Sheboygan, Wisconsin Attractions
Sheboygan County Wisconsin has so much to offer! Championship golfing at Kohler's Blackwolf Run and Whistling Straits, World renowned racing at Road America, charter fishing on Lake Michigan, fantastic hiking and biking in the Kettle Moraine State Forest, beautiful lakes to list a few. The boutique Shops at Woodlake, The Kohler Design Center, the John Michael Kohler Art Center, Antique shopping all await you!
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Stefanie H. Weill Center for the Performing Arts (Sheboygan Theatre) |
The motion picture industry built palaces in cities all across the nation in the 1920s and the Sheboygan Theatre is an exceptionally fine example of this now highly endangered type of building. It was built it in Sheboygan's downtown in 1928 as a combined motion picture and live theatre building. The original Spanish architecture drew acclaim in 1928 and is drawing the same raves now. Restored to its original grandeur were the magnificent Spanish Castle decor, ornately plastered walls, the twinkling star-studded ceiling, landscape painting and spectacular chandeliers. The Weill Center will be home to the Sheboyogan Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, Community Concerts, the Gospel Music Wisconsin Concerts Series and the Rotary Concert Series. |
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Sheboygan
Falls Main Street |
Winner of the 1995 Great American Main Street Award and one of the country's top five downtowns, Sheboygan Falls boasts beautifully restored buildings that have opened as unique retail shops, apartment buildings and a lounge. Visitors will enjoy the panoramic view from the nearby lofty Riverwalk. |
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Sheboygan
Falls Walking Tour |
This 1 1/2-hour, self-guided tour features more than 30 significant homes, churches and buildings. Two of its districts, the Cole District and Downtown Historic District, are listed on the National Register. Brochures available. |
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Historical
Research Center |
Located in Sheboygan Falls' historic Mill House, this research library has thousands of pieces of material including books, genealogy materials, county documents, maps and military service records available for perusal and study. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 9am-4pm. |
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The
American Club |
The American Club in Kohler Village is the Midwest's only AAA rated Five Diamond resort hotel. The 236-room hotel is the focal point of a myriad of Kohler attractions that include Blackwolf Run, two 18-hole Pete Dye-designed golf courses, and not far away, Whistling Straits, a new 18-hole links course; nine restaurants; the Shops at Woodlake; Kohler Design Center; Sports Core, a tennis and fitness center; River Wildlife, a private wildlife preserve; and the Waelderhaus. |
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Kohler
Design Center |
Discover a world of gracious living in the premier showroom for the nation's leading plumbing products manufacturer, Kohler Co. More than two dozen designer bath vignettes, along with product displays for Baker and McGuire furniture and Ann Sacks Tile & Stone, fill the dramatic 36,000 square foot, three-level space. Tour the ceramic art gallery and displays of historic Kohler Village and Kohler Co. Open Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm, weekends and holidays 10am-4pm No admission. |
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Kohler
Co. Factory Tours |
Kohler Co., the nation's leading plumbing products manufacturer, welcomes tours of its huge manufacturing facility. Factory tours are offered to those 14 or older Monday through Friday (except holidays) at 8:30. Reservations are required and should be made at least 24 hours in advance. Comfortable shoes are recommended for the 2 1/2 hour tour. |
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Artspace: |
Artspace is dedicated to presenting a wide variety of contemporary art, including paintings, prints, photographs, sculpture and craft-related forms by contemporary American artists. Located in the Shops at Woodlake, Kohler, Artspace also includes a sales gallery devoted to the finest in contemporary American crafts, porcelain, earthenware, jewelry, glass, painted silk, wood, and furniture by more than 200 artists. Open 10am-6pm Monday through Friday, 10am-5pm Saturday, and noon-5pm Sunday. |
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The
Shops at Woodlake |
This exceptional collection of over 25 retail shops attracts sophisticated shoppers from miles around who seek both special and essential purchases. |
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Sheboygan
County Museum |
The Taylor House, built by Judge David Taylor in the early
1850s, is set up to resemble a Victorian House. The Log
House, built
in the early 1960s by the Weinhold Family, is furnished with
items relating to pioneer living. It is one of the last
remaining log houses in the county. The Schuchardt Barn
houses antique farm machinery and large implements. The
Bodenstab Cheese Factory was built in 1867 and houses items
