Wisconsin – Mommy Travels https://www.mommytravels.net Creating memories one trip at a time. Thu, 14 Aug 2025 16:10:22 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 https://www.mommytravels.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/cropped-Mommy-Travels-favicon-2-32x32.jpg Wisconsin – Mommy Travels https://www.mommytravels.net 32 32 8 Best Midwest Escapes for Families https://www.mommytravels.net/7-best-midwest-escapes-for-families/ https://www.mommytravels.net/7-best-midwest-escapes-for-families/#respond Sat, 01 Mar 2025 15:29:56 +0000 https://www.mommytravels.net/?p=12936 The midwest portion of the United States is terribly underrated, undeservingly so since they have so many fantastic cities. 8 Best...

The post 8 Best Midwest Escapes for Families appeared first on Mommy Travels.

]]>
The midwest portion of the United States is terribly underrated, undeservingly so since they have so many fantastic cities.

8 Best Midwest Escapes for Families

One of the best things about the Midwest is the diversity of what you will find there. Every destination is completely different from the next. There’s essentially an unlimited amount of experiences to have in the Midwest.

1. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago for families

Per Ava Roxanne Stritt from Spa Travel Gal, Chicago is an excellent destination for the entire family.

From toddlers to teenagers and their parents, there is a wide range of attractions and activities to choose from. Whether you want to be outdoors communing with nature or indoors solving a mystery, you will never get bored. My article offers five activities and locations to help make your trip a memorable one for years to come.  All of them are both fun and economical for families.

The first that I recommend is Millennium Park. This park is open year-round with different activities depending on the season. The kids will want to spend all day here so hopefully you find accommodations nearby. When it’s summertime, let the little ones splash around in the Crown Fountain pool while water pours from the gargoyles. If you visit in spring, take part in a scavenger hunt in Lurie Garden and seek out birds, bees, worms, and dragonflies. It is a great way to teach children about nature. Winter is no dud; that’s when the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink opens with a beautiful view of the lights.

Visit Spa Travel Gal to find out all 5 Top Activities Your Family Will Love in Chicago!

12 Chicago Date Night Ideas

2. Cincinnati, Ohio

Things to do in Cincinnati

Cincinnati, Ohio is a fantastic city with a little bit of everything. They have a great zoo, the Cincinnati Zoo, which you are probably already familiar with (remember Harambe). They have two theme parks, Kind’s Island and Cooney Island. Their playgrounds tend to be quite nice. Highfield Discovery Center inside Glenwood Gardens is incredible. It’s a fantasy playground filled with fairy gardens, trains, a butterfly garden and more. For foodie families, there’s an endless supply of wonderful places to eat. If for some reason you feel like splurging, head to Boca to enjoy an exquisite meal. Check out our Top 15 Things to do in Cincinnati for even more things to do.

3. Door County, Wisconsin

Door County, Wisconsin

Door County, Wisconsin is a peaceful getaway. Visit in May to beat the summer crowds and benefit from off-season pricing. Not to mention spring will be in full bloom. Enjoy lilacs, cherry blossoms and daffodils.

While there be sure to climb to the top of the Cana Island Lighthouse in Bailey’s Harbor, where you will be rewarded with some of the best views of Lake Michigan’s Door County shoreline.

To score a great photo of the lighthouse walk along the rock-ledge shore.

For those that love wandering down quaint little roads take a pleasurable drive along the hilly two lane peninsula dotted with roadside cherry stands, state parks and small towns.

Along the way stop for a bike ride. There are many scenic trails in the parks lined with wildflowers.

At night, sit under the stars and enjoy an evening production at Peninsula Players Theatre south of Fish Creek.

Door County has an especially good selection of affordable mom-and-pop hotels, including Julie’s Park Cafe and Motel in Fish Creek. From late April to mid-June, and you can get a king room for $70-$80.

4. Kansas City

Kansas City for families

According to Susan Lanier-Graham of WanderWithWonder.com Kansas City is a fun family destination in the midwest.

This metropolitan area of more than 2 million residents straddles Kansas and Missouri, and offers something for the entire family looking for a fun family vacation destination.

History and Culture of Kansas City

Nothing is better for summer vacation than finding great museums, filled with interesting collections, which also happen to be free. Kansas City has several exceptional examples. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art has more than 35,000 pieces in its collection. Be sure to visit the Egyptian galleries. The museum is open daily except Monday.

