Founded in 1819 Williams Bay is a quaint, little village that packs a lot of punch. “The Bay” as its residents so fondly call it is an exclusive community offering lake front access, a public beach and municipal piers, parks, sports fields/courts, Kishwauketoe nature preserve, boutique shopping and a variety of locally-owned dining from pub-fare to high-end cuisine.
Community:
The community of Williams Bay is small but close-knit. It has a population of around 2,600 people, and many residents have lived in the area for generations. The village has a strong sense of community, with regular events and festivals that bring people together. There are also several local organizations and clubs that residents can join, including the Williams Bay Lions Club, Lionesses, Parent Teacher Organization and the Friends of Geneva Lake
School District:
The Williams Bay School District serves the village of Williams Bay. It is a small district, with one elementary school, one middle school, and one high school all of which are located in one building with the elementary school being the newest addition. The district is known for its high academic standards, with students consistently performing above the state average on standardized tests. The district also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and theater programs.
Things to do:
One of the main attractions of Williams Bay is Geneva Lake, which offers a wide range of recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddle boarding and kayaking on the lake. There are also several parks in the area, including Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy, which features hiking trails and a butterfly garden. Visitors and locals also enjoy Edgewater Park and Williams Bay Public Beach. There are two municipal piers and a public boat launch in Williams Bay.
For those interested in history, Williams Bay is home to the Yerkes Observatory, which was built in 1897 and is still in use today. The observatory, through Yerkes Future Foundation, offers tours and public programs, and visitors can view the stars and planets through its telescopes.
The village also hosts several annual events, including the Boo in the Bay, the Farmers Market, the Williams Bay Fine Art and Craft Fair and the Corn and Brat Festival. These events are popular with both residents and visitors, and offer a chance to experience the village’s unique culture and community spirit.
Dining:
Some of the best restaurants in Williams Bay, WI include Cafe Calamari, Harpoon Willy’s, Bay Cook’s, Pier 290, Green Grocer, Frosty Moose, Lucke’s Cantina, Boxed and Burlap, Privato and Dip in the Bay.