Looking for a weekend that mixes spa robes and deep-fried cheese curds with room to dance, shop, sip and breathe a bit? Walworth County — less than hours from Chicago — has laid-back lake towns and fun downtowns for an easygoing girls’ getaway.
“It’s a great place to get away from an urban environment, but not literally into the woods,” says Ellen Ward-Packard of the Walworth County Visitors Bureau. “It’s fairly low-key and very walkable.”
From Lake Geneva — the tourism heart of this southern Wisconsin region — to day-trip-friendly towns like Delavan, East Troy, Fontana, Whitewater and Williams Bay, each spot offers its own flavor (think: scenic hikes, speakeasies, vintage trains and waterfront cocktails).
“It’s a place for recreation,” Ward-Packard says. Here’s how to plan your mom escape to a destination known for rustic charm and small-town nightlife that doesn’t stray too far from creature comforts.
Places to relax, reset and get outside
“There’s just something really pleasant about everything here,” Ward-Packard says. These four spots are ideal for unwinding and recharging.
- Geneva Lake Shore Path (Lake Geneva to Williams Bay): This four-mile shoreline trail weaves past historic homes, with stops like Yerkes Observatory — “which has the world’s largest refracting telescope” — or Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy.
- Avani Spa (Fontana): Treat yourselves to massage therapy, hydrotherapy pools or skin treatments in a calming, low-lit space. This full-service spa offers day access.
- Lake Geneva Cruise Line (Lake Geneva): “The sunset tours are super beautiful,” says Ward-Packard. Hear the history of the lakeside mansions — and take in the views, drink in hand.
- The Candle Mercantile (Lake Geneva): Choose your favorite scents; then pour and blend a custom candle, all while sipping wine. “It’s very relaxed,” Ward-Packard says.
Walworth County events worth planning around
Make a long weekend out of your escape by centering it on two local favorite events.
- Big Al Wetzel Band (Lake Geneva): May 31, 6-9 p.m. at Topsy Turvy Brewery. Rock out with this local favorite at a fun, energetic neighborhood brewery known for its craft taps and relaxed vibe.
- Neon Nights (Elkhorn): Aug. 1-2 at the Walworth County Fairgrounds. This ’90s country music fest features Travis Tritt, Gretchen Wilson, Lonestar and more — with on-site camping, VIP upgrades and throwback flair.
Side adventures close to Lake Geneva
If you’re staying central, it’s easy to branch out. Here are a few fun day trips:
- East Troy Electric Railroad: Ride a vintage trolley through scenic farmland, with seasonal stops like an apple orchard. Great for photos and a slower pace.
- Downtown Delavan: Explore this town’s quirky circus-themed murals, statue and local shops. “It has some interesting lore,” Ward-Packard says.
- Hildebrand Nature Conservancy (Fontana): The quiet trails and native plants in this small town make for a low-key nature break. “Fontana has a really nice beach, too.”
- Whitewater: Browse an independent bookstore, grab coffee in a historic hotel or check out the local arts collective.
Activities to get your adrenaline going (a bit!)
“I love an activity,” Ward-Packard says. Your crew, too? Explore these options for an energy boost.
- Lake Geneva Axe Throwing, LLC (Lake Geneva): This new, lively group activity is a hit. “With my friends, this is where I would go!” says Ward-Packard.
- The Lofty Life (Delavan): Pre-schedule an aerial silks or hoops private class for another unique option. “They do party booking,” Ward-Packard notes, perfect for beginners.
- Lake Geneva Canopy Tours (Lake Geneva): Soar above 100 acres of Lake Geneva’s natural beauty by zipline.
- Paddling (Lake Geneva): Find kayak and paddleboard rentals on three lakes. Try Lake Geneva for bigger crowds, or, for a relaxed paddle, “Lake Como is much more chill.”
Unique spots to dine in Walworth County
From cozy cafés to lakeside dinners, the Lake Geneva area offers plenty of spots to refuel, linger and chat.
- Simple Café (Lake Geneva): Known for its flaky croissants — “one of the only bakeries in Wisconsin that laminates them,” says Ward-Packard. The café also serves fresh, seasonal meals, with a small market for pastries and picnic snacks.
- Flatiron Tap (Lake Geneva): Comfort food in a cozy, no-frills space with just a handful of tables. Come for the burgers and cheese curds; stay for the crispy, deep-fried Brussels sprouts — “extremely Wisconsin-coded,” says Ward-Packard. “They’re so delicious.”
- Pier 290 (Williams Bay): Upscale lakeside dining with a chef known for creativity. Think cocktails on the deck, live music and sunsets on the water.
- 2894 On Main (East Troy): A low-key café for breakfast, lunch or coffee, with fresh pastries and a comfortable spot to catch up without feeling rushed.
- The Duck Inn Supper Club (Delavan): Classic supper club with Wisconsin-style Old Fashioneds, Friday fish fries and prime rib in a warm, wood-paneled space.
- Opus at The Belfry House (near Delavan): A refined, wine-paired dining experience for foodies in your group. Reservations recommended
- Green Grocer (Williams Bay): “A nice, teeny little grocery store,” Ward-Packard says, that serves fresh sandwiches, soups and snacks, ideal for lunch after walking the lake path.
Where to celebrate after dark
After dinner, the options range from low-lit lounges to spots with live music and a crowd.
- Maxwell Mansion Speakeasy (Lake Geneva): Hidden behind a password-protected entrance, this chic bar serves up vintage charm and craft cocktails.
- Hogs & Kisses (Lake Geneva): Dance, DJs and late-night energy. If your group’s in the mood to let loose, this is the spot.
- East Troy Brewery: With live music and a casual vibe, this taproom is a good stop for pre-dinner drinks or a relaxed nightcap.
This content is sponsored by the Walworth County Visitors Bureau. To learn more, visit the Walworth County Visitors Bureau’s girls getaway guide.