The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art is also free and open every day except Monday. The main museum, at 4420 Warwick Blvd., offers a vast array of art. The Kemper Museum App can help you navigate it. Be sure to check out the museum shop and stop by Café Sebastienne for lunch or dinner featuring dishes crafted with produce from local farmers and some colorful artwork of its own.

Kansas City is also home to the country’s only museum dedicated to the First World War. The National World War I Museum & Memorial is a way to make history come alive. You’ll find recreated trenches, videos, original objects, and interactive tables.

Head just out of town to nearby Independence and walk through America’s past at The Harry S. Truman Library & Museum. You can get a taste of life in the 1950s and even see a life-size replica of the Oval Office as it was during Truman’s presidency.

Playing in Kansas City

There are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you entertained during your summer visit to Kansas City. 

Stop by the Richard Petty Driving Experience at The Kansas Speedway to feel the thrill of the steep embankments and let your heart pound as your driver races around the speedway. Junior ride alongs are available for the little racers.

Just 20 minutes from downtown Kansas City, Moon Marble Company lets us all release our inner child. Marble making demonstrations take place at 3 p.m. daily through the summer. Buy beautiful handmade marbles, pick your own colored marbles in rows of bulk bins, and even find some of those classic games and toys of yesteryear.

Kansas City Barbecue is a Necessity

While visiting Kansas City, be sure to try the city’s famous barbecue. With more than 100 barbecue establishments in town, you’ll see that everyone has their favorite BBQ spot. Try one of the five locations of Jack Stack Barbecue, which has been smoking meat since 1957. Try the burnt ends—those crispy pieces cut off the brisket that are filled with the best flavor. Other favorite Kansas City barbecue joints include Arthur Bryant’s and Oklahoma Joe’s.

A summer visit to Kansas City is filled with art, history, food, and fun. The city is also known for its festivals, so no matter which time of year you visit, you can always find family fun in Kansas City.

5. Kenosha, Wisconsin

Kenosha

Oh the Places We Go recommends Kenosha, Wisconsin. Nestled between Milwaukee and Chicago, the small town of Kenosha is one of our favorite getaways with many budget-friendly options – many free!  The Lake Michigan town has a wonderful downtown area with a fun sculpture walk. Don’t feel like walking? Hop on an authentic streetcar trolley ($1/person) that makes its rounds around downtown, then hop off at one (or all) of the museums including the Civil War Museum or our personal favorite, the free Dinosaur Discovery Museum. To add to the experience, don’t miss eating at the train restaurant, Choo Choo Charlie’s which also has a stop nearby.

Since you are right by the lake, you should of course check out the Southport Lighthouse and its museum. If you’re up for a challenge, climb the 72 steps to the top of the lighthouse for fabulous views. Looking for a sweet way to end the weekend? Stop by the Jelly Belly Warehouse for a free factory tour to learn more about the beans. The real highlight though is getting a chance to go on a tram tour through the warehouse. Samples are given, and you’re also able to taste test their Jelly Belly flavors including the Harry Potter ones like dirt and grass.

6. Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee

Crazy Family Adventure says Milwaukee, Wisconsin is a great place to visit with your family. You can go to Discovery World where you and the kids will spend hours playing with all of the different exhibits that they have from virtual reality to touching sting rays. Before walking over to the Art Museum to check out the kids area and do hands on art projects or walk around and explore the art and the amazing architecture of the building. All of this is located on the beautiful waterfront of Lake Michigan where if the weather is cooperating you can take a bike ride or spend time down by the beach. If you are a sports fan you can catch a Major League baseball game, professional basketball game, NHL game or even a professional soccer game.

Milwaukee is also known for beer and has a lot of great breweries that you can visit with kids! The Sprecher Brewery tour even offers all you can drink soda to keep the kids occupied while Mom and Dad sample the many flavors of beer. The city is home to a variety of restaurants for every food type with delicious food and fun. The Safe House restaurant requires a secret password to get in and AJ Bombers will drop peanuts off at your table from an airplane.

There is also the Harley Davidson Museum, the Milwaukee Public Museum and the Milwaukee Zoo. From indoor fun to outdoor fun there is plenty to keep the whole family busy when you visit Milwaukee.

