Skip to main content
Resort Media

News & Media

You'll find the latest news and media press releases from Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center in Sheboygan, WI as well as information for the media and contact information to reach our marketing department for promotional opportunities.

Press Releases

21 Best Things to Do in Sheboygan, WI
accordion-plus icon accordion-minus icon

September 23, 2023

By Blake Walsh, Travel Lens

Sheboygan truly offers something for everyone, covering everything from the rich history and culture to the vibrant food scene.

Let's dive into the best things to do in Sheboygan, Wisconsin.

...

Splash Around in Breaker Bay Waterpark

There's no escaping the allure of Breaker Bay Waterpark - a year-round indoor water park that's become a staple in my family's weekend routine.

The excitement begins when we pull into the parking lot of the Blue Harbor Resort, which houses the waterpark.

From the towering water slides that peek out from the building to the sound of laughter echoing across the park, it's a sensory delight for kids and adults alike.

My children, aged six and eight, can't get enough of the swirling water slides and the giant wave pool.

The wait times for the falls can vary, but it's never too long, and the anticipation is part of the fun.

And let's not forget the lifeguards. They are always watchful, which significantly relieves parents like me.

An added convenience is the availability of towels - handy and plentiful.

It's nice to know you can swap a wet one for a dry one anytime, ensuring the kids are cozy and comfortable.

The in-house cafe is also a lifesaver.

After hours of splashing and sliding, the children are inevitably hungry.

The menu boasts a decent selection, with something to please every palate.

Whether a quick snack or a hearty meal, it's the perfect way to recharge before plunging back into the aquatic fun.

Breaker Bay Waterpark is a firm family favorite and a cherished part of our life in this town. I can't wait for our next visit!

READ MORE

Blue Harbor Resort, the Weill Center for the Performing Arts,
Above & Beyond Children’s Museum, Bookworm Gardens,
and The GameBoard partner for Fall giveaway

Sheboygan, WI (September 12, 2023) — Blue Harbor Resort joins forces with the Weill Center for the Performing Arts as well as Above & Beyond Children’s Museum, Bookworm Gardens, and The GameBoard to give away “An Evening of Wonders” in Sheboygan.

The “An Evening of Wonders” prize package will include a two-night stay at Blue Harbor Resort October 20th and 21st including waterpark passes, four tickets to see “Vitaly: An Evening of Wonders” at the Weill Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, October 21st, a one-year Family Membership to Above & Beyond Children’s Museum, four general admission tickets to Bookworm Gardens for October 21st or 22nd, and The Neil Patrick Harris Theory 11 Playing Cards and Ocean Shashibo puzzle from The GameBoard, over $1,000 in total prize value.

“Vitaly: An Evening of Wonders” is Vitaly Beckman’s latest and most ambitious production. He has stumped Penn and Teller twice on their hit TV show Fool Us and has amazed and entertained audiences from all over the world, including an off-Broadway run. Combining breathtaking visuals with Vitaly’s captivating style, An Evening of Wonders is an interactive theatrical experience that takes the audience on a magical journey and features some of the most original illusions ever witnessed. The show does more than entertain, it moves, inspires, and instills a fresh perspective on life and a greater realization that ours is a world of beauty and wonder.

For those who can’t wait until the end of September to find out if they are a winner of An Evening of Wonders prize package, they can plan a Sheboygan stay right away. Blue Harbor Resort is offering 15% off resort room rates for any visitors attending a Weill Center show this season. Visitors can use promo code WEILL when booking rooms at Blue Harbor Resort to turn their visit to the Weill Center into a mini-vacation and enjoy all the wonders of Sheboygan.

The contest will run through September 24th with online registrations accepted at https://www.blueharborresort.com/stay/register-to-win/ or in-person at the Blue Harbor Resort booth at the Harbor Centre BID’s River Fest, a one-day festival along the Riverfront Drive boardwalk in Sheboygan on Saturday, September 23rd, 2023. One lucky winner will be selected the week of September 25th by random drawing to win An Evening of Wonders in Sheboygan. Registrants must be at least 21 years old.

 

###

 

ABOUT BLUE HARBOR RESORT & CONFERENCE CENTER:

Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center is nestled in the Harbor Centre District of Sheboygan, Wisconsin, a city known as the "Malibu of the Midwest” for its scenic waterfront, sailing, boating, and freshwater surfing. Just a short drive from Madison, Milwaukee, and Green Bay in Wisconsin as well as Chicagoland and Northern Illinois, this Victorian-style lakeside resort is a favorite for leisure travelers, groups, and weddings. The resort features 179 guest suites ranging in size from 500 to more than 1,900 square feet, as well as private villas, and approximately 17,000 square feet of meeting and event space. Breaker Bay indoor waterpark spans 54,000 square-feet with thrilling slides, a lazy river, and double surf simulator, The Riptide, as well as an arcade and glow-in-the-dark indoor mini golf. Four restaurants offer a diverse range of dining options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and drinks whether you're dining in, grabbing a treat to go, or lounging poolside. Guests and locals alike relax, rejuvenate, and revitalize at the full-service Reflections Spa & Salon with massages, body treatments, and skin care services. To learn more about Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center, visit https://www.blueharborresort.com/ or call 1.866.701.BLUE (2583). 

September 11, 2023

By WorldAtlas.com 

In between Wisconsin's typically mild summers and cold, snowy winters lies the sweet spot of autumn. Although it'll be too cold to swim in one of the state's famous pristine, clear lakes during the fall months, there is no shortage of things to keep you busy during a visit. Wisconsin's small towns are known for their hospitality, charm and quaint restaurants, boutiques, coffee shops, and year-round recreational opportunities. Some of the towns, such as the ones listed below, even come to life in the fall by celebrating all that the scenic season has to offer.

...

Sheboygan

Next fall, visit Sheboygan to find out why it was dubbed the "Spirit on the Lake," and to experience all of the autumnal delights the town as to offer. Located on Lake Michigan, Sheboygan treats visitors to scenic water views and two miles of sandy beaches. During the fall months, take a walk through one of the city's 36 parks, which feature both rustic and paved trails from which to take in the colorful foliage. Launch your own boat or a rented watercraft on the lake, or if you prefer to spend a chilly autumn day indoors, head to the John Michael Kohler Arts Center. Sheboygan is also known as the "Malibu of the Midwest," as adventurous residents and visitors surf on Lake Michigan during the late fall and winter months when waves are the biggest. 

READ MORE

August 18, 2023

By Milwaukee Magazine Staff

In this series, Milwaukee Magazine staffers answer questions about the city, share cherished memories, give unsolicited advice and crack the occasional dumb joke.

...

2. Sheboygan

CHRIS DROSNER, EXECUTIVE EDITOR

I’m braving the I-43 construction to head to Sheboygan for the day, and this is mostly about replicating Ann Christenson’s Shevegas leg of her Foodie Road Trip feature last summer. I’d start with lunch (I get a slow start, OK?) at The Northwestern House, telling myself not to overdo with the casual fare because we’ve got big plans for dinner. Then it’s off to 3 Sheeps Brewing, one of the state’s best breweries and an awesome taproom experience, with a good vibe, great beer and a cool golf simulator. Beerwise, have something light, sure (their excellent Oktoberfest, just tapped, is only 5.5% ABV), but make sure to try one of 3 Sheeps’ big, dark beers; they’re outstanding almost without exception. I’m spending some time on the lakefront and just driving around the city’s neighborhoods – it’s a great way to get a feel for a place beyond the thoroughfares – before pulling into Stefano’s Trattoria for dinner. I trust Ann in all matters gastronomic, and her praises of this restaurant… yeah, it’s a gotta.

READ MORE

William T. Rees assumes GM position Monday, August 7, 2023

Sheboygan, WI (August 7, 2023) — Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center is pleased to announce William T. Rees has been appointed as the resort’s new General Manager as of August 7, 2023. In this position, Rees will oversee day-to-day operations at the 179-suite resort along with 38 private villas, leading the team to improve guest experience.

Rees worked for Hawaii's Outrigger Hotels and Resorts for more than twenty years, beginning as a reservation agent and progressively promoted to more responsible positions including reservations supervisor, front desk manager, assistant resort manager, and three resort general manager positions, concluding his time with Outrigger Hotels as the General Manager of Kapalua Villas, a luxury vacation rental property spanning three separate condominiums. Following his departure from Outrigger and most recently, Rees has been reinventing the Maui Seaside Hotel in Maui, HI.

