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Lake Wawasee “Then & Now” Historical Cruise 2026

Wawasee Then and Now Historical Cruise 2025

Lake Wawasee “Then & Now” Historical Cruise 2026

Have you ever wondered what the cottages, hotels, and lakeside landmarks around Lake Wawasee looked like decades ago, or what became of many of the buildings that once lined its shoreline? The Lake Wawasee historical cruise offers a relaxing and fascinating way to explore the people, places, and stories that helped shape one of Indiana’s most beloved lakes.

Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum are once again teaming up to bring Lake Wawasee’s rich past to life. Guests will cruise the lake while following along in a specially prepared booklet filled with historic photographs as local historian Ann Garceau shares fascinating stories behind many of the structures, landmarks, and memorable places that have shaped the lake’s history.

Explore Lake Wawasee’s Past

One of Chautauqua-Wawasee’s most popular annual programs, this two-hour cruise offers a unique glimpse into Lake Wawasee’s past.

Along the way, you’ll learn about historic hotels, memorable events, prominent property owners, restaurants, entertainment venues, marinas, and little-known facts that even longtime residents may not know.

Snack food will be provided, and a cash bar will be available throughout the cruise.

Cruise Details

Saturday, September 26, 2026
1:00–3:00 p.m.
Boarding begins at 12:45 p.m.

The Frog Tavern
1116 South Harkless Drive
Syracuse, Indiana

Tickets are $25 per person and must be purchased online in advance, HERE.

More Information

For more information, contact Chautauqua-Wawasee at 574-377-7543.

About Chautauqua-Wawasee

Chautauqua-Wawasee is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching lives through quality programming centered on the four pillars of Arts, Education, Faith, and Recreation, helping make Syracuse and the surrounding region a wonderful place to visit, live, work, and raise a family.

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Wawasee “Then & Now” Historical Cruise 2025

Wawasee Then and Now Historical Cruise 2025

Wawasee “Then and Now” Historical Cruise-2025

We know Lake Wawasee as Indiana’s largest natural lake, lined with impressive mansions and charming cottages. But what did its shores look like long ago? The Wawasee Then and Now Historical Cruise invites you to step back in time and explore the fascinating history of this beloved lake. Presented by Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum, this popular annual event offers a rare look at the lake’s shoreline as it once was.

Local historian Ann Garceau will narrate this 2-hour cruise aboard the SS Lillypad II, sharing captivating stories about historic hotels, notable events, famous property owners, entertainment venues, marinas, and more. A detailed booklet of historical photos will be provided so you can follow along as the cruise circles the lake. Along the way, you’ll hear little-known facts and behind-the-scenes stories that bring Lake Wawasee’s past to life.

Event Details for Wawasee Then and Now Historical Cruise 2025

  • Date: Thursday, September 25, 2025

  • Time: 1:00 – 3:00 PM (Boarding begins at 12:45 PM)

  • Location: The Frog Tavern, 1116 South Harkless Drive, Syracuse, Indiana

  • Cost: $28.52 per person

  • Tickets: Must be purchased in advance by clicking HERE.

Why Join Us on This Historical Lake Cruise?

This event offers a unique opportunity to see Lake Wawasee from a historical perspective that few ever experience. From stories of grand hotels and bustling marinas to the quiet charm of early cottages, Ann Garceau brings history to life with rich detail and captivating storytelling. Past attendees have praised the combination of scenic lake views, engaging narration, and rare archival photographs.

Snack food will be available, and a cash bar will be open throughout the cruise. Because this event sells out quickly, early ticket purchase is highly recommended.

Questions?

Call 574-377-7543 or email info@chautauquawawasee.org.

Chautauqua-Wawasee is a non-profit organization providing quality programs rooted in the four pillars of Arts, Education, Faith, and Recreation, making Syracuse and the surrounding region a wonderful place to visit, live, work, and raise a family.

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