January 31, 2011

A Day in the Bay

Posted to 365 Things to Do in Lake Geneva, Area Attractions & Events

The Williams Bay Business Association is hosting its 4th annual “Day in the Bay” celebration this Saturday, February 5, 2011 throughout Williams Bay.  You can join the fun by picking up a “Passport” at Barrett Memorial Library or any participating business.  Visit each of the businesses, get your passport punched and become eligible for prizes, including a stay at the French Country Inn,  tickets and lodging for Music by the Lake, and a gift certificate for Beaux Bijou Jewelry store.  Gather at Lucke’s Cantina at 4:00 pm for hors d’oeuvres followed by the raffle drawing at 4:30 pm.

A Day in the Bay also offers the opportunity to support other Williams Bay organizations.  You can start your day with breakfast at Williams Bay High School to benefit the Music Boosters, donate some muscle power to the Kishwauketoe Work Day, pick up some book bargains at the Barrett Memorial Library Book Sale and top off the day after the drawing with the Women’s Civic League Chili Cook-Off at the Lions Field House.

If you haven’t taken the time to explore Williams Bay, this is a great opportunity experience the Bay at its best!

Posted by:  Janet Giovannetti



January 31, 2011

Lake Geneva's 16th Annual Snow Sculpting Competition

Posted to Area Attractions & Events

Lake Geneva on its Lakefront is once again the host of the 16th Annual Winterfest and Snow Sculpting Competition. Beginning today, January 31, 2011, until February 6th. The location is the Riviera Park on the shores of Geneva Lake in WI.

Beauty and art made of snow. I love it. Children are especially into the many different shapes, sizes and characters of these magnificent snow sculptures. You’ll be most impressed if you visit the site often during the week and watch it unfold. Let the imagines soar!

Team Wisconsin 2010 winners

To begin - Each team receives a cylinder shaped 8’x9’ block of snow. Prominently displayed on the grounds of Historic Riviera on the lake front in downtown Lake Geneva, Wi. Each team’s snow is chosen by a lottery system. There are no “guarantees” on the condition of the snow. If snow is not available (which is unlikely considering we’re expected to have heaps of snow soon) and making the snow isn’t an option.

Then the ice-carving competition will commence! Ice carving is just as fascinating, beautiful and those who participate in this sport are so amazingly talented.

On Saturday, Febraury 5th at 11am is when all the sculpting stops and the judging begins. Vote (People’s Choice) for your favorite art piece and enjoy!

For more local information read my lakes area blog 

Posted by:  Mary Petersen



January 31, 2011

Day 5 of 365 Things to Do in Lake Geneva, WI: Hogs & Kisses Restaurant

Posted to 365 Things to Do in Lake Geneva, Area Attractions & Events, Geneva Lake Area


Known as “the place” for “Good Times and Great Food” Hogs and Kisses is a Lake Geneva landmark that provides an awesome option for casual dining, a quick drink or a place to dance the night away. The interior architecture includes beautifully detailed woodwork collected from old churches in the Chicago area. Two all time menu favorites are their Crab Cakes and the BBQ ribs with Louie’s famous BBQ sauce. A fun friendly staff, daily specials and a versatile menu make this “a unique gathering place with a little something for everyone.”

Posted by:  Bob Webster



January 31, 2011

365 Things to Do in Lake Geneva: Day 25 - Making a Splash for Families in Lake Geneva Wisconsin

Posted to 365 Things to Do in Lake Geneva, Area Attractions & Events, Geneva Lake Area , Geneva National

Day 25 
Join families and friends from throughout Walworth County on Sunday, February 13th from 1-8pm, at Timber Ridge Water Park, Lake Geneva Wisconsin, and help raise funds to support The Family Resource Coalition of Walworth County. Timber Ridge is located at the Grand Geneva Resort, just east of Hwy 12 in Lake Geneva. The 50,000 square foot water park offers fun for all: 35 foot high slides take you on a dizzying 300 foot rides filled with twists and turns, which finally deposits you in a heated pool. For the less adventurous folks, the Lazy River carries you gently along more than 500 feet of calm waterways.

The Family Resource Coalition of Walworth County is comprised of individuals, schools, businesses, churches, and organizations sharing a common vision of and concern for families. The Coalition shares information, develops networks, and establishes and pursues common efforts at building healthy families. Take a break from the winter weather by slipping into your swimsuit and tubing down the Lazy River – you’ll be helping others and yourself as you drift along in the warm water. See you at the pool! For more cool things to do in Lake Geneva, become a part of our Facebook community.  

