Why Kohler, Wisconsin Is a Hidden Gem for Family Vacations

Think Kohler is just for adults? This kid-friendly getaway blends spa vibes, sweet treats and family adventures.

Kohler, Wisconsin is an upscale resort village a couple hours’ drive from Chicago. Best known for its golf courses and spa treatments, adults can find many ways to rejuvenate and relax. Does it make for a nice vacation with kids? I took my 13-year-old daughter to find out. We saw several other children on our weekend getaway to Kohler.

Read more: Sorry, Kids—This Kohler Retreat Is Just for Parents

Things to do with kids in Kohler, Wisconsin

Pool, sports and spa

The family pool at the Sports Center is located under a sunlit atrium that also includes a hot tub and sauna. My daughter and I enjoyed playing pickleball together. You can also participate in outdoor activities, like snowshoeing in winter or swimming at the beach in the summer. Parents can work out while kids are supervised at Kids Core. Please note that guests must be ages 16 or older to enjoy the Kohler Waters Spa.

Seasonal fun

Spring and summer at Kohler should include a visit to River Wildlife, a wilderness preserve, to canoe or fly fish. Fall is all about the autumn colors, which you can savor on a hike around the scenic village. Winter seems to be the best time for kids to visit as Frozen Fairways offers a lot of family-friendly activities. Ice skate, curl, participate in patio games and make crafts like snow globes. You can sled, visit the food truck, eat s’mores and drink hot chocolate.

Child playing pickleball at an indoor court during a family vacation in Kohler, Wisconsin with kids.
Photo credit: Cortney Fries

Kid’s store, children’s museum and activities

Pamper your kiddo at the Little Love Baby & Children’s Boutique, which sells toys and precious clothing. Above & Beyond Children’s Museum is a short drive away in Sheboygan and a great place to have the little ones play. Check the events calendar for activities like family game nights and kid’s night out. Mother’s Day is coming up!

Chocolate, smoothies and kid-friendly eats

My daughter’s favorite place on property has to be the chocolate shop. Just be careful, because these artist creations can add up quickly. Second, she adored The Greenhouse, a garden café where you can sip smoothies and eat baked goods in a beautiful, stained glass setting. My daughter is in her salad era. The Horse & Plow serves some colorful salads plus a refreshing mocktail.  We also appreciated the sweeping views of the golf course and chocolate flourless cake at Blackwolf Run Restaurant.


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Cortney Fries
Cortney Fries
An award-winning travel journalist, Cortney Fries (pronounced "freeze") has been writing about family travel for over a decade. She knows that parents planning trips are looking for all members to have fun and make lasting memories. Cortney believes that you should definitely try anything that makes you slightly nervous.

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