Kohler, Wisconsin: More than Just Bathrooms

Nestled along the western shoreline of Lake Michigan sits the small town of Kohler, Wisconsin. With less than 7,000 residents, Kohler appears quaint at first glance. However, this town has more to offer visitors than originally meets the eye. Kohler has developed into a major destination for golfers, spa-goers, and culture vultures alike - all within its compact borders. Discover the attractions, activities, and hidden gems that make Kohler well worth exploring beyond just its ubiquitous plumbing fixtures.

A History of Innovation

The story of Kohler began in the late 19th century when Austrian immigrant John Michael Kohler settled in the area and founded what would become known as Kohler Co. Starting with modest cast iron bathtubs, Kohler expanded into bathroom fixtures, cast iron stoves, piping materials, and other products. Innovation has always been a driving force for the company. Today, Kohler remains a global leader in kitchen and bathroom design with many industry firsts to its name.

Some of Kohler's major breakthroughs include developing vitreous china in the early 1900s. This smooth, non-porous material revolutionized toilet and sink manufacturing. Kohler also pioneered electric water heaters in the 1930s at a time when most homes relied on coal or oil-burning units. Other notable innovations include introducing the first kitchen sink with an integral garbage disposal in the 1950s and developing durable acrylic materials for bath components.

This heritage of creativity lives on through Kohler Design Center and the Kohler Waters Spa. Both offer chances to experience cutting-edge design and wellness concepts firsthand. Visitors leave feeling inspired after seeing what's on the horizon for residential and commercial spaces. Beyond commerce, Kohler's founders established the town as a planned industrial community - quite ahead of its time in workers' welfare. Well-kept historic neighborhoods reflect that progressive spirit.

Golf Mecca of the Midwest

With four championship courses, Kohler is widely considered the golf capital of Wisconsin. Topping the list is Whistling Straits, home of the 2020 Ryder Cup and future 2021 Solheim Cup. This rugged links-style course hugs the Lake Michigan shore with holes traversing sand dunes and prairies. Players must battle stiff winds off the big lake along with undulating greens. Nearby are Three Holes; known for its trio of par 3s along the shore.

River Wildlife is a more inland course situated along the meandering Kohler River. Alternating between open meadows and thick woodland areas, this scenic course provides variety. Finally, there's Blackwolf Run with two eighteen-hole courses - the Meadow Valleys and the more challenging River courses. All four are famous for their impeccable conditioning thanks to Kohler's mild climate. Beyond golf, the resort features an indoor golf simulator and practice areas to play year-round.

Spa and Wellness Paradise

Not many spas can tout a 70,000 square foot facility, but the Kohler Waters Spa lives up to its grand scale with amenities galore. Treatment rooms are spread between two buildings divided by hot, warm, and cold plunge pools. Massage, body, and facial therapies cover every need from deep tissue to anti-aging. Exfoliating salt scrubs and seaweed or mud wraps rid the skin and muscles of impurities.

Thermal suites offer an indulgent spa experience with steam rooms, saunas, whirlpool baths, and showers. Relax in lounge areas between dips in the pools. The spa also boasts a salon, boutiques, classes, and dining. Book a package ahead or build your own itinerary a la carte. You may never want to leave after a magical few hours of pampering in such elegant yet comforting surroundings. And it's not just for humans - Kohler even offers grooming services and daycare for pampered pooches!

Culture and Cuisine

Beyond recreation, Kohler exposes visitors to art, history, and fantastic food. Kohler Design Center hosts rotating exhibits showcasing furniture, lighting, and objets d'art. Meanwhile, nearby Village Park presents rotating sculptures along walking paths. Historical accounts can also be discovered at the John Michael Kohler Arts Center highlighting arts along with industry and village life stories.

Those with an appetite will want to sample Kohler's top-notch restaurants. Most renowned is The American Club's Wisconsin Room serving elevated Midwest cuisine with local ingredients. Blackwolf Run's Traymore offers creative sandwiches and flatbreads plus panoramic lake views. For more casual fare, try Horse & Plow featuring craft beers and pub favorites. Downtown also has spots like Cucina for Italian specialties.

Planning a stay? Book lodging through BitBook to earn cryptocurrency rewards on your Kohler trip. The American Club is iconic with its Tudor architecture and Historic Inn exudes old-world charm. Villas offer multi-bedroom luxury surrounded by landscaped grounds. Wherever you lay your head, Kohler showcases the charm of a small town but with amenities worthy of any travel destination. Between the history, recreation, cuisine and culture - there's always more to discover.

Insider Tips

Hopefully this Kohler travel guide has provided inspiration to explore beyond just passing through for plumbing supplies. Here are a few tips from a local to maximize your visit:

• Visit in the spring or fall for milder crowds and weather. Summer tends toward sticky humidity.
• Rent clubs at the golf shops to test various brands and save carrying your bag.
• Book spa services in advance, especially massages, during peak months.
• Shop unique décor, art, gardening items at the Terra Cotta Place studio near downtown.
• For small town vibes, stroll Bank Street for boutiques, ice cream shops and parks.
• Check event calendars as Kohler hosts everything from classic car shows to garden tours and art fairs.
• BYO lunches and snacks to avoid pricey resort dining every meal. Grocery delivery apps help if staying onsite.

With so many hidden gems, you could spend days discovering Kohler's attractions and still have more to explore. This guide just scratches the surface. Plan your trip and start earning crypto bookings through BitBook - you'll have a relaxing getaway not too far from home.