7. Put-in-Bay, Ohio

Put-in-Bay

Family Travels on a Budget says Put-in-Bay, on Lake Erie in Northwestern Ohio, is an idyllic summer vacation getaway for families.

The fun begins with a ferry ride to the island (leave the car behind). After checking in at your hotel or rental house, discover why people are drawn back year after year. It’s best to explore by bike or golf cart to enjoy the slower pace of the “good old days.” Rent kayaks for water adventures and discover the wildlife of the region. Get budget-friendly day passes to the adventure center and play putt-putt, tour the limestone cave, climb the rock wall, or participate in one of the many other activities.

Learn about the War of 1812 at Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial. As an added bonus, enjoy a picnic lunch on the grounds while you watch the waves — yes, Lake Erie has a surf! In the Harbour Square area, enjoy local cuisine, go window shopping or tour the Chocolate Museum! Yes, a museum dedicated to chocolate! We love Put-in-Bay for its slower pace — golf carts! And we also appreciate how budget-friendly it is — attractions are reasonably priced. Weekday lodging is discounted for added savings (and often includes a free golf cart rental). With so much to do and a relaxed pace, Put-in-Bay makes an ideal summer getaway for families.

8. Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota

Minneapolis

Minneapolis, Minnesota is a fantastic Midwest getaway for families, offering a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and kid-friendly attractions. Known for its beautiful lakes and green spaces, families can start their visit with a stroll around Lake Harriet or a bike ride along the scenic Chain of Lakes. During the warmer months, Minnehaha Falls is a must-see, with its picturesque waterfall and nearby playgrounds providing the perfect spot for kids to burn off energy.

For indoor fun, families can head to the Minnesota Children’s Museum in nearby St. Paul, where hands-on exhibits let kids explore and create. The Science Museum of Minnesota is another hit, with interactive exhibits on dinosaurs, space, and even a giant astronaut suit that kids can climb into. Sports-loving families can catch a Minnesota Twins game at Target Field or check out a Minnesota Timberwolves game if basketball is more their speed.

No family trip to Minneapolis is complete without a visit to the Mall of America. It’s not just a shopping destination—it’s home to Nickelodeon Universe, the largest indoor theme park in North America, featuring roller coasters, rides, and character meet-and-greets. Nearby, the SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium lets kids get up close with sharks and sea turtles. Add in a thriving food scene with plenty of kid-friendly options (hello, cheese curds!), and Minneapolis becomes the ideal family-friendly Midwest escape.

Where’s your favorite place for a family vacation in the Midwest?

Read Next:

Free Things To Do in St Louis

Green Bay Weekend Getaway with Kids

7 Best Midwest Escapes for Families

The post 8 Best Midwest Escapes for Families appeared first on Mommy Travels.

]]>
https://www.mommytravels.net/7-best-midwest-escapes-for-families/feed/ 0
Green Bay Weekend Getaway with Kids https://www.mommytravels.net/green-bay-weekend-getaway-with-kids/ https://www.mommytravels.net/green-bay-weekend-getaway-with-kids/#respond Fri, 20 Sep 2024 11:42:00 +0000 https://www.mommytravels.net/?p=48322 Looking a football destination for a family weekend getaway? Green Bay, Wisconsin, might just surprise you. Known primarily as the home...

The post Green Bay Weekend Getaway with Kids appeared first on Mommy Travels.

]]>

Looking a football destination for a family weekend getaway? Green Bay, Wisconsin, might just surprise you. Known primarily as the home of the legendary Green Bay Packers, this charming city offers more than just football. From a super cute and affordable amusement park and free wildlife encounters to hands-on museums and scenic gardens, Green Bay is packed with family-friendly activities that make it an ideal spot for a memorable vacation. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or simply seeking a fun escape with the kids, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Green Bay.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning: Arrival in Green Bay

ONEIDA HOTEL
Oneida Hotel
    • Check-in at Family-Friendly Hotel: Stay at the Tundra Lodge Resort with its indoor waterpark or the Oneida Hotel
      for spacious rooms, convenient access to local attractions, and super quick access to the airport.

 

Late Morning: Bay Beach Amusement ParkBay Beach Amusement Park

Kick off your trip with some excitement at Bay Beach Amusement Park. With rides for all ages, including the Zippin Pippin roller coaster Elvis’ favorite ride, this spot is perfect for family fun. It’s affordable too because you pay per ride not a flat admission. 

