Looking for a lakeside getaway in the Midwest? Consider Lake Geneva in Wisconsin! This resort city is known for its beautiful mansions that overlook the lake, the historic mail boat cruise, the world-famous observatory and relaxing coastal vibes. Of course, you will find luxury around every corner of Lake Geneva, but this city is also known for being approachable and a great destination for families.

Here is our guide to what to do, see, eat and where to stay in Lake Geneva.

What to Do in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Take a mailboat tour with Lake Geneva Cruise Line

One of the best ways to see Lake Geneva is aboard the Lake Geneva Cruise Line. The cruise line offers themed boat experiences for all ages, including an ice cream social tour for families, and a Santa cruise around the holidays. One of the more popular cruises is the U.S. Mailboat Tour, a unique experience that takes you aboard a fully operational mailboat as it delivers mail and packages to various lakeside communities around Lake Geneva. Along the way, you can enjoy beautiful views of the lake and impressive mansions all around the lakeshore, while listening to the crew as they share stories about the region’s heritage and the traditional mail delivery service.

Visit the birthplace of modern astrophysics at Yerkes Observatory

Yerkes Observatory, located in Williams Bay, is a historic astronomical research facility founded in 1897 by astronomer George Ellery Hale. Known as the “birthplace of modern astrophysics,” it houses the world’s largest refracting telescope, with a 40-inch lens. Today,  Yerkes is open to the public five days a week, and serves as a public education center.  Visitors can explore the building’s beautiful architecture, take a tour to learn about the history of the observatory, attend a lecture or stargazing event, and visit the out-of-this-world gift shop, full of astronomy-themed souvenirs for all ages.

Believe in magic at Tristan Crist Magic Theatre

When was the last time you saw a show where you couldn’t believe your eyes? Tristan Crist Magic Theatre is where you can experience live magic that blends illusion, storytelling and lots of audience participation. Founded by magician Tristan Crist, the theatre presents a variety of shows featuring magic tricks, sleight of hand and amazing stage effects. The performances are 90 minutes and entertaining for both children and adults alike.

Shop local at the Lake Geneva Farmers Market

On Thursdays from May through October, the Lake Geneva Farmers Market is the place to find local farmers and vendors from the area selling fresh vegetables and fruits, flowers, local cheeses, breads, jams, honey and ready-to-eat food and drink. You’ll also find tons of unique, handmade art and goods at this weekly open-air market.

Enjoy a cooking class + lunch at the Lake Geneva School of Cooking

Getting a taste of the local food is always a good idea when you’re traveling. At Lake Geneva School of Cooking, you can do just that, and work on your kitchen skills, too. Chef John Bogan starts the cooking class with a mimosa, which kicks off the party-like atmosphere. From there, you’re broken up into groups and help prepare one part of the afternoon’s lunch. The cooking class is perfect for beginners and gourmets alike, and the Chef John makes the class fun, informative and delicious!

Experience a honey tasting with Queen Bee Artisan Market

Want to find out what the buzz is all about when it comes to honey? Queen Bee Artisan Market is the sweetest place to participate in a guided tasting, led by a honey expert. The one-hour experience includes sampling a flight of honey, learning about honey varietals, pairing honey with cheese and other small bites, and lots more. It’s a great activity for families with older kids, and those who want to know more about where honey comes from.

Shop for local goods at a mushroom farm 

The place to visit for all-things mushrooms (and other farm-to-table foods) is River Valley Ranch & Kitchens. This farm and grocery store is packed with hand-harvested mushrooms, grown right there at the facility. You can also find mushroom kits to grow your own, as well as a variety of hot and ready-to-eat vegetarian meals.

What to Eat in Lake Geneva

From upscale dining experiences to family-friendly favorites, Lake Geneva has something for every type of palate.

Grand Cafe: For an al fresco meal with a view, the Grand Cafe is the place to be. This cozy restaurant, located inside the Grand Geneva Resort and Spa, offers a breakfast buffet on the weekends, as well as a seasonal menu inspired by the restaurant’s impressive outdoor views.

Pier 290: Lake Geneva’s only lakeside restaurant is also an incredibly family-friendly one, too! You’ll find lots of American fare, like burgers and brunch offerings, but also lots of seafood dishes, like ahi tuna tartare and shrimp plates.

240 West: Feeling a little fancy? This restaurant, located inside The Abbey Resort, has an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere, and serves classic flavors with a contemporary spin. From steak to Mediterranean dishes, there is something for everyone to savor.

Oakfire: You’ll find Neapolitan pizzas at Oakfire, wood-fired at 1,000 degrees in an imported Stefano Ferrara oven and made with both locally sourced and imported Italian ingredients. The result is pizza with ultra crisp-yet chewy crust, in a number of flavor combinations.

1878 on the Lake: Another fine dining experience not to be missed is 1878 on the Lake, located in the Lake Lawn Resort. This restaurant, overlooking Delavan Lake, is a great place for a parents-night-out option but also welcomes children, as they have a kids menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Where to Stay in Lake Geneva

Families will definitely want to consider staying at Timber Ridge Lodge & Water Park, located on the Grand Geneva campus. Voted a fan favorite and named to the USA Today’s 10Best Awards for Best Indoor Waterpark, this hotel offers indoor and outdoor waterpark fun, 35-foot-high waterpark slides and a lazy river.

For a tranquil stay near the Delavan Lake, Lake Lawn Resort is also a great place for families. Offering huge resort rooms with lofts, sitting areas, full kitchens and plenty of space to spread out, Lake Lawn also has an arcade, a kids zone, indoor and outdoor pools, a grab-and-go cafe, and multiple restaurants on site.