Lake Geneva offers travelers to southeastern Wisconsin beautiful scenery, historic architecture, and the calm and serene atmosphere that only a resort city can provide. With vacation rental options ranging from quaint lakefront cabins to sweeping 19th-century homes and shoreline resorts, this popular vacation destination has something for everyone. Multiple communities surround the lake itself, and each area comes with its own sense of charm. If you’re planning a Lake Geneva vacation, this list of 10 best places to find a Lake Geneva vacation rental can help you find the perfect spot.
1. Williams Bay
For sandy beaches all around and quick access to swimming and water sports, consider the Williams Bay area in Lake Geneva. This community sits just minutes from Williams Bay Beach, a popular spot that features a boat launch, picnic areas, and a playground for the kids. Williams Bay is also home to the historic Yerkes Observatory, an astronomy facility that offers guided tours and access to telescopes that provide a stunning view of the universe.
2. Elkhorn
If you’re looking for a vacation rental spot surrounded by gorgeous lakeside views, consider the Elkhorn area. Located in Walworth County, this family-friendly community is surrounded by Geneva Lake, Green Lake, and Mill Lake for convenient access to boating and fishing. Elkhorn also hosts the Walworth County Fair every year, making this an ideal option for families traveling to Lake Geneva during the summer months.
3. Fontana-on-Geneva Lake
The Fontana-on-Geneva Lake community is near golf courses, waterfront restaurants, and miles of sandy beaches. Spend your days on Fontana Beach swimming and soaking up the sun, or visit the nearby Geneva Lake Sailing school for a family sailing lesson. Fontana-on-Geneva Lake is minutes from the quaint shops and cafes of Kenosha Street.
4. Walworth
Walworth sits along Lake Geneva and Lake Wandawega, a popular fishing lake filled with panfish, large mouth bass, and pike, making this a great location for travelers looking to reel in the perfect catch while enjoying breathtaking lakefront views. For some family fun on the water, board the “Walworth,” also known as the U.S. Mailboat, and take a personalized tour of Geneva Lake.
5. Lake Como
For a great taste of the outdoors just outside of your vacation rental, plan to stay in the Lake Como area. Lake Como puts a terrific fishing spot a few steps from your front door, and it’s also just a few minutes away from the Duck Lake Nature Area Trail, home to a 2-mile walking trail, duck ponds, woods, and pastures. The trail is also referred to as the “Warbler Walkway,” as the area tends to draw in warblers from all over Lake Geneva.
6. Big Foot Beach State Park
If fishing, canoeing, or camping are on your holiday schedule, choose a vacation rental near Big Foot Beach State Park, located on the shores of Lake Geneva. Pack a picnic to enjoy some family time on the sandy beaches, or rent a fishing boat or canoe to head out on the water.
7. South Lake Shore Drive
Lodging along South Lake Shore Drive provides lovely views of Lake Geneva and instant access to the Geneva Lake Shore Path, a 26-mile path that travels along the lake, providing hikers with lovely views of the sweeping estates, boat docks, and greenery in the area. One unique point of interest along the path is the Expect a Miracle Mansion, a large estate enclosed by wood fencing that displays inspirational messages of hope.
8. Delavan Lake
For a fun history lesson combined with the beautiful scenery offered by Lake Geneva, choose a vacation rental in the Delevan Lake area. In the 1800s, approximately 26 circuses including the famous P.T. Barnum Circus called Delavan Lake home. A large giraffe statue symbolizes the town’s unique history, and you can even schedule a walking tour to learn about the area’s early circus days. Delavan Lake is also located within minutes of downtown Lake Geneva, so visitors have easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment.
9. South Shore
The South Shore area is lined with peaceful lake cottages. Whether you plan to spend your vacation on the water catching fish or jet-skiing, or simply wish to relax on the dock and take in the atmosphere, the South Shore community has something for everyone. The area is midway between Fontana and Lake Geneva, making it an ideal location for travelers who are looking for the peacefulness of a semi-secluded location with a centralized location that provides easy access into neighboring areas for dining and shopping.
10. Downtown Lake Geneva
Downtown Lake Geneva is a busy area filled with shops, restaurants, nightspots, and museums. Because it’s right on the lake, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy the best of both worlds. Spend the day boating, fishing, or dining at one of the area’s waterfront restaurants, then add in a little “city life” by perusing the downtown shops or taking in a show at the historic Geneva Theater.