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An oasis of solitude and relaxation adorned with five star amenities awaits you in Kohler, a picturesque village located one hour south of Green Bay. With a population just slightly over 2,000, the entire area, a part of Sheboygan County, resembles a charming country club in the woods. Along with its inviting ambiance and rich, affluent history, visitors will certainly find it to be worth the drive.

“Destination Kohler is such a unique place and offers a wide array of services and experiences that will appeal to discerning travelers,” Christine Loose, Vice President of Lodging & Wellness for Kohler Co., says. “Whether a guest is seeking a rejuvenating day of wellness, or is interested in a round of golf at one of our world-class courses, we have something for everyone.”

Originally, the area was founded in 1912 as a company town for the Kohler Co. plant, which was established in 1873. The Kohler Company, which has plants all over the world, is best known for its beautifully designed plumbing fixtures. The company’s brand portfolio also includes an impressive lineup of furniture, cabinetry, tile and engines. Visitors can tour the local plant or see the evolution of their products at the Kohler Design Center downtown.

Despite its quaint facade, Kohler is surrounded by innovation. It is now home to abundant green spaces, cafes and boutiques, an organic market, stunning art and most impressively, The American Club, the only Forbes Five-Star resort hotel in the Midwest.

“Kohler is a hidden gem,” Loose says. “Both residents and visitors can enjoy what the village has to offer, including its dining options at the many local restaurants, spending time outdoors and focusing on a healthy mind, soul and body.

“Community is so important, and our wellness offerings were created to bring that community together. Our Yoga on the Lake, BOLD Cycle studios, and Sports Core Health and Racquet Club are fitness facilities where both Destination Kohler guests, and the greater community, can come together and put their well-being first while having a good time.”

Even more exciting opportunities await travelers this year. In May, a series called Straits Chapel Presents, was launched. Hosted lakeside, it will feature a captivating lineup of actors, musicians, storytellers and artists.

“The sessions will inform, enlighten, challenge and entertain guests,” Loose says. “On November 3, Tony-Award nominee Christopher Jackson will be speaking and performing.”

Beyond downtown, Kohler holds sweeping views in all directions. From the 500-acre River Wildlife preserve to trails and the sand dunes that align Lake Michigan, it provides many areas to seek calmness, decompress and to connect with nature. Get ready to experience Kohler!

THINGS TO DO

From visiting an art gallery, to taking a carriage ride or enjoying time on the green, visitors can explore the very best of Kohler!

ARTSpace 

Handcrafted by North American artists, ARTspace features a variety of exhibits and one-of-a-kind collections. As a gallery of the John Michael Kohler Arts Center, come see gorgeous artistry with home decor, functional art and exquisite jewelry. Doubling as a commercial exhibition space, contemporary paintings, prints, photographs, fine craft and sculptures created by seasoned artists are available for purchase.

Blackwolf Run Golf Course

Play River, Meadow Valleys and Baths at Blackwolf Run Golf Course, which pays homage to a prominent Native American Winnebago chief from the 1800’s. Together, the courses highlight the natural features of Wisconsin terrain. Visitors will get a diverse golfing experience amongst the glacier-carved river basin and on the famed Pete Dye challenging greens. Tee time can be conveniently booked online for the courses, where 36-holes range from 60 to 175 yards. Two of the establishments’ courses – River and Meadow Valleys, received prestigious 5-star rankings from Golf Digest. Food and beverage service, plus cart rental, is also available.

Kohler Arboretum

Its offset location may require a double take, but the Kohler Arboretum is a unique art piece to enjoy while on a stroll or when visiting the small park. The outdoor sculpture, created in 1989 by Robert Harrison, is made of glazed porcelain shards, marble and concrete.

Bulitz Farm

Tour the village on a warm summer evening with a romantic, open carriage ride offered by Bulitz Farm. Pulled by two horses, carriage rides are available by appointment and are available year round. Select from multiple styles of carriages, or in the winter take a cozy sleigh ride. Carriages can be booked for special events and weddings and rides conveniently start at the American Club. The farm also has a petting zoo with pigs, ducks, llamas, cows, chickens and goats, pony rides and pumpkins available in the fall.

