Golf Like a Pro at Kohler, Wisconsin’s Finest Courses

If you are a golf lover, you probably have heard of Kohler, Wisconsin, one of the most prestigious golf destinations in the world. Kohler is home to The American Club, a five-star, five-diamond resort hotel that offers an unparalleled golf experience. The American Club has six championship courses designed by legendary architect Pete Dye, including Whistling Straits, which hosted the 2020 Ryder Cup. Whether you are looking for a challenge, a relaxation, or a combination of both, you will find it at The American Club.

But golf is not the only thing that makes Kohler a great place to visit. The American Club also offers a variety of other amenities to make your stay memorable and comfortable. You can enjoy fine dining at one of the 13 restaurants on site, ranging from casual to elegant. You can also indulge in a spa treatment at the Kohler Waters Spa, which features hydrotherapy services and a rooftop lounge with a hot tub. You can also explore the village of Kohler, which has a history museum, a design center, a chocolate shop, and more.

Are you ready to book your trip to Kohler, Wisconsin’s The American Club? If so, read on to find out how to plan your luxury golf vacation in this amazing destination. 🏌️‍♂️

The Sleep Scene 🛏️

You've heard of makeovers, but The American Club's transformation from a 1918 dormitory for the hard-working gents of Kohler to a 1981 luxurious resort is stuff legends are made of! Every room, and I mean every room, echoes with Kohler’s grandeur. Whether you're one for elegant chambers decked out in custom-designed furniture, marble-clad bathrooms, and Kohler’s finest fixtures, or you’re dreaming bigger with spacious suites – think cozy fireplaces and inviting whirlpool tubs – there's a fit for every fancy. Of course, each space is kitted out with top-notch amenities: morning coffee (a life essential), afternoon tea, blazing fast WI-FI, video gaming systems for the player in you, cloud-like down comforters, robes that you'll want to live in, slippers, and the crème de la crème of bath products from Kohler Waters Spa.

Wallet check: standard rooms go for about $300-$500 a pop, but if you're feeling extra, suites can range from $600-$1000. They've also curated some killer packages. One worth mentioning? The Time for Two package. Two nights of luxe, resort credits, spa indulgence, and Yoga or Bold Cycle access, starting from $1,049. Score!

Tee Time Tales 🏌️

Home to four golf marvels crafted by the legend, Pete Dye: The River and Meadow Valleys found at Blackwolf Run, and let's not forget The Straits and Irish courses making waves at Whistling Straits. Fun fact: all four hold their swaggering spots in Golf Digest's top 100 courses. Now, if you had to pick one, make it The Straits course at Whistling Straits. This beauty gives off major Scotland and Ireland vibes, right on Lake Michigan. Those eight holes along the shoreline? Breathtaking. Sand dunes, bunkers, mounds, fescue fairways, and greens that'll make you think twice. Plus, boasting a slope rating of 152 from the back tees, it's no cakewalk. Get ready for the 2023 Ryder Cup because The Straits is the star host.

Spotlight: The Straits Course 🌊⛳

Imagine a course that plays the tantalizing tango between rugged rawness and polished perfection. We're talking about The Straits, designed by the legend, Pete Dye, to make golfers feel they’ve taken a quick jaunt over to Scotland or Ireland. Its 7,790-yard stretch makes it a titan among courses.

Signature Holes You Can't Miss 🎯

1. Hole 4: Picture this - a par-3 that dares you to cross the lake to a green chilling on a rocky pedestal. That wind? It's got tricks up its sleeve, playing with your club choice. Nailing a par here is like getting an ovation from the golf gods themselves.

2. Hole 7: Short but sassy, this par-4's tee shot dodges a left bunker and avoids a right waste area. And the drama from the 2010 PGA Championship with Dustin Johnson? Right here, baby.

3. Hole 13: Long, wicked, and named "Dyeabolical" for a reason. It's a par-3 where the wind's whispers can change everything. Par? That's a crown jewel.

4. Hole 18: Gear up for an uphill battle on this par-4 that's seen legends like Vijay Singh and Jason Day create magic. Its bunkered fairway and sloping green? The stuff of golf epics.

Nearby Golf Spots and their $$ 🏌️‍♂️💰

• The Straits: Hosting legends and championships, expect to pay around $495 for a round here.

