Winter is ramping up in Chicago, with temperatures approaching the 'bone-chilling' range. If you're anything like us, you might have the instinct to curl up, grab a blanket, pop in a DVD and not leave the house until May.
But even we got excited about the prospect of some winter adventures in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. About 70 miles from the Loop as the crow flies, the small town is about a two hour's drive away from the city. Situated on the northeastern tip of the beautiful lake from which it gets its name, the town offers all manner of seasonal activities, from traditional ones (skiing, snowboarding, ice skating) to more unusual ones (snow sculpting and ice sailing come to mind -- check the pictures).
That, plus some palatial turn-of-the-century homes (the town was once called the "Newport of the West," a reference to Newport, RI's famous mansions), a cute downtown, some top-notch dining, and the world's largest refracting telescope make Lake Geneva a sure winner for a weekend getaway.
Plus, they're giving away a free trip! Enter at LakeGenevaWI.com for a chance to win two tickets for skiing, snowboarding, and other attractions (like the "Dancing Horses Holiday Show").
Check out some of what's happening in Lake Geneva: