As a Chicagoan, I grew up going to Geneva Lake for summer camp. After 30 years on this earth, I admittedly had never heard of Delavan Lake, just a stone's throw away. Yet when I received an invite to spend the weekend at Lawn Lake Resort and experience their latest $20+ million renovations, I was intrigued.

This family-friendly felt like a throwback to the resort in the 1987 film Dirty Dancing. If you've been dreaming about an easy, relaxing weekend getaway, Lawn Lake Resort might just be the perfect destination for you.

The Location and Accommodations

Lawn Lake Resort is located on Delavan Lake in southern Wisconsin. It's about an hour and a half drive from Chicago, making it a convenient weekend escape for city dwellers like myself.

The newly renovated rooms at Lawn Lake Resort are spacious and comfortable. Each room is equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a coffee maker. The decor is cozy and rustic, giving off a cabin-like feel. The beds are incredibly comfortable, making getting a good night's sleep easy after a day of activities. Plus, the rooms have a balcony or patio with stunning views of the lake.

The Activities

One of the highlights of Lawn Lake Resort is its variety of activities for all ages. There is something for everyone, from water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing to land activities like golfing, biking, and tennis. You can also relax by one of the three outdoor pools or take a stroll along the scenic lakefront that is much quieter than its more famous neighbor.

For families with young children, Lawn Lake Resort has a Kids' Activity Center where kids can participate in organized games and crafts while parents enjoy some downtime. There's also an arcade room and nightly bonfires for the whole family to enjoy.

A highlight for me was my golf lesson with Joe. I've never picked up a club before, and Joe made it comfortable, accessible, and fun. By the end of the lesson, I realized I'd love to learn more about the sport.

The Dining Options

Lawn Lake Resort has three dining options on-site, offering a variety of cuisines to suit different tastes. The Lookout Bar & Eatery offers casual pub-style food and drinks. Isle of Capri Cafe offers grab and good options for a quick bite or coffee. The 1878 on the Lake provides a more formal dining experience with delicious dishes and scenic views of the lake.

The chef, Ryne Harwick, seems a bit out of place in rural Wisconsin. I mean this in the best way. He's incredibly talented, with culinary experience and education that has taken him all over the world.

With his Jeremey Allen White-like charm, one would not expect to find a man of his talent or personality in a little resort in Wisconsin. But perhaps that's my own Big City bias coming out.

Lawn Lake Resort truly sets itself apart from other hotels in the area simply because Chef Harwick is such a culinary artist. They are truly lucky to have his creativity and skill – and you'd be remiss not to enjoy a few meals onsite by Chef.

The Spa

For those looking to relax and rejuvenate, Lawn Lake Resort has a full-service spa offering various treatments such as massages, facials, and body wraps. I enjoyed a delightful facial that left my face glowing for days. The spa also has a sauna and hot tub for guests to use at their leisure.

Conference & Wedding Facilities

In addition to being a top choice for vacations, Lawn Lake Resort is also a popular destination for corporate events, weddings, and other special occasions. With a plethora of meeting rooms and outdoor event spaces, the resort can cater to groups of various sizes.

Their dedicated event-planning team ensures that every detail is taken care of, from arranging audio-visual equipment to designing the perfect menu for your event. With the beautiful lakefront setting and luxurious accommodations, it's no wonder that many couples choose Lawn Lake Resort as their wedding venue.

Overall Experience

My experience at Lawn Lake Resort exceeded all expectations. Every aspect of my stay was top-notch, from the warm and welcoming staff to the stunning views and luxurious amenities. I highly recommend this hidden gem for anyone looking for a peaceful and luxurious getaway in the heart of Wisconsin.