A Unique Ski Vacation in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
If you live in the midwest, you may not think you’re within driving distance to a ski resort. But you may not be as far from a snow-covered paradise as you’d think! In Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, just a short hour and a half drive from Chicago, is Wilmot Mountain, a Vail Resorts ski spot for the whole family. Colleen and her daughters and husband loved spending the day together here, embracing the winter weather. With skiing, tubing, snowboarding, and lessons all on site, it’s the ski destination of the Midwest. From local lodging, such as Geneva National Resort & Club, the Inns at Geneva National, and The Ridge Hotel, to must-visit restaurants like the Hunt Club Steakhouse and Crafted Americana, and even the best local spas, we’ll show you that you don’t have to go to Colorado to have an amazing ski vacation this winter.
In the summer, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin is home to beaches, watersports, and other recreational activities, such as ziplining. However, this is hardly a town that goes dormant during the winter. In addition to skiing and other winter sports at Wilmot Mountain, you’ll also find a vast array of shows and activities for parents and kids alike.
While shopping and exploring historic downtown Lake Geneva always makes for a great afternoon, the town is also home to attractions such as the Tristan Crist Magic Show. Held in an intimate theater off Main Street, Tristan Crist puts on an hour-long magic show that both engages kids and humors adults. Be sure to get your tickets in advance, as the show tends to sell out quickly on weekends!
For a ski vacation in the Midwest, Lake Geneva is the place to be. Although there’s rarely a shortage of snow in the Midwest during the winter, at Wilmot Mountain, there’s no need to worry about how many inches are on the ground. By producing their own snow, Wilmot Mountain ensures impeccable ski conditions all season long. With lifts and slopes for all ages and skill levels, you’ll be able to enjoy a weekend of skiing, tubing, or snowboarding with the whole family.
Never skied before? Wilmot Mountain offers lessons for all ages as well as various promotional offers for affordable options. If you get hungry during the day, be sure to head over to Walt’s Tavern for lunch and take in the view of the snow-covered hills while you eat. Once you’re refueled, hop back on the chair lift and get ready for round two of your ski vacation. You’ll have a blast gliding down those slopes!
Are you a fan of winter travel? You can’t miss this famous ice hotel!
Where you decide to stay during your trip to Wilmot Mountain is entirely up to your style. If you’re staying in Lake Geneva with your family and need a little more room to spread out, consider Geneva National Resort & Club or the Inns of Geneva National. With a choice between staying at the resort or one of their exquisite inns, you’ll also be given access to their Wellness Center, tennis courts, pool and three golf courses. During the ski season, you’ll be able to skip the lines at Wilmot Mountain by purchasing your ski and equipment rental passes at the front desk, saving you time for the slopes!
Each inn is made up of six individual rooms, each with a lockable door for privacy and a full bathroom. Also complete with a full kitchen, dining room, living room and rec room, these inns are a great option for families or group vacations, allowing everyone to spread out or enjoy quality time together. You can even request a poker or ping pong table for your rec room, for added entertainment. Although it will feel like you’re renting a home, there’s no need to bring your own shampoo or towels. Just like a hotel, you’ll be provided with everything you need.
If you’re looking to stay in for the evening, the inns’ full kitchens allow families to enjoy cooking together, making for a great shared experience while also cutting down on costs. On the other hand, if you’d prefer to go out, the Geneva National Resort & Club offers complimentary shuttles to one of the finest restaurants in town, the Hunt Club Steakhouse. Shuttles to downtown Lake Geneva are also available, where you’ll find a variety of family restaurants and cafes.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing couples’ or girlfriend getaway weekend, we recommend staying at The Ridge Hotel. Formerly the Interlaken and then Lodge at Geneva Ridge, The Ridge’s fresh new renovation highlights the classic resort’s best assets while also showing off a crisp, modern lobby and multiple on-site restaurants.
While recently staying at The Ridge for a mother-daughter getaway, our producer and her mother enjoyed a delicious dinner at The Ridge’s on-site restaurant, Crafted Americana. Radiating vintage, 1960s charm with a modern twist, Crafted Americana offers scenic views of the property, outdoor fire pit, and Lake Como.
The food at Crafted Americana is just as delightful. For dinner, we recommend the Peachy Chicken or Glazed Salmon, both of which were delicious. Following dinner, the bread pudding is a homestyle comfort food that is sure to warm you up, and their Chocolate Creme Brulee is a one-of-a-kind treat that’s worth the splurge. Be sure to also stop in for breakfast or lunch. The Meatloaf Sandwich or Chicken Salad were two of our favorites!
If you’re looking for a quick meal or pick-me-up, stop by their cafe, Bean + Vine, located in the lobby. For a fast breakfast, we recommend their veggie-filled breakfast burrito. Purchase a coffee to dine-in to enjoy in one of their mugs, so you can keep green and receive discounted refills!
While The Ridge offers many traditional amenities, such as a heated pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room, it also has elements that make it truly unique. Their seasonal Igloos, which sit out on their scenic patio area, are a great place to spend an evening. Simply reserve one in advance and enjoy the cozy, heated space by kicking back in their comfortable indoor/outdoor chairs while your server brings you drinks and light snacks. With the backdrop of Lake Como behind you and the warm lights illuminating your Igloo, it’s a perfect way to spend a winter evening.
Like what you see? Check out how to have an amazing holiday at The Ridge!
For a relaxing end to your ski vacation, treat yourself to a spa at Mia Faccia. With a variety of massage, spa, and salon treatments, it’s your one-stop-shop for mind and body wellness, or for a day of pampering alongside your girlfriends. Refresh your skin with a peel, wipe away the wear with laser treatments, spoil your nails with a mani-pedi, or take care of your other beauty needs with a wax or haircut from one of their experienced stylists.
Our producer opted for a girls’ getaway spa day with two, 50 minute massages. With soothing music and a relaxing atmosphere, your masseuse will ensure you feel calm and stress-free at all times. From relaxation massages to therapeutic massages, and plenty of other options in between, you’ll be sure to find a treatment that works for you. After a day of skiing on Wilmot Mountain, your sore muscles will thank you!
