BIRDIE THE
NEWS, VIEWS, PEOPLE ... STORIES FROM THE VILLAGE AND BEYOND
PLAYTIME
CULTURE
From Mexican art to Martha
GASTRON OM Y
Steaks, spirits and boutique wineries
Fishing, fireworks and a 14-hole golf course
Stewart
Welcome to The Birdie
As we approach America’s 250th year, there are many reasons to feel a sense of pride, especially as part of the Kohler community. What we have created here in our little corner of Wisconsin is pretty remarkable. But it’s also a microcosm—a reflection of how America and its people have dreamed, pioneered, invented and flourished over the past 250 years. But rather than standing back and admiring our work, throughout Kohler, Wisconsin, we’re more proactive and ambitious than ever.
For example, having only recently completed the industryleading refurbishments at Kohler Waters Spa, we’ve now invested in arguably the most sophisticated piece of equipment the wellness industry has ever unveiled (see next page)—and we’re one of the first places in the world to do so. Over the road, life in the foundry continues to be a melting pot of creativity and innovation, as Kohler Cast Iron Ambassador Martha Stewart recently discovered (page 8)—hot off the back of the sold-out dinner she hosted at the Kohler Stables as part of last year’s Kohler Food & Wine Weekend.
ere’s plenty more on the horizon, too. On page 22, golf course design studio King Collins Dormer discusses its vision for Kohler’s latest 14-hole course, Purebred Farm—and Woodlake Market is due to reopen after a major renovation (page 18). Plus, we meet Salvador Jiménez-Flores (page 30), one of the latest residents on Kohler’s Arts/Industry program, and look forward to celebrating the 4th of July in style (page 16).
Whether you’re indulging in a spa day with friends, creating holiday memories with family, enjoying our world-class cuisine, or exploring the seasonal charms of Flora Fields (page 26), we wish you a wonderful visit and hope to welcome you back soon.
Tasty tidbits to get the conversation rolling. Did you know . . .
Smoke of genius
Herbert V. Kohler, Jr. was rarely without a cigar on his person, which is largely, if not entirely, why Kohler Co. came to make its own cigars: the Straits cigar and the River cigar, both of impeccable construction, medium bodied with long, luxurious finishes.
Go gure
Morgan horses, for which the Kohler family has a long-standing affection, are one of America’s earliest breeds, known for their exceptional versatility, athleticism, and good temperament. ey all trace back to a single foundation stallion named Figure, later known as Justin Morgan.
Bunker down
No golf course in the world has more bunkers than the Straits, affectionately dubbed the “King of sand.” According to Golf Digest, the course has 967 bunkers, but many claim there are more than 1,000—which isn’t that unlikely given that there are 102 on hole 8 alone.
Brat pack
In 1970, after a fierce competition with Bucyrus, Ohio, Kohler’s neighbouring town of Sheboygan was named “Bratwurst Capital of e World.” e history of this sausage and the community actually dates back to the 1850s, when Germans settled in the area.
THE FUTURE’S BRIGHT
WHILE IT MIGHT LOOK as though it’s been plucked from a science-fiction movie, you can actually find one of the world’s first Ammortal Chambers here at Kohler Waters Spa. Since launching two years ago, this “human optimization device” has become the hottest property in the wellness world. Ammortal’s CEO, Brian Le Gette, describes the product as providing “absolute state-of-the-art rejuvenation.”
So what exactly does it do? Taking design cues from NASA’s zero-gravity body positioning research, the futuristic bed combines 10 non-invasive restorative technologies into a single experience. ese include therapeutic red and near-infrared light, multi-wave pulsed electric field (PEF) and pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy, vibroacoustic sound therapy and molecular hydrogen, along with guided meditation and breathwork.
“Basically, it suppresses the nervous system, helping to put the body into a restorative state,” says Nikki Miller, Director at Kohler Waters Spa, before eagerly reeling off the benefits. Red and near-infrared light therapy, she says, has been shown to support natural collagen production, promote cellular restoration, reduce inflammation, and boost energy. Studies suggest that PEF and PEMF therapy stimulates mitochondria while aiding in pain relief, wound healing, and recovery. Vibroacoustic therapy provides benefits such as pain management, improved sleep, and mood enhancement; while inhaling molecular hydrogen has the potential to strengthen the body’s defenses, increase cellular resilience, and even enhance longevity. “People are loving it,” she grins. Indeed, the testimonies have been effusive.
“Transcendental” is a word that comes up a lot. One user described “profound healing,” while another compared their experience to having a week’s sleep in 22 minutes.
Meanwhile, at the US Tennis Open 2025, Vanity Fair reported that the Ammortal Chamber is “already a holy grail for professional athletes and biohackers,” listing Baltimore Ravens, Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Rams, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Arizona Diamondbacks as sports teams that have worked with the brand. And at e Open’s “hush-hush” recovery suite, the Chamber was notably the mostbooked piece of equipment among players.
at’s not to say that it is purely aimed at elite sportspeople. Nikki, only hours back from the Global Wellness Summit in Dubai, was planning a session to combat her jet lag, and says the team at Kohler Waters Spa are encouraging guests to use the device in preparation for subsequent spa treatments. “Our therapists have said they can feel a difference in the muscle tissue when a guest has used the Ammortal Chamber before a massage,” she adds.
Around the US, a small number of leading spas, wellness clinics and sports facilities have invested in this groundbreaking technology, but for those who have experienced the benefits, there’s little doubt that the Ammortal Chamber will change the way people approach wellness in a holistic sense. Brian claims to be building a future where technology supports deeper consciousness, personalized healing, and meaningful growth—empowering us all to live fuller, healthier lives. “And it’s really starting to grow legs,” says Nikki.
Right, the Ammortal Chamber uses a range of technologies, including red and near-infrared light, to put the body into a restorative state
DIFFERENT STROKES
THE SERVE IS AN ELEVATED racquet sports complex featuring six indoor pickleball courts, two heated outdoor platform tennis courts, and a social lounge. “ e facility is designed to meet the growing demand for inclusive, year-round recreation, and will serve as a destination for sport, wellness, and community engagement,” says Kelly Monahan, Racquet Sports Director at Kohler’s Sports Core. “Nearly 20 million Americans actively played pickleball in 2024, a rise of 45.8 percent from the previous year, and an astonishing 311 percent growth over three years.”
But why platform tennis and not padel, so often reported to be the world’s fastest growing sport? And how are they different? “Given platform tennis’s heated playing surface you can play all year round, even in snow,” explains Kelly. “Which has made it particularly popular among golfers during the winter months. Of course, there are one or two other differences, too.”
“One user described ‘profound healing’, another compared their experience to having a week’s sleep in 22 minutes.”
Enclosed by glass and wire mesh walls, which are used in play.
A tennis-like ball with slightly lower pressure, making it more playable on enclosed courts.
Underhand, with the ball required to bounce once before being hit.
Strategic wall play is a key element.
Elevated platform with wire screens that can be used for rebounds.
A solid, lowcompression sponge rubber ball designed for cold weather.
Overhand, with the ball required to stay within the service box.
Strategic shot placement is important due to the lack of glass walls, with players using screens for returns.
Popular in warmer climates, especially in Spain and Latin America.
Popular in colder regions of the US, as the platform can be heated for winter play.
Platform Tennis
06 INTO THE WILD
IN A RESORT THAT IS globally renowned for its man-made landscapes and manicured fairways, a 500-acre wilderness preserve might strike some as, well, a little wild. But, of course, that’s exactly the point of River Wildlife. Like Kohler Waters Spa, it’s an antidote to the rigors of the golf course—the perfect foil. For here, one can truly switch off. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, canoeing, or picnicking, the idea is simply to connect with nature— to listen for the cardinals, chickadees, and goldfinches, to smell the wildflower blossoms, and to remove oneself from the stresses of everyday life.
knowledge about the gear, techniques, and intricacies of fly fishing,” says Anton, proudly. “My experience in the industry gives me a unique perspective on the specialty equipment required for landing large fish on fly tackle.”
WITH 500 ACRES OF WISCONSIN SCENERY TO EXPLORE, RIVER WILDLIFE IS THE PERFECT PLACE TO IMMERSE YOURSELF IN NATURE, WITH HIKING TRAILS, KAYAKING, AND FISHING ON THE SHEBOYGAN RIVER
And there is arguably no better way to connect with nature than by fishing. “Here at River Wildlife, we have exclusive access to eight miles of the best stretch of the Sheboygan River,” says David McElwain, Wildlife and Experiences Manager at River Wildlife. “And since last summer, we’ve had an in-house fishing guide with a plethora of knowledge, who knows all the best spots. We’re seeing people catching 10lb to 15lb brown trout—and quite honestly, that is not normal. I’ve fished all over the world and rarely have I seen fish like these.” at guide is Anton Pohl, a virtuoso angler known in local fishing circles as “ e Professor”.
