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Kohler, Wisconsin: A Winter Wonderland Worth the Trip

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, December 16th 2025 at 12:58 GMT by Travel + Leisure

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Kohler, Wisconsin: A Winter Wonderland That’s Worth the Trip

Travel + Leisure’s recent feature on Kohler, Wisconsin, turns what many might think of as an ordinary Midwestern town into a bustling winter destination. By weaving together the town’s scenic backdrop, the vibrant holiday atmosphere, and a handful of practical travel tips, the article gives readers a clear idea of what to expect and why Kohler should be on the radar of any traveler planning a winter getaway.

1. A Quick Portrait of Kohler

Kohler is nestled in the heart of Wisconsin’s dairy country, just a short drive north of Green Bay. The town is famously home to the Kohler Company, a historic manufacturing and hospitality powerhouse that has long invested in the local community. Because of the company’s influence, Kohler has an unusually upscale feel for a rural town: tree‑lined streets, well‑maintained public spaces, and a handful of boutique shops and cafés.

Travel + Leisure notes that Kohler’s population is only a few thousand, but the town’s charm lies in its blend of small‑town hospitality and the polish that comes from a thriving business. “It’s like stepping into a cozy, well‑cared‑up postcard,” one local resident is quoted saying in the article. The town’s seasonal festivals, especially in winter, bring an influx of visitors that turns the quiet streets into lively, celebratory spaces.

2. The Winter Event: “Kohler Lights & Laughter”

The article’s centerpiece is Kohler’s flagship winter celebration, known locally as “Kohler Lights & Laughter.” The event runs from early December through the first week of January and is a carefully orchestrated mix of holiday décor, live entertainment, and family‑friendly activities.

a. Spectacular Light Displays

At the heart of the event are the light displays that blanket the town’s historic district. Thousands of LED bulbs, synchronized to music, transform Main Street into a sparkling runway. Travelers can stroll the illuminated path on foot, or for a more leisurely experience, ride a seasonal “Light‑Chariot” (a motorized cart decorated with lights).

b. Ice‑Skating and Snow Play

The town’s main square is converted into a free‑entry ice‑skating rink every night between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. Local volunteers polish the surface, and the rink is supplied with a variety of skating rinks, from beginner to advanced. Adjacent to the rink, a modest sledding hill and a small “snow‑cave” (a snow‑shaped tunnel for kids) offer additional snowy fun.

c. The Holiday Market

A key attraction is the Holiday Market that operates daily during the event. Stalls sell locally produced cheeses, honey, handmade crafts, and artisanal chocolates. The article emphasizes the market’s emphasis on sustainable, locally sourced products, aligning with the region’s reputation for high‑quality dairy. Food trucks offering hot cocoa, cider, and Wisconsin‑style pierogies line the perimeter, ensuring that visitors are never short on warm, comforting treats.

d. Live Music and Cultural Performances

Each evening, a different local band or choir takes the stage at the Town Hall, playing everything from classic Christmas carols to contemporary pop covers. There is also a small theatrical performance by the Kohler Youth Theatre that dramatizes local folklore, making the event feel both festive and rooted in community tradition.

3. Accommodation & Dining

Travel + Leisure devotes a section to lodging and culinary highlights, which are integral to any travel recommendation. Kohler boasts a range of accommodations that cater to both luxury seekers and budget travelers:

• The Kohler Lodge – A historic bed‑and‑breakfast that offers suites with fireplaces and complimentary breakfast featuring local cheeses and pastries. The article notes that the lodge’s proximity to the lights and rink makes it a convenient base for guests.
• Family‑Friendly Hotels – The “Lakeside Inn” and “Green Bay Suites” provide larger rooms and are praised for their family amenities, including board games and a small indoor pool.
• Camping Options – For those who love the outdoors, the Kohler County Park offers a small campground with fire pits and an RV pad. The article points out that early reservations are essential during the event season.

Dining options are highlighted throughout the piece. Local favorites such as Cedar Grove Café (known for its smoked fish dishes) and The Old Mill Bistro (renowned for its “soul‑food” comfort classics) are recommended for travelers who want to experience authentic Wisconsin flavors. The article also encourages guests to try the Kohler Farmhouse BBQ on the weekend nights of the festival, where live music plays as the grill smokes.

4. Practical Travel Tips

The article concludes with a helpful list of logistics to ensure a smooth trip:

• Getting There – Kohler is easily accessible via Interstate 43 (North–South) and U.S. Route 10 (East–West). The nearest major airports are Green Bay’s Fox Memorial Airport (≈30 min by car) and Milwaukee’s General Mitchell International Airport (≈1 hour). Rideshare services and regional taxis operate during the festival period.
• Parking – Street parking is limited during event nights. The Town Hall and Central Plaza provide paid parking spaces, and there are several public parking lots with shuttle service to the lights and rink.
• Weather Prep – Wisconsin winters can be brutal. The article stresses layering clothing, waterproof boots, and hats, and suggests bringing gloves for the rink. For those wanting to participate in the light‑chariot tours, a small jacket is mandatory.
• Event Calendar – A printable schedule of the festival’s nightly events is linked in the article. The schedule includes music performance times, ice‑rinks hours, and the schedule for the Holiday Market’s special “Early Bird” sales each morning.
• Tickets & Reservations – While most event attractions are free, certain performances (e.g., the main theatre show) require advance tickets. The article links directly to the Kohler Winter Festival’s ticketing page, where guests can purchase or reserve seats. Reservations for accommodation are also encouraged, especially during peak holiday dates.

5. Nearby Attractions

To round out the experience, the article briefly highlights neighboring spots worth a detour:

• Kohler Park & Zoo – A small wildlife preserve located just south of the downtown area, open year‑round and free for children under 10.
• Eagle Lake – A scenic spot for a quick nature walk or a midnight snowshoeing adventure.
• Green Bay’s Ice Arena – A short drive to the larger ice arena for hockey or figure skating shows, a popular option for sports‑enthusiast travelers.

6. Final Takeaway

The Travel + Leisure feature paints Kohler as a quintessential Midwest holiday destination that punches well above its size. By blending an impressive light spectacle, engaging family activities, and a strong sense of community pride, Kohler’s winter festival stands out as a memorable, accessible, and budget‑friendly option for travelers. Whether you’re looking to glide across a pristine ice rink, sample artisanal Wisconsin cheeses, or simply bask in the glow of a town that embraces its winter wonderland, Kohler promises an experience that feels both intimate and jubilant.

For anyone planning a winter escape that balances charm, convenience, and a sprinkle of local culture, Kohler is a destination that deserves a place on the itinerary.