pertaining to the cheese industry. Open 10am-5pm Tuesday through Saturday; 1-5pm Sunday, April through October. Admission. See the events page for information on the History Adventure Weekend (July) and Holiday Memories (December). |
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Lakefront
Promenade |
 Warm,
pleasant summer evenings become memorable and enjoyable when
spent strolling on the Lakefront Promenade. Enjoying the view
and the cool Lake Michigan breezes, walkers amble from the
boat launching area to the north breakwater, admiring the
array of sailboats and power boats docked at Harbor Centre
Marina as they meander past. Accompanied by the music of waves
gently lapping on the sandy beach, the journey can continue on
a paved all-purpose trail all the way to the North Point
overlook. |
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Lake Michigan
Circle Tour |
The popular Lake Michigan Circle tour runs along the Sheboygan Lakefront, all you have to do is follow the brown and white Lake Michigan Circle Tour signs. |
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Kettle
Moraine State Forest |
Sheboygan County's portion of the Northern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, includes some 14,865 acres along the western boundary of the County. Across the impressive terrain created by gouging glaciers, stretch 71 miles of picturesque hiking trails, 58 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, 39 miles of scenic bridle trails, 30 miles of cross-country ski trails as well as extensive areas and facilities for picnicking, hunting, fishing, primitive camping, biking, tobogganing and general sightseeing. |
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John
Michael Kohler Arts Center |
JMKAC completed its expansion from 30,000 to 99,000 square
feet in May of 1999. The light-filled, airy, comfortable new
facility now includes nine galleries consisting of an
Arts/Industry, ExplorARTorium, interactive gallery for
children, community gallery, performance spaces and intimate
theatre; the Carriage House Cafe; Flying Colors gift shop and
coming soon an outdoor library sculpture garden. The six
public washrooms created by national artists astonish and
delight everyone! Don't leave Sheboygan without visiting the
new Arts Center. The JMKAC is open 10am to 5pm Monday ,
Wednesday and Friday; 10am to 8pm on Tuesdays and Thursday;
and 10am to 4pm Saturdays and Sundays. Admission is
Free. |
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The
Riverfront Boardwalk |
From the Rotary Riverview Park harbor overlook to the new Eighth Street Bridge, the Riverfront Boardwalk takes leisurely walkers past a row of weathered shanties originally built for use by commercial fishermen. While some maintain that purpose, others have been transformed into restaurants, art galleries and retail shops. Two new shanties have been added within the last year.
Afloat at the Boardwalk docks are charter fishing boats
where captains tie in after unloading passengers and fish
following half-day or full-day Lake Michigan sportfishing
excursions.
A line of ducklings paddling to keep up with their mother, a perched seagull studying a fisherman's drying net, a rustic motel at water's edge and a variety of restaurants and lounges join the shops and galleries, gently rocking boats and authentic fish shanties in a postcard setting all contributing to provide relaxing moments. |
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Harbor
Centre Marina |
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The
Festivals |
Fun-seekers flock to the array of festivals that take place in the Sheboygan area annually. Details appear in the calendar section of this publication, but visitors planning a vacation should note the traditional Bratwurst Day, Lakefest, the July 4 Celebration, Coho Family Festival, Holland Fest, the Greek and Slovenian picnics, Wings and Wheels, the Outdoor Arts Festival, Falls Fest, the Silver Dollar Picnic, Mill Street Festival and the Ducktona 500 events. |
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Fall Color
Driving Tour |
Approximately 25 miles of Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive run through western Sheboygan County, providing spectacular displays of fall color. County Highways A and S (part of the Rustic Road program), and the beautiful drive around Crystal Lake also offer delightful visual experiences. Peak color generally runs from mid-September through mid-October. Brochures are available. |
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Charter
Fishing |
The captains and first mates of Sheboygan's charter fishing fleet are anxious to help visitors board their boats, show them where the "big ones are hitting" and help land them. Clean water and large, healthy trout and salmon have returned Lake Michigan sportfishing to an extremely popular summer activity. Visitors can book half-day or full-day charters through the Convention and Visitors Bureau ... and if the success of July and August last year continues, it would be advisable to book early. |
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Kohler-Andrae
State Parks |
 Fascinating landscape and wildlife make
Kohler-Andrae State
Parks a must for outdoor-minded visitor s.
