Lake Geneva, Wisconsin is a prominent resort city in the southeastern region of the state, offering gorgeous beaches, campgrounds, year-round activities, and an abundance of local attractions. From viewing the sunset from lovely vacation rentals at Lake Geneva, to taking hot air balloon rides above the city, there are plenty of activities for adults and kids alike. With that said, make Lake Geneva your next family vacation destination, and enjoy these family-friendly things to do in and around Lake Geneva.
1. Brightonwoods Orchard
For a fun day outdoors with the added bonus of sweet treats, pay a visit to Brightonwoods Orchard. This fragrant, family-run orchard offers over 200 types of apples along with other fruits, cider, jams, cheese and more. Enjoy a family walk around the orchard, then stop by the apple barn to sample some goodies. Let the kids play in the orchard’s two-story tree house, then stock up on caramel apples, bacon jam, cheese and apple cider for some late-night snacking at your vacation rental.
2. Elmer’s Lake Geneva Boat Line
If you’re looking for a great way to spend time on the lake with the entire family, consider renting a sailboat from Elmer’s Lake Geneva Boat Line. Conveniently located just minutes from your vacation rental spot in downtown Lake Geneva, Elmer’s offers boat rentals, charter trips, pontoons and more. Take a boat out on your own, or sign up for a guided sailboat tour around the lake to take in the sights.
3. Lake Geneva Canopy Tours Zip Lining
If you’re traveling with an adventurous bunch, Lake Geneva Canopy Zip Lining Tours are definitely worth your while. Choose from eight zip lining courses that take you through a 100-acre forest above Lake Como, then end your day with the 1,200-foot dual racing zip line if your adrenaline can handle it. There’s no need to worry if you’re a newcomer, as all visitors receive ground training before going up, and the first zip is shorter to get you started. Before heading back to your vacation rental, take a stroll through the forest’s Arbor Trails to get your feet back on the ground.
4. Leatherlips Watersports
For an easy way to enjoy Geneva Lake, rent a couple of wave runners from Leatherlips Watersports and cruise the 7.6 miles of open water that surrounds your vacation rental. Gas and safety equipment are included free with each rental, and Leather slip also provides safety and operating instructions before you venture out.
5. Lake Geneva Balloon Company Hot Air Balloon Rides
For a bird’s eye view of everything, Lake Geneva has to offer, sign the family up for a hot air balloon ride with Lake Geneva Balloon Company. Each one-hour flight takes groups above the lakes, forests, and beaches in the area, giving fliers a unique and exciting perspective. When the flight is over, passengers are treated to a post-flight celebration at the Lake Geneva Pie Company and provided with completion certificates that are easy to frame and hang on the wall of your vacation rental as cherished mementos of your family adventure.
6. Safari Lake Geneva
Step away from your vacation rental and into the wild with a Safari Lake Geneva tour. A sweeping 800 acres of land provides a stomping ground to antelopes, alpacas, ostriches, bison and deer. Admission includes a cup of animal feed for a hands-on experience, and all tours take place on the “Safari Wagon,” where a skilled tour guide offers a variety of fun and educational wildlife facts.
7. Timber-Lee Camps
Take a few nights off from your vacation rental home and take advantage of the camping opportunities provided by Timber-Lee camps. Sign up for a guided retreat and connect with your family, or set up camp on one of the family campgrounds and enjoy a complimentary pancake breakfast at the end of your stay.
8. Fontana Paddle Company Paddle Boarding
Paddle boarding is rapidly becoming one of the most popular water sports around, and the Fontana Paddle Company has everything you need to enjoy a fun day on the lake. Free lessons are provided with all paddle board purchases, and you can even test out your board at the shop’s private floating dock before heading out onto the water. Best of all, paddle boards are lightweight, so you can easily store them in your vacation rental between uses.
9. Expect a Miracle Mansion and Miracle Path
For a truly inspirational experience, take your family on a tour of Wisconsin’s “Expect a Miracle” mansion. Located on Geneva Lake within close proximity of many vacation rental homes in the area, this 4-acre estate features beautifully manicured grounds and hope at every corner. Stroll along the grass and view beautiful signage with hopeful messages such as “I hope you dance,” “love is the answer,” and “peace to all who enter here,” or make a wish and ring the “Miracle Bell” along the sweeping “Miracle Path” that leads to the lake. When you’re finished admiring the exterior, head inside for a tour of stunning architecture and gorgeous panoramic views from every window.
10. Adams Family Memories
Make some fun memories to last a lifetime by heading over to Adams Family Memories, an old-fashioned photography studio that offers amazing portraits straight out of yesteryear. Dress up as bank robbers and pose with the family inside the studio’s “jail cell,” or round your group up in the old-time saloon for some classic shots. Costumes are provided prior to the shoot, and everyone in your group receives their own 8 x 10 photograph that’s just the right size to frame and hang up in your vacation rental home.