10 Best Things to Do in Lake Geneva

The Geneva Lake Shore Path is a popular walking path by the water that will take you by immaculate landscaping and gardens along with historic and opulent homes. While the old historic homes are certainly an impressive sight to behold, many travelers will find themselves more enamored by the shining blue waters of the lake on the other side of the path.

You can look out across the lake to see vibrant trees and sailboats cruising along the water's surface. The 26-mile-long path also weaves its way through several wooded areas, adding a bit of diversity to your hike. You'll find this path wrapping around Geneva Lake.

Tristan Crist Magic Theatre is the top spot in Lake Geneva for magic performances where you can see impressive illusions and tricks presented in often-comedic routines. The 175-seat theater is quite spacious and state of the art with high-tech lighting that adds a higher production value to the performances.

Given the relatively small size of the theater, you get to see these impressive tricks performed up close and personal, and you may even be invited onto the stage to assist at times. You'll find the theater on the east side of town, just south of Main Street and by the highway.

The Black Point Estate is a historical mansion on Geneva Lake dating back to 1888 that you can tour to gain valuable insight into 19th-century architectural and cultural standards. You'll find an impressive 13 bedrooms within this mansion along with numerous other rooms, many of which still contain period-appropriate decorations.

The Queen Anne design is certainly unique, and its lakeshore location makes it a popular destination for pictures. You'll find Black Point Estate on the southern shore of Geneva Lake.

The Geneva Lake Museum of History is home to exhibits that showcase historical artifacts from the native people of the area as well as remnants from local 19th-century communities. Potawatomi Indian exhibits are especially popular, as they provide valuable insight into native culture and history, but you'll also find centuries-old stagecoaches and nautical vessels on display.

You'll also see photographs displayed that capture clear images of what Lake Geneva was like in times past. You'll find this museum along the White River, north of the wetland preserve.

Geneva Lake Distilling and Studio Winery lets you enjoy a satisfying tasting of freshly produced wines and spirits while taking in live music or the occasional art workshop. In addition to their homemade spirits and wines, you can also enjoy a collection of local craft beers and some light snacks to go with it.

The patio area is especially relaxing, and you can enjoy live musical performances during the tasting when you go on Friday and Saturday nights. You'll find the distillery on the northeast side of town, right off the Interchange.

Ice Castles is an impressive collection of icicles specially placed to create traversable tunnels and slides that are complemented with fountains and sculptures. You're free to venture through Ice Castles to explore this alluring sight yourself.

Talented ice artists hand-placed every last icicle individually, so the attention to detail is immaculate. Don't forget to check out the ice sculptures as well, which are illuminated by colorful LED lights. You'll find Ice Castles on the west side of town, less than a mile from the lake's shore.

Riviera Beach is a popular and family-friendly spot to enjoy some time playing in the water, thanks to the calm surf and the lifeguards on duty. Several amenities can be found by the beach as well, including bathrooms, water fountains, and even showers, making it especially convenient for spending the day with the kids in the sun, surf, and sand.

If you don't want to pack your own snacks and supplies, you'll appreciate that the beach is located next to several restaurants and popular shops by the center of town.

Big Foot Beach State Park is a popular outdoor destination for travelers looking for adventures that include hiking trails, playgrounds, and beaches. No matter how you're looking to enjoy the outdoors, you'll find fun at this park that features lush and vibrant natural environments.

There are 5 miles of hiking trails throughout the park and a beach that's open for swimming. If you visit in the winter, you can opt for some snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. You'll find this park right along Buttons Bay on the east side of the lake.

Timber Ridge Waterpark is an indoor aquatic theme park that offers a wide variety of options for fun, including pools, slides, and a lazy river. Given that much of the park has relatively shallow water and that there are posted lifeguards, it's one of the most popular family-friendly destinations in town.

Adults can still have fun too, however, as the slides are big enough for grown-ups to enjoy. Plus, you'll find relaxing hot tubs at the park. You can get to the water park by heading a little over a mile northeast from downtown Lake Geneva.

Geneva Theater is the premier movie theater in town, offering high-end 4K screenings of both the latest releases and some beloved classics. This theater is focused on luxury, featuring leather seats and plenty of space for each visitor to sit comfortably in front of one of the theater's 4 screens.

You'll even find full menu concessions that offer far more than simple popcorn and candy. Occasionally, the theater hosts live performances as well, so be sure to check what's playing on their historic stage before your trip. You'll find this theater just a short walk north from the shore of Geneva Bay.