Posted by:  Janis Hartley



January 28, 2011

Lake Geneva's "Painted Lady" - The Baker House Steps Out in Style

Posted to Area Attractions & Events, Geneva Lake Area

I consider The Baker House on the shores of beautiful Lake Geneva to be one of the quintessential examples of Victorian architecture in the Geneva Lake’s area…and today, it’s also a restaurant and bar that turns back the pages of history in terms of gracious service, serendipity, and glamour. I had the pleasure of enjoying wine and appetizers late last summer with a good friend and more recently stopped by to enjoy drinks in the beautifully restored bar. I can’t tell you which I relished more: the toast to the sunset on the front lawn in warmer weather or cozying up with a Manhattan on a cold winter’s eve. The Baker House offers “small plate dining” – perfectly proportioned servings that satisfy the eye and the palate. In addition to offering a tempting array of menu items, in the near future The Baker House will be welcoming guests to its Mansion Suites. I can’t wait to see their beautiful rooms.

Built in 1885 as a summer residence for Mrs. Robert Hall Baker, The Baker House is a Nationally Registered Historic Building. The next time you’re in Lake Geneva, swing by The Baker House for a nostalgic glance at life as it used to be…and enjoy a leisurely drink while you look out on the water and watch as “The Lady of the Lake” goes steaming and paddling by.

Posted by:  Janis Hartley



January 28, 2011

Bradley's Department Store Delavan Wisconsin

Posted to 365 Things to Do in Lake Geneva, Area Attractions & Events, Geneva Lake Area

Located on the Cobblestone road in Downtown Delavan, Wisconsin is Bradley’s department store. This Store is a true landmark in the Lake Geneva area since 1852. This store was recently purchased by a local young at heart gal by the name of Lois Stritt, who has taken this store to new levels!. The clothing line that she carries in this off the beaten track store would rival any upscale boutique. In addition she carries Vera Bradley purses and bags, Brighton jewelry, leather jackets, scarves, and she has a great selection of Spanx! Her clothes appeal to all age ranges, from trendy to dressy, and lots of funky, casual must haves! The dressing rooms are quaint, and the sales girls are always an ear shot away to help with zippers or a different size. They do not order in masses, so better when you see it you should buy it! I have purchased a few different dresses over this last year, and I seem to always receive so many compliments. There is always a great sale rack with steep discounts of seasonal clothing and lots of selections on the upcoming season. What I love most is that the clothes she carries are different and fun!

The Clothes reflect the eclectic area we live in, the fun of living and vacationing in this resort area! If you are thinking summer time or getting that boat fired up out on Delavan Lake or Lake Geneva, or if you are jetting off somewhere warm, she carries a terrific selection of Swimsuits and cruise wear. I would love to keep this as my secret, but this is too great of a store to not let everyone know about! They also carry men’s wear, Great looking shirts, sweaters, and trousers. If you follow Bradley’s on Facebook there is an occasional coupon, but they offer lots of sales through the year. Happy Shopping! You can find Bradley’s at:

222 East Walworth
Delavan, 53114

Hours are: Monday – Saturday 9:30- 5; Sundays 11-3

262-728-3405

Posted by:  Allison Oleston



January 27, 2011

Day 4 of 365 Things to Do in Lake Geneva

Posted to 365 Things to Do in Lake Geneva, Area Attractions & Events, Geneva Lake Area

Make Lake Geneva the place you Xpress Yourself!

Consider Xpress Yourself for your next Lake Geneva outing whether it be on your own, a girl’s night out, or a child’s birthday party. Xpress yourself is a paint your own pottery studio offering one-of-a-kind hand painted gifts. Pricing includes pottery, paint, supplies and instruction. Everything you need to create your own keepsake. Your creation will be glazed, fired and can be picked up in 5 days, or they will ship the item to you. Located in downtown Lake Geneva.

Posted by:  Bob Webster



January 27, 2011

Day 3 of 365 - Gourmet Cooking Lake Geneva Style

Posted to 365 Things to Do in Lake Geneva, Area Attractions & Events, Geneva Lake Area

Looking for something fun to do in Lake Geneva for your next get together with friends or co-workers? Check out Chef John and the Lake Geneva School of Cooking. Get started with wine and appetizers and then prepare a 4 course meal with the guidance of the staff. Finish off your experience by sitting down to enjoy the gourmet dinner that you created. The school offers corporate team building, private parties, and catering. Or for those of you who strive to be like Julia Childs, sign up for the Culinary Cooking Series.