With a collaborative leadership style focused on employees, guests, the community, and the environment, Rees enjoys working with a team who take personal responsibility to care for their guests and who consistently strive to improve the guest experience. He was drawn to Sheboygan’s premier lakefront resort because it is a family-owned, independent property with a broad mix of business, presenting a variety of opportunities to be of service. Rees believes hospitality is the individual act of sharing our hearts for service with our guests and the community at every interaction. 

"I am honored to be working with the Blue Harbor Resort team to continue to provide Sheboygan's premier resort experience,” shares Rees, “I’m also looking forward to returning to my Wisconsin roots and becoming a member of the Sheboygan community."

With William T. Rees at the helm, Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center is confident heading into their 20th anniversary year in 2024, the resort will prosper for years to come.

 

###

 

ABOUT BLUE HARBOR RESORT & CONFERENCE CENTER:

Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center is nestled in the Harbor Centre District of Sheboygan, Wisconsin, a city known as the "Malibu of the Midwest” for its scenic waterfront, sailing, boating, and freshwater surfing. Just a short drive from Madison, Milwaukee, and Green Bay in Wisconsin as well as Chicagoland and Northern Illinois, this Victorian-style lakeside resort is a favorite for leisure travelers, groups, and weddings. The resort features 179 guest suites ranging in size from 500 to more than 1,900 square feet, as well as private villas, and approximately 17,000 square feet of meeting and event space. Breaker Bay indoor waterpark spans 54,000 square-feet with thrilling slides, a lazy river, and double surf simulator, The Riptide, as well as an arcade and glow-in-the-dark indoor mini golf. Four restaurants offer a diverse range of dining options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and drinks whether you're dining in, grabbing a treat to go, or lounging poolside. Guests and locals alike relax, rejuvenate, and revitalize at the full-service Reflections Spa & Salon with massages, body treatments, and skin care services. To learn more about Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center, visit https://www.blueharborresort.com/ or call 1.866.701.BLUE (2583). 

July 25, 2023

By Shelby Deering, Brava Magazine

Wisconsin has a plethora of natural scenes to admire, from pine tree-dotted state parks to expansive grasslands. We even have a segment that looks and feels just like the ocean: the Lake Michigan coastline. Spanning 407 miles, the shore features crashing waves that flank stunning beaches, restaurants with unbeatable lakeside views and activities to soak it all up. This summer, head to these five locales that are right on the Lake Michigan coastline.

...

Sheboygan

Famed for its Kohler-Andrae State Park that looks just like a Cape Cod postcard, Sheboygan holds other Lake Michigan treasures. The waters around this city aren’t calm, with a long history of shipwrecks that can be discovered at the nearby Wisconsin Maritime Museum, or you can see one for yourself: the Lottie Cooper Shipwreck viewed on dry land in Deland Park. Take a walk out to the bright-red Breakwater Lighthouse, then grab a bite at Stefano’s Slo Food Market, located a hop, skip and a jump from the shore and readied with Cubanos, pork tacos al pastor and more. Immerse yourself in Sheboygan surfing culture at EOS Surf & Outdoor. Top off your trip with a stay at the Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center, complete with pristine views and an indoor waterpark.

 

READ MORE

July 21, 2023

By Kevin Zimmermann, WHBL

The Sheboygan Area Tourism organization VisitSheboygan has announced plans centered around the Mercury Racing Midwest Challenge.  The first international marine Formula One Racing Series hosted by Sheboygan will take place August 11-13 in the waters off Sheboygan from the Harbor south to Black River, but activities will take place in many locations around Sheboygan’s Harbor Centre and downtown districts.

Official events begin with a kickoff party from 6 until 10 p.m. Friday the 11th at City Green where the powerboats will be on display for public viewing.  And per “official” Sheboygan standards, there WILL be a brat fry…as well as food trucks, beverage concessions and music from the Past Curfew band.

The powerboat races themselves fill the bill for both Saturday and Sunday, August 12th and 13th, and while the action will be on the water, the official event stage will be at the end of South Pier Drive next to Blue Harbor Resort where event sponsors, racing teams, local shops, food trucks and a VIP tent will be located, while those attending can see the races streamed live on a jumbo screen.

Events generally run between 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. both days with champions crowned at 6 p.m. on Sunday.

More information is available at VisitSheboygan.com

READ MORE

July 19, 2023

By Mack Carmack, TMJ-TV

For the first time ever, a mixture of Powerboat P1 and F1 Powerboat racing will occur on Lake Michigan.

SHEBOYGAN, Wis. — Although P1 and F1 Powerboat racing are typically separate events, Mercury Racing will combine the two for a weekend of spectacular boat racing.

In Sheboygan from Aug. 11-13, the Mercury Racing Midwest Challenge will occur at the Blue Harbor Resort (725 Blue Harbor Dr. Sheboygan, WI 53081).

General admission tickets are completely free and can be reserved on their eventbrite. However, for those that would like a more luxurious experience, tickets can be purchased for up-close seating or a VIP experience.

Over 40 teams will be competing at the event, including boating champions from Australia, Italy, and Norway.

“Our race support team and collection of marine products are featured in powerboat races around the world, and we’re beyond excited to be a part of this inaugural powerboat race weekend in the Midwest, less than an hour from our corporate headquarters, for our employees, family and friends, and local community members to experience,” states General Manager Stuart Halley in their press release.

The schedule for the weekend is as followed:

Friday, Aug. 11:
6 p.m. - 10 p.m. - Block Party

Saturday, Aug. 12:
10 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. - Racing

Sunday, Aug. 13:
10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. - Racing
6 p.m. - Award ceremony

READ MORE

July 19, 2023

By Alex Garner, Sheboygan Press

SHEBOYGAN – The public can walk along the South Pier and park in the cul de sac again now that repairs are finished.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers led the roughly $12 million project to repair the breakwater that stretches about 1,250 feet into Lake Michigan. The breakwater is critical for protecting the shore against waves and erosion.

Here’s more on the project and next steps.

Breakwater project was done in two parts

The three-year project was split into two phases, starting out in the water and moving inward to the shore.


In the first phase, construction crews added new sheet piles and tons of stones to the sides and a concrete cap to the top of the breakwater.

Phase two continued the work about 300 feet from shore to the area near Harbor Pointe Miniature Golf. It took about two years.

Pier could need repairs in 50 years

The south breakwater was rebuilt in phases between 1926 and 1933, Robert Stanick, former area engineer with the Army Corps of Engineers, told the Sheboygan Press in 2020. It was resurfaced in 1974.

Public Works Director David Biebel said the pier designs can last about 40 to 50 years. The Army Corps could inspect the South Pier again for areas needing maintenance in the future.

South Pier’s final touches coming soon

Following completion of the pier, Biebel said a water safety sign will go up soon. It was removed during construction.

Several trees and some grass areas also disrupted by construction will be restored.

North Pier might see future restoration

Biebel said the city expressed its desire for more Corps repair work in Sheboygan's harbor, like on the North Pier near Deland Park. It was first rebuilt with a concrete breakwater in 1915.

The Corps would have to fund that project, among other waterfront infrastructure needs in the Great Lakes region. Biebel said the city is in the "waiting period" of the process.

Other regional Corps projects included dam restorations in the Appleton area and potential redesigns to the Two Rivers Harbor.

Water safety is key on piers

Lake Michigan waves can be torrential and dangerous.

Although the pier areas are under Corps jurisdiction, the city still recommends residents and visitors follow some safety guidelines, like being aware of weather, waves and pier conditions.

The Sheboygan Water Safety Group — made of representatives from Sheboygan County Planning departments and U.S. Coast Guard — also added signs to identify water emergency sites.

Signs at access points near the water designate North Pier as N1 and South Pier as S1. A 911 caller can give the dispatcher the location numbers.

READ MORE

July 17, 2023

By Ronnie Wendt, Wisconsin Meetings

Why hold an event at a lakeshore resort? The answer lies in the location’s undeniable allure. Imagine your guests being greeted by a mesmerizing lakeshore vista stretching out before them. As soon as they enter the tranquil atmosphere, the worries of work and life melt away, replaced by a soothing sense of calm.

Next is the wealth of opportunities for both indoor and outdoor activities. From watersports and beachside games to guided nature walks and sunset boat cruises, there is something to captivate every attendee. Expansive grounds provide ample space for team-building exercises, outdoor workshops or even grand galas under a starlit sky.

Besides a stunning lakeside setting, most resorts also provide well-appointed meeting rooms, and unmatched hospitality and amenities. Attentive staff ensure every need is met with warmth and professionalism. Delectable cuisine, crafted with local flavors and fresh ingredients, top off the experience and tantalize the taste buds.

