Discover Twin Lakes, Your Perfect Getaway in Wisconsin
Twin Lakes is a charming destination in southeastern Wisconsin, just a short drive from Lake Geneva. If you’re seeking a getaway that offers a mix of nature, relaxation, and fun-filled activities, this is the place for you!
The area boasts two beautiful lakes, Lake Mary and Elizabeth Lake, providing ample outdoor recreation. Whether you enjoy fishing, boating, or just lounging by the water, Twin Lakes has something for everyone.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of green spaces and trails available for hiking, birdwatching, and simply reconnecting with the great outdoors. With diverse activities and attractions, Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, is the ideal destination for your next vacation.
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Best time to visit
Best things to do
Top 3 Facts about Twin Lakes in Wisconsin
01
Natural Beauty
Twin Lakes is named after its two picturesque lakes, Lake Mary and Lake Elizabeth. These lakes offer stunning views and recreational opportunities like fishing, boating, and swimming.
02
Aquatic Life
Lake Mary and Lake Elizabeth are known for their diverse aquatic life, including various fish species like largemouth bass, bluegill, and northern pike, making it a haven for anglers and nature enthusiasts.
03
History and Heritage
The area around Twin Lakes has a rich history, including ties to Native American tribes and early European settlers, with historic sites and landmarks that showcase its cultural heritage.
Must See Attractions
Lake Mary and Lake Elizabeth
Lakes
These twin lakes are the heart of Twin Lakes, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, and enjoying scenic lake views. Lake Mary Park and Lance Park are popular spots for picnicking and beach activities.
Lance Park
Park
On Lake Mary, Lance Park is a focal point for community events, concerts, and recreational activities. It features a beach area, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and boat launches.
Bassett House
Museum
Explore local history at the Bassett House, a historic home built in 1843 that now serves as a museum. It offers insights into the early settlement and development of Twin Lakes.
Annual Events and Festivals
Summer
Aquanut Water Shows
During the summer, Twin Lakes comes alive with the exhilarating Aquanut Water Shows on Lake Mary. These free water ski performances by the Aquanut Ski Team showcase impressive stunts, synchronized routines, and themed shows that thrill audiences of all ages.
The shows typically run from June through August, offering a perfect opportunity for families and visitors to enjoy waterfront entertainment against the backdrop of scenic Lake Mary.
July 4th
Independence Day Celebrations
Twin Lakes commemorates Independence Day with a vibrant celebration that includes a variety of activities for the community. Festivities often kick off with a patriotic parade through town, followed by family-friendly events and games at Lance Park.
As evening descends, residents and visitors gather along the shores of Lake Mary for a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the night sky. It’s a time-honored tradition that brings the community together to celebrate America’s birthday with pride and excitement.
Early December
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Twin Lakes hosts a heartwarming Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Lance Park to kick off the holiday season. Families gather to witness the lighting of the community Christmas tree, adorned with sparkling lights and festive decorations.
The event features caroling by local choirs, hot cocoa and cookies for attendees to enjoy, and special appearances by Santa Claus himself, who delights children with his cheerful presence and offers photo opportunities. It’s a joyful occasion that spreads holiday cheer and brings the community together in the spirit of goodwill and celebration.
Top Hiking Trails
Bong State Recreation Area
26313 Burlington Rd, Kansasville, WI 53139
Located a short drive from Twin Lakes, Bong State Recreation Area offers over 16 miles of hiking trails through diverse landscapes, including prairies, wetlands, and forests.
The Vista Nature Trail is particularly popular, providing scenic views and opportunities to spot wildlife. The park also features the Gray Trail, a loop that offers a more challenging hike with varied terrain.
Lake Geneva Shore Path
918 W Main St, Lake Geneva, WI 53147
Just a short drive from Twin Lakes, the Lake Geneva Shore Path offers a unique hiking experience along the shores of Geneva Lake. The path is approximately 21 miles long and provides stunning views of the lake and the beautiful estates that line its shores.
Hikers can start anywhere along the path, but the Lake Geneva Public Library is a popular starting location.
Wilmot Mountain Trails
11931 Fox River Rd, Wilmot, WI 53192
Known for its winter skiing, Wilmot Mountain also offers hiking trails during the warmer months. The trails provide a mix of easy-to-moderate hikes with scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
The chairlift is sometimes available to take hikers up the mountain, offering a unique starting point for exploring the trails.
Best Golf Courses
Twin Lakes Country Club
1230 Legion Drive, Twin Lakes, WI 53181
Twin Lakes Country Club is a scenic 18-hole golf course that has been a local favorite since 1912. Known for its well-maintained greens and fairways, the course offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.
The club also features a pro shop, practice facilities, and a restaurant with beautiful views of the course.
Nippersink Golf Club & Resort
N1055 Tombeau Rd, Genoa City, WI 53128
Located just a short drive from Twin Lakes, Nippersink Golf Club & Resort is a historic 18-hole course that offers a blend of natural beauty and strategic challenges.