Lunch: Cedar & Sage Grill HouseCedar & Sage Grill House

Enjoy a lunch inspired by the Oneida Nation at this restaurant. Savor local meats, freshwater fish, and produce sourced from the Oneida Nation Reservation orchard, farm, and cannery, along with other Wisconsin makers like Belgioioso Cheese and Torke Coffee.

Afternoon: Educational Tour at Salt Pork AvenueSalt Pork Avenue

Dive into the rich history of the Oneida Nation with a visit to Salt Pork Avenue. Explore five reconstructed log homes dating back to the mid-1800s, each telling a story of the Oneidas’ journey to the Michigan territory and their treaties with the Menominee and Ho-Chunk Nations. This was the first time I had heard of the long homes and it was extremely interesting. So, different from things I’ve learned previously about Native Americans.

 

 

Dinner: Jake’s Pizza

Jake's Pizza in Green Bay

Jake’s Pizza in downtown is fantastic and kid-friendly. If you don’t feel like pizza check out 1919 Kitchen and Tap instead. It’s inside the Packers Stadium and will have all the sports games on. 1919 Kitchen and Tap

Day 2: Adventure and Play

Morning: NEW Zoo & Adventure ParkNEW Zoo

Start your day at the Northeast Wisconsin Zoo. Meet a variety of animals and challenge yourselves with the thrilling zip lines and ropes course at the Adventure Park. They have several animal encounters that you can do including meeting a penguin or feeding a giraffe. 

Lunch: ChivesChives

Enjoy lunch today at Chives. The French Onion soup is quite impressive if you are unsure what to order. 

Afternoon: Bay Beach Wildlife SanctuaryBay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary

After lunch check out Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk and see local wildlife that has been injured. This is free and inside the the main building are some interesting exhibits for kids. 

If you have extra time before dinner add in a visit to the Green Bay Botanical Garden. 

Dinner: 888 Cheese and Co888 Cheese and Co

End your day with a comforting and creative meal at this gourmet grilled cheese restaurant. Indulge in specialties like the “BRAT” with Nueske’s bacon and avocado or the “GOAT” with goat cheese and caramelized onions.

Day 3: Stadium and Departure

Breakfast: Leaps & BoundsLEAPS AND BOUNDS CAFÉ

Kick off your day with a grab and go breakfast at Leaps and Bounds just across the street from the stadium. I had the French Toast, it was great but the burritos I saw looked amazing. 

Morning: Stadium Tour and Playing at Titletown

Lambeau Field Tour

Lambeau Field Tour: Even if you’re not a huge football family, a visit to the home of the Green Bay Packers is a must. Take a guided tour of the stadium, which is packed with history and fun facts. The kids will love some of the interactive exhibits at the Packers Hall of Fame like seeing how high they can jump.

Titletown District: Right next to Lambeau Field, the Titletown District offers plenty of activities, including a playground, a full-size football field, and a winter skating rink or tubing hill depending on the season.Titletown District

Lunch: The Turn

Head to The Turn for a unique lunch experience that combines dining with interactive play. Choose from a menu featuring fresh twists on American classics while enjoying the Topgolf Swing Suite, where you can try your hand at various interactive gaming experiences.The Turn

Afternoon: Departure

Pack up and head home after a weekend full of fun, education, and great food, with wonderful memories of your family getaway in Green Bay.

This itinerary offers a perfect blend of local culture, history, and entertainment, making it an ideal choice for families looking to explore Green Bay.

Read Next:

4-Day Weekend Getaway to Tampa Bay

14 Weekend Getaways from Dallas, Texas

Green Bay Weekend Getaway

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

Mommy Travels Etsy Printables
bmc qr

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post Green Bay Weekend Getaway with Kids appeared first on Mommy Travels.

]]>
https://www.mommytravels.net/green-bay-weekend-getaway-with-kids/feed/ 0
17 Things to do in Milwaukee with Kids https://www.mommytravels.net/things-to-do-in-milwaukee-with-kids/ https://www.mommytravels.net/things-to-do-in-milwaukee-with-kids/#respond Wed, 01 Nov 2023 17:07:15 +0000 https://www.mommytravels.net/?p=43584 Milwaukee, Wisconsin is a hidden gem when it comes to family-friendly travel destinations. With its diverse range of attractions and activities,...