“A resort also offers convenience,” says Delaine Reichert, a group sales manager at Blue Harbor Resort, a family-friendly destination on the shores of Lake Michigan in Sheboygan. “You have your meeting space complete with the audiovisual setup, top culinary staff to prepare your meals and a beautiful resort to enjoy. It’s a place where you can work and make calls, meet with your peers and relax.”

When you host an event at a resort, your group often stays on the property to enjoy all of the amenities, which maximizes networking and engagement, frequently a primary goal for planners. A lakeshore resort not only provides a beautiful place for attendees to gather, but also offers an opportunity to unwind, recharge and connect with nature. Here, planners can craft an experience that transcends the ordinary.

Maximized Meeting Amenities

Wisconsin resorts, lakeside resorts being one popular option, offer unique alternatives to hotels and conference centers. The Dairy State has everything, from luxurious to rustic resorts, to get away from the daily grind as attendees conduct business.

Since the event itself is the reason for gathering, the first consideration must be the meeting spaces resorts offer, says Joy Kautzer, a planner at Lakeside Foods. Kautzer recently organized a leadership event at Blue Harbor Resort. The previous year, Lakeside Foods held the same event at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, a tough act to follow. “We needed a venue that could compare to Lambeau’s wow factor, but additionally have hotel rooms on site,” she says. “We also needed ample meeting space for 200 attendees.”

Because of the variety of resorts available, Kautzer recommends visiting sites to personally inspect their meeting rooms. This helps guarantee that the spaces meet their needs. “We break things out by area during our event,” she says. “So we needed a space that allowed us to do that.”

The state offers a plethora of resorts with meeting spaces. Here is just a sampling of what Wisconsin’s lakeshore resorts offer:

The Osthoff Resort in Elkhart Lake won the Best of Wisconsin Meetings designation for the Best Lakeshore Resort in Wisconsin in 2022. It offers 38,000 square feet of flexible meeting space with rooms ranging in size from the 10,000-square-foot Grand Libelle Ballroom to a 450-square-foot boardroom. The versatile ballroom can be customized to meet unique needs. A professional, on-site audiovisual team leaves nothing to chance.

Heidel House is a 114-room hotel and conference center on the shores of Green Lake. The resort’s 11,000 square feet of event space, including three sizable ballrooms, offers attendees spectacular views of the 7,346-acre lake that borders the property as guests meet.

Blue Harbor Resort in Sheboygan offers a variety of fully customizable and magnificent indoor and outdoor meeting spaces. The resort boasts over 16,800 square feet of convention space, with an 81- by 127-foot Grand Ballroom that can partition into seven meeting spaces. The ballroom has 16-foot ceilings, in addition to a 4,025-square- foot pre-function area that overlooks Lake Michigan.

“You can host a group of two people to 1,200,” Reichert says. “What sets our meeting spaces apart is that they are all designed around the view. Our Lakeside Terrace is a two-story atrium with two custom-built bars and a dance floor. Our Island Room has a fireplace, private terrace and direct beach access, as does our Peninsula Room. These are beautiful spaces designed to create something memorable.”

The Landmark Resort in Egg Harbor offers nearly 300 suites for lodging and nine spacious meeting rooms. With just under 9,000 square feet of meeting space, accommodating staff and a stunning view of the bay of Green Bay, the largest resort in Door County, centrally located on the Door County peninsula, is sure to please.

Lake Lawn Resort sits on more than 250 wooded acres along 2 miles of Delavan Lake shoreline in Delavan. Besides the resort’s 271 hotel rooms, an on-site conference center offers 32,000 square feet of event and meeting space. The 5,170-square- foot Geneva Ballroom is its largest space, which can hold 400 people at rounds or 600 theater-style. The Lake Lawn Room features vaulted ceilings, and can host 330 for a banquet or 400 for a reception. The Geneva Club also has vaulted ceilings and space for 160 banquet guests. Several smaller rooms, including the Courtyard Boardroom, outdoor event venues and several pre- function spaces, are available for breakouts or smaller meetings.

Because lakeside resorts can be remote, it’s best to check on Wi-Fi connections and audiovisual capabilities before booking. Most are prepared to accommodate a group’s needs, but it’s always best to verify. Does the facility have oversized screens, projectors or a dedicated audiovisual person to help? All are important considerations, according to Kautzer.

“Dedicated Wi-Fi is a big plus,” confirms Reichert. “This means your group has Wi-Fi dedicated to them. This means you’re not competing with Wi-Fi users in the hotel rooms where Mom is on a Zoom call, Dad’s on the Internet and the kids are streaming movies.They can even name the Wi-Fi domain after the group if they want to at Blue Harbor.”

Fantastic Food and Beverage

Food and beverage can make or break the attendee experience. Today’s attendees crave foods that dish up an experience, as well as satisfy their hunger. Here, resorts also stand poised to deliver.

“Most resorts have an executive chef, a full- time culinary staff and a beautiful menu,” Reichert says. “They can accommodate vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and other allergen requests, and customize the menu to each group’s needs.”

“A resort is geared to provide a culinary experience to its clientele,” says Sarkis Wentland, a planner at Cooperative Educational Service Agency (CESA) 7, an educational consultant and liaison. “Another venue may not have access to a chef on site. Then you have to either contact a caterer or eat whatever the convention center offers.”

Kautzer mentions that she did buffets for breakfast, brats and burgers for lunch (with traditional pasta and potato salads and homemade potato chips), and capped off each day with a meat-and-potatoes buffet for dinner.

Still, Reichert suggests plated menus as a cost-effective alternative to buffets, which may produce more waste. “Plated menus also make it easier to prepare entrees for special requests, such as gluten-free or vegetarian dishes,” she says.

Many resorts also can prepare box lunches or allow attendees to preorder meals, she says. “We have many people who request these things when they spend the afternoon golfing at Whistling Straits Golf Course in Sheboygan. Also, when attendees fill out their menu requests individually, we can serve them their freshly made food choices at the appointed time.”

The Osthoff Resort’s banquet team prepares every meal. But even more interesting is it has a cooking school on the property that offers team-building activities. A popular event is the food truck challenge, where groups receive proteins, vegetables and breads to create food for their own truck in a head-to-head competition.

Reichert adds, “Resorts can do these things because they have a full culinary team.”

An Abundance of Activities

A lakeshore resort can become the canvas upon which unforgettable moments are painted, ensuring every event is a masterpiece etched in the hearts of those who attend. Resorts offer activities that make lasting memories, says Reichert.

At the lake, attendees can take a relaxing stroll by the shore, participate in exciting activities like kayaking or paddleboarding, or simply lounge by the pool or on the beach. Groups additionally enjoy bonfires on the beach and lawn Jenga.

Reichert recalls that one group incorporated Blue Harbor’s indoor mini golf course into its event, while another group had spa technicians give chair massages between sessions. Some groups borrow the karaoke machine for icebreakers or set up a bonfire complete with gourmet s’mores outside. “Bonfires on the beach can be a great team-building event,” says Reichert. “Imagine your whole team sitting in classic Adirondack chairs under the stars making s’mores by the fire.”

Guests at The Osthoff Resort can rent mountain bikes to ride along the lake or take in the resort’s award-winning Aspira Spa, which offers natural treatments intended to ground, connect and rejuvenate.

Boat tours are another popular option for group outings. Heidel House offers tours of Green Lake on the Escapade, a 60-foot-long cruiser built in 1995. The boat can seat 36 at tables in the air-conditioned main cabin and accommodate another 24 people on the open-air upper deck.

Lake Lawn Resort can thrill attendees with a cruise on the Lake Lawn Queen, a two-level, 76-foot cruise boat. The Queen takes guests on a tour of Delavan Lake and its shores, which boast five Frank Lloyd Wright homes and other historical landmarks. The boat’s open-air top deck offers comfortable lounge seating and amazing lake views from every angle, while a climate-controlled main level provides seating next to expansive windows.

The Delavan resort also offers speedboats, Triton boats, paddleboards, kayaks, wave runners and paddle boats for rent. And if swimming in the lake doesn’t appeal, Blue Harbor offers an indoor water park for attendees and family members who tag along.

Resort grounds are always meticulous and carefully curated, with magnificent flowers, lush vegetation and towering trees. Attendees may want to do little more than stroll the grounds after hours. Here, the Landmark Resort offers Patti’s Path, which is overshadowed by great trees, and plenty of benches to sit and admire the foliage. Guests can also get acquainted with the resort through the Red Loop trail, which winds around each building and offers stunning views of the bay.

