About Birchwood Lodge
In the middle of it all, in Sister Bay
Choosing Birchwood Lodge means staying in the heart of Sister Bay. Walk just a few steps to discover lively bars, unique boutiques, specialty food shops, and local markets. Take a leisurely stroll along the marina and enjoy the beautiful waterfront park—perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply soaking in the views.
Whether you’re kayaking, paddleboarding, taking a scenic bay cruise, or enjoying outdoor concerts at the park pavilion, there’s always something happening just minutes away. At Birchwood Lodge, the best of Door County is right outside your door.
Set on five scenic acres overlooking Sister Bay in beautiful Door County, Wisconsin, Birchwood Lodge features 46 thoughtfully designed, non-smoking guest rooms. Each room includes a private deck, a relaxing two-person Jacuzzi® whirlpool, a warm fireplace, and either a full kitchen or convenient kitchenette—creating the perfect space to unwind after a day of exploring.
Traveling with family or a larger group? Our spacious Birchwood Village Homes offer comfortable, inviting accommodations ideal for extended stays, vacations, or business travel. Best of all, you’re just a short walk from the heart of Sister Bay, where the waterfront park, sandy beach, charming shops, and local dining await.
Click here to download our brochure
The History of The Birchwood Lodge Starts with the Koessl Farm
The Sister Bay Historical Society has generously provided the Birchwood Lodge with information about the Koessl farmon which the lodge was developed in 2001. You may want to view historic displays of the Koessl farm at The Corner of the Past Museum (Highway 57 and Country Lane Road). Please view our photos below.
Photo above circa 1920s. There was no electrical service at this time at the Koessl farm. Notice the pig barn to the right of the silo and the small window in its eaves. The chickens are near the water trough which is accessible from both sides of the fence. Fencing around the entire property kept the animals from roaming.
Photos from left to right: Photo circa 1950s is of Edward Koessl, Sr., his wife, Maria (Sipple) and her sister in front of the old farmhouse. Center: Photo circa 1940s. The original silo, approximately 12′ x 20′, was blown over some time in the late 1940s, losing its top. That’s Donna Koessl in the foreground. Right: Photo circa 1930s. Towering windmill next to the well house. A pipe carried water to the barn. The man in the photo is unidentified.
Photo circa 1930s. Papa Koessl’s 1931 Chevy truck. In its day, the vehicle was used to haul ice off the bay and transport gravel for building the new silo.
Photos from left to right: Photo circa 1911. Harvesting oats. Right photo circa 1918. Edward Koessl and his wife Maria cultivating potatoes.
Photo circa 1990s. At this time, the Koessl barn was over 100 years old. Note the new and larger concrete silo, now 36′ tall. That’s the farmhouse in the background – still there today.
Photos from left to right: Mike Kahr and his crew readying the barn building for its move to the Sister Bay Historical Society’s Corner of the Past historic site at the south end of Sister Bay. Right photo: Olive and Edward J. Koessl on the occasion of their 40th Wedding Anniversary, June 6, 1973.
We just can’t get over how nice and quaint this place is. We had a very enjoyable and relaxing visit here in Door County. It is truly beautiful here. We look forward to visiting again...
