Lake Geneva, Anderson Japanese Gardens 1 Day Tour From Chicago

Chicago , United States

Lake Geneva, Anderson Japanese Gardens 1 Day Tour From Chicago

Active

7h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant_then_manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Escape the city and discover the serene beauty of the Midwest on this full-day Lake Geneva and Anderson Japanese Gardens tour from Chicago. Start your journey with a relaxing lakeside stroll through Lake Geneva, where historic estates and tranquil waters await. Enjoy optional boat rides and scenic views before heading to the renowned Anderson Japanese Gardens. There, immerse yourself in a peaceful 12-acre oasis featuring koi ponds, waterfalls, and traditional Japanese landscaping.

Unlimited Bottled Water & Complimentary Snacks – Stay refreshed and energized throughout the journey.

Themed Attractions with Seasonal, Adventurous & Playful Highlights – Carefully selected for excitement and discovery.

Happy Family Time – Kids enjoy 50% off for a joyful and budget-friendly trip in July and August.(Prices shown are the final specials)

Exclusive Travel Keepsakes – Includes a custom travel passport and share-worthy moments for your social media.

Available options

Tour Only(CJL1)

This price option exclude: Admission fees to Anderson Japanese Gardens and Best of the Lake Cruise

Tour W/ Admission (CJL1)

This price option include: Admission Fees to Anderson Japanese Gardens and Best of the Lake Cruise

What's included

Professional vehicles transportation (Vehicle used based on the number of guests attending that day)

Professional Humor and Heart Bilingual Tour Guide & Driver

Exclusive "Local Exploration"Travel Passport – 10 stamps earns a spot at the Annual Explorer Gala!

Gratuities for the driver and tour guide are included

Unlimited Bottled Water Throughout the Trip

Anderson Japanese Gardens & Best of the Lake Cruise (If Price Option Selected)

Twice-Daily Treats – Sweet snacks and candies, delivered with a smile!

Detailed itinerary

We will depart from Chicago early in the morning and arrive at the small town of Lake Geneva. Here you can stroll along the lakeside paths surrounding Lake Geneva and get up close to historic estates and charming homes with beautiful grounds and gardens. You can also choose to take a cruise on Lake Geneva at your own expense and enjoy the scenery of Lake Geneva in the middle of the lake. Afterwards, we will take a bus to the Anderson Japanese Gardens, one of the most exquisite Japanese gardens in the world, to experience the Japanese-style gardening landscape. After the tour, we will return to Chicago with a good mood, ending this day's nature trip!

Itinerary:

Chicago -- Distance: 135km,Time: 1.5Hrs -- Lake Geneva (3 hours, boat ride) → Anderson Japanese Gardens (1.5 hours) --Distance: 140km,Time: 1.6Hrs Chicago

The Shore Path around Geneva Lake offers you an up-close view of historic estates and stunning homes with beautifully landscaped gardens. As you enjoy a walk along the lake's shore, you'll be mesmerized by the clear blue waters and the tranquility of sailboats, excursion boats, and antique vessels gliding across the pristine waters. Sunsets over Geneva Lake are as special as they come, and watching one from anywhere along the Shore Path is an experience you won't soon forget. There is so much beauty that you'll want to explore it again and again, taking in new sights from different segments of the path. The shoreline of Geneva Lake is about 21 miles; the path reaches almost 26 miles as it weaves through wooded areas. In autumn, trees around Lake Geneva turn red, orange, and yellow, their colors reflecting on the lake. A boat tour offers a different view and is a popular way to enjoy the maple leaves.

Anderson Japanese Gardens is a beautiful outdoor setting that inspires the mind and calms the soul. It is a twelve-acre Japanese garden with streams, waterfalls, winding paths and koi ponds. Originally a personal vision to create a unique retreat for the Rockford area, the Anderson Japanese Garden has grown into an internationally acclaimed public garden. The founder's philosophy of original design, first-class craftsmanship and world-class maintenance has made the garden one of the finest Japanese gardens in the world.

