Only 80 miles from Chicago, but with a lovely vacation vibe, Lake Geneva makes for a wonderful summer getaway. Families can soak up the sun on the beach or on a boat. Mosey around the adorable downtown with an ice cream cone in hand and pop in shops. Feed exotic animals, view historic mansions and fill your bellies with tasty food. Here are some family-friendly stops you’ll want to put on your summer bucket list.
I don’t know about you, but I want to be outside as much as possible in summer, preferably by the water. Lake Geneva features a family-friendly, sandy beach downtown called Riviera Beach. It’s located on Wrigley Drive, close to the Geneva Lake Shore Path, where you can view impressive mansions originally built by Chicago natives as summer escapes. I suggest walking the shore path in the morning with a java from Inspired, a cool coffee shop focused on empowering persons with disabilities. Then cool off with a dip in the water at the beach. Admission is charged. Lifeguards and bathrooms are available.
You can rent a boat on Geneva Lake or take a boat tour. The most unique might be the U.S. Mailboat Tour, where leaping letter carriers dash off the moving boat to deliver mail to 75 lakeside residents over the summer. Another unforgettable activity is feeding exotic animals from the comfort of your vehicle at Safari Lake Geneva. My son and I giggled uncontrollably as we drove through the park and animals like emus, antelope and alpacas nudged feed from the cups we purchased. Book reservations in advance and enjoy up-close time with the animals.
You can also zipline, attend a magic show or play pickleball at the new six-court indoor pickleball facility recently added to Lake Geneva Tennis & Pickleball. I always find pickleball to be a great way to get families moving and having fun together and this facility is top-notch.
Stay at The Cove of Lake Geneva because it’s downtown across the street from the lake and walkable to shops and restaurants. Spacious suites with kitchens and separate sleeping areas make it easier for families to stay together without feeling cramped. A large outdoor pool with children’s play area and hot tub, plus an indoor pool means you can swim no matter the weather. On-site restaurant, Lake City Social, serves up contemporary and classic dishes that satisfy all palates (read: parents and picky eaters). The pan-fried walleye over a bed of apples, peppers and onions and topped with bacon and peppers is as colorful as it is delicious. We couldn’t get enough of the hot pepper bacon jam that accompanied the jumbo pretzel.
Simple Café is our family’s favorite Lake Geneva brunch café. The food is fresh and local and the café environment is cheerful. A great way to start your day. Try Tuscan Tavern & Grill for steaks, seafood, pizza and pasta. We especially appreciate all their gluten-free options. Kilwins is a classic stop for fudge, candies and ice cream. Malini Bikini is a Hawaiian shaved ice stand open seasonally in the summer by a trio of sisters who wanted to offer dairy-free treats. Get there before 8 p.m. to try all their toppings and flavors.
For a swanky brunch in a historic mansion, indulge in The Baker House’s Sunday Champagne Brunch. Tangy shrimp cocktail, gooey French toast casserole, crisp French macrons and bottomless mimosas make it a memorable affair. Listen to live piano music and try on fancy hats while you drink in the lake views across the street.