“I had the privilege of managing a fly shop before working for River Wildlife, and that nickname was given to me on account of my desire and hunger for
Anton, who learned fly fishing in the renowned Driftless Area of Wisconsin, has spent the past 10 years in and around the Sheboygan River, and says it’s the changing of the seasons that makes these waters so special. “ roughout the summer, it isn’t uncommon to find 4lb to 5lb smallmouth bass and the occasional northern pike, but the fall and winter months really bring out the trophy fish that migrate from Lake Michigan to spawn and feed,” he adds.
“Many salmon, brown trout, and steelhead are caught and released every year, some pushing the 20lb mark. On a fly rod, it’s a real treat.”
Are there any particularly fertile pools that he’s ready to divulge? “ ere are many incredible fishing spots, but with respect to the river, I can’t disclose specific coordinates, nor can I guarantee there are always fish there,” says Anton. “What I can say, however, is that a pleasant stroll along the River Wildlife hiking trails bordering the river will leave you wanting to book a guide and put on some waders. I’m excited to showcase our beautiful Sheboygan River and its plentiful migratory fish species to our guests and members. It is an amazing fishery that I am delighted to guide on.”
Left, at River Wildlife it's possible to kayak five miles of the Sheboygan River. Below and right, Anton Pohl leads guided fishing trips at the wilderness preserve, where the catch includes large smallmouth bass
PERFECT
CASTING
“YOU DON’T GET THIS KIND of strength without fire.” Martha Stewart is describing Kohler’s manufacturing process in a new advertising campaign, but our first ever Cast Iron Ambassador could just as easily be describing herself. Propelled by her passion for hospitality of the highest order, this chef, homemaker, and all-round American icon has proved her resilience and irresistible appeal throughout a remarkable 55-year career.
e ad sees a workwear-clad Martha striding purposefully through the Kohler foundry, pausing to admire gleaming bathtubs on our assembly lines and watch white-hot metal being poured into a mold. “Enameled cast iron is a material I use every day throughout my home. It speaks to heritage, function, and enduring beauty,” she says. “It is with great pleasure I continue my work as Kohler Cast Iron Ambassador with this new campaign, which captures the drama and flourish inherent in this masterful process.”
In a previous advertisement, she posed in front of a green bathtub with four Friesian horses at her stable in Bedford, New York—a nod to the pivotal moment in 1883 when our founder, John Michael Kohler, transformed a cast-iron horse trough into an enameled bath.
Appropriately enough, in the year that saw the reissue of her breakthrough book, Entertaining, which has sold more than one million copies since it was first published back in 1982, Martha was among the headliners at Kohler Food & Wine last October. One of the highlights was a fireside chat where she shared stories from her colorful career and discussed the joys of seasonal living, alongside Richard Christiansen of the luxury Los Angeles lifestyle brand Flamingo Estate, also a Kohler partner.
Martha then showcased her inimitable hosting style and delicious ingredient-driven recipes at an intimate five-course wine dinner in the atmospheric setting of the sensitively restored, century-old Kohler Stables. e oysters casino went down particularly well with her 77 guests, as did her much-celebrated bread baskets, brimming, on this occasion, with flatbread, sour
“Martha personifies quality, design, and what it means to live a gracious lifestyle.”
cherry focaccia, and Parker House rolls. “ e enthusiasm people bring to Kohler is so special,” Martha has said. “It’s an audience that really loves good food, good wine, and good conversation.”
According to the company’s chair and CEO, David Kohler, Martha “personifies quality, design, and what it means to live a gracious lifestyle—making her the perfect partner to help us celebrate the extraordinary character of Kohler Cast Iron.”
For those keen to follow Martha into the Kohler factory (overalls optional), the Industry in Action tour offers a remarkable opportunity to witness the production process behind our bathtubs, toilets, tiles, and bathroom sinks. Guided and narrated by our knowledgeable retired employees, the tour takes in the ancient art of firing clay in the pottery and the multimilliondollar machinery that moves molten metals around the foundry. “A true American original,” Martha remarks approvingly after her visit in the ad. We’re delighted to return the compliment. For more information about the factory tour, please call the Kohler Design Center on 920-457-3699.
A CUT ABOVE
THEY TAKE THEIR BEEF SERIOUSLY IN THE MIDWESTWHICH MEANS THE STEAKS ARE HIGH WHEN IT COMES TO SERVING UP THE FINEST CUTS IN THE LAND, FROM PREMIUM BLACK ANGUS TO WAGYU
PICANHA
AROUND THE WORLD, there are a handful of places synonymous with steak. Beef from La Pampa, Argentina; Kobe, Japan; and Hereford, Texas might all have their claims to fame, but in our book some of the finest cuts in the world are produced right here in the Midwest. e region has long been known for its excellent beef, due to an abundance of quality pasture for cattle ranching and a strong tradition of grain and feed production. Steak is taken very seriously—nowhere more so than here at e Wisconsin Room.
“If you’re coming to the Midwest, you’re going to want to eat beef from the Midwest,” says Alex Dorn, Senior Director of Food and Beverage at Kohler Hospitality. “ e Wisconsin Room has been a bona-fide steakhouse for just over a year now, and we pride ourselves on sourcing all of our meat from farms within the Midwest Corn Belt.”
Typically, that will be from award-winning suppliers that include Meats by Linz and their farm in Byars, Oklahoma, and Creekstone Farms. With meat so tender, rich, and flavorsome, our chefs are not having to reinvent
the wheel. Classic cuts such as a prime bone-in ribeye, filet mignon, 35-day dry-aged boneless New York strip, and the prime porterhouse for two have proven to be bestsellers, especially among groups of hungry golfers. Of course, how one likes their steak cooked is a matter of preference, but in the Midwest there is a style.
“ e Midwest do their steaks the way they do their steaks,” grins Alex. “ ey will either do it the traditional French way in a sauté pan with that wonderful butter toss—for a filet, say, something that requires a really hot sear to lock in that flavour. Or, if you’re cooking a steak with a higher fat content, you’re going to want to throw it on the grill to allow a little drip-through.”
For something more special, perhaps, we also serve the Kagoshima Kuroge A5—four ounces of Japanese Wagyu with a beef marbling score of 11, which Alex believes doesn’t need anything in terms of preparation. “We let the product speak for itself,” he says.
A quick lesson on grading Wagyu beef: the yield grade (A-C) assesses the amount of red meat versus outer fat, with A being the best. e quality grade (1-5) judges the overall quality of the beef, with 5 being the highest. And the beef marbling score (112) measures the density and distribution of intramuscular fat or marbling. It doesn’t get much better than the Kuroge, then.
Meanwhile, the skewer of Wagyu picanha is a beautiful dish that is unique to e Wisconsin Room. “ is time it’s an Australian A5 Wagyu Coulotte that is skewered and then carved tableside like it would be in a Brazilian churrascaria,” says Joshua Wolter, Manager of Food and Beverage at e American Club. “Like our short rib, the picanha is cooked for 48 hours at 66 degrees, and grilled before serving to give it that amazing carbon flavor. It’s always perfectly medium rare from side to side. Paired with our Minnesota wild rice or our super-popular duckfat-fried Kennebec potato wedges, you’re in for a real treat.”
As for the most Wisconsin dish on the menu—well, it’s the walleye, of course.
“If you’re coming to the Midwest, you’re going to want to eat beef from the Midwest,”
Opposite, the Creekstone prime porterhouse for two demonstrates why Midwest beef is best; Above, the house special, duck fat Parker House rolls; Left, well-appointed interiors await guests at The Wisconsin Room
THAT’S the SPIRIT
THE WINERY BAR’S INNOVATIVE LIST OF COCKTAILS COMBINES GLOBAL INSPIRATION WITH LOCAL FLAVOR, ALL SERVED UP WITH THEATRICAL FLAIR
THE TEAM AT THE WINERY BAR has spent months polishing and perfecting its new elevated cocktail list—and that work has most certainly paid off. “ e idea was to create a menu that takes elements of Wisconsin and elements of Kohler, and combines them with the world’s best bars,” says Alex Dorn, Senior Director of Food and Beverage at Kohler Hospitality. “We’ve tried to introduce big flavors that are currently trending, but aimed to blend them in ways that are unique and different.”
