On the western shore of Lake Michigan, Sheboygan is a surprisingly hip coastal town worth a visit. Behind unassuming storefronts of the downtown area, we discovered local treasures and a cool vibe that will bring us back for future visits. Nearby, the beautiful resort town of Kohler draws visitors from across the area for five-star luxury and world-class dining.
Eat
Il Ritrovo Pizza
Il Ritrovo was one of the first pizzerias in the U.S. to have been certified by the Associazion Verace Pizza Napoetana for creating true Neapolitan-style pizza. The pizza is simply prepared, perfectly baked in a wood-fired oven and legitimately outstanding.
8th Street Ale Haus
Sheboygan’s only microbrewery offers an impressive selection of homemade sausage and bratwurst along with house smoked and brined meats and local cheeses. The beer list is impressive and the menu includes all manner of local Wisconsin specialties. When is Rome, as they say…
Paradigm Coffee and Music
This funky spot with eclectic furnishings serves expertly-made, strong coffee (necessary for some of us who may have spent time across the street at the Ale Haus the night before) along with excellent sandwiches and breakfast fare made with local ingredients. Live music takes the stage in the evenings.
Stay
Castino Lakeview Mansion
Live like a local, a very fortunate one, in this century-old, nine bedroom mansion on Lake Michigan. The full home is available for rental and perfect for extended families or large groups.
Blue Harbor Resort
At the other end of the spectrum, the Blue Harbor Resort, Spa & Conference Center offers a family-friendly experience and plenty of activities for all ages and interests. The property includes six dining options, an indoor waterpark and full-service spa.
Shop
Nest
This elegant store features an ever-changing array of products for the home. Appropriately described as “sophisticated yet casual” the collections of bedding, tableware, and accessories include many hand-crafted items made by independent artisans.
The Shops at Woodlake
With a short drive to the resort town of Kohler you’ll find The Shops at Woodlake, an assortment of elegant stores and dining venues under one roof. A favorite of ours is The Wisconsin Trader, a charming shop specializing in apparel and home goods made in Wisconsin and other parts of the Great Lakes Region.
For the Kids
Bookworm Gardens
More than 50 children’s’ books including The Giving Tree, The Magic Schoolbus, Charlotte’s Web and The Secret Garden come alive with natural, interactive exhibits. Children and adults alike will delight in exploring their favorite scene from literature. Open May through October.
Above and Beyond Children’s Museum
This fun spot on 8th street offers three floors of hands-on exhibits and activities to entertain and educate young visitors.
For the Grown-Ups
Kohler Waters Spa
The American Club’s Five-Star spa offers the full range of spa treatments including some that allow you to experience Kohler’s top-of-the-line bath and shower products. The beautiful relaxation pool area and rooftop deck with Jacuzzi and fireplace room is open to all spa guests.
Whistling Straights Golf Course
Designed by Pete Dye in the style of classic Irish links courses, Whistling Straights occupies two miles rolling, windswept Lake Michigan coastline. The two courses have hosted past PGA Championships and have been selected to host the Ryder Cup in 2020.
Great article, Alicia! I’m coming to Kohler in August for the PGA Championship. I will have to check out some of the places in your article.