Lake Geneva hotels are a must when looking to spend time in this stunning destination that's a short drive from Chicago. The perfect spring break destination or weekend getaway that offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and beautiful scenery, Lake Geneva has become a popular vacation spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life without hours in the car or expensive plane tickets. We have the top Lake Geneva hotels and a list of the best things to do with kids perfect for your getaway.

 
Photo by author Lauren LaRoche, for Mommy Poppins

Things to Do in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Lake Activities

Lake Geneva is known for its crystal-clear waters and offers a range of water activities. Rent a kayak, paddle board, or boat and explore the lake at your own pace. For more adventurous souls, try jet skiing or parasailing and get a thrilling view of the surrounding area from above (weather permitting). There are also a ton of great architecture and tour boats available (weather permitting, tours take place over spring break). 

Hiking and Biking Trails

Spring is the perfect time to explore the stunning natural beauty of Lake Geneva. The area offers numerous hiking and biking trails through picturesque landscapes and charming towns. The Geneva Lake Shore Path is a popular trail that takes you around the entire lake, offering gorgeous lake views.

Golfing

Lake Geneva is home to some of the finest golf courses in the Midwest. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a beginner, you'll find a course that suits your skill level. If you think golf and kids usually don't mix, wait until you see Barn Hollow, the 18-hole, Par 3 course at Hawk's View Golf Club, created entirely with families in mind. 

Picture of the Angel Fountain in Lake Geneva. Courtesy Canva

Shopping

Stroll through the streets of downtown Lake Geneva and explore the unique boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops. Treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the many waterfront restaurants offering stunning lake views. Don't forget to try the locally brewed craft beers and wines for the adults on the trip.

Some top kid-friendly stops in Lake Geneva include Kilwins for ice cream and fudge, Kandy Cove for just about any sweet treat you can dream up, Nina’s Popcorn for freshly popped corn in unique flavor combos like salted caramel, peanut butter and jelly, and cheese, Allison Wonderland for toys, and Treasure Cove for souvenirs.

Dining Out 

There are seemingly endless choices for eating out with kids in Lake Geneva, but these spots with kid-friendly perks stand out for families.

• Mars Resort (Lake Como) With great lake views, a beachfront waiting area (kids can play in the sand), a kids menu, and a free boat ride around Lake Como after your meal, this spot should be at the top of your list. 
• Pier 290 (Williams Bay) The outdoor seating (with beach sand tables) offers amazing lake views, and kids can watch boats go in and out of the marina. The kids' menu does not disappoint, either! 
• Café Calamari (Williams Bay) Located right in the heart of downtown Williams Bay, this kid-friendly spot is across the street from a park. 
• Chuck’s Lakeshore Inn (Fontana) With great lake views, outdoor seating, a dog-friendly patio, free popcorn, a pool table, and darts, Chuck's Lakeshore Inn is a popular Lake Geneva destination for families. Be sure to arrive early for your dinner, as it switches to 21+ and up later in the evening. 
• Maggie Moos Dairy Ripple (Fontana) No list wouldn't be complete without a classic ice cream stand! Maggie Moos also has hot food and features fun kids' flavors alongside the traditional ice cream shop sundaes.
• Joni’s Diner (Lake Geneva) Looking for the perfect breakfast spot for kids? You've found it in Joni's Diner. 
• Next Door Pub (Lake Geneva) If you don't feel like eating out, this is the place to order great pizza for delivery to any of the Lake Geneva hotels and resorts

 
Climbing in the treetops in Lake Geneva. Photo courtesy of Lake Geneva Ziplines and Adventures 

Lake Geneva Canopy Tours

For the adrenaline junkies, Lake Geneva Canopy Tours is a must-visit. Zipline through the forest, try the high ropes course or embark on an adventure-filled guided tour that includes hiking, biking, and kayaking.

Skiing

Weather permitting, you can ski at the Grand Geneva Resort during spring break. Some years, Alpine Valley and nearby Wilmot will still make snow for spring break skiing depending on the weather and temperatures. 

Things to Do When It Rains

If you need a place to hide from the rain, the Geneva Lake Museum is fun for kids. As soon as you enter, kids are given a scavenger hunt to find items as they look through the museum. Kids and adults will love learning about the history of Lake Geneva and the people who called it home throughout the 1900s (and before). There's even an old-fashioned main street with streetlights and a general store! 

Ten Pin in Walworth is another great option for indoor fun. With delicious pizza and bumper lanes for little ones, you might not even miss the lake.

If you're not staying at the Resort, the Timber Ridge Lodge Indoor Water Park does offer day passes and locker room access when availability permits. If the weather isn't great for boating or the beach, call their reservation line or check their website to see if they have day passes open for the water park. 

Best Lake Geneva Hotels For Families

The Cove

The Cove is one of the best Lake Geneva hotels for kids. The Cove offers a prime location in downtown Lake Geneva. It’s directly across the street from Geneva Lake so many rooms also offer lake views. For the kids, there is a great outdoor pool with a small splash pad in the summer and an indoor pool and hot tub.

Even though the weather isn’t quite up to outdoor pool temperatures, the kids can have fun splashing in the indoor pool. With its prime location, you can walk to all the shopping and dining in Lake Geneva. This is great for warm spring days when you don't want to buckle the kids in and out of the car seat. 

Grand Geneva Resort and Spa

Nestled on 1,300 scenic acres, the Grand Geneva Resort and Spa offers a perfect blend of elegance and adventure. With two championship golf courses, a ski hill, a spa, and a wide variety of dining options, this resort caters to everyone, and you'll enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside and access to hiking and biking trails.

Timber Ridge Lodge Indoor Water Park

There is no better resort than Timber Ridge Lodge with its indoor water park including body slides, tube slides, an indoor splash pad, spray ground, and more for families vacationing in Lake Geneva. There is also an arcade for when you need a pool break. Both resorts are located on the same grounds making it easy to take advantage of restaurants and amenities at both. They also offer a free trolley between the two properties. 

 
Double Splash Down at the Abbey Resort and Spa. Photo by William Prost via Flickr 2.0

The Abbey Resort and Avani Spa

Located right on the shores of Geneva Lake, The Abbey Resort is a luxurious option for your getaway. This is the only resort on our list of Lake Geneva hotels located right on the water of Geneva Lake. It’s located in the town of Fontana. Enjoy spacious rooms with lake views, relax at the spa, or indulge in one of the three on-site dining options.

The resort also offers a variety of activities, including golf, water sports (in the summer), and an arcade for the kids. Over spring break, you’ll have access to their indoor pool and hot tub.

Geneva Inn

Situated right on the shores of Lake Geneva, Geneva Inn offers a charming and intimate atmosphere for your vacation. Each room boasts a private balcony or patio overlooking the lake, allowing you to wake up to beautiful views. Indulge in the on-site restaurant's farm-to-table cuisine and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Kids will love the large jetted tubs located inside the suites.

Lazy Cloud Inn

Escape from the world and indulge in a cozy retreat at the Lazy Cloud Inn. This cozy bed and breakfast offers suites with whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, and private entrances. There are two locations, one in Lake Geneva and one in Fontana.

The Ridge Hotel

For a modern and chic experience, check out The Ridge Hotel on Lake Como. This boutique hotel features stylish and comfortable rooms, an award-winning restaurant, and stunning lake views of Lake Como, a stone’s throw away from Geneva Lake. Take advantage of the indoor pool and Jacuzzi, or rent a bike and explore the area on two wheels.