Kohler Design Center

Learn about Kohler’s invigorating design process and history at the Kohler Design Center, which goes back over a hundred years! Get a behind-the-wall look at steam shower technology, compare various finishes and discover the bubble power of their renowned jetted spa tubs. Visitors can visualize the room of their dreams with the help of dedicated on-site designers. There is zero purchasing pressure as products are not sold on site but instead can be ordered from any Kohler distributor.

Kohler Swing Studio

Rain or shine, the course is always green at the Kohler Swing Studio! Designed for people of all ages and skill levels, Topgolf Swing Suite bays offer a variety of virtual games. For experienced golfers, try aboutGOLF, the official golf simulator of the PGA Tour and Golf Channel. Play over 60 courses, including Blackwolf Run and Whistling Straits. Simulators measure the total distance, carry, club speed, ball speed, roll and more. The swing studio also offers club fitting and repair, golf lessons, a golf shop for visitors’ appeal and equipment needs and an on-site bar and restaurant.

River Wildlife 

Spanning more than 500-acres, the River Wildlife wilderness preserve is a private recreational club offering more than 18 miles of woodland trails. The naturally-secluded sanctuary is available to guests with lodging reservations at The American Club or Inn on Woodlake with a purchased entry pass. Club visitors can participate in seasonal activities like self-guided hiking, pheasant hunting, cross-country skiing and more. Rent a canoe or kayak and explore the waters of the Sheboygan River, test your skills at the 3D archery range or find a quiet spot to read a book and watch the wildlife.

Waelderhaus Museum 

Designed by Austrian architect Kaspar Albrecht in a Bregenzerwald architectural style, the Waelderhaus is known as “a house in the woods.” The house, which is now a museum, is the replica of the Kohler family’s ancestral home in Austria. The interior boasts rich carvings, stained glass, wrought-iron craftsmanship, fine tapestries and vintage furniture. The home spans three floors and includes an auditorium on the main level, werk zimmer (work room), a staube (living room) and a keepers apartment.

Whistling Straits Golf Course

Offering two dynamic courses, the Straits and Irish, golfers can experience championship-caliber golfing at Whistling Straits. Owned by the Kohler Company, the 36-hole course is sculpted into the Wisconsin coastline, on land of a former airfield. Host of several PGA championships and the Ryder Cup, tee time at Whistling Straits is every golfers dream. A variety of well-curated packages are available for guests to experience the world-class greens.

SHOPPING

A generous opportunity for retail therapy amongst nearly two dozen specialty boutiques can be found at the Shops at Woodlake.A

Kohler Gardener

Filled with garden-fresh flowering plants and topiaries, beautiful blooms await at the Kohler Gardener! From whimsical decor and books, baskets and paper goods, adorn your home and garden in style. The store  features world-renowned MacKenzie-Childs treasures, including hand-painted ceramics and furnishings. After shopping, visit the butterfly garden nearby – you may even catch a glimpse of fluttering Monarchs, Viceroys and Hackberry Emperor butterflies!

Kohler Chocolates 

Discover the most mouth-watering and artistically aromatic creations at Kohler Chocolates! Visitors will find an array of sweets, including Rare Facets, which have been featured on Oprah’s “O List.” The chocolate gems are filled with creamy ganache centers of various flavorings including Cranberry-Raspberry, Pomegranate, Sour Cherry, Pineapple and Mandarin Ginger. The Terrapin is another top-ranking favorite and is composed of layers of buttery caramel and chocolate. Terrapin flavors include Blackstrap, Java, Peanut Butter and Original Buttery. Chefs at The American Club test-produced over 100 batches of Terrapins before perfecting the Kohler original recipe!

Nest

Feel inspired as you indulge in luxurious linens and home goods at Nest! Fill your haven with the store’s trove of products, including plush beddings, rugs, tableware, fragrances collections and furniture. Shop an ever-changing selection of decorative accessories and gifts that have been created by over 200 artists. From bath and body delights to vibrantly patterned napkins for your next brunch, find it all here, conveniently under one roof!