Taking inspiration from legendary cocktail bars such as Overstory in New York, as well as young upstarts like Panda & Sons in Edinburgh, Scotland, Alex says the aim is to be known as serving the best cocktails in the whole of Wisconsin. is starts by being the only bar
with various sought-after spirits—Michter’s 20-year-old bourbon, Blanton’s Gold Edition whiskey, and a stock-pile of Chartreuse, for example—but much of the genuine invention has gone into the homemade syrups, infusions, and clarifications. Alex is particularly excited about the new pine-needle syrup, which gives a lovely herbaceous freshness, and the avocadopit orgeat, both of which, he says, you won’t find anywhere else.
“ ere will also be a lot more showmanship now,” he says. “We’ll be infusing cocktails tableside with smoke guns and flavor blasters, and really adding a level of entertainment that you wouldn’t find at our other bars. If you’re serious about cocktails, this is where you’d come.”
The Golden Hour
• 1.5oz Tequila Ocho Reposado
• 1oz Mr. Black coffee liqueur
• 0.5oz demerara syrup
• 3 dashes chocolate bitters
• 1oz fresh espresso
The Black Diamond
• 1.5oz e Botanist Gin
• 0.5oz St-Germain
• 0.5oz Aperol
• 0.25oz Carpano Antica
• 0.25oz Campari
• 0.25oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 dash Peychaud’s Bitters
Wilder Verse
• 2 dashes Bolivar Bittercube Bitters
• 1 bar spoon yuzu juice
• 0.25oz e Bitter Truth Golden Falernum
• 0.25oz Galliano aperitif
• 0.25oz Giffard Orgeat
• 0.50oz lemon juice
• 1.25oz Giffard Banane du Bresil
• 2 drops St. George Absinthe Verte
Right, The Winery Bar stocks a selection of rare and sought-after spirits, such as The Boss Hog straight rye whiskey
HEARD IT ON THE GRAPEVINE
DISCOVER LITTLEKNOWN MAKERS AND BOUTIQUE VINEYARDS ON A LIST THAT PRIDES ITSELF ON BEING THE BEST IN THE STATE
“OUR GOAL IS TO HAVE the best winelist in the state of Wisconsin,” says Alex Dorn, Senior Director of Food and Beverage at Kohler Hospitality, matter of factly. He’s referring to the menu at e Immigrant Winery, an Award of Excellence recipient from Wine Spectator for having some of the finest bottlings the world has to offer. “And it’s only going to get bigger and better,” he adds. “We’re hoping to become the first restaurant in the region to receive three glasses from Wine Spectator.” Which would be no small feat—only 97 restaurants worldwide have ever received the so-called Grand Award.
Perhaps what sets our list apart is the strong focus on lesser-known and boutique wineries, especially throughout the US. A prime example is Roots Wine Co. in Oregon. Of course, we might be slightly biased given that Chris Berg,
the winemaker there, is originally from Racine, Wisconsin, but the wine speaks for itself. And, given how quickly his dinners sell out at Kohler Food & Wine, it’s safe to say we’re not alone in appreciating his work.
“My style of winemaking combines trying to keep a sense of place with the traditions of the Old World,” says Chris from his vineyard near Yamhill, Oregon. “I don’t use enzymes or artificial yeast or anything that isn’t found in nature. Basically, I’m trying to minimize my input. I’ve never been a big fan of the trophy wine mentality. Rather, I was raised thinking wine should be something that’s simply enjoyed with food.”
at’s not to say there’s anything modest about his wine. Quite the opposite, in fact. “Some of Chris’s best, most sought-after wines are very minimally produced,” says
Joshua Wolter, Manager of Food & Beverage Operations at e American Club, noting that a number of those wines are named after towns in Wisconsin: “Racine, the estate’s pinot noir, is produced in limited runs of three barrels; Sheboygandy, a play on Sheboygan and burgundy, is only produced every few years. And Green Bay-jolais, a play on Green Bay and beaujolais, is the result of a joke between the two of us a few years ago. He’ll likely be making a high-end private label for us in the near future, too.”
“ ose names are a little tongue in cheek,” says Chris, “but they’re serious wines. e whole wine business can be quite uptight, but as far as I’m concerned, whatever your profession, you should be able to have fun with it.” We’ll certainly drink to that—and hopefully some of that informality shows in our wine list.
Left, Chris Berg and his wife, Hilary, of Roots Wine Co., which supplies The Immigrant Winery with exceptional bottles named after local towns
250
years of LIFE, LIBERTY, and the PURSUIT of HAPPINESS
THE AMERICAN CLUB WILL BE AT THE HEART OF KOHLER’S CELEBRATIONS THIS 4TH OF JULY, BRINGING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY AND GUESTS TOGETHER TO MARK TWOANDAHALF CENTURIES OF INDEPENDENCE
THE AMERICAN CLUB was at the center of Walter J. Kohler’s vision for the area now known as the Village of Kohler. True to his belief that “a worker deserves not only wages, but roses as well,” he built a Tudor-style redbrick residence, which, from its opening in 1918, offered 250 single male employees the opportunity to rent a private room for just $27.50 a month. is included a laundry service, three meals per day, and regular hot showers—an unimaginable luxury for those who had grown up in rural areas.
Many of those workers were immigrants from Holland, Germany, Austrian Russia, and other locations far and wide, and the name of e American Club was chosen to foster “a love for their adopted country.” It certainly created camaraderie and social cohesion, as the residents enjoyed its bowling alley, bakery, barbershop, billiard room, and, after the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, beers in the Tap Room. It also offered invaluable lessons in American citizenship and the English language.
As we approach the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, around Kohler Village there’s a palpable sense of excitement but also reflection. “ ose early factory workers really were the exemplification
of the American Dream,” says Justin Gephart, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Kohler Hospitality. “For Walter J. Kohler, the dormitory and the redbrick homes were never an income generator. ey were simply a way to help build this great nation, to weave the fabric of America.”
e celebrations around Kohler on the 4th of July will serve to highlight that pride, bringing the local community and resort guests together in a melting pot of Americana. “ e programming is designed to evoke those childhood memories of the 4th of July,” says Justin. “Only this isn’t a romanticized version, it’s exactly how it always is here—American flags on every flagpole, baskets of fresh flowers everywhere, cotton candy, face paint, popsicles, and, of course, fireworks.”
Like many locals, Justin says his day will start at the parade in downtown Sheboygan. High-school marching bands, drum lines, dance teams, and elaborate floats will make their way down to Lake Michigan. ere will be picnics, touch football, cookouts, and visits to icecream parlors. Local insider tip: head to Sports Core Beach for a swim and some lakeside relaxation. It’s a family-friendly spot with
calm waters and plenty of space to unwind. Meanwhile, throughout the 4th of July weekend, there will be lots happening around the resort, especially on the lawn in front of e American Club, including a themed barbecue, Movie Night Under e Stars (bring a blanket; we’ll provide the popcorn), and some of the best seats for the fireworks.
“ ere’s a tradition in the village that sees everyone gather at the bowl in Ravine Park as the sun begins to set,” says Justin. “A John Philip Sousa group plays on the bandstand. It’s the perfect way to round out an incredible, wholesome day before heading back over to e American Club for the fireworks. And, given the occasion, this year will be better than ever.”
When WOODLAKE MARKET comes HOME
SO MUCH MORE THAN JUST A PLACE TO BUY GROCERIES OUR CHERISHED FOOD EMPORIUM AND COMMUNITY HUB REOPENS AFTER A STUNNING RENOVATION
THERE WILL BE A collective exhale in Kohler Village come June. After months of anticipation—the kind that builds quietly over morning coffee, school pickup lines and chance encounters on the walking paths—Woodlake Market will reopen its doors, transformed.
“It’s such a central hub of our community, and we have all missed it tremendously during the renovation,” says Nina Kohler, who leads design and strategy for the Kohler hospitality group and has poured her considerable vision into reimagining what the market could be.
She would know. Nina lives this community. She and her husband, David, Kohler Co.’s Chair and CEO, raised their family here, in a village where the rhythms of daily life still hold—where children ride their bikes to pick up a carton of milk, where neighbors linger
over coffee and put the world to rights, where Kohler associates stop by between meetings, as naturally as breathing. “Kids ride their bikes over here, just as our kids did and generations of Kohler kids before them,” she says. “ at continuity matters deeply to us.”
What Nina has set out to create is something increasingly rare: a place that honors the texture of everyday life while elevating it. e new Woodlake Market is conceived as a food hall of gracious beauty and genuine purpose—a space where the quotidian errand becomes, if you let it, a small pleasure. William Morris, the English designer whose ideas helped inspire the original Kohler Village, put it plainly: have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful. It is a philosophy that feels almost radical in its
“It is a food hall of gracious beauty and genuine purpose where the quotidian errand becomes a small pleasure.”
simplicity, and it is the animating spirit behind every decision made here.
e market will gather under one roof a cheesemonger, a wine shop, a butcher, a baker, the beloved Kohler Chocolates, a deli, an artisan pizza house, and a pasta store. Locally sourced and organic produce will stock the shelves wherever possible. Chef demonstrations, popup vendors, and seasonal celebrations will give neighbors and guests alike reason to linger, to discover, to return.
Because Woodlake Market was never meant to serve only one kind of visitor. Guests arriving at e American Club or the Inn on Woodlake will find here a different entry point into Kohler’s character—a place to meet a local producer, to bring home a wedge of something wonderful, to feel, if only briefly, like a resident rather than a traveler. “When our guests come, they can participate in the community,” Nina says. “ at’s what is so special.”
It is a vision rooted in something she returns to again and again: the idea of gracious living not as luxury for its own sake, but as a kind of generosity—toward neighbors, toward visitors, toward the land itself. “ e quality of life here, the strong sense of community, the walking trails, the schools, the access to nature—it really is a unique place,” she says. “We have a mission to be great stewards of this environment we feel so grateful to have.”
Woodlake Market, in its new incarnation, is stewardship made tangible. A beautiful, useful, deeply considered place. A village market, in the oldest and finest sense of the phrase.
“We want to feed the soul,” Nina says, “in every aspect.”
The new-look Woodlake Market is designed to be as beautiful as it is useful, offering everyday essentials alongside specialty produce
LAY of the LAND
How to DESIGN a GOLF COURSE with SOUL
FOR KOHLER’S NEW 14HOLER, PUREBRED FARM, GOLF ARCHITECTS KING COLLINS DORMER TOOK INSPIRATION FROM THE SPORT’S GOLDEN AGE
WHEN GOLF ARCHITECT ROB COLLINS sat down to devise the layout for Purebred Farm, a new 14-hole course that will open at Kohler, Wisconsin in August 2027, it’s fair to say that big driving distances were low on his list of priorities. “We want this course to have a soul to it, where it’s not just plugging numbers into the computer,” he explains. “We want people to come out and hit golf shots.”
As the designer behind Sweetens Cove in Tennessee—acclaimed as one of the best nine-hole courses in the US—Rob has a track record for creating layouts that reward shrewd stroke play and a strong ground game rather than pure power hitting. His vision for Purebred Farm is of “a strategic shot-making paradise. It’s going to be all about giving the right spot to get the best chance to score. ere’s going to be more than one answer of how to get around on each hole, and there’ll be a sense of discovery as you play.”
e new course is intended to complement Whistling Straits and Blackwolf Run while offering “something a little different, a little bit unique.” e most obvious difference, of course, is the number of holes, though Rob attributes that to “happenstance.” As he puts it: “We followed the land and went with what was given us.” e design brief was for a walkingonly course that could be played in a shorter time, and, he recalls, “we felt that we could do a really sporty, fun, interesting 14-hole course—there were just 14 great holes sitting out there.”
Rob, who cut his fairway-fashioning teeth working for Gary Player, is a founding member of King Collins Dormer Golf Course Design, which has courses in the pipeline from Utah to the Scottish Highlands and Tasmania. He has long been an advocate of working with the landscape, and there’s a palpable sense of excitement when he describes the Purebred Farm site, which will showcase several distinct types of terrain.
First up will be gently rolling ground that calls to mind the natural Midwest prairie; then, past the Tomczyk Cabin, players will wind their way around what was once an active farming area. e middle and latter holes will be constructed around “heaving contours that were left by glaciers eons ago—it looks like waves on the land,” before the final holes return to the savannah style. Rob describes the project as a “found golf course. It’ll look like we laid a green carpet down on top of the existing terrain.”
is “minimalist, low-impact approach” is influenced by the great course architects of the Golden Age—legendary designers such as A. W. Tillinghast, Donald Ross, Alister MacKenzie, and Harry Colt. “ ey were known for working with the land that they had, but they were also not afraid to take some risks, to test the boundaries at times.” King Collins Dormer also draws inspiration from modern master Pete Dye, the creator of Whistling Straits, whose innovations included the introduction of fine fescue grass to American fairways in 1998.
“We’re going to have all fescue in the fairways at Purebred Farm, so the ground game will be a big part of it,” says Rob, who is enjoying working with Kohler Co.’s “excellent agronomic team” under Chris Zugel now that the course is under construction: “Getting to build a golf course with fine fescue turf, which is the ultimate playing surface, allows us to really lean into these Golden Age principles and to add a few little quirks that maybe some of those guys would have done.”
Rob’s aim at Purebred Farm is to create a “really interesting second-shot golf course and recovery shot golf course. When you come off, you’re going to want to go right back to the first tee and try it again, because you will learn little tricks the first time around that you’d like to employ to your benefit the second or third, or fourth time around. at’s the ultimate compliment for a golf course, and it’s what we’re trying to build.”
“There’ll be a sense of discovery as you play. When you come off, you’re going to want to go right back to the first tee and try it again.”
Rob Collins
Previous page and above, plans for Purebred Farm, due to open in August 2027, are taking shape. Below, course designer Rob Collins
MORE ROOM AT THE INN
DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND, INN ON WOODLAKE IS UNDERGOING AN EXTENSIVE RENOVATION, MAKING WAY FOR ADDITIONAL ROOMS AND SUITES, AND A STATEOFTHEART ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
IT’S BEEN OVER 30 YEARS since our boutique hotel, Inn on Woodlake, first opened its doors. And in response to the continued demand, work has begun on a three-story expansion that will introduce 66 additional guest rooms and suites, alongside a new immersive social hub. Outdoor enhancements, meanwhile, will include a new hotel entrance, landscaping, tree plantings, and a spacious stone-paved promenade and patio along Wood Lake.
is expansion will mark another milestone in Kohler’s ever-evolving hospitality portfolio, further elevating the guest experience and strengthening the region’s tourism landscape. Recently completed projects that coincide with this revitalization include the refreshed Kohler Waters Spa, e Greenhouse garden café inside e American Club, upgrades at Whistling Straits, and the debut of e Lost Sheep food truck.
e expansion will bring the hotel’s total room count to 203, including two- and four-bedroom suites, but excitement is really starting to build around its new entertainment center, known as Bucks & Birdies. Designed for both guests and locals, the space will feature golf and F1 racing simulators, duck-pin bowling, darts, a beautiful new pub/restaurant, and outdoor activities, such as an expanded putting green and live music. e entertainment center will be housed on the main level of the new space and the additional guest rooms located on the three floors above.
“Guests travel from around the world to play our legendary courses at Whistling Straits and Blackwolf Run, to unwind in the tranquility of our Forbes Five-Star Kohler Waters Spa, and to savor exceptional dining and one-of-a-kind seasonal events,” said Nina Kohler, Strategy and Design Consultant for Kohler Hospitality. “ e reimagined Inn on Woodlake and its new entertainment district give us the chance to go further— creating lively, inclusive spaces that bring fresh energy to the resort while fostering a stronger sense of belonging for our guests, Kohler associates, and village residents alike.” e work is due to be completed by June 2027.
Left, from top: renders of the refreshed Inn at Woodlake, Kohler’s boutique hotel, and Bucks & Birdies, the new entertainment center
HAVE a FIELD DAY
AS THE SEASONS CHANGE, SO DOES FLORA FIELDS, AS IT USHERS IN A NEW PROGRAM OF FAMILYFRIENDLY ENTERTAINMENT
IT’S BEEN A LABOR OF LOVE but Flora Fields has now firmly taken root as one of our more popular attractions here at Kohler. e landscaping team’s horticultural heroics have transformed a barren stretch of land halfway between Kohler Village and Whistling Straits into one of the resort’s most picturesque settings, one that quite literally brings the seasons to life.
In spring, 240,000 Darwin tulips burst into bloom. And as the evenings start to become warmer, these two acres of floral splendor provide the perfect backdrop for a glass of wine or champagne, with some of our favorite local musicians providing the soundtrack. ere’s plenty to keep the kids entertained, too, from board games to arts and crafts. Needless to say, it’s a popular attraction around Mother’s Day when the promise of cutting your own bouquet of tulips adds an additional charm.
By fall, the tulips have made way for fields of golden sunflowers, and our nine-acre corn maze is once again tall enough to get lost in (hopefully not for too long). By our estimations, it should take around 30 minutes to get to the center point and back again, providing you don’t get too caught up in the activities along the way. A quick game of checkers might make it more like an hour, so take an apple cider in with you, just in case.
