Side Trips in Milwaukee

One hour north of Milwaukee is the planned garden community of Kohler, its centerpiece the luxurious American Club, Highland Drive (tel. 800/344-2838; www.destinationkohler.com). Built in 1918 to house employees of the Kohler plumbing factory, the grand Tudor-style American Club was converted into a hotel in 1981. It is now the Midwest's premier resort hotel, offering 236 luxurious guest rooms, each outfitted with fabulous bathroom fixtures. Also on-site is Kohler's Inn on Woodlake, a 121-room Arts and Crafts-style inn. The resort's extensive facilities include four Pete Dye-designed golf courses, a 500-acre wilderness preserve, a salon and day spa, health and racquet facilities, upscale boutiques, and the Kohler Design Center. Golf is the star attraction, though, and guests are encouraged to reserve tee times when they book their room -- greens fees begin at $155. Double rooms at the American Club begin at $195; doubles at the Inn begin at $123.