Sordid and Scandalous: A Walking Tour of Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva’s beauty has brought it plenty of fame—and more than its fair share of weird, wicked, and outright scandalous behavior. Hear all about it on this fascinating guided walking tour through the city’s beautiful, historic downtown and Maple Park neighborhoods. Uncover the juicy details of a notorious 1950s bank robbery, explore Lake Geneva’s intriguing connections to Prohibition-era gangsters, hear eerie legends regarding the great Lake Geneva Seat Serpent and more. Our knowledgeable Black Point Estate & Gardens historians will spill the beans on everything from raucous riots to flying saucers... the truth—and the tour—is out there!

Cost: $15 per person

Advance registration required.

Society members receive a 10% discount, please verify your membership where prompted to receive discount at check out.

About the Location

Built in 1888 as a retreat for Chicago Beer Baron Conrad Seipp, Black Point Estate has persisted through the centuries as a historic place to relax, refresh, and explore the banks of Geneva Lake and beyond. Much like the Victorian VIPs who originally established the estate, visitors can enjoy the cool lake breezes on the mansion's veranda, sip Seipp beer, and listen to the soothing melodies of the authentic 1911 Chickering piano that rests just inside. As one of the oldest homes in Lake Geneva and a premier example of period architecture and furniture in the Midwest, Black Point Estate offers a glimpse into the rich and historic past of the Gilded Age.

Know Before You Go

This tour meets at the Riviera Building, 812 Wrigley Drive, Lake Geneva, WI 53147.

Tour covers 1.5 miles and lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Tours have a maximum capacity of 20 guests per tour guide.

Sordid and Scandalous tours are for adult guests and teens. Guests must be 13+ to attend.

Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather.

Restrooms and ATM available at the start of tour.

No pets permitted.

Event held rain or shine.

Guests with additional mobility needs are encouraged to contact the site directly for direct access to the estate at blackpointestate@wisconsinhistory.org or 262-248-1888.