Published by Make It Better- September 23, 2015
Make It Better readers voted Lake Geneva a favorite weekend getaway in the Best of 2015: Travel. With fall colors bursting into full bloom, it’s a fantastic time to enjoy a quick escape to this close-to-home destination. See for yourself why Travel + Leisure named Lake Geneva one of America’s Best Towns for Fall Colors. Recharge and reboot with a weekend getaway that’s equal parts adventure and indulgence.
Enjoy the Best Views of the Breathtaking Vistas
Lake Geneva estate owners partnered with America’s foremost landscape architects to achieve the longest-lasting fall color display possible, from early September through November. Stroll along the gorgeous 21-mile Geneva Lake Shore Path or soar above it all (see below!) to see fall foliage in full display.
Float Through the Skies in a Hot Air Balloon
If you’ve dreamed of a hot air balloon ride, it’s time to check it off your bucket list. The majestic views of a sunrise ride are well worth the early wake-up call. You’ll be amazed by the tranquility of take off. While the balloon drifts as high as 4,000 feet in the sky, the scene below is serene. Capture fantastic photos of the seasonal colors through October. Balloon rides will be available again in April. Lake Geneva Balloon Company, flights from $240 per person
Zip Through the Trees on a Canopy Tour
TripAdvisor’s No. 1 Lake Geneva Outdoor Activity is an awesome experience. Spend over two hours up in the trees – the best way to enjoy the leaves! Sail across eight different zip lines, reaching speeds of up to 45 mph. With the crisp reds, yellows and oranges all around, it’ll look like you’re flying through fire! Climb sky bridges, spiral stairways and feel fearless. You won’t be able to wipe the exhilarated smile off your face for days. Open year-round, weather permitting. Lake Geneva Canopy Tours, N3219 County Road H, Lake Geneva, 262-248-9271, $100 per adult
Delight in Some Delicious Dining
Hunt Club Steakhouse is an Open Table 2015 Diner’s Choice winner. You’ll know why when you sink your teeth into their mouthwatering steaks and savory salmon. Refrain from licking the lobster bisque bowl, only to save room for the special Cherries Jubilee dessert. 555 Hunt Club Court, in Geneva National Resort, 262-245-7200
Don’t miss Sunday brunch at the Geneva ChopHouse. It’s a grand experience that will have you understanding why brunch is a marathon. Slowly sample everything from the delicious seafood (crab legs and shrimp, oh my!) to the seasonal desserts (caramel apple bread pudding, need we say more?). 7036 Grand Geneva Way, inside Grand Geneva Resort, 262-249-4788, adults $33
Medusa Grill & Bistro is highly recommended by Lake Geneva locals. This 10-table, 12-bar-seat restaurant serves fine-dining Mediterranean and American cuisine in a laid-back atmosphere. The Skordalia dip of garlic and almonds with lemon and olive oil is to die for. 501 Broad St., Lake Geneva, 262-249-8644
It’s simple to see why Simple Café is the No. 1 Lake Geneva restaurant on TripAdvisor. This eclectic breakfast and lunch café serves fresh, farm-to-table favorites with funky, seasonal twists. Apple Crumb French Toast, anyone? 525 Broad St., Lake Geneva, 262-248-3556
Relax and Kick Back
Pier 290 is a lakeside restaurant accessible by land, water and ice. Sit with your feet in white sand and soak in the sounds of the marina. Enjoy a warm glow with a fireside cocktail in the evenings. Or, munch a casual American lunch – the Maine Lobster Roll sandwich is a delicious choice. 1 Leichty Drive, Williams Bay, 262-245-2100
Wine, art and music collide at Studio Winery, an urban winery born out of the passions of ownersDoug and Kathy Jackson. Sample your choice of five small-batch artisan style wines, all produced on site. Live music lights up Saturday evenings from 4-8 p.m. Corks & Canvas painting classes are offered on Sunday afternoons. 401 Sheridan Springs Road, Lake Geneva, 262-348-9100
Feel Perfectly Pampered
Avani Spa, the largest full-service spa in Lake Geneva, has been renovated. You’re sure to feel refreshed and rejuvenated after a visit. Indulge in a Pumpkin Spice Massage or an Autumn Mist Mani Pedi to feel warm and spicy or soft and smooth this fall. The atrium pool and fruit-infused waters are like a mini vacation in and of themselves. 269 Fontana Blvd., Fontana, inside Abbey Resort, 262-275-6811
Locals and visitors in the know go to Clear Waters Salon & Day Spa in Williams Bay for hair, nails and massage. The eight-minute drive is worth your while for a replenishing facial or invigorating massage. All spa services include a complementary foot soak in the serenity area, aromatherapy and warm towels. 18 W. Geneva St., Williams Bay, 262-245-2444
Where to Stay After You Play
For a taste of old world vintage glamour, consider sleeping at the Baker House 1885 or luxuriousMaxwell Mansion 1856. Baker House, 327 Wrigley Drive, Lake Geneva, 262-248-4700; Maxwell Mansion, 421 Baker St., Lake Geneva, 262-248-9711
Got a group? Inns of Geneva National are a great for gatherings. Newly-renovated inns each feature six separately-keyed deluxe guestrooms with two shared great rooms. Play a round of golf on theGary Player golf course or relax on the patio and appreciate the peaceful views of the rolling countryside. 1091 Hidden Cottage Circle, Lake Geneva, 262-245-4000