Scentualities

Curated with the spirit of the Midwest, Scentualities is an enthralling boutique that is inspired by all things Hygge – a Danish word to describe the coziness and comfort. The shop’s modern collections offer goods for the body, bath and bedroom, including apparel, decor and bath sundries.

Sweet Potato’s

Find the perfect outfit to compliment life’s special and everyday moments at Sweet Potato’s! Featuring apparel, shoes and accessories for women, shop in a relaxing atmosphere that introduces classy and modern wardrobe staples. Ladies can also maximize their sweet wardrobes by intermixing solids and fun print separates, all which can be found at the boutique, waiting just for you!

Wisconsin Trader

Like any true Wisconsinite at heart, deck out in Midwest-inspired looks from Wisconsin Trader! The store offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience and lines its shelves with eccentric home decor baubles and clothing elements like hats, shirts and more. Find the perfect gift or stock up on favorites, you can never have too much state love pride!

Woodlake Market

While visiting, grab an on-the-go lunch or pick up vacation essentials at the Woodlake Market. The grocer offers a wide variety of organic products, locally-made goods and convenience foods. Stock up on artisanal cheeses, wine, fresh seafood, or freshly made sausage. There is also an on-site deli which offers healthy and delicious snack and meal options.

Little Love

Welcome to Kohler, baby! Little Love is an airy, high-end children’s boutique which offers stylish apparel, toys, gifts, and baby products. The shop also has an impressive selection of soft Jellycat animals that pair with matching theme books. From diaper bags to keepsakes, there is an exciting treasure for every mama and her little bub. Personalized shopping is so available in-store or by FaceTime. The staff is dedicated to assisting customers in selecting gifts and can even have your bags ready to be picked up curbside.

DINING

Experience exquisite nibbles, flavorful meals and impeccable desserts when dining out in Kohler!

The Blind Horse Restaurant & Winery

Dine alongside a stunning view of seven gorgeously-landscaped acres and a tufty, iconic horse statue at The Blind Horse Restaurant & Winery. The stylish eatery and Napa-style winery offers guests exceptional service accompanied by unforgettable rustic elegance and ambrosial fare. The menu is filled with approving options, like savory truffle fries, their signature Bruschetta boards and riveting entrees like lobster ravioli and filet mignon. Sip on specially-curated wines, cocktails and cordials and end the most perfect meal with a dessert of Spiced Cherry Ice Cream or Dark Chocolate Panna Cotta.

Taverne on Woodlake

Let mealtime ignite your soul at Taverne on Woodlake, an all-new dining experience offering wood-grilled specialties. Indulge in comfort classics like Honey Butter and Cinnamon Apple Pancakes with a brown sugar oat crumble, Chipotle Sweet Potato Tostadas or an Artichoke Spinach Skillet while dining lakeside. Beyond the scenery and casual atmosphere, try one of the many high quality cocktails and visit with friends while listening to live music on the weekends.

The Immigrant Restaurant

Rated a AAA Four-Diamond by Forbes, The Immigrant Restaurant presents fresh, contemporary cuisine with European influences. The award-winning restaurant hosts six rooms, all which honor the style of early Wisconsin settlers, including the German, English, Danish, French, Normandy, Dutch. Reservations are highly encouraged and jackets are required for men. With the detailed surrounds, guests can find a pleasing menu noting Celeriac & Black Truffle soup with pickled shallots, Cabbage Roulad with Hen Leg Confit, Roasted Monkfish and an exclusive five-course chef tasting menu. There is also a generous selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes.

Blackwolf Run Restaurant

After a day on the courses, savor authentic and regional cuisine at Blackwolf Run Restaurant. Open daily, patrons can relax by the fieldstone fireplace or opt for fresh air on the patio, which overlooks the greens. The restaurant offers a set menu for each meal and offers dine in and carryout. Be sure to try their hearty breakfast buffet, filled with breakfast breads, breakfast quesadillas, scrambled eggs, pancakes, applewood smoked bacon, homemade granola, and fresh juice varieties, it won’t disappoint.

