Wondering which hotel to stay at when visiting Lake Geneva, WI? Look no further! My family has been in the area since the 1930s, so I know all the top hotels in the area. Below are my top 5 overall recommendations for the best hotels near Lake Geneva, WI.
The hotel you choose can make or break a vacation and sets the tone of your entire stay. Have you ever spent hours pouring over photos and reviews of potential hotels only to be disappointed upon arrival? I know I have! Since I have been a regular visitor for over 39 years I put together a “best of” list to help potential visitors (and locals with visitors) know what they are signing up for!
My insider recommendations for the top 5 overall best hotels in the Lake Geneva area should help you confidently book the stay that fits you best so you can focus on enjoying your time around the lake!
Top 5 Best Hotels in Lake Geneva
The Abbey Lake Geneva
The Cove Lake Geneva
Grand Resort Lake Geneva
Maxwell Mansion Lake geneva
The Geneva Inn
This post is all about the best hotel Lake Geneva.
The Abbey Resort and Avani Spa
The Abbey Resort is my family’s personal favorite place to stay! Whether you are traveling as a family or having a much needed adults only vacation the Abbey lake geneva never disappoints! This resort and spa is actually located right on the lake in Fontana, WI (a 15 minute drive from downtown lake geneva). Fontana has a more relaxed pace than downtown Lake Geneva, which I appreciate, but there is still tons to do and the view can’t be beat.
The Abbey Resort has both indoor and outdoor pools (there are separate kid and adult outdoor pools with basketball hoop in the kids section and splash pad for toddlers), one of the best spas in lake Geneva, (newly renovated!), a piano lounge with nightly music, a coffee shop, two restaurants (one with tables on the lake and live music at night, the other more fancy and serves a tasty brunch), an arcade, a mini movie theater where they show family friendly films and a host of daily activities for families including ice skating or smores by the firepits. The onsite store/gift shop has everything you would need from extra toiletries, swimsuits, snacks and drinks, and gifts to take home. The grounds are beautiful and just drinking your morning coffee while overlooking the harbor make this stay a 10 in my book.
The feel: Wisconsin rustic chic (think wood beams and the famous A frame design). This makes me feel nostalgic, like I am staying at a resort from a simpler time, yet have the amenities and activities you expect from a resort today.
Good for: Families or adults who want their vacation to be lake focused but in the less crowded place of Fontana, WI.
Pros:
- One of the only resorts actually on the lake!
- Amenities including separate outdoor kid/adult pools and hottubs, outdoor pool bar, indoor pool with toddler section, arcade, movie theater, full service spa, coffee shop, 2 restaurants onsite, ability to have champagne and charcuterie in room upon arrival (for extra fee)
- Close proximity to playgrounds, bars/restaurants/coffee shops, lakeshore path and fontana beach
- All rooms have a microwave and mini fridge
Cons: Only standard rooms are available in the main resort (either King or two queen options); no multiple bedroom suites so would have to book two adjoining rooms for large families. They do offer a King suite but this is one large room with a king bed and two sofa beds. The look is rustic chic so if you want straight luxury, the Grand Geneva might be a better option (scroll below). On the website they list “Villas” as a second multiple bedroom option. However I have tried booking multiple times and these never come up as available. So feel free to try or call the resort if you need a Villa.
Fitness center can only be accessed if you purchase a $35.00 day pass from the spa (when available) or comes with booking at $100.00 or more spa service
What to do: There is so much to do on site including indoor/outdoor pools, one of the best spas in lake geneva, Avani Spa with salt room, steam room, whirlpools, fitness center, 3rd separate spa pool, and onsite bars and restaurants complete with live music at night. You are also within walking distance to the Fontana public beach, a pirate ship playground (with clean bathrooms!), local coffee shop Coffee Mill on Lake Geneva, , Gordy’s Boathouse (one of the best restaurants in Fontana), the Fontana institution Chuck’s Lakeshore Inn (a local family friendly bar), and access to the famous 21 mile Geneva Lake Shore Path.
