EXPLORE LAKE GENEVA
A popular Wisconsin destination that is 80 miles northwest of the city. Lake Geneva is sometimes referred to as the "Hamptons of Chicago" or the "Newport of the Midwest” due to the many estates and mansions built along the lake, many by notable Chicago families. Whether you own a place in Lake Geneva or just visiting, the town offers something for everyone from summertime lake activities and golfing to wintertime skiing and local events. Check out our favorite places to eat, drink, stay and play around Lake Geneva below and let us know your favorite local spots here.
EAT
Oakfire (Lake Geneva), a casual lakefront restaurant with a great patio serving Neapolitan wood-fired pizzas
DJ’s in the Drink (Lake Geneva), a local favorite known for their fish fry and waterfront views
Next Door Pub & Pizzeria (Lake Geneva), a casual and family-friendly restaurant serving thin crust pizzas and pub fare
Great Eggs (Lake Geneva), a tiny restaurant focused on making delicious breakfast and lunch wraps
Mars Resort (Lake Geneva), popular supper club with rustic charm and breathtaking lake views, known for their ribs and fish fry (Wednesday and Fridays only)
Sopra Bistro (Lake Geneva), fine dining restaurant from chef Simon Cumming serving serving fresh and delicious Italian-American cuisine
Magpie’s Den & Pen (Lake Geneva), casual beer bar and restaurant with spacious outdoor patio and live music
Flat Iron Tap (Lake Geneva), gourmet gastropub known for their burgers and expansive beer list
Barrique Bistro & Wine Bar (Lake Geneva), a seafood focused menu, 80+ wine options and 60+ beer options in a relaxing cottage atmosphere
Hunt Club Steakhouse (Lake Geneva), an upscale steakhouse housed inside a 106-year-old mansion overlooking the Gary Player designed golf course
Joni’s Diner (Lake Geneva), a retro diner focused on breakfast and lunch with a old-time atmosphere
Popeye’s on Lake Geneva (Lake Geneva), a local landmark since 1972 serving rotisserie chickens and all-you-can-eat Friday fish fry
DRINK
Coffee Mill (Lake Geneva), local coffee shop serving Anodyne Coffee and locally sourced food products
Topsy Turvy Brewery (Lake Geneva), brewery located in an old neo-Gothic church with an outdoor beer garden and live music
Mashtun Brewing (Lake Geneva), local brewery serving a variety of beers made in-house, plus grilled cheese sandwiches, soups and mega pretzels
Studio Winery (Lake Geneva), an urban winery, distillery, art gallery and recording studio
STAY
Baker House (Lake Geneva), a historic lakeside mansion offering a unique blend of Victorian elegance, modern luxury and a fantastic restaurant
Geneva National Resort & Club (Lake Geneva), a luxury resort with world-class golf courses and a scenic setting along the shores of Lake Como
The Geneva Inn (Lake Geneva), upscale hotel overlooking Geneva Lake and home to the Grandview Restaurant, a popular spot for special occasions
Maxwell Mansion (Lake Geneva), boutique hotel blending 19th-century charm with modern amenities, and a must-visit speakeasy (which requires a password)
Grand Geneva (Lake Geneva), a luxury resort offering top-tier amenities, including a spa, golf courses, and year-round activities on a stunning 1,300-acre property
Bungalow Retreat (Lake Geneva), a private downstairs vacation rental unit with great location and 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
PLAY
Hawk’s View Golf Club (Lake Geneva), consistently voted as Lake Geneva's best golf course and hosts a great Friday Fish Fry
Geneva National Golf Course (Lake Geneva), 54 holes of legendary golf designed by the masters, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player and Lee Trevino
Lake Geneva Shore Path (Lake Geneva), a 21-mile path that allows hikers to literally walk through the back yards of the beautiful homes surrounding the lake
Lake Geneva Beaches (Lake Geneva), enjoy the beach and beautiful lake at one of Lake Geneva’s public beaches
Timber Ridge Waterpark (Lake Geneva), indoor water park that is great for families (you must stay at the Timber Ridge Lodge to access)
Safari Lake Geneva (Lake Geneva), a drive-through safari adventure where you can see giraffes, zebras, bison, camels and more
Grand Geneva (Lake Geneva), enjoy winter sports at Grand Geneva which boasts 20 downhill ski runs, ice skating, sledding, and more