Kids love the Hay Fort with its big slide (as do many of their parents), and there’s something spectacular about walking through a house made of pumpkins—you can even bring your dog, too. Again, we have an exciting line-up of live music, and some new workshops including apple juicing and flower pressing. e team will be serving some delicious seasonal snacks, and a few of our favorite local vendors will be setting up shop, too. For a refreshing dose of Midwestern goodness, there really is no better place.
“In spring, 240,000 Darwin tulips burst into bloom.”
GARDEN art WALK
WE’VE ALWAYS SAID that artistic expression is woven into the landscape here at Kohler. For the most part, we’re referring to the works of art born from over 50 years of the Arts/ Industry residency program that have come to rest around the village. ere’s Marilyn Lysohir’s monumental bear sculpture, e Last Immigrant, outside the Main Office; Michael Bishop’s enormous head of a toddler, Waiting for Titus, on Highland Drive; and Gregory Kline’s Blindfolded bust on Woodlake Walk. ere are more than 50 such works—metal sculptures that have come to define the artistic output of Kohler’s foundry— dotted around the site, cleverly curated by Arts/ Industry alumnus Michelle Grabner. Starting with Stephen Paul Day’s aptly named e Immigrant outside e American Club and finishing with Steven Bradford’s Untitled totem at Sports Core, the Arts/Industry walking tour should be enjoyed over the course of a morning or afternoon, in the same way one might peruse a dedicated sculpture park. Stopping halfway for chocolate is also advised.
28
BEHIND EVERY GREAT ROUND
MEET MALCOLM WOWK, THE MAN SHAPING UNFORGETTABLE GOLF JOURNEYS IN THE HOME OF GOLF
IF YOU GROW UP IN ST ANDREWS, golf is not something you discover. It’s something you absorb. For Malcolm Wowk, Head of Golf Concierge at the Old Course Hotel, the game has been woven through life as naturally as the wind sweeping over the links. “I’ve always been surrounded by golf,” he says. “It becomes part of your DNA.”
Malcolm’s earliest memories trace back to childhood weekends and school holidays on the nine-hole Balgove Course, made possible by the Links Ticket scheme, which gives local children free access to the town’s courses. But the moment that truly sparked his love for the game came in 1995 at his first Open Championship. “I was nine years old, standing by the 18th green of the Old Course with my dad, when Costantino Rocca made that incredible putt from the Valley of Sin to force a playoff with John Daly,” he recalls. “I can still see it now. From that moment, I was hooked.”
Malcolm’s professional journey began at St Andrews Links in 2010, working as a starter and ranger on the Old Course. Standing on that famous first tee each day gave him a new
appreciation for the place he had always called home. “Seeing how excited and emotional people were to play here made me understand just how special this town really is,” he says.
After seven years, he moved to e Duke´s as Head Starter before joining the Old Course Hotel as Head of Golf Concierge, where he has spent the past five years. “I get to talk about golf and St Andrews all day,” he says happily. “It’s the perfect job for me.”
Shaping unforgettable golf trips
No two days at work are the same for Malcolm. Mornings start early, greeting guests at 7am as they collect their clubs, buzzing with anticipation for the course they are about to play. Some arrive with guaranteed Old Course tee times as part of premium packages, but many rely on Malcolm and his team to navigate the area’s world-class golf offerings.
At the heart of that support is the famous Old Course Ballot. “We submit entries for all hotel
guests two days before they hope to play,” he explains. “Success rates vary. In winter, we might see about 40 percent, but the average across the year is closer to 15 percent. St Andrews and the game of golf have never been more popular and the ballot reflects this.”
For guests who want certainty, Malcolm points to the hotel’s Suite Golf Package. “It’s the closest thing to the perfect dream trip,” he says. “Luxury suites, incredible dining, spa access, and confirmed rounds at the region’s best courses, including one on the Old Course. It takes away all the stress.”
But even when the ballot doesn’t fall in a guest’s favour, unforgettable golf is never far away. “We are spoiled here,” Malcolm says. “Kingsbarns, Dumbarnie, the Old, New, Castle and Carnoustie—nowhere else in the world has so many outstanding golf courses so close together.”
Beyond organising tee times, the Golf Services team arranges caddies, transfers, rental equipment, club cleaning, golf luggage shipping, and complimentary shuttles to the driving range. “Some guests want to play one round per day
and then dissect their game in e Jigger over a pint. Others play 36 holes a day and want to just golf, golf, golf! Our job is to make every moment feel seamless.”
As the week unfolds, relationships build. “By the end of a trip, guests are calling you by your first name, recalling memorable shots of the week, asking about your own golf and sharing a golfing tale or two. at connection when you know you have been a part of the guest’s experience is really the best part of the job.”
“The buzz during the Open is electric —the whole town comes alive.”
Championship magic
St Andrews transforms during the Open Championship, and Malcolm has experienced the thrill three times. “ e atmosphere is electric,” he says. “In 2022, about 300,000 visitors came to St Andrews. ere is a real buzz around the whole town.”
e Old Course Hotel becomes the official base and Championship Hotel for players, officials, and the R&A. Sitting beside the 17th fairway, our building actually falls inside the ropes. “It’s surreal. Staff are given ticket access and you feel like you’re right in the heart of the championship. While we are working, the next Open Champion is driving his tee shot over our heads!”
And with e Open returning to the Old Course in 2027, Malcolm is already anticipating another unforgettable week. “It’s the biggest moment on the golfing calendar, the oldest and greatest major, and having it back here is something everyone is excited about.”
For help crafting your dream golf itinerary in the Home of Golf, contact the team on golfservices@oldcoursehotel.co.uk
Malcolm’s TOP FIVE St Andrews Courses
1. THE OLD COURSE
Nothing compares. From the moment you walk onto that first tee, surrounded by the town, you feel as if you have rewound the clock back to the time when this great game was created. Every hole tells a story and offers something different. e feeling you get when you play here is indescribable.
2. KINGSBARNS LINKS
I love how this course hugs the Fife coast and boasts some very picturesque holes while remaining playable to all levels of golfers. Hard to beat for scenery and experience!”
3. THE NEW COURSE
A very fair test of golf where I have spent many summer’s evenings after work. Designed by Old Tom Morris in 1895, this is a classic Scottish links course with lots of well-positioned pot bunkers and fast-rolling fairways.
4. THE CASTLE COURSE
Dramatic, modern, and stunning. e views over St Andrews Bay are incredible and the holes are as memorable as the backdrop.
5. STRATHTYRUM COURSE
I grew up on this course, and it still has a special place in my heart. e only place I’ve had a hole in one on the deceptively difficult sixth. Guests always laugh when I tell them, but it genuinely means a lot to me!
Below, the legendary Old Course in the heart of St Andrews. Opposite, from left, Malcolm Wowk, Head of Golf Concierge at the Old Course Hotel; the iconic Swilcan Bridge on the 18th hole of the Old Course
A TRIUMPHANT RETURN
SIX YEARS AFTER HIS FIRST ARTS/INDUSTRY RESIDENCY, MEXICANAMERICAN ARTIST SALVADOR JIMÉNEZFLORES RETURNED TO THE KOHLER FOUNDRY TO EXTEND WHAT HE CALLS ‘THE UNBROKEN CHAIN OF SHARED KNOWLEDGE’
“One of the key attractions is learning from everyone in the factory at all different levels.”
FOUNDED BY SIBLINGS Ruth DeYoung Kohler II and Herbert Vollrath Kohler, Jr. in 1974, the Arts/Industry residency program is a collaboration between the John Michael Kohler Arts Center and Kohler Co. that has given more than 600 artists the opportunity to expand their creative practice—with a little help from the artisans who work in our factory day-to-day. As part of their application for the program, the artists must outline how they hope to explore new ways of working in clay or metal, using the industrial materials and equipment on hand in the Kohler Co. factory’s pottery and foundry. e result is a remarkable collection of artwork involving forms and concepts beyond the scope of what can be created in a conventional studio.
Among the latest group of resident artists is Salvador Jiménez-Flores, an associate professor in ceramics at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, who previously participated in the program in 2019, and who has relished the chance to return to the foundry. As he explained at a recent talk at the John Michael Kohler Arts Center in Sheboygan, one of the key attractions is learning “from everyone in the factory, at all different levels.”
