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Tourists Used To Flock To This Tiny Wisconsin Town To Experience Its Healing Lake Waters

Elkhart Lake in Wisconsin is a historic resort town known for its clear glacial lake and the luxurious Osthoff Resort.

Updated Jun 15, 2023

Written by 

Ben Jones

For more than a century, vacationers have spent relaxing days at the resort community of Elkhart Lake. The village has a beautiful spring-fed lake that reportedly has special healing powers. It’s as beautiful today as it was in the 1800s, and The Osthoff Resort that’s located here is the ideal spot for a romantic Wisconsin getaway. Here’s what’s waiting for you in Elkhart Lake:

Long before there were any hotels here, the Potawatomi Indians named the area “Me-shay-way-odeh-ni-bis.”

A serene sunset over a calm lake, with vibrant clouds reflecting on the water's surface.
The Osthoff Resort

This translates to Great Elk Heart Lake and the lake resembles an elk's heart.

Elkhart Lake is an old-fashioned resort town and the Native Americans believed the lake had healing powers.

A snowy landscape featuring a lake reflecting a white building and blue sky, surrounded by snow-covered trees.
The Osthoff Resort

So developers seized the opportunity and built resorts, and visitors started traveling here way back in the 1800s by railroad and stagecoach.

Do the waters have magic powers? Check into the Osthoff Resort and find out!

A spacious, elegantly designed banquet hall with chandeliers and ornate carpet patterns.
The Osthoff Resort

This old resort originally opened in the 1800s, but it’s been completely modernized. Today, it blends classic character with modern amenities. It stands today as one of the most beautiful resorts in Wisconsin.

The resort has beautiful suites and common areas and plenty of high-end amenities.

A serene spa area featuring a circular hot tub and lounge chairs, surrounded by large windows and natural light.
The Osthoff Resort

Its the perfect place for a romantic weekend or for some other special celebration.

The real draw is outside. Elkhart Lake is a clear glacial lake that’s one of the deepest lakes in Wisconsin.

Two girls paddleboarding on a calm lake, surrounded by trees and a clear blue sky.
The Osthoff Resort

It’s an ideal lake for swimming, boating, and paddling.

Elkhart Lake is beautiful in any season...

A snowy landscape featuring a gazebo, a tree with pink blossoms, and a serene pond under a cloudy sky.
The Osthoff Resort

...and we're sure that that you will find yourself feeling a little more relaxed and refreshed when you spend time here. Maybe there really is something magical in the water!

You can learn more about planning your next Elkhart Lake getaway by going to the resort's official website as well as to its Facebook page.

Have you ever been to what is arguably one of the best resorts in Wisconsin? If so, what was your favorite part? We'd love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

There’s a lot to love about Wisconsin's beautiful Elkhart Lake. Here’s why this charming little town just might this charming little town just might capture your heart!.

If you’re still in the mood for more Badger State adventures, take a look at this video:

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