The course is characterized by rolling hills, mature trees, and several water hazards. The resort also offers accommodations, dining, and event facilities.
Fox Lake Country Club
7220 N. Fox Lane, Fox Lake, IL 60020
Located about 15 minutes from Twin Lakes, Fox Lake Country Club is an 18-hole championship course that offers a challenging layout with a variety of holes. The course features tree-lined fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards.
The club also offers a driving range, practice greens, and a clubhouse with dining options.
Water Sports
Boating
Lake Mary and Lake Elizabeth are ideal for boating enthusiasts. Whether you have a motorboat, sailboat, or pontoon, the lakes provide ample space for cruising and enjoying the scenic views.
Boat rentals are available for those who don’t have their own vessel.
Water Skiing & Wakeboarding
The smooth waters of Lake Mary and Lake Elizabeth are perfect for water skiing and wakeboarding. The local Aquanut Water Shows team, which performs throughout the summer, showcases impressive stunts and routines, highlighting the area’s popularity for these activities. Lessons and equipment rentals are also available.
Fishing
Fishing is a year-round activity on Lake Mary and Lake Elizabeth. Anglers can catch various fish species, including largemouth bass, bluegill, northern pike, and walleye.
Whether from a boat or the shore, fishing in Twin Lakes offers a relaxing and rewarding experience. Licenses and equipment can be obtained locally.
Winter Activities
Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
The natural beauty of Twin Lakes is perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Trails in nearby parks like Bong State Recreation Area and other local parks provide picturesque routes through snow-covered fields and forests. Equipment rentals and guided tours are available at some locations.
Snowmobiling
Twin Lakes and the surrounding area have well-maintained snowmobile trails that attract enthusiasts from all over. The trails wind through scenic landscapes, offering a thrilling way to explore the winter terrain.
Local clubs and organizations often provide trail maps and updates on conditions.
Ice Fishing
Once the lakes freeze over, ice fishing becomes a popular pastime on Lake Mary and Lake Elizabeth.
Anglers set up ice shanties and drill holes to catch species like bluegill, perch, and northern pike. It’s a peaceful and rewarding way to spend a winter day on the ice.
Where to Eat
Manny’s Snack Shack
$$ – $$$ • American, Burgers, Sandwiches
Sand Bar & Island Grill
$$ – $$$ • Seafood
Twin Lakes Roadhouse
$$ – $$$ • Burgers, Wings, Pizza
Where to Shop
Twin Lakes Market
Grocery store
Main Street Antiques & Mercantile
Antique store
Lake Geneva Antique Mall
Antique mall
Where to Sleep
Tips on Renting a Vacation Home on Twin Lakes
Plan Early
Popular vacation spots like Twin Lakes can get booked quickly, especially during peak seasons (summer and holidays). Start your search and booking process several months in advance to ensure you have the best selection.
Define Your Needs
Make a list of must-have amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, lake access, dock, boat rental availability, hot tub, or fireplace.
Location
Decide if you want direct lake access, which can be ideal for boating, fishing, and swimming. Properties with private docks can be especially convenient.
Read Reviews
Read reviews from previous guests to get a sense of the property’s condition, the responsiveness of the owner/manager, and any potential issues.
Going Deeper: History and Cultural Significance of Twin Lakes
Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, is a picturesque village with a rich history and cultural significance that dates back to its establishment in the late 19th century.
Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, the area was later settled by European immigrants drawn to its fertile land and abundant water resources. The village of Twin Lakes was officially incorporated in 1937, named after its two beautiful lakes, Lake Mary and Lake Elizabeth. These lakes have been central to the community’s development, supporting a thriving resort and tourism industry that has attracted visitors for over a century.
The area’s cultural significance is also marked by its annual events and festivals, such as the Aquanut Water Shows, which celebrate the local tradition of water skiing and showcase the community’s talents. Twin Lakes’ charming small-town atmosphere, natural beauty, and rich heritage continue to make it a beloved destination for both residents and visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions about Twin Lakes
The main attractions in Twin Lakes include Lake Mary and Lake Elizabeth for boating and fishing, Lance Park with its beach and picnic areas, the Aquanut Water Shows, and nearby Wilmot Mountain for winter sports.
Activities on Lake Mary and Lake Elizabeth include boating, fishing, swimming, water skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, canoeing, and jet skiing. Ice fishing and ice skating are popular during the winter months.
The best time to visit Twin Lakes depends on your interests. Summer is ideal for water activities and outdoor events, while winter offers ice fishing, snowmobiling, and nearby skiing at Wilmot Mountain.
Yes, there are several hiking trails near Twin Lakes, including those at Bong State Recreation Area, Pike River Pathway, and Lake Geneva Shore Path. These trails offer scenic views and varied difficulty levels.
Many areas in Twin Lakes are pet-friendly, including certain vacation rentals and some outdoor dining spots. Always check specific policies with the property or venue beforehand.
Yes, notable annual events include the Aquanut Water Shows from Memorial Day to Labor Day, the Twin Lakes CornFest in early August, and the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in early December.