Take Me To The Lake
- Jona Kay
- Apr 29, 2024
- 3 min read

If you're in the Midwest, this is the best hidden gem around. The Osthoff Resort at Elkhart Lake can be found in eastern Wisconsin, near Sheboygan. It's rural, and packed with unplugged activities to feel like you're on a true family vacation - think about a time before smartphones and technology took over. I'll show you all of the reasons why you should plan your trip as soon as possible!

The Osthoff Resort is a stunning AAA Four Diamond resort with a spa, dining, lakefront activities, multiple pools, arcade, gym, restaurants, dining, and more!

You can visit in the spring, summer, or fall... but you can also visit in the winter! Rates are cheaper in the winter, and reservations are easier to come by for two major reasons: weather and the lakefront. If the lake is open, it's going to be more pricy and competitive. Don't let the snow scare you, but travel in an SUV for sure. There's still plenty going on during the cold weather with an indoor pool, cooking classes, sledding, etc. If you're wanting to go easy on your first visit, winter is the way to go. They have a giant fireplace that will absolutely keep you warm.


If you do score a summer reservation, you're in for the time of your life. The Elkhart Lake is clean and crystal clear... literally. You can see your feet when you're walking through the water. It feels like that's rare to find anymore. The deeper end is roped off for the kids, but they should absolutely still wear a flotation device. There's plenty of water activities available: kayaking, pontoon rental, jet skis, paddleboats, hydro-bikes and so much more. You could spend all day out on the water.

Close to the lake's beach, is the Lake Deck with food and seating, drinks, and live music at night! Nearby, they usually have a fire and complimentary s'mores station. The musicians rotate each weekend.

The exterior is beautifully kept with flowers, bridges, and fantastic landscaping.

Besides the lake, there are two outdoors pools and one indoor (not including the spa). Therefore, a pool for every season is always readily accesible. You can't forget the jacuzzi as well. Each room features a spa tub. Parents can take advantage of some alone-time by signing their children up for the different Kid's Club activities happening.


Who doesn't love the spa? There's one right inside the resort, but of course, you'll need to make an appointment for one of their many services. They have massages, a salt room, private hot tub, and other methods of relaxation. You can even have lunch in there.


Unleash your inner child in the arcade! It's right across from the indoor pool.

The Osthoff has a handful of restaurants that you can check out on the property: the Lake Deck (weather permitting), Otto's, Concourse, and The Elk Room. The food is chef-prepared and affordably priced. You can also check out their cooking class scheduled and sign up. If you don't want to dine-out, you can order from all of the above in the form of room service.

You're probably wondering what the rooms look like, and let me just say, they're nothing short of luxurious. You can get a guest room that can accommodate two people, one bedroom suites, two bedroom suites, rooms with lofts, etc. There's many different options for families and a lot of them come with living rooms, kitchenettes, and more to make you feel right at room for extended stays.

Long story short... this is THE place to be. If you impossibly run out of things to do at the resort, you can venture into the small town of Elkhart Lake for hiking, mini golf, Road America, and so much more. Without a doubt, you will continuously keep coming back to this oasis. Follow along for more secret travel destinations that we stumble across!
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