Where to eat: Take advantage of the two onsite restaurants: 240 West and The Waterfront. 240 West is the more formal of the two options. The menu reminds me of a steakhouse but also has gluten free and vegetarian options. The atmosphere is rustic elegance. Lots of wood beams and a fireplace make this a cozy restaurant that overlooks the harbor. They also offer a brunch buffet on the weekends that my sons really enjoyed.
The Waterfront has both indoor/outdoor seating, a more casual vibe and again beautiful harbor views. The menu is more BBQ focused with tasty options like BBQ brisket mac and cheese, there are also lighter vegetarian or gluten free options including ahi tuna tostadas, BBQ salmon salads and the famous Friday night fish fry! A MUST TRY are the cheese curds. In the evening The Waterfront has live music played from a small stage. I would say the crowd tends to lean older at night however my husband and I still had fun and can be a family friendly affair with parents and kids all having a good time dancing.
Insider Tip: The adult only spa at the Abbey, the Avani Spa, is newly renovated and a wonderful retreat or addition to a lake geneva romantic getaway. With the purchase of a spa treatment of $100.00 or more you gain access to their spa pool, salt room, sauna, steam room and fitness center. M-F you are able to purchase a day pass for $35.00 (if they have availability) and access the steam room, salt room, hot tub, spa pool and fitness center. This is a great start to the day that my husband and I always take advantage of when we visit.
The Cove of Lake Geneva
This Cove is one of the most popular hotels in downtown Lake Geneva. Each “room” is actually a full condo suite with a stocked kitchen, fireplace and private patio. Choose from a studio, 1 bedroom suite, 2 bedroom suite, or 2 bedroom loft (my kids favorite!). Added bonus for first timers- the website has video walk throughs of each type of suite so you know what you are booking. Each condo is privately owned so decor can vary but every one I have stayed at has been extremely well put together and updated.
The Feel: Right in the middle of everything! Updated condo living inside a hotel right in downtown Lake Geneva.
Good For: Families or anyone looking to stay in a updated condo with a full kitchen, and fireplace in downtown Lake Geneva.
Pros: Convenience of condo living with fully stocked kitchen, fireplace and patio. Great amenities including free parking in downtown lake geneva, delicious on site restaurant Lake City Social (that many locals come to for the Friday night fish fry!), onsite coffee bar, fitness room, gift shop, indoor and outdoor pool with bar (they have cabanas, kids pool, and boast they are the largest outdoor pool in downtown geneva), arcade, and laundry facility.
Cons: This is one of the only true hotels (vs resorts) on the list . While there are pools and an arcade there are not many other amenities. Since the hotel is so popular and is right downtown lake geneva, it can get crowded during peak summer months.
What to Do: Onsite activities include indoor/outdoor pool with bars and kid section, arcade room with board games. But the main draw is you are close to all of the top Lake Geneva attractions!! The Cove is located one block from main street where you can take advantage of all of the boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops and ice cream shops. You can also walk to the Lake Geneva Public Beach, stroll to the Rivera building and hop on one of the famous Lake Geneva Boat Tours, or rent a boat, paddleboard, or kayak and get on the water yourself.
Where to Eat: Definitely try the in house restaurant Lake City Social. My family loves the fish fry and my son said the ribs were some of the best he has ever eaten. Also don’t forget to order the classic Wisconsin appetizer, cheese curds and wash it down with their Manhattan. You can also walk to Popeyes (which has been around since the 70s) and try some of their famous rotisserie meats.
Insider tip: Across the street is an open area with gazebo that sometimes has live music. It is also a great place for kids to run around and get some energy out! We bring a football or soccer ball and enjoy playing around as a family with the beautiful lake view.