The Wisconsin Room

Step back into time at The Wisconsin Room, the upscale, original dining hall of immigrant workers of Kohler Co. The historic eatery now offers farm-to-table ingredients, a comfortable atmosphere and trusted American fare. The menu, which rotates seasonally, is dedicated to fresh, local ingredients. From wild ramps to fish from the Great Lakes, and wild fruit and herbs, make a reservation for a meal that celebrates both flavor and locality.

LODGING

Kohler offers unique accommodations for all visitors, from a historical resort, to an inviting inn or private cabins in the woods, you’ll wake up refreshed.

The American Club

For over 100 years, The American Club has remained an iconic leader in hospitality, prestige and heritage. The five-diamond hotel was built in 1918 and once served as a dormitory for immigrant employees of Kohler. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the resort is a destination in itself. The property has retained its storybook charm and notable historic richness within its 241 guestrooms and welcomes visitors from all over the world. Amenities include morning coffee and afternoon tea, Wi-Fi, down comforters, robes and slippers and signature Kohler Waters Spa bath products. Choose from a variety of accommodations – from standard rooms with a king or two queen beds up to a lavish 1,429 sq. ft Presidential Suite, all will invoke a relaxing stay.

Inn on Woodlake

Nestled on an 11-acre lake, Inn on Woodlake is a charming, three-diamond hotel with its own private beach. It encompasses 121 contemporary guest rooms, including 10 multi-bedroom suites that are perfect for special events, girls getaways and large families. Rooms are equipped with large flat screen tvs, surround sound in both the bedroom and bathroom, and signature Kohler showers, complete with WaterTile bodysprays and a WaterTile rain showering panel. Some rooms, like the King Tower Deck, include a private deck with privacy walls, with a serene view. A complimentary continental breakfast is available in addition to a shuttle that brings guests to any Destination Kohler property.

Kohler Cabin Collection 

Visitors can experience Kohler like never before with private, nature-centric accommodations in the Kohler Cabin Collection. Each cabin is beautifully designed and is brimming with its own character and amenities. Ideal for families or couples looking for a weekend escape, the cabins provide a wonderful way to unwind and connect with nature. The Sandhill Cabin mimics a lovely, secluded retreat and rests on 350 unbound acres. The Red Fox Cabin is a spacious home away from home located on the Sheboygan River. Just south of the Whistling Straits Golf Course is the Lake Cabin, set stop a bluff beside Lake Michigan. Nearby, the Pond Cabin rests within a wooded valley and oversees a pond. Finally, the Tomczyk Cabin invites guests to disconnect and focus on the unwavering solitude that the Wisconsin wilderness has to offer.

WELL-BEING

Begin a path to wellness in Kohler with a variety of energizing fitness classes, relaxing yoga sessions and nourishing spa treatments.

Kohler Waters Spa 

Rejuvenate the mind and body at the Kohler Waters Spa, designed for guests to discover the restorative power of mineral-rich water. As the only five-star spa in Wisconsin, indulge in innovative hydrotherapy services, various massage therapies and soak in the waterfall relaxation pool. Explore the spa in a plush robe and sandals and sip on cucumber and mint or fresh orange-infused waters and refuel with complimentary almonds, yogurt raisins or chef-made granola squares. Visit the enclosed rooftop deck with a whirlpool, lounge and fireplace for a year-round relaxing escape, or retreat to a private treatment room with dimmed lighting, gentle music and welcoming scents. Experience Kohler’s unique, custom Vichy showers during a Glacier Springs hydrotherapy session. Feel muscle tension melt away while receiving an aromatic ice massage accompanied by warm water streams, a circulation-boosting peppermint body scrub, cool-stone eye treatment, foot massage and rich lather of hydrating body butter.

Yoga on the Lake

Featuring floor-to-ceiling bay windows overlooking Wood Lake, Yoga on the Lake is a welcoming studio focused on peace and well-being. Offering 74 classes a week, patrons are invited to connect and nurture their mind, bodies and spirit. Along with igniting inner consciousness through gentle poses and holds, visitors can also experience hot yoga. The ancient practice, which uses infrared heat panels set to 95F-105F degrees, induces sweat to stimulate and detoxify the body.

