Is Lake Geneva Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, sits at the eastern edge of Geneva Lake in the southern part of the state.

During the Gilded Age, when New Yorkers were vacationing in Newport, Rhode Island, Geneva Lake became the escape for the affluent in Chicago and Milwaukee.

That’s why some still refer to it as the “Newport of the West.”

As the decades wore on, this glacier lake became a place of respite, recreation, and robust parties.

The cultural dichotomy means something is exciting for everyone.

You can chill at the beach, take a boat ride, or tour a lavish mansion from the wealthy heyday of lake life.

When summer winds down and the crisp chill of fall takes over, foliage fills the landscape before making way for winter.

That’s when ski resorts and tubing hills open.

Whether you want to ski, splurge, or soak in the sun, Lake Geneva and Geneva Lake are a popular year-round resort community without the traditional tourist trap stops.

Warnings & Dangers in Lake Geneva

OVERALL RISK: LOW

There's a low risk in Lake Geneva with plenty of things to do and a welcoming community filled with helpful residents and plenty of visitors to meet and mingle with.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Rideshares like Uber and Lyft are readily available, as well as local taxi services such as Lakefront Shuttle. For easy sightseeing, consider the seasonal Lake Geneva Trolley tours. However, I'd say a rental car is your best option to explore at your own pace and on your timeline.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

Over the past five years, nine pickpockets or purse snatchings have been reported. That's a low risk but still enough to make you think twice about what valuables you pack or how much stuff you carry around with you.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Like much of the rest of Wisconsin, Lake Geneva runs the seasonal gamut, giving it a medium risk. Winters can bring ice storms, blizzards, low wind chills, and treacherous driving conditions. Spring means severe storm season, with tornadoes and large hail possible. Even routine lightning can dampen a day at the lake. Stay on top of the weather forecast to keep the risk low. Also, follow local safety guidance.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Just one convenience store robbery has been reported in the last five years, giving this a low risk. Again, you don't want to get a false sense of safety. Keep up with standard safety steps.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

This is yet another low risk as this is a recreation destination with no military or monumental targets nearby. However, reporting suspicious activity goes a long way to keep the community safe from domestic terrorists or other potential safety threats.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

Check local police department and sheriff’s office social media sites for the latest scams. That will help keep the risk low. To avoid rental scam risks, book only through trusted sites or verified local agencies, and be cautious of unusually low prices or last-minute changes.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Lake Geneva is a welcoming, safe destination for women of all ages, including solo travelers and seniors. The town’s well-maintained public spaces, friendly community, and low crime rate create a secure environment. As I read through several social forums from annual visitors, I see that they feel comfortable exploring independently, enjoying outdoor activities, and relaxing in the area’s inviting, tourist-friendly atmosphere.

TAP WATER RISK: LOW

The U.S. has strict standards for tap water per the Safe Water Drinking Act. Communities are required to provide a Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report) once a year by July 1. The 2023 report shows full compliance and no violations in Lake Geneva. For water quality testing at Geneva Lake, keep reading.

Safest Places to Visit in Lake Geneva

“Visit Lake Geneva” is the name of the tourism website.

You can download a visitor’s guide for free without having to give any personal information – always a plus in my book!

There’s also the option to download a map.

Start with wandering around downtown Lake Geneva (downtownlakegeneva.org), where historic Main Street mixes old-school charm with some modern polish.

You’ll find a blend of cozy boutiques, art galleries, and great spots to grab a coffee or a bite.

One highlight is the Geneva Lake Museum, which recreates the look and feel of Main Street from 1870 to 1930, giving a unique glimpse into the area’s past and its evolution.

For more history, try the Black Point Estate and Gardens, a 19th-century mansion accessible by boat.

It’s like stepping back in time, with opulent rooms and gardens that show how the wealthy once spent their summers here.

More boat tour options on the Cruise Lake Geneva website include full lake tours or the “Best of the Lake” specialty cruise.

Visiting during the holidays?

Book a Santa Cruise.

