By Nat Wexler | Photos (left to right): Shanna Wolf, Gabrielle Gasser, Hillary Schave
There is nothing quite like summertime in Lake Geneva: the lake dotted with boats, an ice cream cone in hand as you enjoy an outdoor patio. A certain magic exists in watching daylight evaporate into a stunning sunset that paves way for the moon to glisten over the still water — all while enjoying the warm summer air. But what does a perfect long weekend in Lake Geneva look like? Of course, the answer to this will be different for everyone. But, inspired by a similar and famous New York Times series, we decided to craft an itinerary for the perfect 72-hour getaway that highlights all of the areas around Geneva Lake.
THURSDAY
6:30 p.m.: After spending an hour or two in transit getting to Lake Geneva, you’re probably a bit hungry. Stop at the Flat Iron Tap (150 Center St., Lake Geneva) for a delicious burger and fries.
10 p.m.: To kick off your vacation in an iconic way, stop by Chuck’s Lakeshore Inn in Fontana for a cocktail. If it’s nice outside, sit outside and enjoy the moonlight reflecting over Geneva Lake.
FRIDAY
8 a.m.: Start your morning with coffee! Head over to Boxed & Burlap’s original location just north of Williams Bay (2935 WI-Hwy 67, Delavan) to indulge in a pastry and specialty latte.
10 a.m.: Lake Geneva Cruise Line’s U.S. Mailboat tour is a must-do, and the boat leaves promptly at 10 a.m. every day! Make your way over to the Riviera Docks (812 Wrigley Dr., Lake Geneva) to board this cruise around the perimeter of Geneva Lake while taking in the gorgeous architecture of the lakeside homes and watching a “mail jumper” leap from the moving boat to the piers and back again in their quest to deliver the mail.
1 p.m.: Once back on land, make your way over to Tuscan Tavern (420 Broad St., Lake Geneva) for lunch on the open-air patio or the enclosed porch, or inside the beautiful Italian villa-inspired dining room.
3 p.m.: Walk to Library Park to relax on a bench (or bring a blanket!). Don’t forget your copy of At The Lake for maximum enjoyment.
5 p.m.: Head over to Studio Winery (401 E. Sheridan Springs Rd., Lake Geneva) to taste a selection of wines and listen to live music.
7:30 p.m.: In Wisconsin, a Friday night can only mean one thing: fish fry! For a truly delicious feast, visit The Duck Inn Supper Club (N6214 WI- 89, Delavan). Make sure to order the cheese curds as an appetizer and a grasshopper for dessert!
SATURDAY
10:30 a.m.: After a restful night of sleep, begin your day with brunch with incredible lake views at 1878 on the Lake (2400 Geneva St., Delavan). The Bananas Foster French Toast and the chorizo egg tacos are not to be missed!
12:30 p.m.: Make your way to the Geneva Lake Museum (255 Mill St., Lake Geneva) to see some incredible artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the area.
2:30 p.m.: If the Mailboat tour whetted your appetite for getting out on the lake, head over to Jerry’s Majestic Marine (352 Lake St., Fontana) or Marina Bay Boat Rentals (300 Wrigley Dr., Lake Geneva) to rent a Wave Runner or a boat, water skis, tubes and wakeboards.
6 p.m.: Make your way over to Mars Resort (W4098 South Shore Dr., Lake Geneva) for cocktails and dinner. On the weekends, there is a bit of a wait, but you can sit on the shore of Lake Como sipping a cocktail while waiting for your table to be ready. It’s well worth it, as they serve some of the best cheese curds, charred chicken and burgers in the area.
10 p.m.: For a late-night treat, swing by Dip in the Bay (105 North Walworth Ave., Williams Bay) for a hand-dipped ice cream cone, sundae or milkshake! On Fridays and Saturdays, they’re open until 11 p.m.
SUNDAY
10 a.m.: Spend your last brunch of the weekend dining at Joni’s Diner (111 South Wells St., Lake Geneva), a classic diner that was originally built in 1954. The pork chop and eggs are absolutely amazing!
12 p.m.: Go for a walk on the Shore Path. The lakefront path is a 21.9- mile foot path around the circumference of Geneva Lake. Walking a section of the Shore Path allows you to get your exercise in and enjoy the various architectural marvels surrounding the lake. Pick up At The Lake’s handy, pocket-sized Shore Path Guide ahead of time to learn tips, routes and background on points of interest you’ll see on your walk.
4 p.m.: On your way out of town, stop by downtown Lake Geneva to pick up a quintessential Lake Geneva souvenir to commemorate your weekend. Delaney Street Mercantile (905 West Main St., Lake Geneva), Cornerstone Shop & Gallery (214 Broad St., Lake Geneva), and Haberdapper (253 Broad St., Lake Geneva) all have wonderful and quirky offerings!