Bold Cycle

High-energy and enthusiasm meets fitness at Bold Cycle, an innovative indoor cycling studio. Classes feature 45-minutes of intense cardio with the use of hand weights and choreography. Peddle to the music or push past personal speed goals, there is a class that parallels all cycling abilities. Through warm up to the main ride, guests can hit the hills and sprint to the finish line with a yogic cooldown with Bold Rides. Cycle workouts are designed to push the bar and are a great addition to any fitness regime.

Sports Core

Work alongside trained professionals at Sports Core, which offers 100,000 square-feet of balanced, wellness-inspired amenities and lifestyle programs. The private club, located on the shores of Wood Lake, offers group fitness classes and exciting activities designed to enhance one’s health and fitness. For over forty years, visitors and resort guests have enjoyed the facilities 12 tennis courts, two pools, including a 79F lap pool and 86F family pool, and a rooftop whirlpool, offering a peaceful soak with a view. Sports Core also hosts 60 weekly classes, from pilates to kickboxing, making it an ideal stop for fitness gurus and health-conscious guests.

Salon Aura

Treat tired hands and feet to a signature Aroma Manicure at Salon Aura. The personalized treatment invites guests to relax with a 60-minute full-service manicure, which includes aroma stress-relieving treatment, hot towel treatment, and a hand and arm massage. The salon also offers gel polishes, beautiful nail art and hair cutting services. Enlist an experienced stylist and refresh your look with modern cuts, a new color, extensions, gloss treatments and chic style.

TOURS

Discover the true essence of Kohler with unique tour opportunities to elevate your visit.

Gardens of Kohler

See the many lush, fragrant gardens of Kohler with the Gardens of Kohler tour. The tour, which can be guided or experienced independently, highlights natural gardens in the area through quaint neighborhoods, The American Club, local golf courses and beyond. The seeds of the gardens were planted in 1913 after Walter J. Kohler Sr. Studied green cities in Europe. Returning state-side, he enlisted the help of the Olmsted Brothers, who’s landscape firm designed New York’s Central Park. Together, they created an initial 50-year plan to help beautify the village of Kohler. A second growth plan soon blossomed and focused on tree planting and preservation.

Kohler Factory Tour

Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the nation’s largest plumbing-ware manufacturer with the Kohler Factory Tour. The nearly three-hour, historically-inspired tour begins at the Kohler Design Center and gives guests a look into a number of buildings that create Kohler’s signature iron baths and sinks. Tours are offered each week and are suited for ages 14 and up. Reservations are required, as are closed-toe shoes for the 3.5 miles of walking. Alternatively, take the tour virtually from The American Club theater. The virtual tour is 2.5 hours and is open to all ages. Admission is free for both tours.

Tour Kohler Stables

For more than 50 years, Kohler Stables has been breeding national and world champion Morgan horses, all with impressive abilities and pedigrees. Morgans, known for their upright graceful neck and athleticism, are the heart of the stable’s diverse advancement program. Exclusive tours, available free and are only by appointment and can accommodate groups up to 30. Tours begin with the stables history and preludes of the Morgan breed. Visitors then venture through the main barn and outdoor areas to see broodmares, retirees, yearlings and foals and may also catch a glimpse of training sessions.

The Blind Horse Winery Tour

Let your taste buds be your guide at The Blind Horse Winery! Participate in a 45-minute Interactive Barrel Tasting Tour and see the production room where the wine is made. Participants must be 21+ and can sample two exquisite wines straight from the barrel. The tour welcomes groups of eight and can accommodate up to 20. Be sure to also try out the chocolate and cheese pairings and extensive dining menu at the Blind Horse Restaurant.

Tour the Waelderhaus

Overlooking the winding Sheboygan River, the Waelderhaus is a tribute to Bregenzerwald tradition and the Austrian homeland of the Kohler family. Learn the buildings history and see it’s impressive architecture, along with artifacts and heirlooms brought back from Austria by the Kohlers. Open to the public, complimentary tours are offered by advance reservations daily during open hours.