• The Irish: A 5-min drive and $410 gets you into this sister course of The Straits. Same dune drama, slightly kinder winds.

• The River: Pete Dye's riverside marvel is just a 15-min drive away. Get into the flow for $300.

• Meadow Valleys: Neighbour to The River, it changes up the rhythm with a unique blend of challenges. Dance through for $200.

• Erin Hills: An hour might sound long, but this U.S. Open 2017 host is worth the journey. Tee off amidst rolling hills for $295.

Now that you’re armed with details, go make those greens – on the course and with your wallet! 🏌️‍♂️💸🌟

Fancy Facilities! 🏨✨

Alright, we're talking The American Club, and honey, it's a five-star wonderland! Think of it as a ritzy retreat with 241 rooms (each sprinkled with a touch of luxury thanks to Kohler products). Hungry? No worries, you've got 13 - yup, THIRTEEN - dining spots to choose from, ranging from super-casual to "I should've worn my fancy pants" dining. Plus, there's a lounge and pub if you're feelin' a bit thirsty!

Amenities? Oh, you bet

• Pump it up or take a dip at the Sports Core Health & Racquet Club with a fitness center, pools, tennis courts, and a bunch of cool classes.

• Feel like royalty with the hydrotherapy treatments, massages, and more at Kohler Waters Spa. And, oh boy, they have a rooftop deck with a cozy fireplace and whirlpool! 🛁

• Get lost (in a good way!) in River Wildlife, a massive 500-acre private wilderness. Perfect for hikers, fishing fans, and nature enthusiasts.

• For the curious cats, there's the Kohler Design Center - a sneak peek into Kohler’s innovative world.

• And, if you're lazy like me, you’ll love the shuttle service that takes you everywhere within Destination Kohler. Talk about travel in style! 🚌

• Golf enthusiast? Tee off in style with advance booking options at Blackwolf Run and Whistling Straits, crafted by the legendary Pete Dye.

Let's Talk Locale 🌎

The American Club is tucked away in the quaint village of Kohler, Wisconsin, roughly 60 miles from Milwaukee and a smidge over double that from Chicago. And here's a fun tidbit: John Michael Kohler founded the village in 1900. Fast forward to today, and it's a National Historic Landmark District dripping with charm!

Got the Golf Itch? ⛳

So, Kohler's golf game is on point! With four stellar courses between Blackwolf Run and Whistling Straits, it's golfer's paradise. But heads up, these aren’t your everyday courses, and tee times can be a bit tricky to snag. Here’s how you can up your golf game:

• Book online or ring them up super early. They offer 90-day advance booking for guests and a 30-day window for the rest.

• Be a little flexible. Weekdays and off-hours can be a golfer's best friend.

• Keep an eagle eye out for last-minute slots. You might just get lucky!

• Splurge on a golf package! It comes with a bunch of perks and might just give you an edge on those tee times.

Airport to Resort - Let’s Roll! 🛬🚖

Milwaukee General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) and Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) are your closest airports. From there:

• Rent a car and ride in style.

• Grab the Destination Kohler shuttle (but book 72 hours prior) or just jump into a cab.

• For the more adventurous, there’s always the bus or train connecting Milwaukee and Chicago with nearby Sheboygan.

Resort to Golf Course - Easy Peasy! 🚍

Destination Kohler has a sweet deal with a complimentary shuttle service for hotel guests. They’ve got you covered from dawn to dusk. For Whistling Straits, just hop on their hourly shuttle!

Uber/Lyft - Yup, They’re Here! 🚗

Both Uber and Lyft cruise around Kohler. So, getting a lift is as easy as a tap on your phone. Just be patient, as wait times can vary.

Need a Ride of Your Own? 🚗

You’ve got choices! Avis, Enterprise, and Hertz are all there to give you some wheels.

And that’s the scoop! All the glitz, glam, and handy dandy info you need. Enjoy!

(P.S. - Always a good idea to double-check these details. 🎉🎈

Nightlife Choices in Kohler

1. The Horse & Plow: A former historic tavern for Kohler Co. workers. Enjoy live music on weekends, trivia on Wednesdays, and karaoke on Thursdays. Open from 11 a.m. to midnight.