An educator as well as an artist, Salvador describes one of his key goals as “creating an unbroken chain of shared knowledge.” Born and raised in Jalisco, Mexico, he explores topics such as the politics of identity and migration in witty, thought-provoking, and sometimes provocative drawings, ceramics, prints, and mixed-media sculptures. e work ranges from his delightful ceramic self-portraits as a human/cactus hybrid to the 18ft by 89ft mural that he recently unveiled at Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton,
New Jersey, which explores 250 years of the United States of America.
Heritage and cultural identity have played a key role in Salvador’s current Arts/Industry residency. Among his latest creations are striking contemporary versions of the hand-woven petate, a mat used since Aztec times for sleeping and sitting on, or as a burial shroud. With expert help from the Kohler technicians, he has translated this traditional form into vivid blue iron, with sinuous snakes slithering across the “fabric.” His interest in the petate sparked an unexpected connection with the past when he shared a post about it on social media: “One of my aunts got in touch to say, ‘You know your grandmother used to weave those forms?’”
Following his first residency in the Kohler foundry, Salvador won the prestigious Richard Hunt Award for Camiñantes (meaning “wayfarers”), a moving public sculpture in cast bronze and Corten steel that commemorates the long journeys undertaken by migrants and that stands, as he says, “as a memorial for those who didn’t make it to their journey.”
Camiñantes can be seen in the Little Village neighborhood of Chicago, known as the “Mexico of the Midwest,” and Salvador was touched to discover how much it resonated with residents. “I started seeing people placing objects or saints into it,” he recalls. “For me, that was the best collaboration with that community.” To take this idea further—and to extend the “unbroken chain of shared knowledge” in which his Arts/Industry residencies have played a crucial role—Salvador plans to run workshops in creating charms when he creates a version of Camiñantes for the city of Boston this spring.
Insider SCOOP
WHAT TO EAT, SEE, PLAY, AND ENJOY WHILE YOU’RE STAYING WITH US
AN AFTERNOON TO REMEMBER
Enjoy the relaxed formality of Afternoon Tea at e Wisconsin Room, where heritage and elegance combine seamlessly. We’ve put a Wisconsin twist on the traditional English approach, with fewer scones and finger sandwiches, and more homemade pastries and delicate savory bites such as Old Bay poached shrimp tart and coronation chicken on brioche. But good conversation and a perfectly brewed cup of tea, served in bone china, are always on the menu—unless there’s cause for celebration, in which case bubbles are a welcome addition.
POPPING BOTTLES
For pre-dinner theater and an aperitif rolled into one, head down to e Wisconsin Room at 3pm on Saturdays for its sabrage master class. One of our sommeliers will demonstrate how to remove the tops from bottles of champagne with a sword fit for a dashing hussar, before inviting you to do the same. Accounts vary, but some swear Napoleon Bonaparte was the first person to saber champagne; others say it was his light cavalry, the hussars, or perhaps even Madame Clicquot, who certainly knew her way around a bottle of bubbly. Whatever the truth, it’s a surefire way to begin an evening in style.
TEE TIME TREATS
e Lost Sheep food truck can usually be found parked next to the first tee at e Baths of Blackwolf Run, but it has been known to make appearances elsewhere around the resort. As well as providing delicious snacks—think beer-battered french fries, smash burgers, and chop salads—it’s a vital pit stop, offering the opportunity to refresh and refuel at the most critical time. Or, if the situation demands, the chance to share some words of encouragement. For, as we all know, there’s nothing quite like an ice cream sandwich to calm the nerves.
TAILGATING
ere’s no better way to get fully into the Green-and-Gold spirit than with the VIP Tailgating Experience at Lodge Kohler. Every home game, we bring out couches, chairs, high-top tables, and TVs for guests to soak up the pregame excitement. From the tailgate, you have an unobstructed view of Lambeau Field, while still being able to feel the energy building in Titletown just 50 yards away. We’ll be serving cheese curds and brats (two of Wisconsin’s most celebrated local delicacies), caviar devilled eggs, wings and sliders. Plus, it’s an open bar for the duration of the three-hour tailgating window.
CALENDAR
FEBRUARY TO SEPTEMBER 2026
FEBRUARY 27MARCH 1; APRIL 1012; OCTOBER 1618, 2026
Wellness Retreats
Embark on a two-night rejuvenating journey that blends revitalizing spa treatments, meditations, outdoor activities, and more. Expect a lasting sense of calm and serenity—just what the doctor ordered. For more information, please visit kohlerwisconsin.com
MARCH 1315, 2026
Kohler Presents:
Jackson Family Wines
This event, part of the Kohler Presents Series, is for wine lovers. Join us for a weekend of tastings, handson demonstrations, pairings, and a special dinner in partnership with one of our favourite California wineries.
APRIL 35, 2026
Easter Programming
Create new traditions together over the holiday weekend. Our full schedule of family fun packs in an Eggstraordinary egg hunt and a kid-approved Bunny Brunch. And look out for the Easter Bunny hopping around the resort.
APRIL 1012, 2026
Kohler Presents: Whiskies of the World
This event, part of the Kohler Presents Series, will spotlight some of the finest whiskies from around the world. There will be tastings and pairings, capped off with a whiskeyinspired dinner on Saturday evening.
MAY 13, 2026
Kohler Presents: Forest Feast
Part of the Kohler Presents Series, this event will feature a New York Times best-selling author taking guests on a journey through cooking classes, watercolor painting, and more.
MAY 810, 2026
Mother’s Day Programming
Is a day really enough to show your mother how much she means to you?
This year at Kohler, we’re making a weekend of it. There’ll be plenty of champagne, loads of activities to keep your children entertained, and the opportunity to have your portrait taken among the tulips at Flora Fields.
MAY 2225 , 2026
Memorial Day Programming
Celebrate the unofficial start of summer at Kohler, Wisconsin, with a weekend of exceptional experiences, from live music and curated tastings to guided hikes and exclusive pop-up events.
JUNE 1921, 2026
Father’s Day Programming
Dad might tell you not to make a fuss, but he’ll love it when you do— especially if it means getting a few holes in. This year, we’re inviting the whole family to come and play at The Baths at Blackwolf Run®, our celebrated par-3 course, where there’ll be entertainment for all ages and maybe a few surprises.
JUNE 20, 2026
International Yoga Day
Join us on the lawn at The American Club for complimentary yoga, a farmers’ market pop-up, creative activities, henna, cotton candy, and a chance to connect with the local community. The morning on the lawn will include a special welcome from Ashley Kohler, Director of Wellness at Kohler, Wisconsin.
JULY 35, 2026
Independence Day Programming
Experience the magic of the Fourth of July in the beautiful Village of Kohler. Our historic resort offers the perfect blend of family-friendly fun and relaxation. Expect stars, stripes, and nostalgia by the boatload. And where better to raise a glass to our great nation than The American Club®?
SEPTEMBER 47, 2026
Labor Day Programming
Close out the season on a high with an unmissable end-of-summer celebration in Kohler. From sunflower strolls and stand-up paddleboarding to live music and outdoor experiences, Labor Day weekend brings together the best of the season in one village.
NOVEMBER 2629, 2026
Thanksgiving Programming
We invite you and your loved ones to a heart-warming Thanksgiving in the finest Midwest tradition. Join us in celebrating all weekend long, starting with our annual tree-lighting ceremony—at which we’ll be joined by Santa and his reindeer. There’ll also be Black Friday shopping, inspired dining, and a sackful of family-friendly activities.
DECEMBER 5 AND 6, 2026
Breakfast with Santa
The American Club® invites your family to experience a delightful event that celebrates the spirit of the season. Enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet, live music, games and a special visit from Saint Nick.
DECEMBER 2631, 2026
Christmas week
From the start of December, we’ll be getting into the Christmas spirit, gradually building to a festive crescendo. Highlights include Frozen Fairways, The Wisconsin Room’s storied seafood buffet, champagne sabrage, whiskey flights, carriage rides, cookie baking, and ice sculpture making.
DECEMBER 31, 2026
New Year’s Eve
Ring in 2025 with a magical escape to Kohler, Wisconsin’s very own winter wonderland. Let Frozen Fairways set the scene for an New Year’s Eve celebration to remember, with ice skating, fireworks, and champagne.
FEBRUARY 1315, 2027
Valentine’s Day weekend
Treat your loved one to a day of unforgettable moments that include a couple’s spa experience at Kohler Waters Spa, ice-skating at Frozen Fairways, and some very special (romantic) menus designed for two.
DIRECTORY
FIND A PERFECT BALANCE OF TRANQUILITY AND LUXURY, FROM WORLDCLASS GOLF AND LAVISH SPAS, TO EXQUISITE DINING, ALL WITHIN THE ELEGANCE OF OUR ACCOMMODATIONS.
