Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family escape, or a fun-filled adventure these top 5 Lake Geneva resorts are the perfect destination! With stunning lake views, luxury spa treatments, delicious dining options, and great pools, you’ll be guaranteed to have an amazing time.
Have you ever spent hours pouring over photos and reviews of potential resorts only to be disappointed upon arrival? I know I have! The Lake Geneva resort you choose can make or break your vacation and sets the tone of your entire stay.
Since my family has been in the area since the 1930s, I put together a “best of” list to help potential visitors (and locals with visitors) know what they are signing up for!
Whether you’re looking for upmarket accommodations, relaxing spa treatments, fine dining, or waterparks in Lake Geneva, you won’t be disappointed.
This guide to the top 5 Lake Geneva resorts will help you confidently book the stay that fits your needs, so you can focus on enjoying your time around the lake!
This post is all about the best Lake Geneva resorts.
Top 5 Lake Geneva Resorts:
The Abbey Resort & Avani Spa
The Abbey Resort & Spa is my family’s personal favorite place to stay! Whether you are looking for Lake Geneva resorts for families or having a much-needed adults only vacation, the Abbey never disappoints!
One massive reason to stay here is it is the ONLY resort located right on Geneva Lake. You can take a walk on the property and view the beautiful marina, or relax in the outdoor chairs and have your morning coffee with a lakeview.
The Abbey is located in Fontana, Wi (a short 15 mintue drive from downtown Lake Geneva). Fontana has a more relaxed pace than downtown Lake Geneva, but there is still tons to do and the vibe can’t be beat.
The Feel: Wisconsin lake 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. The rooms and spa were recently renovated and the decor is calming blues and whites.
Good for: Families or adults who want a full on resort with lots of amenities, girls trips or bachelorette parties, romantic couples vacations, wedding parties– I can’t think of anyone would wouldn’t want to stay here!
Amenities:
- Beautifully renovated Avani Spa with salt room, steam room and adult only Spa pool
- 4 Pools: 1 indoor pool with separate small kids pool and hot tub, 1 adult only fancy Spa pool, and 2 outdoor pools (one family friendly with basketball hoops, small water slide, hot tub, and toddler splash pad and 1 adult only pool). There is also a small outdoor bar between the outdoor pools so you can enjoy swimming with a cocktail.
- 2 onsite restaurants – the lakeside casual restaurant The Waterfront which has live music every weekend and the fancier 240 West which has an amazing brunch overlooking the lake with jazz music on the weekend.
- Coffee shop and large store with swim accessories, snacks, kids toys, drinks, decor, gifts and sunglasses, and toiletries…..basically anything you forgot to pack is here!
- Piano Bar
- Large Arcade with pool and air hockey
- Small Movie Theater with free family films
- Host of activities including smores at the firepits and scavenger hunts
- All rooms have minifridge (no microwave)
Pros:
- This resort has everything you need and is the only resort right on the lake! The view is stunning and you can walk to the bars, restaurants, ice cream shops and beach in Fontana, WI
- 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)
- Walking distance to playgrounds, bars/restaurants/coffee shops, lakeshore path and Fontana beach
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. However the rooms have been recently renovated and are relaxing and we have never had an issue getting adjoining rooms.
- 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.
Grand Geneva Resort
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!
The Cove 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 Lake 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.
Timber Ridge Lodge
Looking for a Lake Geneva waterpark? The Timber Ridge Lodge is part of the Grand Geneva, but a separate building entirely. This is a family focused hotel with an on site water park. The rooms are great for families and include options for two bedroom lofts with a full kitchen and fireplace- so plenty of room to spread out. The on site water park was perfect for our family- not too big and overwhelming but still had enough to do for hours.
There is a toddler section with small slide and walk in pool. Then there is the big pool with lily pads and multiple basketball hoops. The most fun is the two water slides! Bonus is there is an on site snack bar that serves adult beverages! There are plenty of table/chairs in the pool area for your things and even when it has been crowded I have always been able to find a space. Towels are also provided at the lifeguard station so no need to haul from the room. There is also a small mini golf course in the back for $4 a person. My son said it was just ok, but it is there as an option. Water park passes are included with your suite. A 1 bedroom suite includes 4 passes, and a 2 bedroom suite includes 6 passes.