Located just south of the city of Sheboygan on the shores of
Lake Michigan, the parks provide activities for campers and
day visitors in every season. The Sanderling Nature Center
offers many interesting displays and its auditorium is the
site of presentations and programs. State Park sticker
required. |
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Parnell
Tower |
One of the highlights of an Ice Age Trail hike is coming upon the Parnell Tower. Located in the heart of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, near the intersection of County Hwy. A and Kettle View Road, this 60-foot wooden observation tower was rebuilt in 1988 and offers a panoramic view of the forest and surrounding farmlands. On a clear day, one can see about 25 miles. Park sticker required. Open year round. On weekends call (920) 533-8322. |
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Indian Mound
Park |
Effigy Burial Grounds, unique in the world, are found primarily in southern Wisconsin. Located in the Black River area are 18 of them in animal and geometric forms. Their builders were nomadic Native Americans living between 500 and 1000 A.D. The Open Mound Exhibit contains artifacts and replica skeletal material. A walking path for free self-guided tours provides easy viewing. Also part of the park is a boardwalk nature trail through the park's wetlands that demonstrates foliage of the northern hardwood province. |
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Elwood
H. May Environmental Park (Maywood) |
Much more than a park, this wonderland of nature encompasses 125 acres of forest, wetlands, prairie and a riverway. Miles of hiking and cross-country ski trails and a variety of wildlife make Maywood a prized attraction for lovers of nature, the environment and the out of doors. The park's Ecology Center is the site of many classes and activities. |
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Old
Plank Road Trail |
This 17 mile multi-purpose recreation trail parallels State
Hwy. 23 from Sheboygan on the Lake Michigan Lakefront to
historic Greenbush where it connects with the Ice Age National
Trail in the beautiful Kettle Moraine State Forest.
It passes by the many attractions of Kohler Village and the
American Club Resort Hotel, Sheboygan Falls and its beautiful
Main Street, and historic Plymouth along the way. This
award-winning trail accommodates walkers, runners, bicyclists,
rollerbladers, horseback riders and snowmobilers on the 10
feet of asphalt and the eight feet of turf that are side by
side. A number of amenities grace the trail including
beautifully landscaped trailheads, rest benches, water and
emergency telephones. There is no fee to use the trail. |
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Cedar Springs
Fisherman's Paradise |
Fine trout fishing is assured in the spring-fed ponds of this Kettle Moraine wilderness. Cane poles and bait provided or bring your own. Bring the picnic basket for lunch under scented cedars. Easily accessible to elderly and handicapped. No license needed, no bag limit. Cost includes cleaning and is based on the weight of live catch. Located three miles west of Waldo. Open year round: spring and summer, 8:30am to 7pm; fall and winter, 8:30am to dark. |
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Waelderhaus |
 This
"house in the woods," which reflects the spirit and
architecture of the Bregenzerwald region of Austria, was
designed by Austrian sculptorÂarchitect Kaspar Albrecht. The
building features intricate carvings, woodcuts, reliefs, iron
and pewter work all executed by Albrecht. Interesting
furnishings include candle-reflected waterglobe lighting
fixtures, a tile stove and wrought iron radiator covers. Open
every day except holidays. Free tours are conducted at 2, 3
and 4 pm Bus tours by reservation. |
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Wade House
and Wesley Jung
Carriage Museum |
Built in the 1850s by early settlers Sylvanus and Betsy Wade, the landmarked three-story frame building in Greenbush was formerly a stagecoach inn. Many original early American furnishings decorate the house at this State Historic Site. Also on the site are the Robinson House, home of Wade's daughter and son-in-law; and the Jung Carriage Museum, one of America's finest collections, featuring more than 100 vehicles. A variety of activities geared to the entire family are planned throughout the spring, summer and autumn, including Family Pioneer Days, a huge arts and crafts fair, the popular Yankee Harvest Dinners, a draft horse exposition, the nostalgic and entertaining Buffalo Bill Wild West Show and the huge September Civil War Re-enactment, to which this year has been added a Spring Muster. The site is open May to October, 9am-5pm. The last tour begins at 4 pm Admission is charged. |