Return to Chicago with unforgettable memories of a remarkable journey.

What's not included

Food and beverage (Tour guide will arrange).

Personal expenses and other expenses not listed in the Cost Includes.

Anderson Japanese Gardens & Best of the Lake Cruise (If price option not selected)

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

50% Off for Kids in July & August 2025:Children aged 3–11 can enjoy half-price admission on all day tours, or as the 3rd and 4th child sharing a room on multi-day tours. This is a final special offer with no additional discounts.

Age and Safety: Customers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant women may join if under 24 weeks by the trip's end.

Tickets and Charges: City Passes and personal attraction tickets are not accepted. Attraction prices may change, and tickets are non-refundable.

Booster Seats: Children under 8 require a booster seat. Please ask for more information in advance.

During spring time, especially during the month of May-Between04/29 and 05/16, the tulips blossom at their fullest height forging an unforgettable scenery. Meanwhile, strolling through Holland, the local tour guide will take you on a tour of this European-style town in stead of ordinary itinerary.

Collect the Memories:Guests will receive an exclusive Local Exploration Travel Passport. For every Local Exploration tour you join, you’ll collect a unique stamp. Gather 10 stamps to receive an invitation to the Annual Explorer Gala — a joyful celebration where travel lovers connect, share stories, and relive their favorite moments on the road!

Closed Attractions: If a scenic spot is closed, an alternative will be provided.

Booking Details: Ensure all booking details (name, contact, flight info) are accurate. Errors will result in personal costs.

Itinerary Changes:Tour operator reserves the right to adjust the itinerary for smooth operations.

Health Requirements: Guests with disabilities must provide advance notice. Wheelchair-accessible buses are not guaranteed without prior approval.

Tour Adjustments:The tour guide may alter schedules based on weather, traffic, or other conditions.

Terms and Conditions: Terms and conditions may change—check the product website for updates.

Meeting point

08:30Departure Chicago: H Mart Naperville；1295 E Ogden Ave, Naperville, IL 60563；

Important notes

Please notify your order number or invoice number upon payment. Present your receipt and voucher upon check-in.

Know Before You Go

1. The maximal waiting time for any late passengers is 10 minutes beyond the meeting time announced by the Tour Guide. While JUPITER LEGEND Corporation makes every effort to provide on-time service, it does not guarantee to arrive at or depart from any point.as a specific time, which may be affected by any number of factors including weather, traffic, strikes, government shutdowns, war or terrorist attacks, or mechanical prob- lems. JUPITER LEGEND Corporation is not liable for any inconvenience or expense caused as a result of such a delay, not liable for the expense of connecting air or train or bus service missed as a result of a delay and not liable for any other travel expense caused as a result of a delay.

2. JUPITER LEGEND Corporation and Ctour Holiday reserve the right, when operating conditions require, transferring passengers from one vehicle to another en route.

3. The following documents are recommended to make your check-in process smooth: A valid photo ID is required to board the bus; We recommend you bring a copy of the email confirmation to board the bus.

4. This product is a group activity. If you choose to leave the group, please inform in advance, and obtain the consent of the tour guide. You need to sign the departure agreement form and the unfinished part will be regarded as your own abandonment. The group fee will not be refunded.

5. Gift items in the itinerary that cannot be given away due to force majeure factors such as traffic and weather conditions or personal reasons may be subject to change. Please understand that the fees will not be refunded.

6. Smoking is prohibited aboard the bus in accordance with Federal law.

7. Pets and animals are not allowed on the vehicle.

8. Emergency contact: (Toll Free) +1(866)585-8747 or +1(212)334-4222.

About Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant city known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and world-class cuisine. Situated along the shores of Lake Michigan, it offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the globe.

Top Attractions

Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a famous public park in downtown Chicago, known for its modern art and architecture. It's home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as 'The Bean'.