The Feel: Kid focused waterpark resort with 1 – 2 bedroom suite accommodations with kitchens
Good for: Families who want a kid focused, casual get away with a waterpark
Pros: Waterpark is great for the kids, 1-2 bedroom suites with full kitchen are convenient, guests can take advantage of many of the Grand Geneva sister resort restaurants, spa, outdoor adventures and award winning golf courses via hotel shuttle.
Cons: Not great onsite dining options for adults
What to do: You can here for the waterpark so get after it! After you have done the waterpark, take advantage of most amenities at the sister resort up the street, the Grand Geneva Resort and Spa. After a short shuttle ride (which is fun for kids) you have access to the upscale restaurants, luxury spa services, onsite ski hills, award winning 2 18 hole golf courses, scooter/ebike rentals, and Dan Patch horse stable (with free petting zoo, pony rides, and 45 minute docile horse trail rides!). While you are able to use most of the Grand Geneva amenities you do not have access to everything→ guests of Timber ridge do not have access to the Grand Geneva indoor or outdoor pools. Adults can gain access to the spa pool, but I believe there is a fee so call ahead!
Where to eat: With kids hit up the casual family in house restaurant, Smokey’s BBQ Restaurant. Full disclosure- my husband and I weren’t huge fans but it is a good option when you need to feed the kids and don’t want to leave the resort. I recommend hitting up the shuttle and trying a restaurant at the Grand Geneva resort or heading to downtown Lake Geneva (a 15 minute drive) to get wood fired pizza & craft cocktails at Oakfire, American fare with a lakeview at Popeyes, or quick family friendly Mexican food at Guac Star.
Insider Tip: If it is your child’s birthday they will print out a sign for your hotel room door and include balloons in the room for a small fee. Honestly it isn’t anything life changing but we came here for my son’s 10th birthday and he loved it!
Geneva National Resort
The Geneva National Resort is the place to be if you or a loved one enjoys golf. Featuring 54 holes of Legendary Golf designed by the masters, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player and Lee Trevino, all courses offer meticulously manicured bent grass tees, fairways and greens, as well as five tee boxes offering a great golf experience for every level of player.
The resort also has several great accommodations options. Choose from normal hotel suites, multi bedroom cottages with fireplaces and full kitchens, or King guest rooms. They recently updated their rooms and all I can say is WOW! These fresh, coastal-inspired suites are modern and a perfect place to relax and recharge.
The Feel: Large golf focused resort nestled in the woods, close to Lake Como
Good For: Adult getaways, couples trip Lake Geneva, anyone who loves golf and doesnt need a swimming pool onsite, Girls spa getaway
Pros: 3 golf courses designed by pros, recently renovated accommodations with multi bedroom options, onsite Hunt Club Steakhouse, Spa and use of their sister hotel, The Ridge Hotel’s pool and Marina for kayaking and paddle boards is a great option. Guests have free access to their glow in the dark 27 holes of illuminated putt-putt with surround sound, a cocktail bar, bocce ball and firepits. They are also the hotel for the Lake Geneva Ice Castles– if you want to stay here during the event BOOK EARLY since they fill up fast!
Cons: There is no pool onsite at the Geneva National Resort but guests can use the indoor and outdoor pool at their sister hotel, The Ridge Hotel.
What to Do/Where to Eat: Golf at one of the three amazing courses designed by Arnold Palmer, Gary Player and Lee Trevino. Get your nails done or a massage in their spa, enjoy live music most Thursdays in the summer, head to the Ridge Hotel to rent a kayak or paddle board at the Lake Como marina, enjoy the massive outdoor pool and bar area, and enjoy an upscale meal at the Hunt Club Steakhouse.
Insider Tip: If you are visiting for the ice castle they have SO MANY WINTER EVENTS! Frozen brunches with the princesses, ice globe dining, horseback carriage rides at the castles, and so much more!
Whether you are looking for weekend getaways from Chicago, waterparks in Lake Geneva or simply to relax and recharge, these Lake Geneva resorts will not disappoint. I hope you enjoy making memories with those you love!
This post is all about the best Lake Geneva resorts.
