Just over the Wisconsin border, you’ll find the village of Twin Lakes, Wisconsin. Named after two lakes, Mary and Elizabeth, Twin Lakes makes for a chill boating escape within a small town getaway. Less crowded and only 70 miles from Chicago, even a day trip is a great idea.
My family has rented pontoon boats on both lakes. Lake Mary is the smaller of the two, but both boast beautiful scenic views and calm waters. Steve, from Powers Lake Boat Rental, set us up with an easy to maneuver pontoon on Lake Mary and kindly showed us how to get to the family-friendly sandbar. Lake Mary was pretty quiet on the Saturday we were there, providing plenty of room to boat at our own pace, jump off and swim. Steve even added a floating mat for us to lounge and play on, which quickly became the favored spot for my family members. You can also rent wave runners, kayaks, paddleboats and fishing boats.
In addition, my family has rented pontoon boats on Lake Elizabeth from Twin Lakes Boat Rentals. You can go for a full-day or half-day. What’s great about this location is that Sand Bar & Island Grill is a lively restaurant at the dock that serves up a taste of Florida. Open April through October, you can grab seafood tacos, a burger and fries, plus ice cream to satisfy your bellies before or after your boating trip.
Another summer, family-friendly find in Twin Lakes is The Aquanauts Water Show. Free performances take place on Wednesdays and Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Witness choreographed water ski routines from these six-time national champions. Barefooting, four-tiered pyramids, trick skiing stunts and jumps from performers of all ages in will wow your family. Bring folding chairs to Lance Park to watch the show. Snacks and souvenirs sold on site.
Stop at Berkot’s Super Foods local grocery store to scoop up snacks and drinks to fill your cooler before boating or attending the water ski show. We purchased cherry plums, which are a hybrid of the two fruits — not too sweet, slightly tart and juicy little fruits.
To get a chance to sit on an orange couch like in the “Friends” show, stop by Cup O’ Joe Coffeehouse. Enjoy an espresso in their eclectic living room setting and feel like you’ve found a new home away from home.
