Kohler Co.’s approach to providing gracious hospitality – born from humble and unexpected origins – was ignited by the creative and compassionate leadership of former Chairman and CEO Herbert V. Kohler, Jr., when he converted The American Club building into a luxurious, resort-hotel in 1981. The historic structure was originally built in 1918 to serve as housing for Kohler’s immigrant workforce by then-company-president Walter Kohler where meals, recreation, and classes to become U.S. citizens were offered.
Walter Kohler also tapped the renowned landscape architects the Olmsted Brothers, famed for their work on Central Park, to craft a 50-year master plan for Kohler Village. Today, Destination Kohler in Kohler, Wisconsin, is anchored by the iconic American Club Hotel along with other lodging options – The Carriage House, Inn on Woodlake, Cabin Collection, and private membership club Riverbend. Located one hour north of Milwaukee, Destination Kohler offers luxurious accommodations, 12 dining venues, championship golf (hosts of three PGA Championships and the 43rd Ryder Cup in 2021), world-class wellness facilities, and Kohler Original Recipe Chocolates.
New for 2024, Kohler Co. has extended its partnership with acclaimed contemporary artist Daniel Arsham. The current collaboration between the two brands offers guests and travelers an immersive experience unlike ever before. The partnership features a bathroom collection called Landshapes, a fully designed Arsham Cabin, a sculpture installation on the property, and a merchandise collection in tandem with Malbon – all seamlessly integrating various facets of Kohler Co.
The Forbes Five-Star Kohler Waters Spa, a pioneer in water and hydrotherapy experiences since its flagship opening in 2000 at The American Club, has expanded to multiple locations including Burr Ridge, IL; St. Andrews, Scotland; Green Bay, WI; and Chicago, IL. Recently, the Kohler Waters Spa in Kohler, Wisconsin underwent a significant refurbishment, transforming it into a modern luxury oasis. As part of Kohler Hospitality’s ongoing evolution, the company has introduced new wellness retreats annually, blending traditional practices with contemporary trends. Additional wellness offerings include Bold Cycle, Yoga on the Lake, Sports Core, and the serene River Wildlife that spans over 500 acres of Wisconsin wilderness with scenic trails and the meandering Sheboygan River.
For golf lovers, the opportunity to play at Whistling Straits and Blackwolf Run stands as “bucket-list” destinations. Designed by the esteemed World Golf Hall of Fame architect Pete Dye, these championship courses are renowned globally. Following a round, guests can visit the Champions Locker Room, adorned with lockers once used by professional golf legends who competed in prior PGA Championships and the Ryder Cup.
Kohler Hospitality presents yearly highlights with great anticipation. In October, the experiential Food & Wine festival gathers top chefs, wine experts, and restaurateurs, with past headliners including Martha Stewart and Tom Colicchio. As winter arrives, the destination transforms into “Frozen Fairways,” offering a magical array of activities such as ice skating, skiing, biking, curling, snowshoeing, and hockey—all in one location.
In 2017, Kohler Co. opened LODGE KOHLER, an AAA Four Diamond property, in the heart of Titletown, across the street from legendary Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Its sister property, The Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, resides along the 17th fairway of the famed Old Course in St. Andrews, Scotland, the birthplace of golf, and is recognized as one of the more luxurious resorts in the world.
: @MAGRINOPR