The post 17 Things to do in Milwaukee with Kids appeared first on Mommy Travels.

]]>
Milwaukee, Wisconsin is a hidden gem when it comes to family-friendly travel destinations. With its diverse range of attractions and activities, it’s the perfect place to create lasting memories with your little ones. Here, we’ll highlight some of the best things to do in Milwaukee, including not only kid-friendly spots but also exciting options for the whole family.

Exploring Milwaukee with Kids: A Family-Friendly Adventure

1. Betty Brinn Children’s Museum

Located in downtown Milwaukee, the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum is a paradise for kids up to 12 years old. With interactive exhibits and educational activities, it’s an excellent place for your little explorers to learn and have fun simultaneously.

2. Discovery World

This science and technology museum offers entertainment for all ages. Kids and adults can marvel at the incredible exhibits, including the opportunity to touch stingrays and board a pirate sailboat. It’s a hands-on adventure that you won’t want to miss.

3. Milwaukee Art Museum

Even the littlest art enthusiasts will be captivated by the Milwaukee Art Museum, known for its stunning architecture and a dedicated kids’ zone. Engage your children’s creativity and appreciation for art as you explore the exhibits together.milwaukee

4. 3rd Street Market Hall

Hungry after your adventures? Head to 3rd Street Market Hall for a diverse culinary experience. This food hall offers a variety of cuisines, from pizza to Peruvian dishes. It’s not just about the food, though; you’ll also find games, a top golf simulator, a video wall, a hibachi grill, a shuffleboard court, and even a wine bar.

5. Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory

Discover a world of natural beauty at the Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory, also known as “The Domes.” These three domes showcase different environments and even house some fascinating animals. It’s a great place to introduce your kids to the wonders of the natural world.

6. Summerfest

If you plan your visit in the summer, you might be lucky enough to catch the world-famous Summerfest music festival. With multiple stages and a wide range of artists, it’s an event the whole family can enjoy. Don’t forget to bring your dancing shoes!

7. Harley-Davidson Museum

Milwaukee is proud to be the hometown of the iconic Harley-Davidson motorcycle. If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast or just curious about the history of these legendary bikes, the Harley-Davidson Museum is a must-visit. Be sure to check for any special events or anniversaries happening during your visit.

8. Explore the Outdoors

Milwaukee’s stunning natural surroundings offer numerous outdoor activities for families. Consider electric golf cart tours of the city to get a unique perspective on the area. If you’re more adventurous, try jet skiing, hiking, parasailing, or even skydiving for a thrilling experience. For rock climbing enthusiasts, explore the glacier-formed rock formations that offer excellent climbing opportunities.

9. Family-Friendly Breweries

Milwaukee is known for its beer culture, and many of its breweries welcome families. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at a local brewery while the kids play in outdoor spaces or enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere.

10. Milwaukee County Zoo

Take your kids on a wild adventure at the Milwaukee County Zoo. With over 2,000 animals representing nearly 400 species, it’s a fantastic place for animal lovers. Don’t miss the special exhibits and interactive attractions.

11. Milwaukee Public Museum

The Milwaukee Public Museum is not only educational but also loads of fun for kids. Explore exciting exhibits, including a rainforest, a European village, and a life-sized dinosaur exhibit.12. Lakefront Discovery Walking and Biking Trail

Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the scenic Lakefront Discovery Trail, which offers stunning views of Lake Michigan. There are often festivals and events happening along the trail as well.

13. Mitchell Park Domes Annual Butterfly Exhibit

During the annual butterfly exhibit at Mitchell Park Domes, your kids can marvel at these beautiful creatures up close and personal. It’s a magical experience for the little ones.

14. Milwaukee Riverwalk

Stroll along the Milwaukee Riverwalk, where you can admire public art installations, dine at family-friendly restaurants, and enjoy scenic views of the river.

15. The SafeHouse

For a unique dining experience, visit The SafeHouse, a spy-themed restaurant. Your little secret agents will love the interactive spy gadgets and hidden doors.

16. Train Rides 

If your kids are train enthusiasts, consider a visit to the East Troy Electric Railroad or the National Railroad Museum in Green Bay. These attractions offer train rides and educational experiences.

