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Explore this charming and vibrant community just 20 minutes from Lake Geneva on the shores of Delavan Lake!

For those seeking a blend of small-town charm and historical significance, Delavan, Wisconsin, offers a delightful destination. Its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and community-focused living makes it a unique and inviting place to visit or call home. Delavan boasts a well-preserved downtown area with historic architecture, charming boutiques, and a variety of dining options that reflect the town's welcoming atmosphere.


 

Town of Delavan logo          City of Delavan logo

 

Community Insights

Population: 8,505 (city) | 5,272 (town)
Must-See Attraction: The Dancing Horses Theater and Petting Zoo
Best Free Activity: Summer concerts at the Phoenix Park Bandshell
Favorite Annual Event: Cars That Time Forgot Annual Car Show
What the locals love: The Walldogs Murals and circus history

ORGANIZATIONS | Delavan-Delavan Lake Area Chamber | Visit Delavan


 

A Day in Delavan

While Lake Geneva is endlessly fun and beautiful, it’s also surrounded by towns and attractions that are well worth the short drive it takes to get there. Located roughly 20 minutes away is the quaint town of Delavan, whose history, Victorian architecture, recreational opportunities, and small-town charm will leave a lasting impact on even the most cosmopolitan visitors. Here’s how you can explore:

Morning

Begin your day in Delavan with a journey into its rich history and vibrant natural beauty. Explore the town's Victorian architecture and learn about its storied carnival heritage, earning it the title of the "Circus Capital" during the 19th century. From 1847-1894, the town was home to 26 circus companies, including the P.T. Barnum Circus, aka “The Greatest Show on Earth,” which was founded there in 1871. 

Home to the 1,906-acre Lake Delavan the area is rich in natural beauty. You can immerse yourself in the early morning serenity with a stroll along the shores of the lake. In addition to the picturesque scenery, Lake Delavan boasts incredible outdoor recreational opportunities for boating and fishing. Outdoor enthusiasts can kick start their morning on the water with an exciting excursion on the water.

Afternoon

Community Park is a must-see. With fifteen acres of lakefront property, it not only offers a beach, boat launch, volleyball courts, playgrounds, and shore fishing but also four Pavilions you can rent. (Heads up: if you’re not a resident of Delavan, you’ll have to pay admission.)

Animal lovers won’t want to miss a visit to the Animal Gardens Petting Zoo, which features 16 species of exotic animals from across the globe and over 40 hay-eating animals, including goats, donkeys, wolves, porcupines, and a giant tortoise. In addition to being able to hold and feed some animals, you can also enjoy a train ride through the woods, where you can see deer, bobcats, and foxes. The 40-acre Animal Gardens is also home to The Dancing Horses Theatre. Featuring equestrians and beautiful Arabian horses performing heart-stopping tricks and stunts, it’s an unforgettable experience. 

Evening

Performances at the Belfry Music Theatre, the first summer stock theater in Wisconsin, will be music to your ears. Its Vegas-style shows feature professional tribute bands and original recording artists. 

Or if you’re looking for something a little more low-key, enjoy an evening of sampling award-winning local wines from Staller Estate Winery. Nestled in the countryside, this renovated vintage Wisconsin family farm features a picturesque setting, the best wines in the Milwaukee area, and tasty bites like local cheese and charcuterie. 

Delavan’s small but mighty dining scene also delivers. At Lake Lawn Resort you can choose from three delicious options. 1878 on the Lake serves up stunning views of the water alongside their take on classic Midwestern dishes like steak, seafood, and farm-to-table favorites. Pull up a chair at Lookout Bar & Eatery for a casual dinner of American fare amid a fun atmosphere that offers outdoor seating, live music, and games on the big screen, depending on what time of year you visit. If Italian food is what you’re craving, head to Isle of Capri Café for a stone-fired pizza made from scratch.

For authentic Mexican cuisine, Arandas Mexican Grill hits the spot with all the faves, including vegetarian options plus seafood, steak, and chicken dishes, along with a refreshing margarita to wash it all down. And over at Turtle Lake Tap & Grill, if you time your meal just right you’ll get a gorgeous sunset with your lakeside meal of pizza, burgers, sandwiches, and more!

 


Discover Dining in Delavan:

 

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