EVENTS

Mark your calendars for upcoming golf events, wellness weekends and art-inspired entertainment!

Art in Full Bloom

Wednesdays to Saturdays

This summer, attend an open art workshop in the courtyard at The Greenhouse at The American Club hotel. All are welcome to be creative and enjoy the sunshine during these artist guided events. Choose from a selection of supplies and resources to create artwork like watercolor and acrylic paintings, postcards and handcrafted journals.

Family Night at The Baths 

July 17 and August 21, 2022

Bring your family and putters for an exciting golf outing at The Baths of Blackwolf Run! The event will offer complimentary putting and games alongside music for the whole family. Enjoy fresh, cold lemonade and snacks and the fresh air. Guests interested in playing the course should book a tee time online in advance.

Wellness Immersion Weekend 

Sept. 9-11, 2022

Plan for a relaxing weekend tailored to your well-being! Destination Kohler will host the rejuvenating event which includes inspiring keynote speakers, group workouts and activities from their premier wellness locations. Find peace and tranquility with guided hikes at River Wildlife and morning yoga sessions, plus take a custom-blend essential oils class, and receive a wellness assessment. The complete three-day itinerary is available online. Relaxation awaits!

Kohler Food & Wine

October 20-23, 2022

Savor impeccable foods and glasses of wine during the annual four-day celebration this fall. The event will feature celebrity chefs, sommeliers and foodies from all over the world and libations specialists. Guests must be 21+ years of age to enjoy this event.

Holiday Market

Nov. 18–20, 2022

Browse and shop vendors from all across the Midwest with this Kohler holiday tradition! Attendees will find a stirring collection of decorations, clothing and accessories for men, women and children, handmade toys, serving ware, foods and treats. Whether for gifts or for your own home, the event is a high-anticipated shopping experience.

Winter Wonderland

Spend the day in Kohler with a storybook feel with a number of winter activities, all at one location! Enjoy cross-country skiing, fat tire biking, curling, hockey, snowshoeing and ice skating at the 5,400 square foot rink! Assemble a cozy mug of hot chocolate at the hot chocolate bar and warm up in the warming shelter after an exciting day of fun. Make memories with friends and family in the winter wonderland. Equipment and activities are conveniently included in the access fee and are available on a first come, first served basis.

From soothing afternoons in the spa, spending time on award-winning courses to excellent dining experiences, Kohler is not only rich in history and entertainment, but it offers a proud sense of solitude and contentment in only a short drive!

For the Early Riser:

Sip an energizing Mushroom Latte from Awakening to jumpstart the day. It features Adaptogenic mushrooms, cinnamon, nutmeg, steamed milk and espresso. Stop by the Butterfly Gardens near the market or go for a jog and find the horse mural on Highland Drive.

For the Mindful Relaxer:

Immerse yourself into serenity with a sensual massage, healing hydrotherapy treatment or a dip in the waterfall pool at the Kohler Waters Spa. Clear your mind and find your center at Yoga on the Lake, then head to Sports Core to soak in the open-air, rooftop hot tub.

For the Foodie:

Savor the flavors of steamy Farm 45 Lamb Dumplings at The Blind Horse Restaurant, they include a dipping trio of Kabayaki sauce, Gochujang aioli and sweet chili glaze. Or, opt for sweetness with Blood Orange Sorbet at the Wisconsin Room. The dessert combines olive oil, a candied fennel chip and pomegranate seeds in a marriage of flavors.

For the Avid Golfer:

Golf where the pros play at Blackwolf Run, 2020 host of the Ryder Cup, or schedule tee time at The Bull at Pinehurst Farms, located on the outskirts of Kohler. Practice your form at the Kohler Swing Studio, which offers Topgolf Swing Suite bays and aboutGOLF simulators.

For the Sophisticated Shopper:

Visit the Shops at Woodlake for a diverse shopping experience! Browse Sweet Potato’s, which stocks women’s fashions, accessories and shoes, find home essentials and decor at Nest or find the perfect gift, book or outfit at Little Love, a whimsical boutique for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.