“With all that resorts offer, lakeside resort meetings can be a getaway for the entire family,” says Wentland. “Dad might go to the meeting, while Mom takes the kids to the water park. Or couples might turn the event into a long weekend.”

There’s no shortage of things to do when meeting at Wisconsin’s lakeshore resorts, whether it’s paddleboarding, bonfires, massages or forest bathing. Resorts deliver more than cookie-cutter experiences. They craft experiences that draw attendees in and keep them coming back.


How to Host a Successful Event at a Lakeside Resort

Planner Sarkis Wentland selected a lakeside resort for the CESA 7 Teachers’ Retreat to fashion an event with a getaway feel. He hoped the 150 attendees would bring their families along to make it a tourist escape, too.

The event hit all the marks, and attendance and satisfaction soared. “I had to turn people away. We had so many requests because people knew the event would be beautiful and relaxing,” he says.

Joy Kautzer, a planner at Lakeside Foods, also organized a lakeside resort event for 200. This leadership event featured presentations, Q&A panels and hands-on activities for attendees. “We also had live surveys where we polled the audience with an app,” she says. “Attendees could see real-time results as they entered their answers.”

Later, guests enjoyed dinner and cocktails on a lakeside terrace the first night, and a bonfire and lawn Jenga on the second. “Our event was really well-received,” Kautzer says. “When we surveyed our group, they said it was our best conference ever.”

After successfully organizing lakeside resort meetings, Kautzer and Wentland shared their tips for a successful event at the lake.

  • Start early. Kautzer suggests beginning the search as soon as tentative dates are available. Resort meeting spaces fill up fast. To get started, she recommends meeting the resort team, taking a tour and booking dates as soon as possible.
  • Tour the site. Visit the site before finalizing any plans. “When you visit the site, you can walk around and see everything,” Wentland says. “On our visit, we noticed one room had large, beautiful windows overlooking the lake. We put vendors advertising their products in that beautiful space.” Kautzer adds, “Visually seeing the space, and understanding the sound, layout and flow helped us decide what the space could do.”
  • Ask questions. Know what you want and ask whether the resort can accommodate it. “The resort knew months in advance what we planned, even though we didn’t have it all buttoned up at that point,” Kautzer says. “Our conversations about
    what we hoped people would gain from the meeting helped the resort prepare.”
  • Advertise the event. To advertise an event at a beautiful lakeshore venue, Wentland advises using attractive photos of the beach and lakeside views. “We printed and handed out flyers,” he says. “We wanted to advertise that this was going to be a different setting. Our flyers were casual to accentuate the vibe we were trying to promote.”
  • Set early deadlines. Do not set the registration deadline close to the event date. Venues expect final counts at least a week in advance. “A resort is a popular venue and we had a lot of latecomers,” explains Wentland. “You need a buffer window before the venue needs your final numbers to cover those requests.”
  • Ask for discounts. A lakeside venue encourages people to bring families along. Knowing this, ask the resort for room discounts, then advertise the discounts, suggests Wentland.
  • Consider the staff. Is there an on-site planner? What about an audiovisual professional? These professionals, according to Kautzer, are crucial to success. “The staff at our event was amazing. They treated us well from the initial meeting to setup to the conference itself. Even last-minute needs were accommodated,” she says. “Having someone dedicated to your event makes a difference.”
  • Be open to suggestions. The sky is the limit for team building, adds Delaine Reichert, group sales manager at Blue Harbor Resort. Ask venue staff what types of team- building events were done in the past and what suggestions they might have.
READ MORE

We are honored to win the Best of Sheboygan County Hotel category and even more honored to share the spotlight with other Sheboygan area tourism partners...

John Michael Kohler Arts Center - Art Gallery
Making Spirits Bright - Community Charity Event
Bookworm Gardens - Family Amusement
Above & Beyond Children's Museum - Museum
Elkhart Lake's Road America, Inc. - Sports Facility/Complex
Kohler-Andrae State Park - Tourist/Seasonal Attraction
Freak Toyz - Antique / Coins & Collectibles Store

View all the winners and finalists.

July 11, 2023

By Alyssa Ochs, Trips to Discover

I have spent time in Wisconsin during all four seasons and found no shortage of romantic places to visit among the forests, rolling hills, and friendly towns. When you stay at a local resort that caters to the needs and wishes of couples, you take the guesswork out of travel planning and can finally relax and spend quality time together without the stress.

For your next Midwestern getaway, consider booking one of these best resorts in Wisconsin for couples.

Blue Harbor Resort, Sheboygan

Located just a short drive from Chicago, the Blue Harbor Resort is located along Lake Michigan and is a romantic seaside escape. It has multiple restaurants with a diverse range of cuisine options and poolside food and drinks available too. The Blue Harbor Resort has a spa that couples love and that has specials available. Other resort packages and specials are available to offer special perks for food, cocktails, cabana rentals, and the waterpark.

Key Amenities:

  • Multiple restaurants

  • On-site waterpark

  • On-site Salon & Spa

READ MORE

Blue Harbor Resort Bands Together with Local Businesses

Sheboygan, WI (June 19, 2023) — Blue Harbor Resort bands together with local businesses to bring Super Hero Week to Sheboygan, Wisconsin June 26th through July 2nd. Guests will discover a variety of themed activities throughout the Lake Michigan resort and all around Sheboygan.

As guardians of hospitality in Sheboygan, Blue Harbor Resort developed Super Hero Week to provide family-friendly fun for their guests. Super Hero themed resort activities and specials range from making a Super Hero Sun Catcher Craft to enjoying Super Man Ice Cream from Shoreline Café, and even a Super Hero Costume Contest. Kid-friendly drink specials include: Power Punch and Hero Juice from Shoreline Café and cocktails for the fully-grown super heroes: Kryptonite, The Beast, Spidey-Senses, and The Hulk Slushie. Little Super Heroes will even get a secret mission upon check-in.

The request for participation among local business owners was met with enthusiasm. Kelly D. Holstine of WordHaven BookHouse exclaimed “YES! I love this!” and Lynn Potyen from The GameBoard responded “We are happy to celebrate Superheroes that week! What a cool idea!”

Local Super Hero activities around Sheboygan include:

  • BECOME A SUPER HERO! Visit Above & Beyond Children’s Museum (902 N 8th Street #4005) June 27th through 30th 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for this Wonder Workshop for a Super Hero mask and wrist cuff activity included with museum admission.
  • CREATE YOUR OWN SUPERHERO at WordHaven BookHouse (923 N 8th Street) July 1st from 11 a.m. to noon. Local author, Sara Biren, will lead a class to help kids flex their creative muscles to brainstorm super powers and other details about a character, create their superhero’s origin story, and dive into a story where their hero saves the day. Worksheets and super hero swag provided. $10 per person. Maximum of 15 participants.
  • POLLINATORS ARE OUR HEROES Visit Bookworm Gardens (1415 Campus Drive) June 28th through July 1st from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. each day for pollinator themed story times. If you mention Super Hero Week to the reader of the front gate staff, you’ll get a bee-themed sticker.
  • SUPER HERO TRIVIA & GAMES Visit The GameBoard (621 N 8th Street) June 26th through July 1st during business hours for Super Hero Trivia, Marvel ‘Spot It’ Challenge, plus stock up on Heroclix with a 10% discount. Kids will receive a “The GameBoard I’m a Hero” bracelet and families can pick up a take home Super Hero conversation starter card.
  • SUPERHERO YOGA Visit Elevate Yoga (617 N 8th Street) June 30th 3 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. to find out what your superpower is. Maybe it is just being YOU! This class with Jackie Kotyza offers movement, mindfulness, and friends with capes and costumes encouraged. Appropriate for children five to eight years old. $10 per super hero.
  • TAKE FLIGHT with Segway the Lake Tours (826 S 8th Street, Suite B) June 26th through July 2nd from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. You will view the lighthouse, schooner remains, shipwreck sites, and the original location of the Sheboygan Life-Saving Station while experiencing the wind under your wings. Tours are $89 per person for the two-hour experience.
  • TEST YOUR SUPER STRENGTH at Ruff Rage Room (1225 Erie Ave) June 29th through July 2nd during business hours to see how much destruction you could do if you weren’t such a super hero! $30 per person for 15 minutes in the smash room and 10 minutes in the splat room.

 

So, embrace your inner hero and embark on an unforgettable adventure for Super Hero Week at Blue Harbor Resort, where relaxation, excitement, and extraordinary experiences await in Sheboygan, WI! To learn more about Super Hero Week in Sheboygan or to make reservations, visit https://www.blueharborresort.com/super-hero-week/.