2. The Winery Bar: A European wine cellar with extensive wine selections. Perfect for wine lovers! Open from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., Tuesday to Saturday.

3. Taverne on Woodlake: Overlooking Wood Lake, it offers wood-fired dishes and comfort food. Open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Local Cuisine Choices in Kohler

1. Wisconsin Room at the American Club: Offering farm-fresh cuisine, enjoy cheese curds ($12), prime rib ($38), or apple pie ($10).

2. Blackwolf Run Restaurant: Gaze at golf courses while enjoying regional dishes like king salmon ($36) or smoked pork chops ($32).

3. Whistling Straits Restaurant: An Irish farmhouse setting offering Midwestern-raised meats and dishes like rack of lamb ($48).

Must-Visit Local Restaurants in Kohler

1. The Immigrant Restaurant: A six-course tasting menu ($125) with options like foie gras torchon ($24) and beef Wellington ($58).

2. The Craverie Chocolatier Cafe: Famous for Kohler Chocolate Terrapins. Perfect for dessert lovers!

3. Lino Ristorante Italiano: Authentic Italian dishes such as burrata caprese ($14) and tiramisu ($8).

How to Get Around Kohler

Kohler can be navigated by walking or biking. Bicycle rentals are available at the Sports Core Health & Racquet Club. A free resort shuttle service is also available for easy movement within Kohler.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Activities in Kohler

1. Visit Jurustic Park: Marvel at metal sculptures of dinosaurs and other creations. Located in Marshfield, it's worth the hour's drive.

2. Explore River Wildlife: Dive into outdoor activities along the Sheboygan River, from hiking to horseback riding.

3. Visit The Waelderhaus: Admire the architecture of this replica of an Austrian chalet built by the Kohler family.

Comparison of Local Prices with Toronto

Generally, Kohler is more affordable than Toronto:

• A meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $15 in Kohler vs. $20 in Toronto.

• Cappuccino: $4.50 in Kohler vs. $5.00 in Toronto.

• One-way local transport ticket: $1.50 in Kohler vs. $3.25 in Toronto.

• Monthly transport pass: $50 in Kohler vs. $156 in Toronto.

Cell Phone Tips for Visitors

• Roaming: Check your current plan's roaming charges for the U.S.

• Local SIM Card: If staying longer, consider a U.S. prepaid SIM card.

• eSIM: If your phone supports it, an eSIM can allow you to switch carriers without changing the physical SIM.

Sports and Fun Stuff Around

Hey, so Kohler's kinda tiny and doesn't have its own pro sports teams. But hey, we're neighbors with some cool cities in Wisconsin that do! Wanna catch a game? You’ve got the Milwaukee Brewers (baseball dudes), Milwaukee Bucks (those basketball stars), Green Bay Packers (gridiron giants), or the Wisconsin Badgers (all sorts of college sports). It’s all about when you’re here and if you can snag some tickets. And if you're into vibing to live tunes, laughing at comedy, or some artsy theater stuff, you've got places like Stefanie H. Weill Center in Sheboygan, Marcus Center in Milwaukee, and Fox Cities Center in Appleton. Check out website for all the deets.

Local Festivals and What's Going On

Kohler's always throwing some kind of shindig. Here’s what’s popping soon:

• Esslingen Fest: A nod to our sister city, Esslingen in Germany. Expect German grub, beer, and tunes. Swing by on August 20, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the 3 Sheeps Brewery in Sheboygan.

• Kohler Food and Wine: Four days of foodie paradise with big-name chefs and winemakers from October 19-22, 2023, all over Kohler.

• Holiday Market: Shopping galore with vendors selling holiday goodies from November 17-19, 2023, at The American Club in Kohler.

Best Time to Swing a Golf Club Here

You into golf? Kohler’s got four killer courses: Blackwolf Run (2 of them) and Whistling Straits (another 2). Here’s the lowdown:

• Summer: Super sunny, but also packed. Reserve early and brace your wallet.

• Fall: Gorgeous with less crowd and cooler prices. Plus, there's that Food and Wine thing in October.

• Winter: Golf? Nah. Snow, yes. Courses shut from late Nov to early April.

• Spring: It’s a toss-up. Weather’s iffy but you might snag some deals and fewer crowds.