LODGING
THE AMERICAN CLUB
Indulge in a destination that has epitomized gracious hospitality for more than 100 years. Nestled in the heart of Kohler, this resort offers a perfect blend of refined elegance and welcoming charm. Experience the ideal blend of transcendent luxury and a down-to-earth atmosphere, where every detail is thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and sophistication.
THE CARRIAGE HOUSE
Immerse yourself in an exquisite setting for your wellness retreat or extended weekend escape, with complimentary access to Yoga on the Lake and Bold Cycle and accommodations mere steps from Kohler Waters Spa. With a range of elegant room types, this location ensures an elevated experience. e rooftop, featuring an inviting fireplace lounge and hot tub, adds a breathtaking touch to your stay.
INN ON WOODLAKE
Discover a charming, luxuriously low-key retreat nestled along the serene shores of Wood Lake. Enjoy the relaxing tranquility of your own beach, nearby dining options, and a warm continental breakfast each morning. is retreat offers a blend of comfort and elegance that feels both inviting and invigorating.
Kohler Cabin Collection
Take a break from everyday life and unwind in one of five private cabins at Kohler, Wiconsin. Reconnect with nature as you immerse yourself in scenic water views and rustic wilderness. Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and invigoration, where every moment offers a luxurious retreat in an elegantly low-key and inviting setting.
ARSHAM CABIN
Nestled on a bluff, this private guest cabin entices you into Daniel Arsham’s enchanting artistic universe. Designed by Daniel himself, the cabin showcases the Landshapes collection, along with some of the unique and luxurious elements he cherishes in his own home. Surrounded by nature, this cozy and eclectic cabin invites you to unwind and immerse yourself in an artistic and tranquil retreat.
POND CABIN
Just south of Whistling Straits, set against a wooded valley and beside a quiet pond, an enticing private cabin awaits. is 1,200 sq ft sanctuary offers a blend of rustic charm and luxurious comfort. Dappled light seeps through picture-frame windows, and a spacious wooden porch invites you to enjoy the serene surroundings. is enthralling cabin promises a peaceful and rejuvenating retreat.
RED FOX CABIN
is enticing and spacious cabin nestled alongside the Sheboygan River offers a luxurious home away from home for family and friends. Situated on the outskirts of the Village of Kohler, the cozy retreat blends understated indulgence with rustic elegance. Experience the tranquility of nature and the delightful charm of the outdoors.
SANDHILL CABIN
Sandhill is an enticing and secluded retreat tucked within 350 acres of upland bird and pine tree heaven. is charming cabin, built of reclaimed timber from Wisconsin farms, exemplifies rustic elegance. It provides a captivating and intimate escape for those who appreciate being immersed in nature.
TOMCZYK CABIN
Tucked in the heart of River Wildlife’s expansive nature preserve, this enticing retreat offers an escape from modern conveniences and the chance to step back and experience life without electricity or running water. Whether warming yourself by the fire, reading in dappled sunlight, or simply basking in the Wisconsin wilderness, each moment reveals nature’s invigorating and restorative power.
Whether it’s a gourmet breakfast, a leisurely afternoon snack, or an elegant dinner, Kohler Hospitality offers an inviting array of dining experiences.
THE WISCONSIN ROOM
e menu rotates seasonally and is often enhanced by daily specials inspired by the current local harvests. You might delight in the rich flavors of local morels, wild ramps, spring lamb, and freshly caught fish from the Great Lakes in the spring. During the summer months, the chef might showcase wild strawberries, aromatic herbs, and a bountiful selection of freshly harvested local produce, each dish crafted to highlight the vibrant and enticing tastes of the season.
THE IMMIGRANT
Rich in character and historical elegance, the Immigrant is the premier fine-dining destination at Kohler, Wisconsin, with an array of options for guests to choose from. e restaurant features a five-course chef’s tasting menu that promises an enthralling culinary journey with modern dishes and optional wine pairings. ere is also a prix fixe menu, with a starter, entrée, and dessert selection. e casually opulent Winery Bar complements the experience with a limited à la carte menu, ensuring an unforgettable visit.
TAVERNE ON WOODLAKE
Step inside Taverne on Woodlake and you’ll be greeted by the enticing warmth of our wood-fired grill and the inviting glow of our refreshed dining room. Whether you’re a local catching up over craft brews or a visitor seeking a taste of community, Taverne on Woodlake provides a inviting setting for meaningful connections.
THE HORSE & PLOW
At the Horse & Plow, toasting is a cherished tradition, where stories flow freely, and joyous celebrations bring together friends, family, and even strangers who inevitably become friends. Originally known as the Tap Room, this cozy establishment has been a village gathering
place since 1924. We believe in enjoying the best of both worlds, refreshing our menu for modern tastes while preserving the historic atmosphere. Raise a glass and become part of our timeless story in this welcoming, low-key, festive setting.
RIVER WILDLIFE
River Wildlife’s Lodge Restaurant offers an exclusive dining experience in a rustic log cabin amid 500 acres of Wisconsin wilderness. Enjoy cozy dining areas with primitive wood furnishings and a fieldstone fireplace. e seasonal menu features fresh Midwestern fare such as walleye, pheasant, and duck. Warm, gracious service ensures an inclusive and luxurious experience.
WHISTLING STRAITS
With a scenic view of Lake Michigan and a rustic Irish farmhouse setting, Whistling Straits offers a tempting blend of innovative and classic cuisine with British influences. Signature dishes include potato leek soup infused with fine sherry, rack of lamb, and sticky toffee pudding. e menu features fresh Wisconsin produce and dairy, seafood from the coasts, and Midwestern-raised meats, all crafted to create an unforgettable dining experience.
BLACKWOLF RUN
With panoramic views of the Pete Dye-designed courses, this elevated American grill offers authentic and innovative regional cuisine. Settle in at a cozy table in front of the fieldstone fireplace or head outside to dine from the patio menu, as you enjoy views over the 18th greens of the River and Meadow Valleys courses. is alluring setting provides a relaxing and exhilarating experience, welcoming all guests.
IN ROOM DINING
In-room dining is available at e American Club 24 hours per day. Please call ext. 55699 to place an order
Kohler Golf Championships
e prestigious golf courses at Kohler, Wisconsin have proudly hosted three PGA Championships, two US Women’s Opens, a US Senior Open, and the 43rd Ryder Cup in 2021. e unique playing experiences at Blackwolf Run and Whistling Straits promise to be challenging, engaging, and, perhaps most importantly, fun.
WHISTLING STRAITS
Nestled along the Wisconsin coastline, e Straits and Irish Courses offer an authentic flavor of Ireland’s rugged beauty. With their links-style design, these golf courses present a thrilling challenge for top-tier players, while also providing a thoroughly enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels.
STRAITS
Architect Pete Dye
Opened 1998
Number of holes 18
Host of the 2004, 2010, 2015 PGA Championships, 2007 US Senior Open, and the 43rd Ryder Cup, the Straits is defined by its open, rugged and windswept terrain, sculpted along two miles of Lake Michigan shoreline.
IRISH
Architect Pete Dye
Opened 2000
Number of holes 18
Situated inland from the great lake lies the formidable Irish Course. Boasting dramatic mounding and strategically placed bunkering, this course offers a visually stunning and exhilarating challenge to golfers.
BLACKWOLF RUN
Blackwolf Run, established in 1988, heralded the beginning of top-tier golf in Wisconsin. Situated on breathtaking Wisconsin terrain perfectly suited for parkland-style courses, this championship-caliber golf destination was crafted by Pete Dye. His design ingeniously utilized the land shaped by glaciers centuries ago, resulting in an unparalleled and remarkable golf experience.
RIVER
Architect Pete Dye
Opened 1988
Number of holes 18
e River Course, which hosted the 1998 and 2012 US Women’s Opens, features several holes that hug the Sheboygan River, providing stunning views and a challenging experience amidst the natural beauty of central Wisconsin.
MEADOW VALLEYS
Architect Pete Dye
Opened 1989
Number of holes 18
Experience the challenge and beauty of e Meadow Valleys Course, which hosted the 1998 and 2012 US Women’s Opens. e front nine winds through a natural meadow, providing wide and windswept terrain, while the back nine takes players through a glacier valley with numerous elevation changes. It’s a truly enjoyable golf course to play!
THE BATHS
Architects Herb Kohler & Chris Lutzke
Opened 2021
Number of holes 10
Paying homage to Kohler Co.’s nearly 150year history of design excellence, e Baths features a 10-hole par 3 course, two-acre putting course, food and beverage service, and special event capability.