###

 

ABOUT BLUE HARBOR RESORT & CONFERENCE CENTER:

Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center is nestled in the Harbor Centre District of Sheboygan, Wisconsin, a city known as the "Malibu of the Midwest” for its scenic waterfront, sailing, boating, and freshwater surfing. Just a short drive from Madison, Milwaukee, and Green Bay in Wisconsin as well as Chicagoland and Northern Illinois, this Victorian-style lakeside resort is a favorite for leisure travelers, groups, and weddings. The resort features 179 guest suites ranging in size from 500 to more than 1,900 square feet, as well as private villas, and approximately 17,000 square feet of meeting and event space. Breaker Bay indoor waterpark spans 54,000 square-feet with thrilling slides, a lazy river, and double surf simulator, The Riptide, as well as an arcade and glow-in-the-dark indoor mini golf. Four restaurants offer a diverse range of dining options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and drinks whether you're dining in, grabbing a treat to go, or lounging poolside. Guests and locals alike relax, rejuvenate, and revitalize at the full-service Reflections Spa & Salon with massages, body treatments, and skin care services. To learn more about Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center, visit https://www.blueharborresort.com/ or call 1.866.701.BLUE (2583). 

By The Crazy Tourist

Wisconsin is an agricultural state best known for its cheese production and rolling farmland. However, the state offers more than just fields and dairy farms. With shorelines on both Lake Superior and Lake Michigan, as well as many inland glacial lakes and rivers, the state offers many outdoor activities on the water.

A significant portion of the state is also covered in forests offering beautiful hiking trails, camping and more. Winter sports enthusiasts and adventure seekers flock to the northern wilderness. Families seek out the Wisconsin Dells area for a variety of theme parks and entertainment venues. Travelers of all types will find a range of resort options throughout the state ranging from cozy lakefront lodges to massive indoor waterpark resorts.

Lets have a look at the best resorts in Wisconsin:

Blue Harbor Resort is a luxury resort on the shores of Lake Michigan conveniently located just off of I-43 in Sheboygan. The sprawling property features amenities such as an indoor water park, a spa, a seasonal, outdoor pool and an arcade.

The property has several options for dining including a bar and grill, a casual dining restaurant, two snack bars and a small cafe. The room options include suites and spacious villas. Suites have patios or balconies with views, free wireless internet, flat screened televisions and the option to have a Jacuzzi tub. The villas are similarly outfitted but offer full kitchens.

READ MORE

The Only Double Surf Simulator in Eastern Wisconsin  

Adds to Blue Harbor’s Leisure and Group Guest Experience

 

Sheboygan WI – Blue Harbor Resort and Spa, the #1 resort on Wisconsin’s Lake Michigan coast, today announced the opening of The Riptide, the only indoor double surf simulator in Eastern Wisconsin.

Featured in Breaker Bay waterpark, where it’s always a balmy 84 degrees and fun, the Riptide creates the perfect wave for boogie boarding or surfing and is the ultimate combination of thrill and skill. Thanks to this new attraction, riding a wave in Sheboygan, the fresh water surfing capitol of the world, has just become a year round activity.

The Riptide is a FlowRider surf simulator that is known as an “engineering marvel.”  This indoor water attraction is fun to ride, but also fun to watch. Spectators are mesmerized by the flowing water, and are entertained by the wipeouts and the remarkable tricks and skills of the experienced riders. 

“The Riptide indoor surf simulator is a strategic addition to Blue Harbor Resort,” said David Sanderson, vice president and general manager at Blue Harbor Resort.  “It’s part of a $2 million enhancement to the property and helps us further enhance our offerings for leisure and group guests.”   Additional Blue Harbor improvements this year have included a new Fitness Center, Expanded Spa and Salon, indoor mini glow golf and guest room upgrades.

Blue Harbor and Breaker Bay Water Park offers families and groups a “go-to destination” with a variety of indoor fun with this new Riptide surf simulator, water slides, indoor mini glow golf, and other amenities.

In celebration of the opening of the Riptide, the resort is offering consumers a variety of deals and specials for the winter months and holidays including New Year’s Eve packages.   Visit BlueHarborResort.com or call 1.866.701.BLUE for details.

 

 

About Blue Harbor Resort

With stunning Lake Michigan beachfront and water views, Blue Harbor features 244 suites and villas, more than 17,000 square feet of meeting and event space, a 54,000 square-foot indoor waterpark entertainment area, a new and expanded full service spa, three restaurants, and recreation amenities including watersports and access to the Bull golf course. This Classic Lakeside Resort and Victorian style landmark is a favorite for leisure travelers and groups because of its proximity to Chicago, Milwaukee, Green Bay and other gateway cities.

The Resort is located in the Harbor Center District in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, a city known as the “Malibu of the Midwest” for its scenic waterfront, sailing, boating, and fresh water surfing. It has also received many accolades including Best Places to Raise a Family by Bloomberg and other national news organizations.

Guests can see why It’s Better At The Blue by visiting www.BlueHarborResort.com.

Open House Saturday, March 18th 10am-2pm in the Ballroom

Sheboygan, WI – (March 13, 2023) A hospitality job fair will be held in the Blue Harbor Resort Ballroom Saturday, March 18th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to staff up for the busy summer season in Sheboygan. With the unemployment rate in Sheboygan, WI reaching just 1.8% as of December 2022, Blue Harbor Resort will seek to expand their reach for candidates from nearby communities.

Blue Harbor Resort will be conducting on-site interviews in this open house job fair to fill multiple positions within the resort for a variety of departments, including: Banquets, Culinary, Food & Beverage, Guest Services, Housekeeping, Sales & Marketing, Retail, Spa, and Waterpark. Positions range from seasonal to part-time and full-time.

A career in hospitality provides an opportunity to connect with a multi-cultural community and learn to communicate and work with different people from different backgrounds – as one big team. There is also an abundance of growth opportunities in hospitality across multiple departments.

High school students who will be graduating this Spring are encouraged to attend to learn more about the partnership between Blue Harbor Resort and Lakeland University’s Cooperative Education Program as well as Lakeshore Technical College’s Experience Pays Program. The flexibility of these programs allows students to work and earn a degree on their own schedule.

“Working in hospitality is fun!” emphasizes Hilary Vatter, Human Resources Manager at Blue Harbor Resort.

Employees will become part of the Blue Harbor family and connect with guests on a meaningful level. The mission at Blue Harbor Resort is “We will exceed the expectations of every guest, every day by creating one smile at a time.”

In addition, employees of Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center enjoy a 25% discount at the resort in the Boutique, restaurants, and guest rooms, and receive 12 free waterpark passes per calendar year. Employees also enjoy free access to a state-of-the-art fitness center with views of Lake Michigan.

Job Fair attendees are asked to use the Conference Center entrance to the left of the Main Lobby Entrance and follow the signs to the Ballroom. To learn more about a career with Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center, visit our Careers page.

 

WHAT:             Hospitality Job Fair

WHEN:            Saturday, March 18th, 2023

                        10 a.m – 2 p.m.

WHERE:           Ballroom

Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center

                        Sheboygan, WI

 

###

 

ABOUT BLUE HARBOR RESORT & CONFERENCE CENTER

Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center is nestled in the Harbor Centre District of Sheboygan, Wisconsin, a city known as the "Malibu of the Midwest” for its scenic waterfront, sailing, boating, and freshwater surfing. Just a short drive from Madison, Milwaukee, and Green Bay in Wisconsin as well as Chicagoland and Northern Illinois, this Victorian-style lakeside resort is a favorite for leisure travelers, groups, and weddings. The resort features 179 guest suites ranging in size from 500 to more than 1,900 square feet, as well as private villas, and approximately 17,000 square feet of meeting and event space. Breaker Bay indoor waterpark spans 54,000 square-feet with thrilling slides, a lazy river, and double surf simulator, The Riptide, as well as an arcade and glow-in-the-dark indoor mini golf. Four restaurants offer a diverse range of dining options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and drinks whether you're dining in, grabbing a treat to go, or lounging poolside. Guests and locals alike relax, rejuvenate, and revitalize at the full-service Reflections Spa & Salon with massages, body treatments, and skin care services. To learn more about Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center, visit https://www.blueharborresort.com/ or call 1.866.701.BLUE (2583). 

March, 2023 

#1 Breaker Bay at Blue Harbor Resort

725 Blue Harbor Dr., Sheboygan, WI 53081
(920) 452-2900
blueharborresort.com

An hour north of Milwaukee, it’s always a comfortable 84 degrees inside Blue Harbor’s 54,000-square-foot entertainment area and waterpark, located inside of a stately resort along the shores of Lake Michigan.

