Need a relaxing retreat with luxury, golf, and spa vibes? Head to Kohler, Wisconsin! Nestled along the Sheboygan River, this small village is home to world-class resorts, elegant dining, and a proud design legacy. Whether you're teeing off, soaking in a spa, or shopping for home inspiration, Kohler offers a sophisticated Midwest escape.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kohler is from late spring through early fall (May to October). Enjoy warm weather for golfing, outdoor dining, and walking trails. Fall offers colorful foliage and crisp air—perfect for cozying up at the spa or enjoying seasonal events.

How to Get There

  • If you are traveling by car: Kohler is located just off I-43, about 1 hour north of Milwaukee and 2.5 hours from Chicago.
  • By Air: The nearest major airport is General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) in Milwaukee. From there, it’s about a 1-hour drive.
  • By Bus: Intercity bus service is available to nearby Sheboygan, with taxi or ride-share connections to Kohler.

Where to Stay

  • The American Club – Luxurious five-star resort with elegant rooms, a top-rated spa, and championship golf courses.
  • Inn on Woodlake – Chic boutique hotel with modern lakeside accommodations and walkable access to shops and restaurants.
  • Kohler Cabin Rentals – For a more private stay, rent a scenic and cozy cabin near Blackwolf Run or Whistling Straits.

Top Attractions

1.Play a round of golf on the Whistling Straits Golf Course

Play a round of golf on the Whistling Straits Golf Course

© StefanoT/stock.adobe.com

Whistling Straits Golf Course is a 36-hole links-style golf course near Kohler, Wisconsin, on the coast of Lake Michigan, with eight holes near the lake. It is part of The American Club, a luxury golf resort owned by the Kohler Company. The courses at Whistling Straits were designed by Pete and Alice Dye. Whistling Strait hosted a number of important tournaments: PGA Championship in 2004, 2010, 2015 and U.S. Senior Open in 2007. Ryder Cup will be played at Whistling Straights in 2020. The Straits Course is Whistling Straits’ flagship course. It is 7,790 yards long and a par of 72. The Straits Course is a copy of the ancient seaside courses of Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Address: N8501 Lakeshore Rd, Sheboygan, WI 53083

2.Plan your kitchen redesign at the Kohler Design Center

Plan your kitchen redesign at the Kohler Design Center

© Kohler Design Center

The Kohler Design Center is a three-level, 36,000-square-foot museum in the village of Kohler, Wisconsin, established in 1985 and showcasing innovative product design and technology created by Kohler Company. The main floor showcases a floor-to-ceiling display of Kohler famous plumbing fixtures in all colors, shapes, and sizes. The lower level hosts the Kohler Company Museum where visitors can watch a short documentary and see displays portraying company's history from its establishment in 1873 as a manufacturer of cast iron farm implements. The lower level also has an arts gallery presented by the John Michael Kohler Arts Center. The building that hosts the center was originally a recreation hall for Kohler village residents.

Address: 101 Upper Rd, Kohler, WI 53044, Phone: 920-457-3699

3.Go wine tasting at The Blind Horse

Go wine tasting at The Blind Horse

© The Blind Horse

Located on a seven-acre property outside Kohler, Wisconsin, The Blind Horse is a Napa-style winery, a tasting room and an elegant restaurant offering New American menu. The winery produces award-winning “California style” wines such as Vintner's Blend, Sauvignon Blanc, Tuscan Blend and Chardonnay. There is a charming tasting room next to the winery where guests can sample the winery’s products while watching the production facility through a window. Wine & Cheese Pairing or Chocolate & Wine Pairing are available as a special treat. Visitors can enjoy live music in the summer on the lovely back patio with a bottle of wine and a gourmet pizza. Next door is the winery’s elegant, rustic chic restaurant where Executive Chef Brent Davis' presents his innovative menu..

Address: 6018 Superior Ave, Kohler, WI 53044, Phone: 920-467-8599

Romantic Activities and Attractions:

4.Spend a relaxing day at Kohler Waters Spa

Spend a relaxing day at Kohler Waters Spa

© Kohler Waters Spa

Kohler Waters Spa is one of only 64 five-star spas in the world. Located at Lodge Kohler, in a charming village of Kohler, Wisconsin, it is part of The American Club® Resort. The spa is an elegant sanctuary that offers a range of nourishing treatments, all-day immersion therapeutic water treatments and facial and body services. The spa consists of water-based treatment rooms, inviting rest spaces and the relaxation pool. The state-of-the-art Hydromassage Pool takes restoration of body and spirit to the next level. There is also a covered rooftop deck with a lounge, whirlpool and fireplace. The new Spa Café offers healthy cuisine , including vegetarian and vegan options and an extensive wine selection.

Address: 501 Highland Dr, Kohler, WI 53044, Phone: 800-344-2838

5.Play on Blackwolf Run

Play on Blackwolf Run

© naypong/stock.adobe.com

Blackwolf Run is a golf course in Kohler, Wisconsin, one of two golf courses associated with The American Club and owned by the Kohler Company. Blackwolf Run opened in 1988 with only 18 holes, and quickly got reputation as one of "America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses" by Golf Digest and the "Top 100 You Can Play" by Golf Magazine. After nine holes were added in 1989, Blackwolf Run became a 36-hole facility. It has two courses: the River Course and the Meadow Valleys Course. Both have been designed by Peter Dye. The River Course is an 18-hole course along the Sheboygan River. It offers 7,404 yards of golf for a par of 72.The course is played on bent grass. The Meadow Valleys Course is a 7,250 yards 18-hole course for a par of 72. This course hosted U.S. Women's Open tournament in 1998 and 2012.