From five-star spa experiences and invigorating outdoor adventures to indoor cycling, fitness, yoga, and mindfulness practices, Kohler offers a captivatingly inclusive approach. Discover wellness your way in a setting that seamlessly blends luxury and vitality.
KOHLER WATERS SPA
Kohler Waters Spa offers freeing and rejuvenating experiences designed to help guests discover the natural, restorative power of earth’s mineral-rich waters. Conveniently located in e American Club, this luxuriously low-key spa makes it easy for guests to indulge in a nourishing treatment or an all-day immersion. Experience adventurous and relaxing water treatments and timeless renewing facial and body services. We aim to provide a vigorously calming escape at Kohler Waters Spa.
SPORTS CORE
Nestled on the serene shores of Wood Lake in Kohler, this private club has been a haven for its members and lodging guests of Kohler, Wisconsin for over 40 years. Renowned as one of the Midwest’s premier tennis and pickleball destinations, you’ll find a diverse range of amenities to utilize here. e Sports Core offers an invigorating yet relaxing array of activities, from swimming and tennis to group fitness classes, to pools and whirlpools, all designed to enhance your fitness and overall well-being.
BOLD CYCLE
At Bold Cycle, join a welcoming community of riders who get loud, sweaty, and fit together, driven by the high-energy enthusiasm of our instructors and the invigorating beats of our high-tech sound system. Experience the exhilarating journey as you push your limits and find motivation in every moment.
YOGA ON THE LAKE
Yoga on the Lake offers an inclusive private experience with more than 75 classes per week led by certified teachers. Set within the natural intimacy of Kohler, each class is an invitation to connect with a community of well-being to nurture mind, body, and soul in harmony. is inspired space, bathed in natural light, is imbued with an energy that comes from the shared experience of practicing yoga. Every session is crafted to foster an inviting and serene atmosphere that enhances your overall well-being.
RIVER WILDLIFE
Begin an unforgettable outdoor journey at River Wildlife, a 500-acre wilderness preserve, lavishly untamed and exclusively for members and lodging guests of Kohler with a purchased entry pass. Enjoy self-guided hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and cross-country skiing. Experience the outdoors in an intimately expansive and luxuriously low-key setting at River Wildlife.
WEDDINGS
Kohler, Wisconsin enchants couples with stunning backdrops, world- class services, and gracious spaces that exude romance. Exchange vows overlooking the soothing shores of Lake Michigan, dancing in historic ballrooms, or amidst the legendary beauty of our championship golf courses. Our five-star property presents boundless opportunities to craft the wedding of your dreams, with every detail designed to create an unforgettable and enchanting celebration.
GROUPS AND MEETINGS
With enticing settings and a dedicated staff, Kohler, Wisconsin is ideal for meetings and team building. Step away from the ordinary and immerse your group in a luxurious environment, offering all the amenities you need while feeling worlds apart from everyday life. Additionally, we offer wellness retreats all year, providing the perfect blend of relaxation and rejuvenation to enhance your stay.
Exploring Kohler enriches your stay with a luxurious and captivating experience. Situated invitingly at the lake’s edge, e Shops at Woodlake Kohler houses over 20 specialty shops and boutiques. You’ll find everything from fashionable apparel and unique collectibles to tasteful home furnishings and contemporary design stores. is inviting setting is a harmonious blend of experiences, allowing you to discover delightful highlights during your visit.
SHOPPING DIRECTORY
Browse our boutiques for a curated collection of apparel, toys, collectibles, and home furnishings.
• Ann Sacks
• Arts / Industry 50th Collective
• Blackwolf Run Golf Shop
• Bold Cycle
• Buechel Stone
• Kohler Chocolates
• Kohler Gardener
• Kohler Swing Studio
• Little Love
• Nest
• Olive N’ Ash
• Prevea Vision
• Sports Core Pro Shop
• Sweet Potato’s
• e Emporium Gift Shop
• Whistling Straits Golf Shop
• Wisconsin Trader
• Woodlake Market [Opening June]
• Woodlake Pharmacy
• Yoga on the Lake
KOHLER ORIGINAL RECIPE CHOCOLATES
Witness the artful creation of chocolatier masterpieces at Kohler Chocolates, where you can enjoy a signature coffee, a handcrafted hot chocolate, or a glass of wine. is inviting space offers a luxurious and relaxing experience, perfect for indulging in our ice cream and signature pastries, and promises a captivating blend of sensory delights.
WOODLAKE MARKET
Woodlake Market offers a welcoming shopping environment with a wide selection of organic and locally grown products. Explore artisanal cheeses, fresh seafood, diverse liquors, and wines, and an extensive range of microbrews and artisan beers. Our meat department features freshly made sausages and specialty Wisconsin items, providing a captivating blend of local flavors and culinary traditions.
JOHN MICHAEL KOHLER ARTS CENTER
Founded in 1967, the John Michael Kohler Arts Center in Sheboygan is a nationally acclaimed visual and performing arts hub. As a guest at Kohler, you have the unique opportunity to explore this vibrant mix of exhibitions, performances, and hands-on art making, which are accessible all year round. Highlights include artist-designed washrooms and a summer outdoor concert series.
ART PRESERVE
e Art Preserve, a satellite campus of the John Michael Kohler Arts Center, is nestled in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. is unique museum houses an extensive collection of artist-built environments and sculptural works. As a guest at Kohler, you are invited to explore this serene collision of artistic expressions, offering a rich exploration of creativity.
ARTS/INDUSTRY
Artistry and innovation converge at Kohler, where the Arts/Industry residency was founded in 1974 by Ruth DeYoung Kohler II, Executive Director of the John Michael Kohler Arts Center, in collaboration with Herbert V. Kohler Jr., Executive Chairman of Kohler Co. Arts/ Industry is a forum for creative exchange, providing 12 artists each year with studio space in Kohler Co.’s Pottery and Foundry, along with materials, equipment access, and opportunities to collaborate with factory associates—drawing on their technical expertise to explore new ways of thinking and working.
KOHLER CO.
Founded on December 3rd, 1873, in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, by John Michael Kohler, Kohler Co. has evolved from its humble beginnings as Kohler & Silberzahn, a maker of
plows and other farm implements. Today, it is a global leader in plumbing products, but its reach extends beyond just kitchens and baths. is rich history encapsulates a fascinating journey from simple foundry to iconic brand, reflecting a collision of experiences in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
KOHLER DESIGN CENTER + FACTORY TOURS
Discover a variety of fascinating tours at Kohler, Wisconsin, from the historic American Club to the lush gardens and the expansive Kohler factory. Experience the journey from cast iron to finished products, guided by knowledgeable retired employees. is inviting tour offers an insightful look into Kohler’s rich history and impact on the plumbing industry, blending history with innovation in a captivating and luxurious setting.
LODGE KOHLER
Just 100 yards from Lambeau Field, at the center of Titletown action, Lodge Kohler epitomizes the unique Midwestern hospitality. It’s a premier spot to celebrate the spirit of adventure and sport with luxurious rooms, a splendid spa, and diverse dining options, including a rooftop bar. You can enjoy the comfort and charm of Kohler as you explore the attractions of Titletown.
OLD COURSE HOTEL
Nestled beside the famous Old Course and overlooking the picturesque West Sands Beach in St Andrews, the Old Course Hotel is a golf resort and spa that embodies excellence. It stands as a premier example of Scottish hospitality at its finest. is distinguished, luxurious resort offers an escape into the serene and breathtaking surroundings, perfect for a refined and soothing getaway.
BACKSTORY
Grand opening of the Wesley W. Jung Carriage Museum, 1968
The romance of the stagecoach era lives on
Sheboygan County was frontier territory when Sylvanus and Betsey Wade settled there in 1844, but these pioneers had grand plans to establish a town amid the forests. Just four years’ later, Greenbush was a thriving community frequented by stagecoach travellers—and, to serve their needs, the Wades built an imposing hotel in elegant Greek Revival style. It soon played host to court sessions and abolition debates, but the advent of the railroad brought business to a juddering halt—in the 1860s, a train track bypassed the town, condemning Greenbush to a long decline. Yet this wasn’t the end of the line for Wade House: in 1950, the dilapidated hotel was bought by the Kohler Foundation. Restored under the direction of Ruth DeYoung Kohler, it was gifted to the Wisconsin Historical Society, and opened to the public in 1953. e romance of the stagecoach era lives on here at the Wesley W. Jung Carriage Museum, where the collection of 100 hand- and horse-drawn vehicles includes immaculate wagons, sleighs, and even a surrey with the fringe on top—it was loaned to local theatres for productions of Oklahoma!