Lake Geneva was named “Muck-Suck” for a Potawatomi chief.
In the 1850s, the railroad made traveling to the area faster, which resulted in Lake Geneva becoming a retreat for the wealthy.
With the influx of wealthy transplants, mansions were constructed throughout the latter part of the century, which encouraged the nickname, “The Newport of the West.”
The first Playboy resort was built in Lake Geneva in 1968. In 1993, it became the Grand Geneva Resort.
In 2002, the 2.5-acre Main Street Historic District was added to the list of the National Register of Historic Places.
Today, Lake Geneva remains a popular year-round vacation and business destination with quality hotels at affordable prices.
When to Visit Lake Geneva, WI
Lake Geneva is a great place to visit any time of the year. With nearly 100 days of sunshine and high temperatures in the mid-80s and wintertime lows averaging around 12 degrees, you'll have access to summertime outings and wintertime skiing and skating.
Snowfall averages 46 inches annually, which is nearly double the U.S. average of 25 inches for other U.S. cities. Rainfall is also above average with an estimated 36 inches each year with about 131 days when the precipitation is measurable.
As far as dealing with high humidity, Lake Geneva is a little above the average comfort index making it a more tolerable region.
The best time to visit Lake Geneva for lower hotel rates, fewer crowds and the option for discounts and deals is during the off-season, which is during the winter. Things are a bit calmer at area restaurants and traffic isn't as heavy. During this time, expect hotels to run plenty of off-season specials.
With a name that has the word “lake” in it, you can rest assured summer is the high season when families travel and kids are out of school and international travelers want to take advantage of the warm seasonal opportunities. During the summer, lake activity is high, as are hotel prices, with day trips to the beach, boating, sailing, fishing, and water sports.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Lake Geneva, WI:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average nightly cost trends by star rating class in Lake Geneva, WI. Analyze these charts to calculate the best months to stay in Lake Geneva during the year.
Luxury Hotel Options in Lake Geneva, WI
4 Star Average Prices: $182.98
The Mill Creek Hotel offers guests beauty, comfort, and tranquility with its magnificent lakefront views from a well-appointed suite. Relax in plush bedding or cozy up on the sofa beside the fireplace. Prepare your favorite meals in the fully-equipped kitchen and dine in your private dining room. Two televisions, DVD player, MP3 plug, and complimentary Wi-Fi add to your entertainment and relaxation time. A whirlpool bath will be invigorating after a day of business or sightseeing. From your choice of suite, you have the option of viewing the city, lake, or nature preserve as you enjoy your favorite beverage while relaxing on the patio or balcony.
Grand Geneva Resort Luxury Resort and Convention Center makes travel time for corporate executives or families on vacation a pleasurable experience. Business and group travelers have access to a variety of meeting rooms and banquet space for events. The pet-friendly resort's list of amenities is relaxing and entertaining from a massage at the WELL Spa or teeing off on one of two championship golf courses to the indoor waterpark and kid's programs. Deluxe guest rooms and suites feature elegant country-style furnishings, mini-refrigerator, coffee maker, and cable television including one in the bathroom. For added convenience, enjoy the Geneva Club for breakfast and cocktails, valet parking, and childcare services.
Affordable Hotel Options in Lake Geneva, WI
3 Star Average Prices: $179.40
Harbor Shores on Lake Geneva offers a beautiful oasis with expertly decorated king or queen rooms with views of the lake and Seminary Park. Everything needed for a completely satisfying stay is available at the hotel. Rooms feature a wet bar, Keurig coffee maker, mini kitchenette, microwave, and refrigerator. A flat-screen TV, cable television, and wireless internet access will keep you entertained. The hotel takes care of more guest needs with an invigorating whirlpool, indoor and outdoor heated pool, sauna, fitness center, nanny service, and a complimentary continental breakfast. A business center, conference and meeting rooms, and banquet facilities are available.
The Inns of Geneva National Resort feature elegance and charm blended with spacious light-filled villas that include separate deluxe guest rooms. Each king is designed for the greatest in comfort and convenience that include amenities such as a full kitchen, separate living, and dining area. Enjoy the view from the patio of the 18th fairway of the Gary Player course. Your palate will be more than pleased with the creative menus of the resort's chefs from fine dining to casual fare.
2 Star Average Prices: $166.93
Best Discounts in Lake Geneva, WI
The Cove of Lake Geneva takes travel time for business and leisure guests to an exceptional level of comfort and convenience with over-sized suites and a location within walking distance to downtown points of interest, dining, and shopping. An on-site fitness center along with indoor and outdoor pools for adults and children, hot tub, and locker room keep everyone refreshed. Eat, drink, and be merry at Sprecher's Restaurant & Pub, the Cove Café & Lounge, or the Cabana Bar. The resort offers excellent meeting and special events space with an average savings of 10.9 percent for groups plus a 10.0/10 group friendly rating.
At Bella Vista Suites, guests feel right at home in this luxury boutique. Located along the shoreline of Lake Geneva, guests experience beautiful views and the downtown area is within walking distance of a variety of dining options, specialty shops, and points of interest. For groups planning special events, the hotel can accommodate up to 200 guests with meeting rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, state-of-the-art digital equipment, and custom catering. Suites feature plush bedding, in-room movies, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, jetted bathtubs, and much more. Guests also enjoy the on-site sauna, Koi pond, and atrium. The hotel has a 10.0/10 group friendly rating and averages 37.7 percent for group savings.
Best Value Options in Lake Geneva, WI
Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark at Grand Geneva is the best in all-season family fun and entertainment. The all-suite hotel brings the comfort of home to spacious guest rooms and one and two-bedroom suites featuring plush Verlo® bedding, fully-equipped kitchen, living room, private bedroom, whirlpool bath, cozy fireplace, and a private balcony. Satisfy your palate at the Hungry Moose and Smokey's Bar-B-Que before heading out for a day at the spa, a round of golf, horseback or seasonal sleigh rides. The indoor/outdoor waterparks have plenty of fun to offer with tubing, activity pools, sliding down the 35-foot slide, or drifting down the Lazy River.
When you want to get away for a weekend, a special event, or just some time to yourself, The Geneva Inn offers an oasis of serenity nestled along the shores of the lake. Well-appointed rooms exude charm through elegant furnishings and decorative accessories. Enjoy beverages from the refrigerator or Keurig coffee machine, relax in a plush robe, watch the 40” flat-screen TV, or refresh in an oversized whirlpool tub. Enjoy scenic views of the lake while treating your palate to creative cuisine for breakfast, lunch, or dinner at the on-site restaurant. Dine indoors or enjoy the beauty of the area from the lakeside patio.
Things to Do in Lake Geneva, WI
At the Lake Geneva Museum, step back in time to Lake Geneva's history. You'll see vintage architectural styles, blacksmith shop, tools, spring house and log cabin, fire engine house, and more. Take a boat from downtown Lake Geneva for a scenic ride to the beautiful Queen Anne lakeside Victorian home and gardens of Black Point Estate.
Get a bird's eye view at the 77-acre Yerkes Observatory where you'll peer through 19th-century telescopes. Public tours are available every Saturday.
During the warm months of summer, experience the beauty of Lake Geneva at Big Foot Beach State Park. The 271-acre park is a beautiful place to spend the day enjoying a picnic, swimming, go kayaking, or explore the miles of hiking trails. For a nice outing, and a look at some of the area's beautiful estates, the Geneva Lake Shore path is a scenic stroll that covers the 21 miles encircling the lake.
After a day on the slopes, on the water, or hiking the trails, stop by the Studio Winery to enjoy live music, light snacks, and a variety of wines in the tasting room.
Golf plays a big role in outdoor activities and Lake Geneva has its share of championship courses such as Geneva National Golf Club. The area also abounds with public beaches, biking, ziplining, and horseback riding. Water activities are at the top of the list in Lake Geneva and include a variety of options including boating, sailing, fishing, and parasailing.
During the winter, snow adventures are on the agenda and Lake Geneva is prepared for snow enthusiasts with opportunities for downhill skiing, snowboarding, sledding, or cross-country skiing, ice skating, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.
No matter the reason or the season for traveling to Lake Geneva, you'll find exceptional hotels, beautiful scenery, and a plethora of choices in things to do for all ages.
FAQs about hotels in Lake Geneva
How much does a cheap hotel in Lake Geneva cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Lake Geneva can be as cheap as $166.93 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Lake Geneva cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Lake Geneva has been $179.40 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a higher-end hotel in Lake Geneva cost?
In the last year, the average 4 star hotel in Lake Geneva has been $182.98 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)