Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, known  for attracting the wealthy and affluent, is one of the most romantic vacation getaway sites for the region.  Situated on the sparkling shores of pristine Geneva Lake, this small community is located 75 miles north of Chicago and 45 miles southwest of Milwaukee, Lake Geneva draws visitors and summer-homeowners from both major metropolises.

The last of the glaciers moving northward carved the deep bowl of Geneva Lake more than 18,000 years ago, leaving rolling hillsides surrounding the basin.  The original inhabitants were the lost Oneota Tribe of the Hopewell Indian Culture, living in the region as long ago as 1,000 BC.  They left behind effigy mounds in the shapes of a panther and a lizard, in what today is Lake Geneva's Library Park.  The Black Hawk War of 1832 ousted the Indians from the region and pioneers settled the area in 1836. 

During the Civil War, Lake Geneva lay on the route for escaping slaves from Kentucky and Southern Illinois.  Many, attracted by the scenic beauty and the ready employment as  wealthy Chicagoans were building their exquisite mansions, settled permanently in the community.  Lake Geneva, WI became the "Newport of the West."  The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 found many Chicagoans moving to their summer homes in Lake Geneva while their city rebuilt, solidifying the economy of the Wisconsin town, formerly based on milling and furniture manufacturing. 

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin is part of Walworth County.  Census 2000 recorded Lake Geneva's population as 7,148.  The estimated 2003 population rose to 7,369 with a median family income of $54, 543. 

Lake Geneva’s almost six square miles offers many activities for the outdoor enthusiast.  Bigfoot Beach State Park, Kettle Moraine State Forest and Kishwauketoe Conservancy contain miles of hiking trails through the stunning glacier-made terrain, along with camping, biking and fishing.  Horseback riding and hot-air balloons await the adventurous.  Boat races on Geneva Lake and the White River are a long-standing summer tradition.  Winter turns into a magical time at the Winterfest Snow Sculpting Competition. 

Famous playboy Hugh Hefner chose Lake Geneva as the site of his most exotic Playboy Club in the 70's.  Today it is the Grand Geneva Resort, a luxury resort and golf course.  Founded here was the TSR Game Company, of Dungeons and Dragons fame, lending Lake Geneva the title of "Mecca of Role-playing Games," as the site of the Gen Con gaming conventions.  Chicago gangster Al Capone secretly owned a home on these shores.  Today, rock singer Axl Rose from Guns and Roses keeps a summer home in the community.