Just a short drive away in Williams Bay, there’s the Yerkes Observatory, known for its striking architecture and its role in early astronomy.

The recent renovations have opened up options for tours and events.

When it comes to beaches, Lake Geneva has a few options.

Riviera Beach is right downtown and close to the pier and ballroom, making it easy to add a swim to your day’s itinerary.

Fontana Beach, a bit further out, has a chill vibe and is close to some nice cafes and shops.

Williams Bay Beach is a quieter option, perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, family-friendly spot.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can rent a kayak, paddleboard, or jet ski to explore the water on your own.

Fishing is also popular, with a range of local guides ready to take you to the best spots.

For some time on land, Big Foot Beach State Park is a lovely area with hiking trails and picnic areas right by the lake.

You can also explore the Geneva Lake Shore Path, a 21-mile loop that circles the entire lake and takes you past gorgeous historic estates and quiet natural spots.

Another gem is the Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy in Williams Bay, offering over 200 acres of protected land with walking paths through wetlands and woodlands.

Places to Avoid in Lake Geneva

You shouldn’t have any worries about ending up in a bad part of town or staying in a dangerous neighborhood.

Lake Geneva is safe and relies on tourism, so it’s in everyone’s best interest to keep it secure.

We’ll talk a bit more about lake safety in the next section, but it’s worth noting that the west side of Geneva Lake is deeper than the east side.

That means it will be less likely to have harmful algae blooms during peak summer heat.

Don’t be hesitant to visit Lake Geneva in winter, as there are plenty of activities that pop up around the lake and in nearby communities.

Despite how cold it gets here, those who are dressed for the low temperatures will enjoy skiing, snowboarding, ice fishing, and a slew of other winter activities.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Lake Geneva

So... How Safe Is Lake Geneva Really?

With just nine violent crimes in 2023, the risk of being a victim of a violent crime in Lake Geneva is low.

More than 80% of violent crime victims were known to their assailants over the past five years.

While the theft rate is higher than the national average, the raw number of thefts in 2023 was 142.

Two-thirds of those were shoplifting.

Other types of theft are low, including just 10 car break-ins.

In fact, if you look up safety concerns in Lake Geneva, lake safety comes first.

That includes water quality and drowning dangers.

Being a lake community, outdoor safety is paramount.

You will largely control how prepared you are to brave the elements, handle sudden changes in weather, and face wilderness risks.

How Does Lake Geneva Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

All international visitors need either a visa defining the purpose of the trip (tourist, work, school, etc.) or a visa waiver. Start the process using the Visa Wizard module on the U.S. State Department website. You can also download the CBP One mobile app for help on the go. Also, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your trip, or you’ll need to apply for a new one.

Currency

Only the U.S. Dollar (USD) is accepted in the United States. International airports usually have a currency exchange desk on site, while regional airports won’t. Your home bank offers the lowest fees. For those using credit cards, check to see if there’s a foreign transaction fee. Credit cards, not debit cards, offer the best fraud protection.

Weather

In Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, winters are snowy and crisp, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. Pack insulated and waterproof layers of clothing to enjoy the activities without risking frostbite. Spring warms up gradually, bringing rain showers and budding greenery. Temperatures can pivot quickly, so bring layers of clothing to adapt easily. Summers are mild to warm, with highs typically in the 70s and 80s, making it a prime season for lakeside activities. Fall is vibrant, featuring cooler days and spectacular foliage, drawing visitors for scenic drives and outdoor festivals. However, those layers will come in handy again as there can be sweeping changes in temperatures from day to day.

Airports

The closest commercial airports to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, include Milwaukee's General Mitchell International Airport, about 50 miles away, and Chicago O'Hare International Airport, approximately 60 miles south.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance protects the cost of baggage loss/theft, delays, cancelations, and emergency health issues. Rental car insurance should include roadside assistance and uninsured motorist coverage. Comprehensive insurance offers the best peace of mind.

Lake Geneva Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Wisconsin - Safety by City