17. Urban Ecology Center

The Urban Ecology Center offers outdoor educational programs, nature walks, and a chance to explore urban nature areas. It’s an excellent opportunity for kids to connect with the environment.

With these additional activities, your blog post will provide a comprehensive guide for families looking to have a memorable and entertaining visit to Milwaukee with their kids. There’s no shortage of fun and educational experiences waiting for you in this vibrant city!

Milwaukee truly offers a diverse range of experiences for families. From museums and gardens to festivals and outdoor adventures, you’ll find something for every member of the family to enjoy. So, pack your bags and head to Milwaukee for an unforgettable family getaway!

Read Next:

7 Best Midwest Escapes for Families

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin Travel Guide

17-things-to-do-in-milwaukee-with-kids

The post 17 Things to do in Milwaukee with Kids appeared first on Mommy Travels.

]]>
https://www.mommytravels.net/things-to-do-in-milwaukee-with-kids/feed/ 0
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin Travel Guide https://www.mommytravels.net/lake-geneva-wisconsin-travel-guide/ https://www.mommytravels.net/lake-geneva-wisconsin-travel-guide/#respond Wed, 31 Mar 2021 02:11:52 +0000 https://www.mommytravels.net/?p=26855 Lake Geneva is a small resort city on the breathtakingly gorgeous blue Geneva Lake in the southeastern part of Wisconsin. Along...

The post Lake Geneva, Wisconsin Travel Guide appeared first on Mommy Travels.

]]>
Lake Geneva is a small resort city on the breathtakingly gorgeous blue Geneva Lake in the southeastern part of Wisconsin. Along the Shore Path, you will find the magnificent Gilded Age Mansions, many of which were constructed by Chicago’s elite class. It is located between Chicago, Illinois, which is on the northwest side and is 80 miles away, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, which is on the southwest side and is 50 miles away.

The city has a population of around 8,105 people, according to the U.S Census. Given its small population and beautiful landscapes, Lake Geneva is the perfect place to visit with family and friends, especially if you’re into fishing and want to enjoy some marvelous beaches.

The city is known for its numerous beaches and its wide variety of fishes in the lake. The lake covers almost 5262 acres of land, is 7.6 miles long, and approximately 2.1 miles wide. It’s spring-fed and homes several delicious fishes like northern pike, walleye, lake trout, rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and many others. It has options when it comes to beaches so you can relax and enjoy the day under the shiny sun at different beaches each day.

Lake Geneva Beach Guide
Lake Geneva Beach

If you plan to visit Lake Geneva, you need to go to its sandy beaches and enjoy the day basking in the sun or kayaking in the ever blue water. Lake Geneva has a total of three different beaches which are open to the public. These beaches are highly secure — they have lifeguards, swimming piers, life jackets, restrooms, and other amenities.

Riviera Beach

This is one of the most famous beaches in the city. It’s located in the heart of Lake Geneva and has ever-blue pristine waters, the gleaming sun, sandy white beaches, and the scenic landscapes of the beach.

Riviera Beach is located on Wrigley Drive, at a slight distance from the Lake Geneva Library, Geneva Lake Shore Path, and downtown. So, not only will you be able to enjoy a good tan, but you can also go around and explore some of the main areas and cuisines of the city. The place is ideal for families, and it can be considered as one of the most kid-friendly places.

It does not allow alcoholic beverages, smoking, glass containers, knives, or any kind of lethal weapons on the premises. Unfortunately, you will not be able to bring your pets to the beach either. The beach charges you for entry, but children who are six years old or under can enter for free at no cost.

Fontana Beach

Fontana beach is only about a 20 minutes drive to the west of Lake Geneva. This particular beach is perfect for people who want to deal with fewer crowds and for those who enjoy water activities like kayaking.

The beach has a wide grassy area on the side and also has changing rooms on the premises. There is a parking lot right next to the beach however you will have to pay for parking your car there. An exciting thing about the beach is that it occasionally has movie nights. The officials set up an inflatable movie screen, and everyone gets cocooned up under the stars to watch popular movies.

Fontana is a small peaceful village which is located right next to the city. It is filled with small shops and cafes, which is quite convenient, especially if you want something peaceful after an exhausting day of physical activity.