Travel Heads Up

All clear on the travel front for Kohler and Wisconsin as of August 17, 2023. But keep it smart, always double-check with:

• The U.S. Department of State website

• CDC website for health stuff

• Wisconsin Health Department website for any COVID news

Speak English? You’re Golden

Around here, it's all English, all the time. But don’t be surprised if you pick up bits of Spanish, German, or the quirky Wisconsin English. Oh, and if someone asks you to “come with” or mentions a “bubbler”, just roll with it!

Sample Travel Itinerary

Here is a possible 9-day itinerary for a luxury golf vacation to Kohler, Wisconsin, with a round of golf per day, meals, 2 hours downtime, and one other activity each day. Please note that the prices are in USD and are approximate, based on the current exchange rate and availability. The itinerary is also subject to change depending on the weather and other factors.

Day 1: Arrival in Kohler

• Fly from Toronto (YYZ) to Milwaukee (MKE) airport. ($300 per person)

• Rent a car at the airport and drive to Kohler. ($50 per day)

• Check in at The American Club. ($400 per night)

• Have lunch at The Horse & Plow. ($15 per person)

• Relax at the Kohler Waters Spa. ($165-$195 per person)

• Have dinner at The Immigrant Restaurant. ($125-$200 per person)

• Enjoy a drink at The Winery Bar. ($10-$20 per person)

Day 2: Golf at The Straits course

• Have breakfast at The Wisconsin Room. ($15-$25 per person)

• Play 18 holes at The Straits course at Whistling Straits, one of the best and most challenging courses in the world. ($410 per person)

• Have lunch at Whistling Straits Restaurant, which offers a mixture of innovative and classic cuisine with British influences. ($15-$40 per person)

• Visit The Waelderhaus, a replica of an Austrian chalet that showcases the culture and history of the Kohler family’s heritage. (Free admission)

• Have dinner at Taverne on Woodlake, which features wood-fired cuisine and imaginative takes on comfort food. ($15-$40 per person)

• Watch a movie or a show at the Stefanie H. Weill Center for the Performing Arts in Sheboygan, which offers a variety of entertainment options. ($10-$50 per person)

Day 3: Golf at The Irish course

• Have breakfast at The Craverie Chocolatier Cafe, which specializes in chocolate and pastry creations. ($10-$15 per person)

• Play 18 holes at The Irish course at Whistling Straits, which is slightly more forgiving and less exposed to the wind than its sister course. ($410 per person)

• Have lunch at Blackwolf Run Restaurant, which offers regional cuisine and panoramic views of the golf courses. ($15-$40 per person)

• Explore River Wildlife, a wilderness preserve that offers hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding, trap shooting, archery, and seasonal pheasant hunting. ($29 per person for non-members or $19 per person for members)

• Have dinner at Lino Ristorante Italiano, which offers authentic and fresh Italian dishes with a Mediterranean flair. ($20-$50 per person)

Day 4: Golf at The River course

• Have breakfast at The Greenhouse, which offers light fare and beverages in a garden setting. ($10-$15 per person)

• Play 18 holes at The River course at Blackwolf Run, which is one of Pete Dye’s finest creations and follows the meandering Sheboygan River. ($300 per person)

• Have lunch at The Takeaway, which offers sandwiches, salads, soups, and snacks to go. ($10-$15 per person)

• Visit Jurustic Park in Marshfield, which is a whimsical art park that features metal sculptures of dinosaurs and other creatures from the past. (Free admission, donations welcome)

• Have dinner at The River Wildlife Lodge Restaurant, which offers a country gourmet dining experience with dishes like smoked duck breast salad ($16), venison stew ($24), and apple crisp ($8). ($29 per person for non-members or $19 per person for members)

• Enjoy a drink at The Library Bar, which offers cocktails, wines, beers, and spirits in a cozy and elegant setting. ($10-$20 per person)

Day 5: Golf at The Meadow Valleys course

• Have breakfast at Cucina, which offers Italian-inspired dishes and a buffet option. ($15-$25 per person)

• Play 18 holes at The Meadow Valleys course at Blackwolf Run, which is more open and less demanding than its sister course, but still has plenty of challenges. ($200 per person)

