Baker House 1885
Step back in time at this opulent 1885 Queen Anne mansion, offering historic tours, fine dining, and a hidden speakeasy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Speakeasy vibes & live music
Baker House 1885
Best Time
Speakeasy vibes & live music
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at this opulent 1885 Queen Anne mansion, offering historic tours, fine dining, and a hidden speakeasy.
"Wow! What a cool place! Prices were very reasonable given the unique venue."
🍸 Speakeasy Reservations
The Boiler Room Speakeasy is popular; book ahead for Friday & Saturday nights!
💰 Cash for Bar
The bar is cash only, so come prepared if you plan to order drinks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Boiler Room Speakeasy
Baker House 1885
Step back in time in this intimate, hidden bar offering craft cocktails and a unique ambiance.
Historic Mansion Tour
Baker House 1885
Explore the opulent Queen Anne Victorian architecture and learn about the mansion's rich history.
Elegant Dining Experience
Baker House 1885
Enjoy fine dining in a romantic setting, perfect for anniversaries or special celebrations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
+1Dress for the Occasion
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍸 Speakeasy Reservations
The Boiler Room Speakeasy is popular; book ahead for Friday & Saturday nights!
💰 Cash for Bar
The bar is cash only, so come prepared if you plan to order drinks.
👗 Dress to Impress
Elevate your experience by dressing up for the elegant mansion atmosphere.
⏳ Tour the History
Don't miss the house tour; guides are knowledgeable and the history is fascinating.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍸 Speakeasy Reservations
The Boiler Room Speakeasy is popular; book ahead for Friday & Saturday nights!
💰 Cash for Bar
The bar is cash only, so come prepared if you plan to order drinks.
👗 Dress to Impress
Elevate your experience by dressing up for the elegant mansion atmosphere.
⏳ Tour the History
Don't miss the house tour; guides are knowledgeable and the history is fascinating.
🍽️ Dinner Timing
Some diners report long waits and food temperature issues; consider this for dinner plans.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Baker House 1885 offers a stunning historic setting with a highly praised house tour and a charming speakeasy. While the ambiance and service often receive high marks, some diners have noted issues with food temperature and menu limitations, particularly for brunch. It's a destination that excels in atmosphere and historical immersion, though culinary consistency can be a concern for some.
"We didn't stay here or eat here. We came for the garden tea. It was their first one, so they are still tweaking it. The music wasn't live and couldn't finish a song. I think they were having issues with it. Unfortunately their menu didn't offer vegetarian options or we would have ordered. I thoroughly enjoyed the tour of the house! It was very well done. The guide did an excellent job and knew his stuff. You can tell he researched it out carefully. I'd definitely try it again and do recommend it. Certainly would be a fun thing to do as a group. The bar was cash only. Inside the tables were set so elegant and beautiful. It definitely drew you in."
Beth Alexander
"My husband and I were visiting from Chicago for my birthday. My husband wanted my birthday dinner to be special.Dinner took almost an hour and was barely warm. A menu item I was looking forward to included potato pancakes. After fifteen minutes I was informed they did not have the potato pancakes.
An expensive restaurant not worth the money."
Pam Paplauski
"Was there for Brunch on Sunday 09/21/2025. Cant tell you how disappointing it was. We had noon reservations ( we were guests of the booked reservation) The facility was awesome, as was the service. The Brunch buffet was less than expected. The "Salad, fruit, meat, cheese table was awful. The food was not temperature controlled, with exception of the shrimp was on ice and barely available. The fruit tray was empty and wasn't replenished the entire time of our visit. There was potato salad that was at not iced and at room temperature. Basically the selections were not only not temperature controlled but limited. The hot foods were not at temperature to avoid food borne illness not to mention not much available. To get the sausage gravy you were scraping the bottom to obtain and was cold, the provided biscuits were hard, the egg bake was limited and cold, the sausage and bacon were plentiful in availability but cold, the salmon was readily available but cold. We ordered Eggs benedict directly from the kitchen that was cold, and the egg was hard upon delivery. I hate writing a review like this, but the food experience was absolutely awful! Service experience was outstanding!!!! Food was awful! Our host that invited us for dining paid the bill so I did not know the cost of the visit. I'm certain the cost was in excess of the quality. I wish this location success, however it needs to provide quality food for brunch! Once again the service was excellent, but the food was awful."
Randy Vancura
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Baker House 1885 is located in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. If driving, it's accessible via local roads. Parking availability can vary, so check with the venue or consider ride-sharing services from nearby accommodations.
Public transport options directly to Baker House 1885 might be limited. It's best to check local Lake Geneva transit schedules or rely on taxis and ride-sharing services for convenient access.