Posted by:  Bob Webster



January 26, 2011

Lake Geneva's Newest Resturant Goes to the "Head" of the Class

Posted to Area Attractions & Events, Geneva Lake Area

Lake Geneva residents and visitors have welcomed one of the top producers of root beer, Sprecher’s, into the Lake Geneva family of dining establishments. It seemed that the quiet transition of Houlihan’s on the lakefront to Sprecher’s took many by surprise – and I was one of them! Last night I had the opportunity to enjoy dinner in the bar area and was pleasantly surprised. The drinks were cold, the sirloin and wedge salad was tasty (crisp iceberg lettuce, a small steak, roasted beet wedges, a sprinkle of bleu cheese and delicious with the chili lime vinaigrette I ordered in lieu of the more caloric blue cheese dressing. Stop by the next time you’re in Lake Geneva and enjoy a cold root beer with your dinner! You’ll feel like you’re a kid again.

Posted by:  Janis Hartley



January 24, 2011

Chucks in Fontana, WI - Best Hamburgers at Geneva Lake

Posted to Area Attractions & Events

 
 Mike and Patty Hammett

Cheeseburgers are a guilty pleasure & Chuck’s Lake Shore Inn in Fontana, WI serves the best. Saturday afternoon I indulged in the perfect cheeseburger cooked exactly to my liking, medium-rare; I know some think that’s risky but it’s worth it & I trust the quality of their amazing beef. In fact the meat is so good I didn’t use a single condiment. The three of us, my mother & brother who was visiting from Oshkosh, also shared a basket of perfect French fries – thin, golden brown, the kind you can’t resist even though you say you will only eat a few. Since I was done working for the day so we had Bloody Marys, another Chuck’s specialty, served with the cutest little beers. I saw numerous people I knew & everyone was in a festive mood gearing up for Sunday’s big game. A local landmark, Chuck’s is THE place to be whether you’ve been on the lake waterskiing or ice fishing – Great food & a good times are guaranteed.

 
 Steve Beers and Judy Moyer

(Check out my website for great places to snow ski near Lake Geneva.)

Posted by:  Marcy Hammett



January 21, 2011

Day 1 of 365: Faces Only a Mother Could Love?

Posted to 365 Things to Do in Lake Geneva, Area Attractions & Events, Geneva Lake Area , Williams Bay, WI

Check out the many faces tucked into the columns of Yerkes Observatory. Built in 1897 in Williams Bay, near the shores of Geneva Lake, this observatory offers FREE Saturday tours throughout the year. Yerkes Observatory is a facility of the University of Chicago. Their “free” programs are approximately 45 minutes and begin at 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., and Noon. Reservations are not required, unless you have a large group. You’ll get to visit the 90-foot dome where you can view the 40-inch Refractor, the world’s largest lens-type telescope, which is positioned on a 73-foot diameter elevator floor. Yerkes also offers evening observing sessions, check out their site for more details.

 

Posted by:  Bob Webster



January 21, 2011

Day 2 of 365: Lake Geneva Ice Fishing

Posted to 365 Things to Do in Lake Geneva, Area Attractions & Events, Geneva Lake Area

Interested in attacking the cold from a different angle in Lake Geneva?






Current reports state that the average depth of the ice on Lake Geneva, WI is 12 inches so grab your fishing gear and head out. Don’t have the gear? Check out Geneva Lake Bait and Tackle. They offer guided ice fishing on Lake Geneva, Delavan Lake and many of the surrounding lakes, as well as, ice shanty rentals and everything an angler could possibly need. Check out a quick video with some dedicated ice fishermen on Lake Geneva. 

Posted by:  Bob Webster



January 19, 2011

Lake Geneva Eats: A New Spin on the Friday Fish Fry at Bistro 220

Posted to Area Attractions & Events, Geneva Lake Area

Last Friday night my husband and I decided to try out the fish fry at Bistro 220, located in the trendy West End at 220 Cook Street, in Lake Geneva Wisconsin. I’m not a huge “fish fry” lover, in fact, I don’t do “fried” and I don’t do breading - Bistro 220 did not disappoint. Their fish du jour is tilapia, delicate and flaky, lightly dusted with a fine covering and fried. Because I avoid gluten, Ken Wenz, one of the owners, asked the chef to pan sear my tilapia. It was perfect. They serve the fish with a zesty potato pancake and the usual applesauce and tartar sauce on the side. We arrived close to 7pm and since the tables were all full, chose to eat at their comfortable bar (it even has purse hooks which I love!). Music started at 8pm and we stayed for a short time enjoying the talented duo.