• Have lunch at Woodlake Market Atrium Cafe, which offers salads, sandwiches, pizzas, and soups made with fresh ingredients. ($10-$15 per person)

• Visit the Kohler Design Center, which showcases the history and innovation of Kohler products and design. (Free admission)

• Have dinner at The Blind Horse Restaurant & Winery in Sheboygan Falls, which offers farm-to-table cuisine and award-winning wines. ($20-$50 per person)

• Watch a comedy show at Skybox Sports Bar in Sheboygan Falls, which features local and national comedians. ($10-$20 per person)

Day 6: Golf at Erin Hills Golf Course

• Have breakfast at Press + Chill, which offers smoothies, juices, bowls, and toasts made with organic and local ingredients. ($10-$15 per person)

• Drive to Erin Hills Golf Course in Hartford, which is about an hour away from Kohler. Play 18 holes at this links-style course that hosted the U.S. Open in 2017. ($295 per person)

• Have lunch at Erin Hills Pub & Grill, which offers burgers, sandwiches, salads, and soups with a view of the course. ($15-$25 per person)

• Drive back to Kohler and relax at the Sports Core Health & Racquet Club, which has a fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, and classes. (Free access for hotel guests)

• Have dinner at The Kettle Room at The American Club, which is an intimate dining experience that features a chef’s table menu with seasonal and local ingredients. ($125 per person)

• Enjoy a drink at Olive N’ Ash in Sheboygan Falls, which offers craft cocktails, wines, beers, and small plates. ($10-$20 per person)

Day 7: Rest day

• Have breakfast at your room or suite with the in-room dining service. ($15-$25 per person)

• Enjoy a leisurely day at The American Club or explore the village of Kohler. You can shop at the Shops at Woodlake, visit the Kohler Art Center, or stroll through the Kohler Gardens.

• Have lunch at The Wisconsin Room or The Horse & Plow. ($15-$25 per person)

• Treat yourself to a massage or a facial at the Kohler Waters Spa or the Salon at Sports Core. ($165-$195 per person)

• Have dinner at The Immigrant Restaurant or Taverne on Woodlake. ($125-$200 per person or $15-$40 per person)

• Enjoy a drink at The Winery Bar or The Library Bar. ($10-$20 per person)

Day 8: Golf at Whistling Straits or Blackwolf Run

• Have breakfast at The Craverie Chocolatier Cafe or Cucina. ($10-$15 per person or $15-$25 per person)

• Play 18 holes at Whistling Straits or Blackwolf Run, depending on your preference and availability. You can choose from The Straits course or The Irish course at Whistling Straits ($410 per person each), or The River course or The Meadow Valleys course at Blackwolf Run ($300 per person or $200 per person).

• Have lunch at Whistling Straits Restaurant or Blackwolf Run Restaurant. ($15-$40 per person each)

• Visit the Kohler Factory Tour, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Kohler products are made. (Free admission, reservations required)

• Have dinner at The Wisconsin Room or Lino Ristorante Italiano. ($15-$25 per person or $20-$50 per person)

• Enjoy a drink at The Horse & Plow or Olive N’ Ash. ($10-$20 per person each)

Day 9: Departure from Kohler

• Have breakfast at The Greenhouse or Press + Chill. ($10-$15 per person each)

• Check out from The American Club and drive to Milwaukee airport. ($50 per day for car rental)

• Fly back to Toronto (YYZ) airport. ($300 per person)

Here is a summary of the cost of everything, including lodging, airfare, car rental, golf, meals, activities, and drinks, in a chart format:

If you are looking for a luxury golf vacation that will challenge your skills, pamper your senses, and create unforgettable memories, you should consider spending $8,765 at The American Club in Kohler, Wisconsin. This resort hotel offers you access to four championship golf courses designed by legendary architect Pete Dye, as well as a world-class spa, fitness center, dining options, and other amenities. You can also enjoy the historic charm and elegance of the hotel, which was built in 1918 as a dormitory for immigrant workers and transformed into a five-star, five-diamond destination in 1981. You can also explore the village of Kohler and its surrounding areas, which offer a variety of cultural, artistic, and natural attractions. Spending $8,765 at The American Club is not just a vacation, but an experience that will enrich your life and satisfy your soul. That is why it is worth adding to your bucket list. 😊