Lake Geneva is once again poised to become a winter wonderland as 'Winter Realms,' the frosty attraction once known as 'Ice Castles,' gears up to open its doors this Friday. Officials warn that unpredictable weather may shorten the season. According to NBC Chicago, 'Winter Realms' promises an array of icy attractions, including tunnels, slides, a smoke-billowing ice volcano, and the quintessential horse-drawn sleigh rides, with ticket prices starting at $26.
Last year’s event barely saw the light of day, lasting a scant three days before warm temperatures sent the sculptures back to the water. CEO Kyle Standifird conceded in a press release obtained by NBC Chicago, said, “It is no secret that the weather this year has provided unexpected challenges, but our team has powered through and we are excited to officially announce our grand opening,” adding a note of urgency, “We do not know how long we will be able to remain open due to unpredictable weather forecasts, and we encourage guests to come as soon as possible and not wait.”
For those seeking something more than just a frosty stroll, 'Winter Realms' has stepped up its game by including a bevy of activities such as snow tubing down a hill, warming stations, and even an Apres ski ice bar to defrost and imbibe. As ABC7 Chicago describes, the rebranded 'Winter Realms' offers a fresh spin on the icy excursion with lighted trails winding through an assortment of sculptures, igloos, and caverns, all illuminated for that extra wintry glow.
Despite the looming threat of closing early, the attraction which takes place at the Geneva National Resort and Club, shows no signs of a cold reception. It has already opened its Lake George, N.Y. location, and, according to NBC Chicago, maintains a presence in other chilly locales across the country. From Midway, Utah to North Woodstock, N.H., the frosty fun of the 'Winter Realms' is, for now, holding strong against the vagaries of climate change and waiting for winter enthusiasts to brave the chill.
For more information and tickets to this chilling escapade, visits to NBC Chicago or ABC7 Chicago are a mere click away. Lake Geneva is located at 1221 Geneva National Ave, where 'Winter Realms' awaits.