Grand Geneva Resort and Spa
The Grand Geneva Resort and Spa is one of the best Lake Geneva Wi Resorts for a reason. This luxury resort is actually the old Playboy Club of Lake Geneva. The original Frank Loyd right inspired hotel opened in 1968 and included it’s own private airport with direct flights from Chicago and “Bunny Tram” to transport guests around the luxury property. Fast forward to today- the luxury has remained but the bunnies are long gone.
While this resort is not close to the lake, the amenities and upscale accommodations make up for the lack of lakeview. The resort is known for its two award winning 18 hole golf courses, onsite ski hill, a luxury spa and wellness center, multiple upscale dining options, outdoor adventures like scooter and ebike rentals, archery facilities, horse stable with trail rides, pony rides and small petting zoo, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and luxury accommodations.
The accommodations range from standard luxury hotel rooms to 3 bedroom luxury villas complete with washer/dryers, fully stocked kitchens and fireplaces/patios. We have stayed at both the main lodge (aka normal hotel rooms) and at the larger condo like villas. Both are great depending on what you are looking for. Being at the main lodge meant being close to all of the restaurants and amenities like the pool (which was a main draw for my kids). The draw back was there was a mini fridge but no microwave, which is always necessary for us when traveling with kids.
Feel: Large luxury resort and spa, perfect for families, romantic getaways lake geneva,
Good For: Families looking for a luxury resort, romantic getaways lake geneva, girls trip lake geneva, couples who want a luxury stay, wedding parties, Mother’s Day trip lake geneva
Pros: SO many year round activities you never need to leave the resort. This place is a destination on it’s own. From the private ski hill with lessons for all ages, to the luxury spa, multiple upscale restaurants, outdoor adventurous, coffee bar onsite and two award winning golf courses, and indoor/outdoor pools once stay will not be enough to experience all this hotel has to offer
Cons: Main lodge hotel rooms only have a mini fridge, no microwave. Main lodge can get busy during check in/check out during the summer, grounds are very large so need a car or hotel shuttle to get around everywhere.
What to do: My personal favorite thing to do is take the 45 minute horseback trail ride at the Dan Patch Stables. The horses are all very docile and trail based (no trotting or galloping here!). Children are also able to ride and the guide makes sure everyone is safe/comfortable. No horse riding experience needed!
The spa is also a must visit. The Hanakaskumi signature treatment is my favorite. This nourishing body ritual includes warm cream, exfoliation and a foot massage…what’s there not to love?!
Where to eat: Take advantage of the many delicious in resort dining options including Geneva Chophouse (upscale steakhouse/seafood), Ristorantè Brissago (Italian cuisine with extensive wine list) and Grand Cafè (more casual dining spot offering american classics for breakfast, lunch or dinner).
Insider Tip: The Grand Geneva knows how to decorate for Christmas! My family and I make it a tradition to come stay here during the holidays and look at all of the wonderful Christmas decorations through out the hotel. The Dan Patch Stables also offer sleigh rides (weather permitting!), or Halloween fun like Haunted Barn tours if you dare!
Maxwell Mansion Hotel
If you are looking for a beautiful unique stay, the historic Maxwell Mansion Hotel is a great choice. The property was the first mansion built in Lake Geneva (in 1855!) by the prominent Chicago surgeon Dr. Phillip Maxwell. (Fun fact- Maxwell street in Chicago is named after the same doctor.)
This adult only hotel is made up of 3 buildings, the main mansion, the stables and the carriage house. While this is a historical building, all of the rooms have been renovated and are luxurious and unique with all the modern tech comforts you need. The main mansion has 28 rooms and oozes old word charm. The Carriage and Stable rooms are more modern, with the Stables being the most luxurious option.
This hotel also has a speakeasy, bar, outdoor pool, ballroom with live music at times, and is located within 2 blocks west from all of the downtown Lake Geneva restaurants, bars, public beach, shopping and boat tours. Even if you don’t stay at the hotel, the speakeasy is a fun can’t miss place to have a craft cocktail. You need to know the password each night, which is given to guests or can be obtained by following their facebook page here. In the winter check out the huge heated igloo where events are hosted (especially around Winterfest).
