As it has been for over 130 years, Black Point Estate & Gardens is a retreat, a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, relax, and explore. After enjoying a scenic boat tour of beautiful Geneva Lake, you’ll arrive at the expansive and elegant Victorian estate of Chicago Beer Baron Conrad Seipp, spanning across eight acres of land and 620 feet of undisturbed shoreline. The home served as a respite for generations of the Seipp family before it opened to the public in 2007.

In 1888, the Seipp family completed the 20-room Queen Anne-style mansion on the site, which included 13 bedrooms. Unfortunately, Seipp was able to enjoy the house and gardens for only two seasons before his death in 1890. His family and four generations of descendants, however, never abandoned Conrad’s dream. The original furnishings remained in the house while each generation added its own touches. Today, the home is a rare time capsule for historians. Everyday household items range from Victorian to modern but share the same family provenance.

1888 Victorian Mansion

A guided tour takes guests through the first two floors of this beautiful Queen Anne-style summer cottage, considered one of the finest examples of period architecture and furniture in the Midwest, and one of the oldest mansions in Lake Geneva. The home was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994.

Estate and Gardens

Outside the mansion, the estate truly comes alive in the enchanting gardens and wrap-around verandas surrounding the home. The massive lawn, a popular spot for special events, evokes memories of outdoor games played on leisurely summer days. Located on top of a bluff overlooking Geneva Lake, this site offers a stunning, picturesque view of the lake and surrounding countryside.

Geneva Lake

There were no roads leading to Black Point for the Seipp family. Just like they did, you’ll arrive to the estate by water via a 45-minute scenic boat ride courtesy of Lake Geneva Cruise Line that is included with your admission Feel the cool lake air as you hear more about the history of the Lake Geneva area.

Virtual and In-person Programs!

Get ready to give your young learners the best field trip memory of the year. WHS is excited to bring back our popular sensory-rich, wonder-filled, on-site Field Trips at our historic sites and museums. We are also continuing our live, interactive online programs to bring creativity, critical thinking, and empowered storytelling into your classroom!

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