The beach is located right next to the historical mansions mentioned up above. So while dozing off in the sun, kayaking, or swimming, you will be able to see glimpses of the famous and rich history of the area.

Big Foot Beach State Park

Big Foot Beach State Park is located on Lake Shore Drive, and it’s only 10 miles away from downtown. It’s a pet-friendly beach, making it perfect for pet owners. Apart from a beautiful beach, the park also lets you get a hands-on experience of the wilderness. The park is surrounded by thick forests and lots of wooded campsites. If you’re an avid camper or hiker, this place is perfect for you.

The best thing about the park is that it’s open all around the year. Whether you visit in the summer or winter, you can always come to the city and enjoy everything the park has to offer.

The beach allows boating, canoeing, and kayaking along the Ceylon Lagoon and Lake Geneva. There are two public boat launches towards the south of the park, in Linn Township and downtown Lake Geneva. If you want to relax in the lake, a good place to anchor is towards the park’s northern shoreline.

You can also fish there as well. If you’re on vacation and didn’t bring fishing equipment along, you’ll be able to rent it from the many local shops nearby.

Things To Do In Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
White River Lake Geneva

If you think the only entertainment that the city provides is limited to the beaches, that’s far from the truth. The city is a marvel on its own, which is why it’s one of the most famous resorts and recreation destinations in the USA. The best part about it is that you can come whenever you want since there is always something going on. Similar to the other famous resort city in the state, Wisconsin Dells, you’ll find plenty of adult-friendly activities as well as family-friendly options.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway, staycation with family or friends, or want a week-long fishing trip, it’s an excellent destination for all travel scenarios. With that in mind,  here are some must-do activities you need to try when you visit Lake Geneva, especially if it’s your first time.

Walk The Geneva Lake Shore Path

Whether you’re looking to exercise or simply get to know the city, you need to walk the Geneva Lake Shore Path. A walk along the shore path will give you a quick review of the splendor of the place. You’ll not only be able to see the lake from here, but you can also get a close-up view of the luxurious estates that have green manicured gardens and elegant boat houses.

It’s a 21-mile path so make sure you wear your joggers, sweatpants and bring a water bottle during the walk! Don’t forget to bring caps and sunscreens, especially if you’re visiting in the summer when the sun is out the most.

Visit Yerkes Observatory

The Yerkes Observatory is located on Williams Bay. The University of Chicago’s Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics is the core operator of the building. It’s also known as the birthplace of modern astrophysics and hence, is one of the most popular buildings visited by tourists.

It’s most known for its 40-inch diameter refracting telescope, which resides in the observatory’s main dome. There are two other small dome houses with 40-inch and 24-inch reflecting telescopes. You’ll also find several other smaller telescopes here.

The surrounding area has been converted into parkland, which is perfect for a walk or a picnic. As a fun historical fact, this observatory was Albert Einstein’s most favorite place to visit.

Go To A Local Event

Lake Geneva is always conducting some type of event. Restaurant week is an event that starts in the summer and goes on for about ten days. The event includes special menus from all the top-notch restaurants in the city. Concerts, carnivals, water ski shows, boat parades, craft fairs, and fireworks are also very common in the town throughout the year. It also hosts a few competitions like the Winterfest and U.S. National Snow Sculpting Competition.

Go on a Boat Tour
Boating on Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva Cruise Line offers some of the best tour boat options available. There are sightseeing, historical, and even dining options. It provides many public tours, including Geneva bay, Full Lake, US Mailboat, Ice-cream Social, Black Point Estate tour, and many others! If you have a large group and want to go on a private cruise, you’ll be able to choose the boat, catering options, and vendors, including bands, DJs, event planners, florists, and photographers.

Go for a Hike At White River County Park

Located on Sheridan Springs Road, White River County Park is a 200 acres wide park adorned with scenic segments of the river and dense forest. The hiking trail goes on for approximately five miles and gives the hikers a beautiful view of nature. The park has plans to build shelters as well as a nature center to make this place even more entertaining and fun for all visitors.

Read Next:

7 Best Midwest Escapes for Families

Best Lake Vacations in the United States

Green Bay Weekend Getaway with Kids

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin Travel Guide

The post Lake Geneva, Wisconsin Travel Guide appeared first on Mommy Travels.

]]>
https://www.mommytravels.net/lake-geneva-wisconsin-travel-guide/feed/ 0