The Feel: Updated historic boutique hotel with rustic chic decor and lots unique room options.
Good for: Adults only- must be 21+ to be an overnight hotel guest
Pros: Unique experience, luxuriously decorated rooms with a fun speakeasy (password required!) and great location. Some of the Stables rooms even have a 2 person in room whirlpool!
Cons: No kids allowed, no indoor pool, fitness center or restaurant on site.
What to do: After relaxing by the pool and checking out both the Apothecary bar and under ground speakeasy take a walk to downtown Lake Geneva and grab a smoothie at Heart and Sol Cafe, a coffee at Avant Cycle Cafe, or a glass of wine at Barrique Bistro and Wine Bar. If you feel like getting on the water I HIGHLY recommend any of the Lake Geneva Boat Tours (for a full list of public tours click here-need to add link once adult cat is up). You can also access the famous Geneva Lake Shore path (the 21 mile path that encircles the entire lake and goes through the front yard of all the lakefront mansions!). Take the path in front of the Lake Geneva library and walk right (facing the lake).
Where to eat: There are so many options in downtown Lake Geneva it’s really depends on what you like. Oakfire for wood fired pizza, Popeye’s for amazing rotisserie meats that they have been serving since the 70s, Sabai Sabai Sushi and Thai, or and much more. For a romantic dinner I suggest the Grandview
Restaurant (the restaurant at the Geneva Inn Hotel). I also have top Dining with a Lakeview recommendations here.
Insider Tip: Most Carriage rooms have a whirlpool tub, and most Stable rooms have a steam shower. Also the outdoor pool is a heated saltwater pool!
The Geneva Inn
If you are looking for a romantic getaway in Lake Geneva, this is one of my favorites places! The Geneva Inn has modern amenities in a luxurious atmosphere with panoramic views of Lake Geneva. While the Inn may not be as large as some of the other resorts or hotels on this list, do not discount it! The service, tranquil accommodations, dining option and breathtaking lakeviews always keeps it on my top 5.
The Feel: Modern Luxury. Choose from guestrooms or suites and I HIGHLY recommend reserving a room with a balcony and lakeview (or splurge and get the suite with soaking tub and living area). The decor is soothing and lends itself to relaxation.
Good for: Couples wanting to recharge and enjoy the beauty of Lake Geneva
Pros: The onsite restaurant The Grandview is one of the best dining with a view options in Lake Geneva! (For my full list of best restaurants with a lakeview, click here). Accommodations are also a bonus- the modern decor feels luxurious I loved the large soaking tub! The Inn is also very close to Big Foot State Park which offers 5 miles of hiking trails.
Cons: If you are traveling with a family of young kids, this could be tricky since the standard rooms do not include a microwave or refrigerator or pool.
What to Do: I would suggest taking a hike at the near by Big Foot State Park (fun fact there is a lagoon there that is a replica of Lake Geneva!). There is also an access point to the 21 mile famous Geneva Shore Path at the state park which I would highly recommend! For full details and tips on the Geneva Shore Path click here.
Then dinner and cocktails at the Grandview!
Where to eat: The Grandview is the onsite upscale american restaurant (steaks, seafood) with beautiful lake views. They have a happy hour from 3-5pm so even if you aren’t staying at the hotel I would recommend this restaurant for dinner or drinks. They also have an outdoor patio- what better way to have a cocktail than right on the lake.
Insider tip: Reserve a room with a balcony and enjoy the sunrise/susets over Lake Geneva with a coffee or cocktail in hand.
No matter which place you decide to stay, Lake Geneva never disappoints! For more insider tips on what to do when you are there check out my Family and Adult activity guides or daily itineraries for a preplanned day of fun!
This post was all about the best hotel Lake Geneva.