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Road
America |
Located near Elkhart Lake, midway between Milwaukee and Green Bay, Road America is North America's longest and finest natural road racing facility. Four miles and 14 turns on 525 rolling, wooded acres challenge drivers and excite spectators. Five exciting events from June through August -- two motorcycle events and three auto events, including the thrilling Motorolla 220 CART race -- make up the public race schedule. Admission is charged. An array of concessions are available and carry-ins are permitted. |
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Elkhart
Lake Depot Museum |
A quaint museum is housed in an old railroad station in the midst of the historic resort village of Elkhart Lake. Nearly 100 years old, the museum is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and contains many original depot furnishings. Newspaper clippings, photos and a variety of other mementos provide fascinating glimpses into this community's history. Open June 1 to Labor Day, Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is no admission charge. |
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Henschel's
Museum of Indian History |
In the pre-Civil War summer kitchen of the Henschel family home is a captivating collection of Indian artifacts including pottery, spear points, bones and antler artifacts and copper dating back to 8000 B.C. The archeological dig site is open Memorial Day through Labor Day, Tuesday through Saturday, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Donations appreciated. |
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The Plymouth
Center |
This new cultural center, based in a restored building in downtown Plymouth, houses an historical museum, art gallery and visitor information center. Gallery 110 North features mixed-media, changing exhibits, art classes for all ages and performances. The historical museum features a school exhibit from the turn of the century, fire department artifacts including a restored 1868 hand-pumper, and an early print shop display. Visitor information hours: weekdays 9am-4pm, Saturday noon to 4pm, Sunday 1-4pm; Gallery and museum hours: Tuesday through Saturday noon-4pm, Sunday 1-4pm. Closed Monday. |
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Luxembourg
Heritage Museum |
Located in the former St. Nicholas Grade School in Dacada, the museum includes memorabilia and artifacts from local Luxembourg settlements. Operated by the Luxembourg Society of Wisconsin, the museum is open on the first Sunday of the month, after Mass, May through October. Other times by appointment. There is no admission fee. |
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Het Museum |
Step into the past and see Dutch memorabilia and early household and commercial artifacts from settlements at Cedar Grove and Amsterdam. Open June through August 30, Wednesdays 6:30 to 8:30 pm and Fridays 4 to 8 pm, and to groups by appointment. |
The
new museum, completed in 1999, houses artifacts pertaining to
the history of Sheboygan County. Inside the main museum
are the Indian, Maritime, Pharmacy, a doctor's office, circus,
baseball exhibits and much, much more.
The
John Michael Kohler Arts Center (JMKAC) is a thriving visual
and performing arts complex. The Arts Center is the hub of
cultural life in eastern Wisconsin and attracts thousands of
visitors annually. JMKAC is nationally renowned for its
innovative and challenging exhibitions and for the scholarly
publications developed in conjunction with them. There are up
to 24 exhibitions each year offering a wide variety of
concepts and directions in contemporary art, craft, and
folk-art.
The best on this side of the lake ... outstanding service ... no
worries about safety and security ... the cal mest
docking anywhere ... love those festivals ...
Those are the comments of both the seasonal and transient boaters
about Harbor Centre Marina, Sheboygan's lakefront gem. A total of
253 slips are available to boaters, who are pampered in the
luxurious marina building that contains a comfortable lounge,
convenience store, laundry, shower and restroom facilities. An
overlook that provides a panoramic view of the lakefront is enjoyed
by the general public as well as by the slip tenants. Outside,
boaters avail themselves of a pool, whirlpool and poolside social
area. Spacious Deland Park, home to major summer festivals, a lakefront
promenade, a large beach and bathhouse, community center, tot lots,
several shelters, public boat launching facilities, the Sheboygan
Yacht Club and the Youth Sailing Center are all adjacent or near to
the marina building.
504 Water Street | Sheboygan Falls, WI 53085 | Phone (920) 467-3123 | Toll Free (866) 467-3122
email: info@rochesterinn.com | www.rochesterinn.com