Winter Realms has quickly become one of Lake Geneva’s most talked-about winter attractions. Families have loved wandering through the glowing ice sculptures, sliding down icy chutes, and exploring the sparkling frozen tunnels — all created by the team behind the famous Ice Castles.
But if you’re hoping to visit this year, here’s the latest:
Winter Realms is not operating for the 2025 season, marking the second year in a row the attraction has been on pause due to unseasonably warm temperatures.
Below, you’ll find everything parents are searching for — including the most recent updates, what Winter Realms normally looks like, and plenty of alternative winter activities around Milwaukee and Lake Geneva to enjoy in the meantime.
Quick Answers Parents Are Searching For
Is Winter Realms happening in 2025?
No. Winter Realms is paused for the 2025 season due to warm weather and inconsistent freezing conditions.
When was it last open?
The most recent season ran in winter 2022–2023.
Why is it on pause?
Warmer winters in Wisconsin have made it difficult to safely build and maintain large-scale ice structures.
Will Winter Realms return?
Organizers say yes — their goal is to return once conditions allow, potentially with a refreshed and improved experience.
Where does it usually take place?
Geneva National Resort in Lake Geneva, WI.
Is Winter Realms the same as Ice Castles?
It’s a sister attraction designed by the same creators.
What Winter Realms Typically Includes
If you never made it to Winter Realms, here’s what families experienced in previous seasons:
- Walk-through ice tunnels
- LED-lit sculptures and walls of icicles
- Ice slides for kids and adults
- Caverns, archways, and photo spots
- Snow play areas
- Enchanting nighttime lighting
Even with cold Wisconsin winters, the attraction requires long stretches of freezing temps — something our region has been seeing less of in recent years.
Why Winter Realms Is Paused
According to organizers, the decision to pause the attraction for the past two seasons comes down to weather.
Lake Geneva has experienced record-breaking periods of warm winter temperatures, making it difficult to reliably grow the icicles and structures needed for a safe, immersive experience. When temperatures fluctuate too much, the ice can become unstable or melt faster than it can be rebuilt.
Kyle Standifird, CEO of Ice Castles, shared:
“We’re using this time to innovate and come back with something even more awe-inspiring.”
So, while it’s disappointing news for families who hoped to return this year, it’s not the end of Winter Realms.
Will Winter Realms Come Back?
The short answer: Organizers fully intend to bring it back.
The longer answer:
Its return depends on whether Wisconsin sees the consistently cold weather required to safely grow and maintain large-scale ice features. The team is also exploring updated designs and construction methods to make future seasons more reliable.
In other words — Winter Realms isn’t gone, but it’s waiting for the right winter.
Other Winter Activities to Enjoy This Season
Even without Winter Realms, winter in southeastern Wisconsin is still full of memorable adventures for families. Here are some kid-friendly ideas to help fill your winter bucket list:
Winter Festivals Around Milwaukee
From community celebrations to seasonal markets, explore fun winter happenings all season long.
Slice of Ice at Red Arrow Park
A classic Milwaukee winter experience — skate under the city lights in the heart of downtown.
Sledding Hills in Milwaukee
Local favorites with great runs for all ages.
100 Fun Things To Do in Winter
A giant list of ideas to help you make the most of the chilly season.
Final Thoughts
While Winter Realms is taking another year off, there are still plenty of fantastic ways to enjoy the season — whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cozy indoor fun, or new spots to explore with your family.
And when Winter Realms does return, it’s expected to be bigger, brighter, and more magical than ever.
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Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
