February 5th, 2024
Winter in Ohio is a great time to pack your bags and escape for a memorable trip with your favorite person. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or a weekend-long excursion, there are tons of romantic getaway ideas in central Ohio to discover!
Explore
The Buckeye Lake region provides outdoor recreation of all kinds! During the winter months under proper conditions, park visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and bird-watching. If you’re looking to stretch your legs, take a relaxing stroll around the 4.1-mile walking/biking path, connecting Buckeye Lake Village to Liebs Island in Millersport. While in Millersport, explore Brooks Park, a 2.5-acre wetland habitat where you can spot different animals, including the many different species of birds that surround the lake.
Located just 10 minutes south of the lake is the Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch. Book a private tour of this unique 50-year-old farm and even stay in one of the spacious 22-foot tipis. Certified as a Wildlife Habitat, take in the beautiful hiking trails through the rolling hills of the ranch and enjoy a campfire dinner over the provided fire pit with a grill.
First established in 1929, the Dawes Arboretum offers 2,000 acres of plant collections, gardens, and natural areas. The site includes approximately 12 miles of hiking trails and roadways for a four-mile driving tour. Located 10-15 minutes north of Buckeye Lake, you can enjoy a visitors center and gift shop as well!
Eat
Kick off your escape with a warm breakfast and a cup of your favorite java from Coffee Shack North Shore, Millersport Coffee, or Buckeye Lake Coffee Company.
Indulge in a scrumptious bite at Horvath’s Harbor including chicken marsala, 12oz ribeye, and chocolate lava cake, or seafood pasta, steak, and an ice cream and beer float (you read that right) from the Blue Heron Kitchen & Pub. Partake in the sweetest donut date at Dockside Donuts or a frozen custard treat from Hank & Stella’s.
Come evening, enjoy the relaxing, southern banks of the lake with a delicious and extensive menu at Buckeye Lake Winery by the fireplace. Afterward, end the night at the Hereinafter Cocktail Tavern for high-end crafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere.
Escape
Of course, don’t forget the flowers! Stop by Millersport Flowers and pair your bouquet with a Valentine’s Day-themed gift basket from Jackie’s Creations, both locally-owned shops. Looking for more decor? Find apparel and home decorations at Yellow Sundress Resale Boutique, Buckeye Lake Place, or Melissa & Patti’s Unique Finds.
With multiple unique short-term rentals all around the Buckeye Lake region, you’ll find the best stay for your V-Day getaway! Discover lakefront cottages and chic homes with beautiful waterfront views to make your trip as memorable as possible. Plus, find Instagram-worthy spots around the lake to share your journey with family, friends, and followers.
Map out your trip with the Escape to Buckeye Lake app! Our app allows you to add different shops, restaurants, and more in one easy-to-read list, keeping you on track for the perfectly planned Valentine’s Day right from your phone.
Follow Escape to Buckeye Lake on Facebook and Instagram for more updates on restaurants, activities, and more happening around Buckeye Lake.
January 3rd, 2024
It’s officially a new year and there are tons of fun events and festivities in store around the Buckeye Lake region! Starting off with a bang is Winterfest, one of the biggest events at the lake, held by the Buckeye Lake Region Chamber of Commerce. Check out this list of things to know to make your Winterfest experience the best one possible!
1. Book Your ‘Bnb ASAP
Winterfest activities start early and end late, plus, it’s a two-day event including the Polar Plunge! Don’t miss out on all the fun and make sure you’ve got your lodging stay in order. Take advantage of the myriad of unique short-term rentals at the lake before they’re booked out!
2. Study the Specials
Of course, local businesses help create all the fun! Check out what restaurant specials, live music, and more are going on during Winterfest weekend to find the best deals and festivities around the lake.
3. Meet Benny the Bass
Join Benny the Bass at 6:30AM at the North Shore ramp to see if he “takes the bait” and predicts an early spring or refuses, which means 6 more weeks of winter. Benny will move to the Buckeye Lake Brewery after the pre-dawn fireworks show so you can see him all day!
4. Buy Your Wristband
Don’t fret over who’s driving – plan your trip ahead of time and make sure to grab your Winterfest transportation wristbands with the Ohio Party Bus!
5. Brave the Polar Plunge
What better way to wash away the last year than by making a splash into freezing cold waters? Support local charities and dive into Buckeye Lake with the 10th annual Polar Plunge!