The little ones can head to the colorful Toddler Tides play structure for an age-appropriate waterslide and fun spray features.

Older kids will love the four-story water center with suspension bridges, cargo nets, and four thrilling waterslides. Two of the waterslides are three stories high!

The whole family can head to the recreation pool for water basketball and sea creatures you can climb on. There’s also a leisure river and whirlpool when you‘re ready to relax.

Don’t miss the Riptide, the only double surf simulator in eastern Wisconsin. Use their boards to boogie board and surf on the waves here year round.

If you want to feel like a VIP, rent a private cabana for your family right alongside the water park. Lounge on comfortable furniture, and enjoy a flat screen television and mini-fridge stocked with bottled water.

Head to the Pier Fun Zone Arcade to win prizes, or try your hand at glow-in-the-dark miniature golf. The bright neon balls and decorations make for a memorable experience.

During the summer months, guests have access to Lake Michigan and a beautiful view of it from the outdoor pool. There’s also a lovely walking path along the water.

Reader Reviews:

“Just spent the weekend at Blue Harbor and it was amazing!”
-Instagram follower, March 2023

“Blue Harbor is clean and fun. The lifeguarding is intense and appreciated.”
-Instagram follower, March 2023

Specials and Packages: https://www.blueharborresort.com/stay/packages-and-specials/

READ MORE

April 21, 2023

By By Kevin Zimmermann, WHBL

Tell a stranger in Sheboygan this weekend to “take a hike”, and they might just ask you where the best options are. That’s because several hundred supporters of Wisconsin’s Ice Age National Scenic Trail Alliance are meeting today through Sunday at the Blue Harbor Resort.

The Ice Age Trail Alliance is a nonprofit group of volunteers, staff and members all dedicated to conserving, creating, maintaining and promoting the trail that traces the edge of the last great glacier to cover much of Wisconsin over 12,000 years ago. The foot path stretches over 1,000 miles from St. Croix Falls to Sturgeon Bay.

Ed and Kris Abell are Alliance members from Sheboygan County who’ve done the whole route, and Ed told us that the Alliance is invaluable in their efforts to improve the trail for its hikers. “They’re doing it constantly, and they’re doing it through these sub-groups. The Lakeshore Chapter is the one that covers Sheboygan County and all the way up to Green Bay. Through the website you can find out where they’re putting in a new trail section, or if they have to put in a wooden walkway to get over a marshy spot, and they get volunteers to help out in different sections.”

Ed and Kris Abell spent 5-1/2 years hiking sections of between 80 and 100 miles at a stretch, and said it’s a wilderness experience that would impress anyone willing to spend time in the outdoors. “You can find the exhilaration of wilderness anywhere, and Wisconsin is no different. There are trails, there are natural forests, and there are places where only Ice-Age hikers go on the trail, because they’re just too remote for a Sunday hike.”

The Ice Age Trail Alliance meeting in Sheboygan plans on launching their convention by hiking the Greenbush Segment this morning, and spend the rest of the time discussing how they’ll promote and grow the trail that, as Abell puts it, has a promising future. “It’s always growing, and I would think that over time, it’s gonna be a trail like the Appalachian that doesn’t walk on any roads at all.”

READ MORE

National Travel and Tourism Week

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the annual industry celebration 

Sheboygan, WI (May 8, 2023) — Blue Harbor Resort plans to celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week with a Travel & Tourism Appreciation Happy Hour on Wednesday, May 10th from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in On the Rocks Bar & Grill at Blue Harbor Resort.

National Travel and Tourism Week, (NTTW) the annual celebration of the contributions of the U.S. travel industry, runs May 7th- 13th, 2023, and will spotlight the essential role that travel will play in driving economic growth and innovation through the theme #TravelForward.

Established in 1983, NTTW is an annual tradition to mark the U.S. travel industry’s role in stimulating economic growth, cultivating vibrant communities, creating quality job opportunities, stimulating business activity and elevating the quality of life for everyday Americans.

“Sheboygan is a great city that has a growing tourism industry.” said Mayor Ryan Sorenson. “We love to showcase our community to visitors from all over the globe. Many folks visit Sheboygan to enjoy our arts and culture, our great restaurants, our lake front, and so much more. Because of all that we have to offer, we are proud to be known as the Malibu of the Midwest.”

The staff at Blue Harbor Resort invite local travel and tourism professionals to join the celebration with an appreciation happy hour featuring light appetizers compliments of Blue Harbor Resort along with happy hour specials on beverages. Visitors will also have the opportunity to tour the conference center at Blue Harbor Resort at 5:00 p.m.

Travel and tourism partners are encouraged to join in the celebration of the tourism industry accomplishments and network with other professionals. Those who RSVP in advance, will have the opportunity to win prizes donated by our local tourism businesses including:

  • One-night stay at Blue Harbor Resort
  • Two-hour boat rental from Sheboygan Watersports
  • One-Day family pass (2 adults and children) from Sheboygan County Historical Museum
  • T-shirt, pint glass, and gift card from EOS Surf
  • $20 gift card from The GameBoard
  • One free class at WordHaven BookHouse, LLC
  • Sweatshirts from Visit Sheboygan

This National Travel and Tourism Week, Blue Harbor Resort is proud to celebrate all that travel does for our community now, and all that it will contribute in the future.

Please visit ustravel.org/NTTW to learn more about National Travel and Tourism Week. For more information about Blue Harbor Resorts’ Travel & Tourism Appreciation Happy Hour or to RSVP, visit https://www.blueharborresort.com/travel-and-tourism-appreciation/.

Travel & Tourism Appreciation Happy Hour Event Details

WHAT:

Travel & Tourism Appreciation Happy Hour

DATE:

Wednesday, May 10th

TIME:

4 p.m. – 6 p.m.

LOCATION:

On the Rocks Bar & Grill

 

Blue Harbor Resort

 

725 Blue Harbor Drive, Sheboygan, WI

 

 

Travel and tourism partners can park by entrance #2 at Blue Harbor Resort and take the elevator to the second floor to access On the Rocks Bar & Grill just off the main lobby.

 

 

###

 

ABOUT BLUE HARBOR RESORT & CONFERENCE CENTER:

Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center is nestled in the Harbor Centre District of Sheboygan, Wisconsin, a city known as the "Malibu of the Midwest” for its scenic waterfront, sailing, boating, and freshwater surfing. Just a short drive from Madison, Milwaukee, and Green Bay in Wisconsin as well as Chicagoland and Northern Illinois, this Victorian-style lakeside resort is a favorite for leisure travelers, groups, and weddings. The resort features 179 guest suites ranging in size from 500 to more than 1,900 square feet, as well as private villas, and approximately 17,000 square feet of meeting and event space. Breaker Bay indoor waterpark spans 54,000 square-feet with thrilling slides, a lazy river, and double surf simulator, The Riptide, as well as an arcade and glow-in-the-dark indoor mini golf. Four restaurants offer a diverse range of dining options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and drinks whether you're dining in, grabbing a treat to go, or lounging poolside. Guests and locals alike relax, rejuvenate, and revitalize at the full-service Reflections Spa & Salon with massages, body treatments, and skin care services. To learn more about Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center, visit https://www.blueharborresort.com/ or call 1.866.701.BLUE (2583). 

May 28, 2023

By Jake, 97X

Wisconsin is known for a lot of great things, and thanks to the Dells it is also known for its fantastic waterparks. I personally go to the Dells every Summer with the family to enjoy the variety of parks.

Every year new lists come out looking at the best parks in the great state of Wisconsin. Today we will look at 5 of the best.

As a huge fan of Wisconsin waterparks, my personal list would look a bit different, but according to "Only In Your State" These are 5 of the best in the state.

The Best Waterparks In Wisconsin

5. Blue Harbor Resort

Our first spot isn't in the Dells but rather Sheboygan, Wisconsin. This spot is so much more than just a waterpark. It has it all. The website goes on to say,

"But Blue Harbor Resort is not just for adults, it's also a paradise for families seeking fun and adventure. Our on-site 54,000 square foot indoor water park, with its thrilling slides, lazy river, and surf simulator, is a hit with children of all ages, making it the perfect destination for a family vacation. Make memories that will last a lifetime as you and your loved ones splash around and have fun together any time of the year."

READ MORE

Sheboygan WI (May 2014) – Blue Harbor Resort & Spa, a leading resort on Lake Michigan, today announced two major developments that further strengthens this popular Midwest destination.

