Dozen Distinctive Destinations
Lake Geneva, WI
Year Listed: 2009
Unique turret at historic Blackpoint Mansion in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.
Credit: Lake Geneva Historical Society
Lake Geneva, located in southeastern Wisconsin and easily accessible from Milwaukee, is one of the Midwest's most beautiful natural wonders. It has long been a vacation destination especially for Chicagoans, who originally sought refuge in the area while their homes and businesses were being rebuilt after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. It is commonly referred to as the "Newport of the West" for its pristine natural beauty and beautiful lakefront estates.
Mansions, Estates & Architecture
Highlighting the historic atmosphere of Lake Geneva are the well-preserved mix of homes that display a historical spectrum of American residential architecture, from a Gothic Revival cottage and large picturesque Queen Ann style mansions, to formal colonial Revival style houses and progressive Craftsman style homes. A favorite pastime for visitors is meandering along the perimeter of the 21-mile Geneva Lake Shore Path, offering pedestrians intimate views of the area's most famous mansions and restored estates.
Outdoor Activities
Recreational activities abound in Lake Geneva. Beach bums can relax on the shores of the lake while other outdoor enthusiasts enjoy boating,fishing, hiking, water skiing, biking, horseback riding or one of the 20 challenging golf courses in the area. The town's architecture can be admired while taking a tour on the Geneva Lake Cruise Line or by participating in the oldest continuous mail-boat service in the United States. Lake Geneva plays host to annual town parades, fairs and festivals and is home to the world's largest refracting telescope at Yerkes Observatory.
Unlike some resort towns that focus on just seasonal activities, Lake Geneva offers a variety of entertainment throughout the year. The historic downtown area boasts an array of shops where rare antiques and delicious Wisconsin-made confections can be found. Lake Geneva also has accommodations for any budget, from upscale resorts such as the Grand Geneva Resort and Spa to small bed and breakfast inns.
Interested in visiting Lake Geneva? Check out their Chamber of Commerce. Learn even more at the Lake Geneva Historic Preservation Commission.
