Lake Geneva, WI – Wisconsin families hoping to experience the icy enchantment of Winter Realms in Lake Geneva this year will have to wait a little longer.
If you missed last year’s magical event, you can read more about it here.
The popular winter attraction, known for its stunning ice sculptures and magical frozen landscapes, has announced that it will not be returning for the 2024 season. Organizers cited record-breaking warm weather as the reason for the pause, making it difficult to create the frosty wonderland visitors have come to expect.
Although Winter Realms is taking a break this season, there are plenty of other winter activities for families to enjoy in the Milwaukee area. For instance, check out list of exciting winter festivals happening in the area, and experience the thrill of outdoor ice skating at Slice of Ice in downtown Milwaukee.
Winter Realms, which debuted as a sister project to the well-known Ice Castles, has been a highlight for families visiting the Geneva National resort in recent years. Guests have marveled at the towering ice formations, whimsical tunnels, and glimmering sculptures, all crafted from thousands of icicles. But with increasingly mild winters, creating such an immersive icy experience has become more of a challenge.
“We’ve loved bringing the magic of winter to Lake Geneva,” said Kyle Standifird, CEO of Ice Castles. “It has been a true pleasure to host our enchanting winter attraction at Geneva National, where we’ve created lasting memories for families and friends. We’re incredibly thankful for the support we’ve received.”
Standifird noted that the decision to take a break was made after careful consideration, with a focus on ensuring that when Winter Realms returns, it will live up to the high standards visitors expect. “We’re using this time to innovate and come back with something even more awe-inspiring,” he added.
While this news may be disappointing to local families and visitors alike, there’s a silver lining—Ice Castles has hinted at a fresh, reimagined version of Winter Realms for future seasons. The company is committed to delivering an unforgettable winter experience, even if it means waiting a bit longer for the right conditions.
While we wait for the return of Winter Realms, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy winter around Milwaukee. Check out this guide to 100 Fun Things To Do in Winter to make the most of the chilly season with your family.”
Stay tuned for updates on Winter Realms and future ice-themed attractions as Lake Geneva continues to be a must-visit destination for seasonal fun.
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