With stunning Lake Michigan beachfront and water views, Blue Harbor Resort and Spa features 182 suites, 64 villas, more than 17,000 square feet of meeting and event space, a 54,000 square-foot indoor waterpark entertainment area, a full service spa, three restaurants, and recreation amenities including watersports and access to the Bull golf course.

Today, Chicago-based American entrepreneur Gerald Forsythe and the Forsythe Family acquired the remaining ownership in Blue Harbor from the Massachusetts based Claremont Companies. 

This acquisition follows the 2011 purchase of Blue Harbor by Claremont New Frontier Resort LLC, a joint partnership that included Forsythe.  Since then, the property has undergone a series of successful renovations and improvements that has resulted in an increase in group and leisure business.  Terms of today’s transaction were not disclosed. 

“We have enjoyed our presence in Sheboygan and delighted that we were able to help the property achieve incredible growth and development,” said Elias Patoucheas, President of the Claremont Companies.  “With the Forsythe family’s Midwest presence and continuing commitment to quality, this transition is a positive and natural development for the organization.”

In related news, Blue Harbor announced the investment of an additional $1.7 million in the property in 2014.  Resort areas positively impacted by this infusion of capital will include meeting and event areas, a new mini golf facility, and an expanded fitness center, spa and salon to service the growing number of weddings at the property.

A significant investment will also be made to Breaker Bay Waterpark with the addition of a double FlowRider, a surfing simulator that will appeal to children, teens and adults and further position Blue Harbor as the resort of choice for families. 

“The new FlowRider will be a wonderful addition to our business as Blue Harbor celebrates its 10th anniversary because it provides an additional form of entertainment and gives a reason for families of all ages to return,” said General Manager David Sanderson.  “Blue Harbor’s new FlowRider is also a natural extension of the area’s growing position as the Freshwater Surfing Capital of the world.”  Sanderson added that construction of the FlowRider will begin after Labor Day and will be completed in time for the popular holiday travel season.

Commenting on today’s acquisition Forsythe said, “We are deeply committed to delivering a quality experience to guests, and to further position Blue Harbor as one of the preeminent resorts in the Midwest and the #1 resort destination resort on the Western shore of Lake Michigan.” 

“The Forsythe Family’s commitment to the resort and to the area is a tremendous benefit to the community, and the people who work at and visit Blue Harbor,” added Sanderson.  “We look forward to additional growth, development, continuing enhancements in the months and years to come.”

     

About Blue Harbor Resort & Spa

The 246 all-suite Blue Harbor Resort & Spa is the #1 resort on the beautiful Western shore of Lake Michigan.  This Classic Lakeside Resort and Victorian style landmark is a favorite for leisure travelers and groups because its proximity to Chicago, Milwaukee, Green Bay and other gateway cities.  Guests enjoy a warm welcome and a spectacular view of Lake Michigan, as well as upgraded 17,000 square feet of function space for business meetings, weddings and other special events. In addition to 182 suite accommodations, Blue Harbor offers 64 well appointed two and four bedroom villas. The resort's Reflections Spa features signature treatment from a full selection of body wraps, massages, couples massages and facials.  For dining, unwind at the beautiful lake-view Latitude's Restaurant with its Chef's menu inspired by regional fare.  Other culinary options include a sunrise Breakfast at the Beacon Restaurant, or a happy hour cocktail at On the Rocks Lobby Bar, all with stunning views.  Activities include a stroll along the lakefront, a visit to the area's charming boutiques, fun in Breaker Bay Waterpark, a selection of daily resort activities, and other pastimes including golfing, sailing, stand up paddle boarding and fishing.  

The resort is located in Harbor Centre District in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, a city known as the “Malibu of the Midwest” for its scenic waterfront, sailing, boating and freshwater surfing.  It has also received many accolaides including Best Places to Raise a Family by Bloomberg and other national news organizations.

For more information and reservations visit: www.BlueHarborResort.com or call 866-701-2583 (BLUE).

 

# # #

New Amenity Adds Entertainment Option for Groups and Guests

Sheboygan WI (July 2014)— Blue Harbor Resort and Spa, the #1 resort on Wisconsin’s Lake Michigan coast, today introduced Sheboygan County’s first indoor glow-in-the-dark miniature golf course called The Lost Temples.

Located above the resort’s 43,000 square foot Breaker Bay Waterpark, this family addition to Blue Harbor is well suited for guests and groups of all ages.

The Lost Temples provides a visual extravaganza designed by Adventure Golf and is loaded with two unique nine-hole courses, The Mayan Temple and The Egyptian Pyramid. Both courses are only $7.95 per person, and children three and under play for free. Group rates are available for birthdays, reunions, team building exercises, and gatherings of all kinds.

According to David Sanderson, Vice President and General Manager of Blue Harbor, this new amenity was created to further enhance the Blue Harbor experience for guests and groups.

“This development is part of the $1.7 million investment announced earlier this year.   In addition to this indoor mini golf facility, other enhancements planned for 2014 include a new fitness center, an expanded spa and salon, and a double FlowRider, a new indoor surfing simulator that will appeal to children, teens and adults,” said Sanderson.  “Combined, these enhancements will further position Blue Harbor as the resort of choice for families.”

About Blue Harbor Resort

With stunning Lake Michigan beachfront and water views, Blue Harbor features 182 suites, 64 villas, more than 17,000 square feet of meeting and event space, a 54,000 square-foot indoor waterpark entertainment area, a full service spa, three restaurants, and recreation amenities including watersports and access to the Bull golf course. This Classic Lakeside Resort and Victorian style landmark is a favorite for leisure travelers and groups because its proximity to Chicago, Milwaukee, Green Bay and other gateway cities.

The resort is located in Harbor Centre District in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, a city known as the “Malibu of the Midwest” for its scenic waterfront, sailing, boating and freshwater surfing.  It has also received many accolades including Best Places to Raise a Family by Bloomberg and other national news organizations.

Leading Waterfront Resort Offers the Best in Spa, Girlfriend Getaway and Holiday Experiences

 

Sheboygan WI – Blue Harbor Resort, the #1 resort on Wisconsin’s Lake Michigan Coast, today announced the opening of its new, expanded Reflections Spa, just in time for the busy official “Girlfriend Getaway” season and the upcoming holidays.

Guests of the new Reflections Spa can relax, escape into peaceful tranquility, and dissolve away stress. The Spa offers a quiet retreat with soft music, aromatherapy candles, and a Feng Shui balanced atmosphere.  In addition, the caring staff is well trained in the latest spa therapies to enhance and customize spa treatments for an exclusive experience.

Services include massage, couples massage, facials, body wraps, Vichy body treatments, waxing, nail services including manicures and pedicures, makeup and hair care services, and the new hydro therapy Dream Spa, the only treatment of its kind in Wisconsin.   To compliment Blue Harbor’s reputation as a leading wedding, event and meeting destination, Reflections Spa is well equipped to pamper groups seeking the best in spa experiences.

--For Girlfriend Getaways, Blue Harbor has special accommodation offers including a FREE Villa night with the purchase of one, and other great deals during the month of November.  Visit BlueHarborResort.com for details and other attractive deals.

A Relaxing Gift

The new Reflections Spa offers gift cards that can be purchased in any denomination.  It’s the perfect “gift of time and relaxation” for the holidays or any time of the year, for people who need a little pampering or special care.

About Blue Harbor Resort

With stunning Lake Michigan beachfront and water views, Blue Harbor Resort is the #1 resort on Wisconsin’s Lake Michigan Coast.  It features 244 suites and villas, more than 17,000 square feet of meeting and event space, a 54,000 square-foot indoor waterpark entertainment area, the expanded full service spa, three restaurants, and recreation amenities including watersports and golf course access.

This Classic Lakeside Resort and Victorian style landmark is a favorite for leisure travelers and groups because of its proximity to Chicago, Milwaukee, Green Bay and other gateway cities.

Blue Harbor Resort is located in the Harbor Center District in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, a city known as the “Malibu of the Midwest” for its scenic waterfront, sailing, boating, and fresh water surfing. It has also received many accolades including Best Places to Raise a Family by Bloomberg and other national news organizations.

Visit BlueHarborResort.com or call 1.866.701.BLUE.

The 5 Best Reasons to Visit the City of Sheboygan Wisconsin

READ MORE

By Travel Wisconsin

"Spring Break means quality time with your kids and the opportunity to have a week of unforgettable adventures. Enjoy the fresh air together on a Northwoods escape, go on a quest in the Wisconsin Dells or cheer on your favorite team to make this year’s spring break one to remember.  

