This Wisconsin Lakeside Town Feels Like the Northeast in the Fall and It’s Stunning

Often overlooked in favor of its more popular cousin to the east, Lake Geneva, the tiny lakeside town of Delavan, Wisconsin, transforms into a colorful dream each fall. With Lake Delavan as its focal point, this tight-knit community is the perfect place to explore this fall. Grab a cozy, warm beverage and head on out to check out Delavan’s adorable downtown area, an award-winning golf course, and beautiful lakefront.

To me, the highlight of Lake Delavan is the recently renovated Lake Lawn Resort. The resort is a major pillar of the community, offering endless ways to enjoy the autumn season from its premises. Specifically, folks can enjoy a fall colors boat tour on the 76-foot-long Lake Lawn Queen. There is both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing you to choose the temperature that suits your comfort level. When I took the boat ride, it was truly impressive to glide across the water and see the magnificent mansions that make the area so popular. The 90-minute cruise is the best way to explore the town’s beautiful, more than 1,900-acre lake.

Alternatively, play a round of golf at the 18-hole Majestic Oaks Golf Course. There’s nothing quite like inhaling the crisp air of autumn while enjoying the last few days that it's warm enough to be under the changing leaves. Delavan is also home to the Delbrook Golf Course.

Another great way to get out and enjoy the East Coast-like foliage is to explore one of the many parks. Taking a brief walk around the Paul Lange Arboretum Loop is a popular option. This hike is just shy of a mile long and beginner-friendly. You’ll enjoy a stroll around Comus Lake and the surrounding forest. Additionally, Springs Park is a lovely place for kids to enjoy the playground or for anyone to walk around and explore parts of the Swan Creek Corridor Trail System.

Downtown Delavan is a cozy fall dream on its own. Pick up a cup of coffee at Boxed and Burlup and enjoy quaint hometown shops like Caleta Western Wear, The Delavan Lake Store, and Lauren's Antique and Art Center. Of course, Delavan’s central location makes it the perfect launching point for exploring other nearby attractions, such as the famous Yerkes Observatory and the numerous wineries, breweries, and distilleries.

A particularly unique attraction in Delavan is the Dancing Horses Theatre. Here, audience members will enjoy an impressive Vegas-style performance. Plus, there’s an on-site petting zoo you can lump together with your experience. This 40-acre property is home to 16 species of exotic animals and 40 hay-heating friends. 

Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or just a day out on the town, Delavan, Wisconsin, has something for everyone during the fall season. From the rich colors of the trees to the calm and cozy charm of Ma and Pa shops, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy your time here. Grab a warm drink, take in the crisp autumn air, and let yourself ease into all that this delightful town has to offer. Feeling inspired? Try planning your own Wisconsin trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.