Lake Geneva is often reached by car, especially for those coming from Chicago or Milwaukee. The drive is scenic and typically takes a couple of hours.
Parking can be a challenge in popular areas of Lake Geneva. It's advisable to inquire directly with Baker House 1885 about their parking arrangements or be prepared to find street parking or use nearby lots.
Depending on your starting point in downtown Lake Geneva, walking to Baker House 1885 might be feasible. It's a good idea to check a map for the exact distance and route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the mansion for dining or events typically requires reservations. Tours may have separate ticketing. It's always best to check their official website or call ahead for specific admission requirements and booking procedures.
Opening hours can vary depending on the day and whether you're visiting for dining, the speakeasy, or a tour. The Boiler Room Speakeasy is usually open Fridays and Saturdays. Check their website for the most current hours.
Costs vary significantly. Dining, speakeasy cocktails, and special events will have their own pricing. House tours might have a separate fee. Expect higher prices for the unique historical ambiance and fine dining.
Yes, tours of the historic Baker House 1885 are often available and highly recommended for understanding its architecture and history. Inquire directly about tour schedules and booking.
While not strictly enforced for all visits, dressing in smart casual or slightly more formal attire is recommended to match the elegant, historic atmosphere, especially for dinner.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Baker House 1885 offers fine dining, with a focus on steakhouse fare and elegant dishes. They also have a popular speakeasy with cocktails and sometimes offer brunch or special event menus. +1
Some reviews suggest limited vegetarian options, particularly for specific meals like garden tea. It's crucial to check the current menu or call ahead to confirm vegetarian choices.
The atmosphere is described as romantic, charming, and elegant, transporting guests back in time. It's considered a great spot for special occasions and intimate dinners.
Reviews are mixed. While some praise the food and reasonable prices for the unique venue, others have found it expensive with issues regarding food temperature and availability.
Yes, they feature the 'Boiler Room Speakeasy,' which is a popular spot for craft cocktails and a unique ambiance, typically open on Fridays and Saturdays.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography is allowed, especially to capture the beautiful architecture and decor. However, professional photography or extensive filming might require special permission.
The ornate interiors, the grand staircase, the detailed woodwork, and the exterior architecture are all highly photogenic. The speakeasy also offers a moody, atmospheric backdrop.
Yes, you can typically take photos during tours, but be mindful of your surroundings and the guide's instructions. Focus on capturing the details that make the mansion special.
While personal photos are usually fine, avoid intrusive flash photography that might disturb other guests or damage delicate interiors. Always be respectful of the venue and other visitors.
Daytime visits will offer natural light for tours and exploring the exterior. Evenings can be atmospheric for photos in the speakeasy or during dinner, but lighting will be more dramatic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the house tours as a family activity, as they can be educational and engaging. However, be mindful of the quiet atmosphere required in certain areas and the potential for limited kid-friendly menu options during dining. It's best to call ahead to inquire about specific family accommodations or suitability for younger guests.
🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Enjoy a leisurely house tour together to soak in the Gilded Age charm, followed by a romantic dinner or cocktails in the speakeasy. The ambiance is consistently described as charming and transporting, making it a memorable spot for a date night or a weekend getaway.
💰 Budget Travelers
To experience the Baker House on a tighter budget, consider focusing on a house tour if priced affordably, or perhaps visiting the speakeasy for a single drink rather than a full meal. Look for any special promotions or off-peak times that might offer better value.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Baker House 1885
Exploring the Baker House is an experience in itself. The house tours are highly praised, with guides often lauded for their in-depth knowledge and passion for the mansion's history. These tours provide insights into the lives of the Baker family and the social context of the late 19th century. It's a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship and design that went into creating such a lavish estate, making it a must-do for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
Beyond its historical significance, the Baker House 1885 has evolved into a vibrant destination. It now hosts events, offers fine dining, and features the popular Boiler Room Speakeasy. This blend of historical preservation and modern hospitality makes it a unique attraction in Lake Geneva, appealing to a wide range of visitors looking for an elegant and memorable experience.
Culinary Delights and Drinks at Baker House 1885
The Boiler Room Speakeasy is a standout feature, offering a more intimate and atmospheric setting for enjoying craft cocktails. It's a popular spot, especially on Fridays and Saturdays, and reservations are highly recommended to secure a spot in this cozy, Prohibition-era-inspired bar. The speakeasy provides a different, yet equally charming, facet of the Baker House experience.
For those seeking a daytime culinary outing, Sunday brunch is also an option. However, reviews for the brunch buffet have been particularly critical regarding food temperature control and limited selections. While the service is often praised, the food quality for brunch has been a point of disappointment for some visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit