per person, and a concession stand is on-site to satisfy your cravings.
8. Go inside one of the oldest homes on the lake at the Black Point Estate and Gardens.
If you can’t get enough of the fascinating history of the Lake Geneva, why not tour one of the oldest homes on the lake and experience it for yourself? Arrive to this home the same way they did back in 1888 with a boat cruise by Lake Geneva Cruise Line! Discover the history of the lake as well as the history of the Chicago Beer Baron, Conrad Seipp who lived in the home. Insider Tip: Are you a fan of beer? Head to the gift shop for unique Seipp Brewing souvenirs.
9. Splash & play at the indoor Timber Ridge Waterpark at Grand Geneva Resort.
The lake isn’t the only fun place to swim and spend time together as a family. The Timber Ridge Waterpark located within the Grand Geneva Resort has a lazy river, water slides, and more for kids of all ages (we’re talking to you too, Mom & Dad)! With an indoor and outdoor swimming area, it’s the perfect place to visit year-round, rain or shine.
10. See wild animals up close at Safari Lake Geneva.
You don’t have to travel to Africa to go on safari! Safari Lake Geneva is an animal adventure like no other! Drive through the animal park and get a chance to feed the animals through your car window! Imagine zebras, giraffes, camels all lining up to greet you, while you comfortably sit in your car! Tickets range from $15.95 – $22.95.
Breweries & Wineries to Visit
Savor the essense of Lake Geneva by exploring (and of course sampling the flavors) at the local breweries and wineries.
11. Sample great beer in a unique location at Topsy Turvy Brewery.
Built in an old church, this brewery is full of good beer and friendly people! Check out their regular line up of live music events, and outdoor beer garden. This place is pet friendly too!
12. No matter what your drink of choice is, you’ll find great flavors and fun at Geneva Lake Distilling + Studio Winery.
Head to the tasting room to indulge in a wine or spirit tasting plus live music and art. From handcrafted cocktails to local beer, this winery/distillery is also a recording studio/art studio! There is no shortage of things to see hear, and taste here.
And those are just a few of the fun attractions and beautiful sights you can experience when you visit Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. You can find more tips and information about the area on our blog. We may be a little biased, but this is definitely the perfect place to visit during the summer for fun, relaxation, and small-town charm.
First step in planning your trip to Lake Geneva? Book your tickets for one of Lake Geneva Cruise Line’s sightseeing Boat Tours or Meal Cruises! Browse our tours and book your tickets online