Park 1-2 hours Free

Art Institute of Chicago

One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, the Art Institute of Chicago houses an impressive collection of artworks from around the world.

Museum 2-3 hours $25 (adults), Free for children under 14

Skydeck Chicago

Located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, Skydeck Chicago offers breathtaking views of the city and Lake Michigan. Visitors can step out onto The Ledge, a glass balcony extending out from the building.

Observation Deck 1-2 hours $28 (adults), $20 (children 3-11)

Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier on the Chicago shoreline of Lake Michigan. It offers a variety of attractions, including shops, restaurants, and rides.

Entertainment 2-4 hours Free to enter, individual attractions have varying costs

Wrigley Field

Wrigley Field is a historic baseball park located on the North Side of Chicago. It's home to the Chicago Cubs and offers a unique atmosphere for sports fans.

Sports 2-4 hours (game duration varies) Ticket prices vary depending on the game and seating

Must-Try Local Dishes

Deep-Dish Pizza

A thick, buttery crust filled with layers of cheese, toppings, and tomato sauce. It's a Chicago classic and a must-try for pizza lovers.

Dinner Contains gluten and dairy. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some restaurants.

Chicago-Style Hot Dog

A steamed or grilled all-beef hot dog topped with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato wedges, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt, all served on a poppy seed bun.

Snack Contains gluten and dairy. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some hot dog stands.

Italian Beef Sandwich

Thinly sliced beef cooked in its own juices and served on an Italian roll. It's typically dipped in the juices and topped with sweet or hot peppers.

Lunch/Dinner Contains gluten and beef. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some Italian beef restaurants.

Chicago-Style Popcorn

A sweet and savory snack made with caramel and cheese-flavored popcorn, often sold in colorful boxes at street corners and ballgames.

Snack Contains dairy. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some popcorn stands.

Popular Activities

Kayaking on the Chicago River Biking along Lake Michigan Rock climbing at First Ascent Picnicking in Millennium Park Yoga in the park Spa treatments at The Peninsula Chicago Visiting the Art Institute of Chicago Attending a performance at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Chicago for outdoor activities, festivals, and sightseeing. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's parks and attractions.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Polish, Chinese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Central Time Zone (CT) (GMT-6)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Chicago is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Some areas of the city have higher crime rates, and visitors should research their destinations before traveling.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Avoid walking alone in isolated or poorly lit areas, especially at night

Getting there

By air

O'Hare International Airport • 27 km (17 miles) from city center
Midway International Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center

By train

Union Station, Ogilvie Transportation Center

By bus

Greyhound Station, Megabus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The 'L' is a convenient and affordable way to get around Chicago. It consists of eight color-coded lines.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Loop Lincoln Park Wicker Park Magnificent Mile Pilsen

Day trips

Navy Pier

2 km (1.2 miles) • Half day to full day

Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier on the Chicago shoreline of Lake Michigan. It offers a variety of attractions, including shops, restaurants, and rides.

Wrigley Field

10 km (6.2 miles) • Half day to full day

Wrigley Field is a historic baseball park located on the North Side of Chicago. It's home to the Chicago Cubs and offers a unique atmosphere for sports fans.

Museum Campus

3 km (1.9 miles) • Half day to full day

The Museum Campus is a 57-acre park located on the southern tip of Grant Park in Chicago. It's home to several world-class museums, including the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, and the Adler Planetarium.

Festivals

Lollapalooza • Early August (4-day festival) Chicago Jazz Festival • Late August to early September (weekend festival) Chicago Food Festival • Early September (weekend festival)

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and long wait times
Use the Ventra card for easy and convenient payments on public transportation
Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods and culinary scene to get a true sense of Chicago's character and culture
Take an architecture river cruise to see the city's stunning skyline and learn about its architectural history
Visit the city's many parks and outdoor spaces to enjoy nature and outdoor activities, even in the heart of the city