Address: 1111 W Riverside Dr, Kohler, WI 53044, Phone: 800-618-5535

6.Play indoor golf at Kohler Swing Studio Golf

Play indoor golf at Kohler Swing Studio Golf

© orest86/stock.adobe.com

Located at The Shops At Woodlake Kohler, Kohler Swing Studio Golf allows visitors to experience golf indoors. They can come to play a round on more than 60 courses, get professional instruction, test the latest equipment or pick up some upscale gear such as 2020 Ryder Cup merchandise. Kohler Swing Studio & Golf Shop has two aboutGolf® Simulators. aboutGolf is the world's number one distributor of computer software for golf simulation. Its latest technology measures distance, run, carry, club speed, ball speed and much more. The shop can be reserved for private events and groups, offering a variety of simulators - open golf, arcade games, contests, movies, kid's activities and more. Food and beverage are available on request.

Address: 725 Woodlake Rd, Kohler, WI 53044, Phone: 920-208-4668

If you are traveling with kids:

7.Take the kids to the Bulitz Farm

Take the kids to the Bulitz Farm

© MNStudio/stock.adobe.com

The Bulitz Farm is a family-owned and run farm established in 1965 located near the village of Kohler, Wisconsin. It is a popular destination for family outings, offering pumpkin patch, horse-drawn carriage rides, pony rides, wagon rides through the neighboring dense woods, corn maize, petting zoo and more. In the winter, horses pull sleighs through the snow-covered roads to the delight of the kids. The farm is a popular place for family picnics, birthday parties, church group outings and more. There is a concession stand where visitors can buy farm produce. The farm is often used for wedding parties for those who like wholesome farm environment.

Address: N6327 Rangeline Rd, Kohler, WI 53044-1053, Phone: 920-467-2782

8.Have a romantic dinner at River Wildlife Lodge Restaurant

Have a romantic dinner at River Wildlife Lodge Restaurant

© waranyu/stock.adobe.com

River Wildlife Lodge Restaurant is located in the heart of River Wildlife, a 500 acres of unspoiled environment with the Sheboygan River meandering through for five miles and 18 miles of scenic trails. River Wildlife's Lodge Restaurant is located in a private, rustic log cabin reserved for the members of River Wildlife and the guests of the American Club Resort. River Wildlife is not open to the general public. The restaurant offers six inviting dining areas including three cozy lofts. All feature a mix of simple, rustic wood furnishings, earthenware dishes and fresh wildflowers. The food is prepared using seasonal fresh ingredients and menu offers imaginative Midwestern dishes.

Address: 1116 W Riverside Dr, Kohler, WI 53044, Phone: 800-344-2838

Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:

  • Village Shops at Woodlake – Browse upscale boutiques, artisan goods, and enjoy scenic lakeside strolls.
  • Waelderhaus – Take a tour of this Austrian-inspired structure celebrating architecture and culture.

Where to Eat

  • The Immigrant Restaurant – Fine dining at The American Club with globally inspired cuisine and an award-winning wine list.
  • Horse & Plow – Cozy gastropub with elevated comfort food and Wisconsin craft brews.
  • River Wildlife Lodge Restaurant – Rustic-chic dining in a secluded woodland lodge, available exclusively to members and resort guests.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Kohler Food & Wine Experience (October) – A multi-day festival featuring celebrity chefs, tastings, and wine seminars.
  • In Celebration of Chocolate (February) – Satisfy your sweet tooth with chocolate-themed dinners, demos, and indulgent experiences.
  • Kohler Festival of Beer (Spring) – A lively celebration of craft brews, pub fare, and outdoor fun.

More events and things to do.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Kohler, Wisconsin:

  • Sheboygan (10–15 min) – Visit the John Michael Kohler Arts Center, walk along the lakefront, or enjoy North Beach.
  • Elkhart Lake (25–30 min) – Explore this charming lakeside village known for Road America and water sports.
  • Bookworm Gardens (10–15 min) – A whimsical, literary-themed garden perfect for families and nature lovers.
  • Terry Andrae State Park (20 min) – Hike dunes, bike trails, and relax on Lake Michigan’s scenic shoreline.
  • Oostburg (15–20 min) – Stroll a quiet downtown, sample local bakeries, or hit nearby nature trails.
  • Plymouth (20–25 min) – Enjoy murals, cheese shops, and small-town hospitality in this artsy historic town.

FAQ:

  • What is the Village of Kohler?
    • The Village of Kohler in Wisconsin, on the banks of the River Sheboygan, is one of the first planned communities in America.
  • What are some key attractions in Kohler?
    • Almost everything in today’s Kohler is connected to the Kohler Company, including two world-class golf courses, the Kohler Design Center that hosts a museum of Kohler company, and the American Club, a five-star resort.

Plan Your Trip


Table of Contents: