History Meets Modern Amenities at The Lodge at Leathem Smith
10/11/2024
By Sue Sveum
Combine history, tradition and modern amenities and what do you get? Well, if you’re looking for the perfect place to visit, hold an event or plan a meeting in Wisconsin, the Lodge at Leathem Smith in Sturgeon Bay definitely fits the bill.
It all began in 1928 when Leathem Smith, a builder of diesel vessels, purchased a 100-acre farm and built Door County’s first country club and golf course. The property was later converted to Leathem Smith Lodge, one of the first resorts in Door County.
Current owner Paul Meleen bought the Lodge in 2011, and according to General Manager Milan Stosic, the focus since then has been on combining that bygone charm with the modern amenities that event planners and guests have come to expect.
“We wanted to honor the historical significance by displaying old photos, as well as keeping the original touches that people remember,” says Stosic. And they do. “Everyone tells us that this place has a soul,” he says. “We don’t want to lose that.”
In the front entry, carpeting was removed and the original hardwood floors restored. The 102-year-old ballroom — with its high ceilings and beautiful wood beams — makes an elegant setting for dinners, weddings and other events. Yet amidst that nod to the lodge’s history, guests are pampered with new linens, comfy mattresses, fresh carpeting and modern technology.
With 61 guest rooms and three designated event/conference rooms, The Lodge at Leathem Smith can handle a variety of groups. One room seats up to 30 people — perfect for smaller groups, board meetings or private parties. Another holds 100. And the ballroom is the largest — accommodating up to 300 people.
“Most importantly, every event is customized for each group,” explains Stosic. “We don’t have a minimum that a group must spend, so we can really work with any budget.”
A full-service restaurant on site is convenient for both personal dining and catered events. Plus, a daily continental breakfast with made-to- order omelets is included in each stay,” says Stosic. “That’s unique.”
In addition to guest rooms in the ain Lodge, visitors may choose the classic simplicity of a room in the Fishing Village, a separate building just across the parking lot. All regular amenities are included — along with access to a chest freezer for the fishermen!
Outdoors and out front, you’ll find the ever- popular Tiki Bar. One of The Lodge at Leathem Smith’s not-so-hidden gems, this water-view patio bar is mere steps from the shores of Lake Michigan and Sturgeon Bay. Open to the public, it can also be reserved for private events.
The lodge’s location couldn’t be more perfect. The setting is private, with little traffic and serene views. But if you get tired of the serenity, downtown Sturgeon Bay is just a mile away.
“We’ve hosted everything from weddings to corporate meetings, graduation parties, bus tours and even memorials — both indoors and outdoors,” says Stosic. And the grounds themselves? “Guests can relax at the pool, dock at the marina, take long walks, attend an outdoor banquet, enjoy the Tiki Bar — or even experience an authentic Door County Fish Boil.”
But fair warning — if you’re going in August, you’ll have to book your stay or event around the annual Wounded Hero Fishing Event. The all- expenses-paid weekend of food, fishing expeditions and a chance to meet and mingle with fellow vets was created by the lodge’s owner to honor veterans for their sacrifice and service. It’s become so popular that 70% of attendees return each year.
“There’s a lot of history at The Lodge at Leathem Smith,” says Stosic. “And we’re proud to be part of that.” All while creating new memories for the guests of today — and tomorrow.
