Welcome to the New and Improved Heidel House

By Sue Sveum | ©Heidel House Hotel & Conference Center

The last year has been long and challenging for event planners and conference centers alike. But just as we’re finally starting to see a light at the end of the pandemic tunnel, the weather is warming up, and the newly remodeled Heidel House Hotel & Conference Center on central Wisconsin’s beautiful Green Lake is opening its doors to hotel guests, diners and, yes, conference-goers again. You can expect a totally new look — and a very warm welcome — in mid- to late spring.

Since opening in 1945, the Heidel House has thrived as both a resort and event venue. But after more than 75 years, the owners decided it was time to sell. Lighthouse Hospitality Group jumped in and bought the resort last October — believing the iconic hotel’s best days are yet to come — with the aid of some updates and renovations. And they think you’re going to agree.

“The entire resort was demoed — from the lobby to the ballrooms and all of the guest rooms in between,” says General Manager Nicole Sevcik. ”We had crews working on every floor at once.” Even the website has been updated and event planners can follow the daily construction progress at heidelhouse.com.

If you’ve visited before, you may hardly recognize the place now. There’s new paint, new carpeting and beautiful new chandeliers in the ballrooms. “The décor has been updated with a nautical look in pretty shades of blue, gray and tan,” explains Sevcik. “And the front desk and lobby area features a huge bar where guests can gather.”

She says that, although there are fewer guest rooms now, the removal of a partial wall makes each room feel larger. And there’s also more parking — a welcome addition for event attendees.

Then, of course, the resort’s scenic location, a bit off the beaten path, makes it uniquely appealing. “Meeting- goers can combine business with a relaxing Green Lake resort experience,” says Sevcik. “And they’ll be getting five-star service. Our management and staff are knowledgeable and experienced in this industry, and it shows. When you come to the Heidel House, you can expect exceptional guest services.”

The hotel offers much more than just a relaxing day at the lake, including two ballrooms with seating capacities of 320 and 220, perfect for events. There’s also a variety of smaller-sized rooms for meetings or breakout sessions. In-house catering is available, too. “Our sales and catering teams can accommodate all of your meeting needs down to the last detail,” Sevcik says, “from the planning stage to the day of your event, to make sure it all goes smoothly.”

As for dining, “Our two restaurants have been reinvented with an open layout overlooking the lake,” explains Sevcik. “And the food and service are amazing.” Oakwood offers fine dining for breakfast and dinner. The more casual Waves Pub & Grill serves lunch, and features a dance floor, an outdoor patio with a fire pit and a bar that’s open until 2 a.m.

After hours, be sure to visit the hotel’s outdoor pool and splash pad, or enjoy the indoor pool with its two hot tubs and tiki bar. Take a stroll on the walking path, enjoy a day of pampering across the street at Evensong Spa or hit the links at nearby Tuscumbia Country Club. And don’t forget the lake.

“We’re very excited to reopen, and work with the community and local partners,” says Sevcik. “Whether you’re here for a conference, a meeting, a wedding, or just a personal or family getaway, we want you to have the best stay ever.”

Who says you can’t mix business with pleasure?