The Baker House and Lake Geneva Steak House

In the heart of the picturesque city of Lake Geneva, located in the USA, stands the magnificent The Baker House—a majestic mansion built in 1885. This Queen Anne style building, spanning over 1,500 square meters, was originally named "Redwood Cottage" because its exterior trim was made of rare California redwood. Today, this nationally recognized historic site functions as an elite bed-and-breakfast with a unique bar.

Inside the mansion, the original interiors have been carefully preserved: inlaid parquet floors made of five different types of wood, thirteen ornately decorated fireplaces, and rare Low Art Tile. Each of the 30 rooms in the house is filled with the spirit of the Victorian era, making it a must-visit for lovers of history and exquisite architecture.

The Baker House is significant not only for its appearance but also for the special "Gilded Age" atmosphere it conveys. The combination of past centuries' luxury and modern amenities makes it one of the most recognizable and atmospheric places in the state of Wisconsin.

To help you plan your visit to The Baker House, we have prepared the essential contact information. This historical site is popular with tourists, so contacting the administration in advance can help you check availability or tour times. In the table below, you will find the current address, phone number, and official website.

A visit to The Baker House is an opportunity to literally touch history. Guests can stay in one of the luxurious rooms, where every piece of furniture and exotic artifact is chosen to match the building's historical character. The windows offer mesmerizing views of Lake Geneva, which can be admired right from your suite.

One of the most popular activities here is a visit to the speakeasy-style bar. Professional mixologists will prepare classic and signature cocktails for you while you relax in the mansion's gardens. The house also regularly hosts historical tours, afternoon tea sessions, and themed evening events, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the high society life of the late 19th century.

For fans of mystery and secrets, The Baker House has its own stories to tell. The mansion has a reputation as one of the most mysterious places in the region due to tales of paranormal activity. Exploring the dark corridors and participating in a "ghost hunt" will add a dose of adrenaline and unforgettable impressions to your visit.

Getting to The Baker House is quite simple, as the mansion is located at 327 Wrigley Drive, right on the waterfront within the city limits. For travelers from major metropolitan areas like Chicago, the drive takes about an hour, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway.

If you plan to use public transport, the nearest train stations are in Harvard (Harvard Station) and Woodstock (Woodstock Station), which are located about 32 kilometers from Lake Geneva. From the stations, it is most convenient to reach the mansion by local taxi or by booking a transfer service.

For those who prefer traveling by car, you can use the coordinates 42.5885949 latitude and -88.4324057 longitude. Having your own transport will allow you not only to quickly reach The Baker House but also to comfortably explore the scenic surroundings of the lake.

The history of The Baker House began in 1885 when it was built as a summer residence for Emily Baker. She was the widow of Robert Hall Baker, a successful businessman and partner in the J.I. Case Company. The mansion became a sort of tribute to her late husband—Emily even ordered his initials "R.H.B." to be carved into the wood above the front door, symbolizing that she never entered the house without him.

Over its nearly 140-year history, the building has served many roles. Originally a cozy summer home for Emily and her five foster children, it later transformed into a fashionable sanitarium for wealthy Chicago residents seeking peace and treatment for nervous disorders. During the Prohibition era, it housed an underground speakeasy casino, and by the 1930s, the building had firmly established its status as a prestigious hotel and restaurant.

Interestingly, the land on which the mansion stands was gifted to Robert's father, Charles Minton Baker, back in 1838. The city of Lake Geneva rewarded him this way for his service as the first District Attorney of Walworth County. This gives The Baker House the status of not just a beautiful building, but an important part of the region's administrative and social history.

To simply get acquainted with the architecture of The Baker House, stop by its famous bar, or enjoy afternoon tea, 2–3 hours is usually sufficient. This is enough time to explore the common rooms, appreciate the interior details, and soak in the Gilded Age atmosphere.

However, if you want to fully immerse yourself in the historical setting and enjoy the views of Lake Geneva at a leisurely pace, many travelers recommend booking a room for an overnight stay. Staying in one of the mansion's unique rooms allows you to feel like a guest from the past, turning your visit into a true journey through time.

The Baker House follows a specific schedule focused on evening relaxation and Sunday brunches. The establishment is typically closed to visitors from Monday to Wednesday. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, the doors of the mansion and its famous bar are open from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and on Sunday, guests are welcomed for a special program from 9:45 AM to 3:00 PM.

As the schedule may change depending on the season or private events, it is highly recommended to check the current timetable on the official website or contact the administration by phone before your trip.

A walk around The Baker House allows you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of this charming resort town. Its location in the historical center provides access to many interesting sites, from cozy parks to monuments dedicated to local legends.

Exploring nearby attractions can significantly enrich your experience, turning a simple visit to the mansion into a full cultural itinerary through Lake Geneva. Below are the most noteworthy places within walking or driving distance.