Whether you’re looking for a lovely venue to host your upcoming wedding or looking to play a few relaxing rounds of golf, Nippersink Golf Club and Banquets is Walworth County’s “best kept secret” when it comes to resorts in the area. Since the beginning of 2018, Nippersink has experienced a lot of changes and are working on improving this beautiful getaway just over the Illinois border. It’s about time that we share all the exciting things we have learned in our interview about them.
Please tell us a little bit about Nippersink Golf Club and Banquets:
Where are you located?
We are located at N1055 Tombeau Rd. in Genoa City, Wisconsin which is just a few miles over the border from Illinois and less than 10 minutes from Lake Geneva off of Highway 12. We like to say we’re “hidden in the farmlands”.
What is the history of the property?
Nippersink was built in 1922 by a meat packer from Chicago who bought the land to develop his dream resort. It’s had an interesting history as a hangout for guests including Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett. It was even rumored that Nippersink was where some of the very wealthy organized crime figures from Chicago would gather in the 1930’s and 1940’s.
What are the new changes/updates guests can look forward to?
I like to say, “If you haven’t been to Nippersink lately, you haven’t been!”
Under the new ownership of Chris & Dennis Holian, there have been some amazing changes and updates and we’re not finished yet! The Clubhouse looks incredible and an Outdoor Pavilion is being constructed just outside of it as we speak to be ready in time for this year’s golf season. The banquet halls have been updated and the hotel has had huge improvements from what it used to be.
Tell us about the Hotel:
What has changed about the hotel?
Everything! Our crew has done a fantastic job with the refresh of the hotel including new carpet and paint throughout the whole building as well as brand new mattresses, bathroom vanities and sinks, and updated lighting. We are going with a very modern rustic theme throughout the whole property.
How many rooms do you have? 
The Nippersink Hotel has 32 Rooms.
How many guests comfortably fit in one room?
In a room with 1 King bed, 2 guests are ideal, and 4 guests can fit comfortably in a room with 2 Queen beds.
What amenities do the rooms include?
We have complimentary toasters and coffee makers available as well as mini fridges. We have two Bridal Suites that are reserved at no charge for the Newlyweds who book Nippersink as their wedding venue. These rooms are located on a separate wing from the guest rooms and have a microwave and mini fridge and feature an upgraded bathroom. Two of our rooms on the first floor are handicap accessible.
Do any of the rooms have a view?
We have rooms available that have wooded views or views of our Private Lake Tombeau.
Do you have a swimming pool or hot tub?
Back in the day, Nippersink featured a swimming pool at the main building but it had to be removed years ago. Maybe brining that back will have to be one of our future projects!
Tell us about the Golf Course:
Who designed the golf course?
The golf course was designed by 1896 U.S. Open tournament winner James Foulis, Jr.
What are your rates?
Our rates range from $37-$45 for 18 holes with a cart, depending on the time of year. We do offer 9 holes or walking golfers at lower rates. We also have membership options available for men, women, families, and seniors.
What kind of player is this course ideal for?
Nippersink Golf Course is ideal for the average golfer but gives a serious challenge for the professional from our championship tees.
Do you have a Pro Shop?
We do have a Pro Shop located inside The Clubhouse where you can purchase merchandise and equipment or rent clubs.
Do you book golf outings?
We love booking golf outings! We are so lucky to have been able to host some really fun outings. It doesn’t matter if its 10 guests or 150, it’s always a great time!
What is the best part about your golf course?
I think the best part about Nippersink’s golf course is that it has been restored to pristine playing condition that people will remember from decades ago. Our grounds crew is awesome, and they have put a lot of work into the course. What I also like about Nippersink is the privacy of our country location and the scenic views of the landscape. It really is very relaxing and peaceful here.
Tell us about hosting Banquets & Events:
What services do you offer for Banquets/Events?
We are happy to host events of all kinds including weddings, parties, corporate events, reunions, fundraisers – you name it! We provide everything from the set-up to food and beverage services.
How many banquets rooms do you have? What is their occupancy?
We have two spacious banquet rooms that can accommodate up to 150 guests in the Lakeview Room & 350 guests in the Nippersink Room.
What are the features of the banquet rooms?
The Lakeview Room features a vaulted cathedral ceiling with new lighting fixtures and a grand fireplace while the Nippersink Room has been repainted and updated with LED lighting accents, and both a brand-new dance floor and expansive bar.
What services do you offer for Weddings? 
Hosting a wedding at Nippersink is a really special thing for us because it is such an intimate event and we feel honored to be able to be part of it. We do everything we can to give each couple their perfect wedding! We have an outdoor gazebo overlooking our private lake that is absolutely breathtaking. We also offer things such as a bride’s room and groom’s room for their use the day of the wedding and of course the Bridal Suite for the newlyweds at the Nippersink Hotel for the night all at no charge.
Do you have event planners on staff to help plan events and weddings?
Our staff is very involved in the planning of every wedding and special event at Nippersink to ensure that it is a success! We pride ourselves on providing exceptional service to all of our guests and we really do treat you like family. It’s not just another wedding or event booking for us – we get just as excited for each event as our guests do!
What do you like about being in business in Walworth County/Wisconsin?
Being in business in Walworth County is something really special because of the people. When I say the people, this includes our loyal local residents and companies that support us with their business, the staff that we are lucky to have work for us every year, and the new guests that we get to meet every season or for each new event. Nippersink is looking forward to having its best year yet because of the wonderful changes that have been made, the people who have made it possible, and the ones we can’t wait to meet!
This special place not only has so much to offer, but their facilities and staff are excited to have you join them. Make your memories at Nippersink Golf Club & Banquets.
Or check them out through their social media:
GLAS Education (Geneva Lake Astrophysics and STEAM) was formed by former Yerkes Observatory staff after the University of Chicago closed the observatory last fall with the goal of keeping the education and outreach in the Geneva Lake area. Walworth County is lucky to be home to such a unique, educational gem and we’re excited to share what we learned through our interview with GLAS!
