Travel Diary: Grand Geneva

Can you believe I live about an hour from the Wisconsin border and have never been? In fact, with the exception of my recent trip to southern Illinois, I haven’t been to many places in the Midwest outside of Chicagoland.

But when I was given the opportunity to visit Grand Geneva Spa Resort in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin with a few other Chicago bloggers, I, of course, said yes. Whether a destination is one hour or 8 hours away, I’m always down to visit see some place new.

Photo credit: Ryan Rivas

We got on the road pretty early that morning so our first stop upon arriving at the spa was lunch. We got to enjoy lunch overlooking the gorgeous golf course on the property. I was surprised to learn that the course is open to everyone and immediately regretted that I never took any of the free golf lessons offered at my college.

I got to try Wisconsin’s famous cheese curds for the first. Verdict? They are AMAZING! Seriously! I’m honestly kind of upset that I’ve lived in Chicago for so long and not one of the Wisconsinites I’ve met has ever thought to mention them to me.

After lunch we hopped on the trolley and took a tour of the property. We took a quick peek at the spa, the gym (where you can try your hand at rock climbing), and then finished off with a few rounds of archery. Hopefully, you caught my archery skills live on InstaStory. (Because I know you’re following me on Instagram, RIGHT?!)

I wish I’d had time to try my hand at rockclimbing. Next time, for sure!

After lunch, a tour and archery, we had a little down time in our respective villas. Let me tell you. I loved my apartment until I stayed at the new Villas at Grand Geneva Spa. I fell head over heels in love with the layout. One day when I build my first luxury apartment (traditional homes are overrated), don’t be surprised if the layout is nearly identical.

Next up was the pool! Because was a trip to a spa resort with some time in the sun. The pool was small and intimate and the perfect place to unwind with a good book.

Special thanks to Jenn and Stephanie for bringing along such awesome floaties. They made lounging around poolside look just as good as it felt.

After spending some time at the pool, we headed to dinner. If you know me, you know I love a good steak. If there’s a steak on the menu, there’s 110% chance I’m going to order it. The restaurant on the property—Geneva ChopHouse—does steak (and seafood) like no other!

I ordered the steak oscar (my first time having it) and it changed my life. It was so amazing! I’m sorry I don’t have pictures for you. I basically inhaled it before I could pull out my phone.

This King Crab appetizer? Life affirming!

I had an amazing and relaxing time at Grand Geneva Spa. I love that it’s so close to Chicago and the perfect getaway from the fast pace of the city.

If you’re looking for a nice quiet place to relax, you should definitely check out Grand Geneva Spa Resort. You can get 30% off your stay with the code the BLAKEVOND. Click here to book your stay! And tell them I sent you!