Crowned the Number 2 best lake in the United States by USA Today for 2024, Lake Geneva offers visitors pristine waters and scenic shorelines in an often overlooked region in Southeastern Wisconsin. With its combination of arts, outdoor recreation, and elevated dining with more than sixty distinctive eateries , Lake Geneva is often referred to as the “Hamptons of Chicago” or the “Newport of the Midwest.” “Offering year-round appeal, it is no wonder readers voted Geneva Lake one of the best lakes in the United States,” said Maggie Tyner, USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards editor.
“The summer season sees the lake abuzz with swimmers and sun seekers, while winter welcomes iceboating and ice fishing.” Located just 40 miles from Milwaukee, Lake Geneva became famous as a Gilded Age lakeside retreat for wealthy Chicago families. Its central location makes it accessible for many people in Michigan, Wisconsin, Missouri, Illinois, and Minnesota to visit by car or by flying into the Milwaukee or Chicago airports.
As one of three main communities on Geneva Lake, this is a destination that exudes small town charm, yet is home to luxury, full-service resorts and upscale dining. The Wrigleys, Drakes, Schwinns, and Chapins are among the many families who own lavish summer mansions on the lake — and the 21-mile Shore Path that runs alongside the lake allows you to walk through the lake front yards, getting to see these historic homes up close. “The Geneva Lake shore .