Are you looking for daycation ideas to take with the kids? Enjoy this quick read of a Mom's Guide to kid-friendly fun and ample amenities in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, located just an hour outside of Chicago!

As a mom, you deserve some time off from the daily routine of carpools, sports, dance, and gymnastics to indulge in some peace and tranquility - so how about a daycation to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin?  With its location near enough to Chicago to just make a day out of it, but far enough of a drive for it to feel indulgent, this quaint, charming, and kid-friendly town offers breathtaking natural landscapes, delightful culinary options, and exciting outdoor activities, all of which will leave you and your kids feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Lake Geneva is a kid-friendly, year-round destination. 

Kid-Friendly Fishing

Lake Geneva is a spectacular natural oasis, boasting clear blue waters, rolling hills, and lush vegetation. Take a stroll along the shore of the lake, bask in the sun, or go for a swim. The stroll along the lake path takes visitors around the 26 mile perimeter of the lake, with amazing views of spectacular homes. If this doesn’t intrigue your kids, think about heading to the free public Riviera Beach in town, located next to the library. Pack a picnic blanket and enjoy a lovely day here with the kids. Kids under 16 do not need to obtain a fishing license, so stop at a bait shop in town for the nightcrawlers and bring your fishing rods. Kids can catch perch and smallmouth bass and release them back into the lake. Every time I have fished here with my kids, they have been successful at catching and releasing!

Kid-sized Lunch and Treat

Feast your taste buds on a variety of kid-friendly culinary delights in Lake Geneva.  Popeye's on Lake Geneva offers delicious and kid-approved fried chicken. Take a short walk on the main street in town and  grab some fabulous ice cream at Kilwins, nestled on the corner of Main and Broad Streets. If sit-down dining isn’t on your to-do list, there are a variety of Mom-And-Pop Sandwich Shops where you can pick up a lighter meal to go. 

More Year-Round Outdoor Kid-Approved Fun

If you're looking for adventure, Lake Geneva has plenty of options for you and for the kids!

• Take a hike through some scenic woods
• Go horseback riding
• Rent a bike and hit the trails.
• Kids can even try out zip lining at Lake Geneva Canopy Tours
• Paddle boating and kayaking in Lake Geneva, but the fun isn’t limited just to the summer months!
• Check out snowshoeing on the hilly trails while Dad goes ice fishing during the snowy months.
• There is a wonderful outdoor camp in town called Covenant Harbor, so check on availability for an upcoming summer.
• Try the Lake Geneva Cruise Line boat tour where you and the kids cruise on Geneva Lake. The U.S. Mailboat Tour is a unique experience where mail carriers jump off the boat to deliver mail to lakeside residents.
• There are also sightseeing cruises that offer narration about the area's history and landmarks. These are all kid-friendly and designed with safety in mind.
• There is even Safari Lake Geneva: a drive-through safari park which allows kids to see and feed animals from the comfort of their own car with their parents. Get up close with animals like giraffes, zebras, and kangaroos. This kid-approved attraction is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. If the weather isn’t cooperating,
• Think about Aerial Adventures at Grand Geneva Resort: This adventure park offers activities like a kid-friendly ropes course, climbing wall, and a zip line, suitable for different age groups.

Festivals and Events

Throughout the year, Lake Geneva is host to many festivals and events, providing endless entertainment for visitors. From the Geneva Lake Art's Foundation Art in the Park to the Oktoberfest, Winterfest, and Winter Ice Castle Attraction ON the frozen lake, there is always something to see and to do. This enchanting lakeside town knows how to include activities for all ages.

KFV app for all venues

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin is the perfect destination for a daycation, or even a couple days with the kids. There are nearby hotels with waterparks for some kid-friendly fun. With its stunning natural landscapes, fantastic culinary options, exciting outdoor activities, deep history and culture, and entertaining festivals and events, you won't run out of things to do. Disconnect from your daily life and connect with your kids while making unforgettable memories in this charming town. For all the venues that are kid friendly at lake Geneva, use our KFV app for more details. Go ahead, plan your trip, and get ready for a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway - at any time of year!

Amenities in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

• Kid-friendly environment
• Kid-friendly staff
• Kid-friendly entertainment
• Kid-friendly pricing
• Kid-friendly special events
• Kid-friendly accessibility
• On-site and kid-friendly concessions, cuisines and snacks at the beach
• Kid-approved local dining and cafes
• Kid-approved memories
• Kid Approved by KFV
• Ample parking in public lots
• Overnight stays and kid-friendly lodging available
• Clean family-friendly restrooms

Dana H