This settlement was originally named in honor of a Native American chief of the Potawatomi tribe, “Muck-Suck,” which means “Big Foot.” However, one of the early white settlers of this city, John Brink, renamed it after the town of Geneva, New York, because he saw a resemblance between the two. Later on, to avoid confusion with the nearby town of Geneva, Illinois, the town was renamed once again, to Lake Geneva. Railroad access to the area from Chicago helped to make it a popular summer retreat for the wealthy; indeed, the city came to be known as “The Newport of the West.” Today, Lake Geneva is popular all year long! With an abundance of outdoor activities and attractions, there is something for everybody in Lake Geneva. The summer months feature numerous options on Geneva Lake, including boat tours and cruises – from private charters to narrated group tours, fishing, swimming, parasailing, waterskiing, tubing and boating.
The 21-mile Geneva Lake Shore Path allows hikers to literally walk through the back yards of magnificent century-old mansions. The path was created by the region’s earliest settlers, who dictated that the 20 feet of land directly up from the shoreline be deemed public domain. Today, their edict provides walkers with an unprecedented view of some of the most beautiful homes and landscaping in the Midwest. Sandy beaches invite you to walk along the shoreline, lay down your blanket, set up your chair and relax with a good book! Additional activities include hiking, biking, golfing, tennis, horseback riding, hot-air balloon rides and zip lining. Wintertime offers skiing, sledding, skating, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, snowmobiling and ice-fishing! Interesting museums, historic sites, art galleries, boutiques and stores invite you to browse; while restaurants, cafes, taverns and bars welcome guests to relax with a delicious meal and a refreshing drink. Embrace all there is to do in exciting Lake Geneva! Hotels allow you to stay conveniently close to where you want to be. When you stay at Choice Hotels in Lake Geneva, you enjoy affordable rates, many amenities and friendly service. We look forward to hosting soon! Reserve your room today!