Great Art on a Great Lake

In Sheboygan, on Lake Michigan, spend your spring break at the Blue Harbor Resort & Spa where the kids can play at the waterpark and the parents can enjoy the luxury spa. For some artsy fun, venture to the John Michael Kohler Arts Center to explore interactive exhibits and make your own art in the Social STUDIO open to preschool-aged children through adults. Grab a tasty bite to eat at the museum’s café or keep it local at Field to Fork for a wide lunch menu of locally sourced options. 

While in Sheboygan, look out for surfers taking advantage of the Great Lake waves in this area. Travelers come from all over the world to visit the "Malibu of the Midwest," and if the weather's right, you and the family will be able to watch them hang ten. 

Another way to experience Lake Michigan's beauty together is by hiking the sand dunes at Kohler-Andre State Park."

READ MORE

Spotlighting the Value of Meetings and Events to People, Businesses, and Communities

Sheboygan, WI (March 23, 2023) — Blue Harbor Resort is championing that “Meetings Matter” on Global Meetings Industry Day, an international day of advocacy held on March 30 to showcase the essential nature and incredible value created by business meetings, trade shows, conferences and conventions.

This year’s theme, “Meetings Matter,” highlights the numerous benefits of in-person meetings—such as economic growth, deeper business connections and sharing knowledge and ideas that positively impact society.

Meetings are a key driver of the economy and workforce, playing a critical role in fueling other industries. In 2022, professional events drove nearly $100 billion in travel spending nationwide, accounting for 38% of all business travel spending. That spending directly supports 600,000 American jobs and helps power small and local businesses. In Sheboygan, meetings are essential in stimulating the region’s economy and bringing in new visitors who stay in other Sheboygan hotels, eat in local restaurants, and shop in local stores.

Here are five ways communities around the world, including Sheboygan, are elevating the #MeetingsMatter theme on March 30.

  1. Hosting events spotlighting local businesses and communities
  2. Highlighting valuable meetings
  3. Posting on social media about the power of meetings
  4. Engaging with elected officials
  5. Turning social media banners blue, the official color of GMID

Messaging on social media is organized using hashtags #MeetingsMatter and #GMID2023.

 

###

 

ABOUT BLUE HARBOR RESORT & CONFERENCE CENTER:

Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center is nestled in the Harbor Centre District of Sheboygan, Wisconsin, a city known as the "Malibu of the Midwest” for its scenic waterfront, sailing, boating, and freshwater surfing. Just a short drive from Madison, Milwaukee, and Green Bay in Wisconsin as well as Chicagoland and Northern Illinois, this Victorian-style lakeside resort is a favorite for leisure travelers, groups, and weddings. The resort features 179 guest suites ranging in size from 500 to more than 1,900 square feet, as well as private villas, and approximately 17,000 square feet of meeting and event space. Breaker Bay indoor waterpark spans 54,000 square-feet with thrilling slides, a lazy river, and double surf simulator, The Riptide, as well as an arcade and glow-in-the-dark indoor mini golf. Four restaurants offer a diverse range of dining options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and drinks whether you're dining in, grabbing a treat to go, or lounging poolside. Guests and locals alike relax, rejuvenate, and revitalize at the full-service Reflections Spa & Salon with massages, body treatments, and skin care services. To learn more about Blue Harbor Resort & Conference Center, visit https://www.blueharborresort.com/ or call 1.866.701.BLUE (2583). 

By Brandon Reid, Sheboygan Press

April 15, 2023

SHEBOYGAN - More than 425 Ice Age Trail enthusiasts from around the state — and beyond — will converge in Sheboygan April 20-23 for the Ice Age Trail Alliance’s annual conference.

“This is the premier event for Trail enthusiasts to come together and discuss their favorite topic: the Ice Age National Scenic Trail,” Luke Kloberdanz, executive director and CEO of the Ice Age Trail Alliance, said in a news release. “Whether you’re new to the Trail and want to learn more about it, or have hiked it for years, there’s something for everyone at the conference.”

Taking place at Blue Harbor Resort, the 2023 conference features multiple hiking opportunities, informative seminars, trainings and entertainment.

Highlights include the following:

  • Guided hikes: Attendees will be shuttled to area Ice Age Trail segments for daily hikes; in addition, there will be “field trip-style” excursions, like bird watching and a behind-the-scenes tour of a property that will soon host the Trail.
  • Keynote speaker Craig Richard: Rock climber, world traveler and musician will share his inspiring story of survival on the night of April 21.
  • 20-plus informative sessions: Topics vary from the geology of the Trail, to how the Trail inspires artists, exercises to improve balance for hiking, what to expect at a Trail-building event, and more.
  • Future in the Outdoors Summit: Taking place the afternoon of April 21, this event within the conference brings together college students, recent grads or young professionals looking for a sense of community in the outdoors.
  • Special guests TikTok Stars @Thruhikers: Tim and Renee, known for their many adventures on National Scenic Trails, will share their through-hiking tips and tricks with conference attendees on April 22.
  • Live music: Sheboygan-area musicians will entertain conference attendees during the evening social hours. Tom Luke plays the night of April 21 while Chamber Winds Quintet from Lakeland University performs the night of April 22.
  • Awards banquet: The conference culminates the night of April 21 with an awards banquet and celebration. During this event, the accomplishments of the Trail’s volunteers are recognized — including a first: the Alliance will recognize three volunteers who have provided 50 years of service. The National Park Service will also bestow its honors. And Alliance award winners will be revealed.

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a 1,200-mile footpath contained entirely within Wisconsin. It traverses the state from St. Croix Falls in the west, to Sturgeon Bay in the east, going as far south as Janesville. One of 11 National Scenic Trails, the Ice Age Trail highlights the landscapes that were carved out by ancient glaciers, which happen to be some of the most beautiful areas in the state. Approximately 60% of Wisconsin residents live within 20 miles of the Ice Age Trail.

The Ice Age Trail Alliance is a non-profit, member- and volunteer-based organization that conserves, creates, maintains and promotes the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.

READ MORE

May 13, 2023

By Only In Your State

Wisconsin summers are simply unforgettable. Nights under the stars, swimming in the lakes, and enjoying endless hiking trails. Of course, they can also be undeniably warm. On those dog days of summer, all you want to do is cool down. Fortunately, there are plenty of amazing Wisconsin outdoor water parks that will help you do just that. This list highlights some tried-and-true favorite places to bring the whole family. Go beyond the community pool and have the most epic cool-off ever when you explore some of the best water parks in Wisconsin.

5. Blue Harbor Resort

READ MORE

June 6, 2023

By Beth Luberecki, Family Vacationist

Instagram-worthy views, outdoor fun, nostalgic vibes, and activities galore—there’s a reason (actually, several) why lake resorts are popular with families. Whether you want to get out onto the water on a family beach vacation or simply admire the scenery from an Adirondack chair on your balcony, there’s no shortage of kid-friendly lake hotels around the U.S. where the whole family can have a good time.

America’s Most Family-Friendly Lake Resorts

Some lake resorts offer year-round lake escapes, while others operate seasonally for summer vacations and fall leaf peeping. But all provide lots of ways to enjoy family togetherness, whether you want to take a swim, paddle a kayak, see what’s biting, or play lawn games by the water’s edge. Here are the best lake resorts for your next family vacation at popular family vacation spots around the country.

14. Blue Harbor Resort and Conference Center

Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Family fun is the name of the game at Blue Harbor Resort and Conference Center, which sits on the shores of Lake Michigan and is an easy drive from cities like ChicagoMilwaukee, and Green Bay. No matter the time of year, the whole family can enjoy the surf simulator, lazy river, and waterslides at the 54,000-square-foot indoor Breaker Bay Waterpark; the games and interactive activities at the Pier Fun Zone Arcade; and two nine-hole indoor mini golf courses offering glow-in-the-dark gameplay.

During the summer, activities at this lake resort include daily kids’ crafts, lawn games, bonfires, and s’mores. Families can rent bikes, head to the heated outdoor pool, or pick up a complimentary sandcastle kit for creating masterpieces on the resort’s beach. Multiple on-site restaurants make it easy to refuel in between all the fun without ever having to leave the resort.

READ MORE

Media Contacts for Editorial Requests

Kindly email requests.  For those on deadline, please email or call.  Thank you.

Email:   marketing@blueharborresort.com
Tel: 920-395-7257

View Our Media Fact Sheet

Sign up for our newsletter!

Sign up now to stay up to date with everything Blue Harbor

Sign Up Today