If you’re tired of the same old, same old fish fry, make it point to visit Bistro 220 in Lake Geneva Wisconsin.

Posted by:  Janis Hartley



January 19, 2011

Fish Fry Fridays - Walworth County Tradition

Posted to Area Attractions & Events, Geneva Lake Area

Friday Night Fish Fry in Walworth County, they are tradition! What a bonus when you find a really great one..and I have! There is a “not so new” restaurant located a short ride west of Lake Geneva called the Colonial Pub! Right on the corner of Hwy 14 and X in Darien, WI, less than a mile off of Hwy 43. The Colonial Pub has had a few different faces over the last few years, but a local guy, Steve Walters, has re-opened the restaurant with a down to earth attitude of great home-made food, good drinks, and a super friendly atmosphere! The Fish fry is catching on pretty quick for sure! All you can eat is $11 or a 2 piece meal for just $8, either way you get fried or broiled cod, potato pancakes, coleslaw, hush puppies [Yum], apple sauce and really fresh marble rye bread. The fish is beer battered, lightly fried, very crunchy and delicious! This restaurant is definitely worth the drive, and now my new favorite Fish Fry place to go! If you have a favorite Fish Fry place, comment about it here, I love to try new places.

Posted by:  Allison Oleston



January 18, 2011

Looking for Restaurants in Lake Geneva? Try Louie's Pizza & Grill

Posted to Area Attractions & Events

If you live in Linn Township along the south shore of Lake Geneva your restaurant delivery options are almost non-existent. Except for Louie’s Pizza! Their menu is incredibly varied offering Louie’s Little Mexico, Homemade Pasta Dinners, Tortilla Wraps, Angus Beef Burgers, Salads, Thin Crust Pizza and the Best Ribs in town. Whether it’s a week night you don’t feel like cooking or a dinner party where they supply the main dish (again I highly recommend the ribs), Louie’s won’t let you down. Who do you suggest for carry-outs (& do they deliver to Wooddale in Linn)? My family loves Louie’s but more than one option would be great. For more ideas on how to enjoy the Lake Geneva Area visit www.LakeGenevaHomeFinder.com.

(Click to View their Menu)

Posted by:  Marcy Hammett



January 18, 2011

Picturesque Stop on Geneva Lake's West Side

Posted to Area Attractions & Events, Geneva Lake Area , Williams Bay, WI

Whether you’re driving to or through Lake Geneva, WI, if you head West on Hwy 50, turn left on Geneva Street and in a few moments you will be delighted by Williams Bay! Williams Bay beach allows for ample parking, you’ll enjoy the breathtaking view, any time of year. You will be reminded why we love the Geneva Lakes area!

A beautiful ever changing scene is yours to enjoy. Each area of Geneva Lake has its own unique appeal. Most of us notice the major season changes but take little time to enjoy and explore the changes in our surroundings that occur daily. Williams Bay has a variety of pleasant surprises right along Geneva Street; from the natural beauty of the park, lakeshore, characteristic bridges, or the Kishwauketoe walking trail abundant with song birds.

Besides nature there are wonderful treasures for everyone to enjoy from food to shopping. Just a few minute walk from the lake you will find three great choices for lunch. 

  • Daddy Maxwell’s, 150 Elkhorn Road (a block off Geneva Street) a quaint diner offers a large “home style” menu as well as breakfast.
  • Harpoon Willies, 8 E. Geneva Street a casual local bar atmosphere has great burgers and sandwiches along with a view of the lake.
     
  • The Public House 83 N. Geneva Street offers Pub style dining and an extensive menu.

Heading further west on Geneva Street you will find spas, shops and a grocer. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Yerkes Observatory, 373 W. Geneva Street, which offers free tours every Saturday at 10 a.m. 11 a.m., and noon with no reservations needed.

One stop along Geneva Lake that will make a cold winter’s day enjoyable!! 

Posted by:  Laura Rodriguez



January 10, 2011

Silver Lake Wi Rod's Packer Inn - Friday Night Fish Fry

Posted to Area Attractions & Events

Rod’s Packer Inn located in Silver Lake Wi. It’s a cozy local bar & restaurant where “everyone” knows your name. This place serves some of the best burgers in town, but it’s their Friday Night Fish Fry that keeps the locals and lake owners coming back for more. You can’t miss the packer green building situation at the corners of Cogwell & Silver Lake road. Arrive early for the “Friday Night Fish Fry” or you may have a wait. Enjoy!

Posted by:  Mary Petersen