Gozaic Partner Spotlight: Geneva, Illinois

Geneva offers a rare blend of small-town allure and big-city amenities and is located only one hour west of Chicago. Geneva is often referred to as picture-postcard beautiful and lives up to this reputation through its preserved historic districts, peaceful parks and unique shopping. Known in the region as a quaint, charming historic town, Geneva retains a large number of its mid-to-late 19th-century homes. A day in Geneva isn’t complete until you indulge yourself in one of their rich variety of restaurants and eateries. Enjoy lunch at an enchanting sidewalk café or cap off your evening with an intimate dinner overlooking the Fox River.

Things to See & Do
Fabyan Villa Museum
The Fabyan Villa Museum was home to the Fabyans from 1905 to 1939 and was remodeled by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1907. The estate soon became a showplace with fountains, gardens, a windmill and more. The museum includes the Fabyans’ private collection of Asian artifacts, natural history specimens and many surprises that visitors of all ages will love.

Geneva History Center
The Geneva History Center includes a classroom, two exhibit galleries, large meeting room, archival reading room and museum store. The center also offers multiple award-winning educational programs, professional exhibits, cutting edge research and dedicated volunteers, who strive to create a setting and learning experience to be enjoyed by all.

Fabyan Japanese Garden
Stroll along the winding paths and enjoy the many delightful features and views of the 100-year-old Fabyan Japanese Garden. The garden is located in the Fabyan Forest Preserve and is open to the public mid-May through mid-October on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Where to Eat
The Flagstone Pub and Grill is adjacent to the Little Owl Restaurant – Geneva's oldest restaurant and pub. Flagstone offers a great nightlife, with live bands and a great list of wines, beers and cocktails. Choose from an array of appetizers or try a delectable salad if you are looking for something light.

The Little Traveler began when Kate Raftery decided to sell some of the unusual gifts she had acquired out of her living room. By 1925, the shop dubbed "The Little Traveler," was frequented by the carriage trade. Knowing that her guests had traveled some distance, Mrs. Raftery, who was still more hostess than shopkeeper at heart, served lunch. This tradition continues today at the Atrium Cafe, located inside the Little Traveler.

Where to Stay
The Oscar Swan Country Inn Bed & Breakfast is located on eight acres of tranquil countryside in a quaint English country mansion. The Inn offers eight master guest suites, which overlook a beautiful garden.

Nestled on the banks of the Fox River, the Herrington Inn & Spa offers the charm and warmth of a fine European inn and spa, combined with the services and amenities of a luxury hotel. Indulge your senses at the spa with a variety of treatments to relax or dine at Atwater’s, the award winning restaurant, located in the hotel.

Have you visited Geneva, Illinois? If so, write a review and/or post a photo on Gozaic.com.

Blog post written by: Ann Lawson Willig, Heritage Travel Intern.