Designed by globally renowned architect Jeanne Gang and the award-winning team at Studio Gang, the campus of the Women’s Leadership Center is a truly unique space. See what sustainability-conscious architecture and construction look like in a beautiful setting overlooking Geneva Lake.
The Women’s Leadership Center at Williams Bay is nestled in an old-growth forest on the shores of Geneva Lake. From the Ice Ages to the present day, this area has enjoyed a rich history of discovery, collaboration, renewal, and reflection.
As we visit each building and the surrounding gardens and grounds, you’ll learn about Williams Bay’s long and distinctive history as a center for science and culture, our vision for the Center, and the design elements that make it exceptional. Revel in the Center’s extraordinary collection of art glass by women artists.
Every element of the Center—from the shape of our buildings to the materials used in making them—takes its cue from nature. Learn about the thought process that goes into environmentally sensitive design and sustainable construction practice. From ceilings to floors to windows, you’ll see how it’s possible to harmonize human structures with organic ones to create beauty and balance.
The Center sits in an old-growth forest that we’re restoring to health and beauty. Learn about the powerful geological forces that shaped this part of the world; you’ll stand on land once covered by both ancient seas and glaciers. Enjoy acres of walking trails and visit one of the few oak savannas still left in the Midwest.
Each tour lasts about two hours and will be led by one of our expertly trained docents. Dressing for the weather; you will be both indoors and outside. Our campus is fully ADA-compliant; however, the tour involves considerable walking and standing. Sturdy footwear is highly recommended.
Family members must be 12 years or older to join the tour. We love pets and young children but cannot take them with us around campus, so please don’t bring your pup or toddler. The exception is service dogs, who are welcome if they are on a leash and always attended. Thanks for understanding!
Limited parking is available at the Center. If the on-site lot is full, please use the overflow parking west of the Center on Constance Boulevard, on the north side of the street (dirt lot). Arrive at least 15 minutes before your start time as you’ll need a few minutes to walk from your car to the tour starting point.
Admission tickets are nontransferable, nonrefundable, and may not be exchanged. All sales are final. If you contact us at least 7 days before your scheduled tour, we will do our best to help you reschedule, subject to availability. Please email visit@womensleadershipcenter.org. If we cannot find a workable date, the original purchase remains nonrefundable.
Ticket holders who arrive more than 10 minutes after the scheduled start time will not be admitted. We do not reschedule late arrivals or offer refunds. Please allow extra time for parking and the short walk to check in.
We do not have an on‑site box office. All tickets must be purchased in advance through our website. Walk‑up sales are not available. If you need assistance purchasing online or require an accommodation, email visit@womensleadershipcenter.org.
Please check in the parking lot near the shed up to 15 minutes before the scheduled tour time. A Women’s Leadership Center team member will greet you. If you arrive early, please relax in any of the public areas close to your check-in point.
You must be with a guide to enter the buildings. This is for your safety as well as the preservation of the campus and its artwork, so please stick with your docent and tour group. No food or beverages are allowed on the tour except for a water bottle.
The setting is magical — the perfect place to get away to focus on one’s own development or connect and collaborate with other women.”
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