6. Have Fun!
Winterfest not only benefits local businesses around the lake during the off-season, but helps bring the community together in a unique way! Don’t miss out on all the food, friends, and fun this year.
Bonus Tip: Check back for updates on our Winterfest Specials page as well as follow the map of participating businesses on our app. Follow us on Facebook & Instagram and subscribe to our monthly newsletter for information on events, restaurants, and more happening at Buckeye Lake for Winterfest and all year long!
December 20th, 2023
As the year comes to a close, it’s a great time to take a moment to look back on the new businesses, restaurants, and other projects that have opened around the Buckeye Lake region! With the recent developments in the area, we’re excited for what’s to come in the new year to make your next vacation destination all the better.
New Bites at Buckeye Lake
If one thing is certain, there’s always a place to snag a bite around the lake! Check out the latest eateries that opened their doors in 2023:
The Blue Heron Kitchen & Pub – Officially opening its doors in February, the Blue Heron Kitchen & Pub offers indoor dining, bar seating, and an outdoor patio. With delicious menu options like mushroom puttanesca, drunken clams, lobster bisque, beer floats, and more, you won’t leave unsatisfied. Don’t miss out on this upscale American eatery in the village of Buckeye Lake!
The Dirty Oar – Enjoy cold drinks, tasty food truck bites, and live music lakeside at one of Buckeye Lake’s newest pubs!
La Cabra Kitchen at the Boatyard at Buckeye Lake – Located within the Boatyard at Buckeye Lake, the La Cabra Craft Kitchen offers appetizers, burgers, nachos, salads, tacos, and more! Take a break by the lake and enjoy great food and drink with waterfront views at this staple lakeside establishment.
Whit’s Frozen Custard – Since reopening their doors in August, Whit’s Buckeye Lake offers fresh, frozen custard made on-site! Come lake season, stop by this locally-owned business for flavors that will satisfy your sweet tooth while stopping by the North Shore ramp and taking a stroll around the lake.
New Businesses at Buckeye Lake
Explore local shops, services, and fun things to do with these new businesses at the lake.
Earthly Pottery Co. – Offering handmade pottery, candles, and home goods for sale, grab your friends or make it a date night and book a class to make unique pottery with Earthly Pottery Co.!
LakeBound Boardwalk – Combining a myriad of noteworthy lakeside shops, explore LakeBound Boardwalk at 12408 Lancaster Street, Millersport. Shop lake rentals at LakeBound Outfitters, bring the kids and grab a slice from LakeBound Pizza, indulge in a sweet treat from Dockside Donuts, and shop decor, gift baskets, custom tees, and more from Picadilly Vintage, Jackie’s Creations, and Red Handed Designs, all in one stop!
Millersport Flowers – Open for all your floral needs, find gift baskets, beautiful bouquets, and much more at this locally-owned flower shop.
Pea Ohana Watersports – Expanding their new location to Thornville, experience standup paddleboarding or kayaking with Pea Ohana Watersports! Plus, book a class for their Snug Harbor Fit N’ Paddle series including a dry land workout followed by a fun, relaxing time out on the water.
Smoke on the Water Cigar and Pipe Lounge – A new family-owned cigar lounge and shop serving the Buckeye Lake area!
Other Updates at the Lake
Celebrate some fun in the sun and a cool drink in your hand with the new outdoor patios at Buckeye Lake Margaritas and the Hereinafter Cocktail Tavern!
Now the last standing piece of what was once a popular amusement park at Buckeye Lake, the iconic North Shore Fountain has officially been restored through the efforts of the Buckeye Lake Historical Society.
Enjoy tasty bites, a craft brew, and new views at Buckeye Lake Brewery and Chef Shack with their recent outdoor remodel!
Grab a cup of your favorite caffeinated craving at Millersport Coffee and take an Insta-worthy photo with their new Be Kind mural.
Get ready for an even bigger 2024 at Buckeye Lake
Find annual events happening soon like Buckeye Lake Winterfest or start planning a romantic getaway for Valentine’s Day. Plus, stay up-to-date with all things Buckeye Lake like new restaurants, openings, and more with our monthly newsletter and app!
November 13th, 2023
Known for being a popular summertime destination, the Buckeye Lake region is just as fun when things start to cool down! With the holidays around the corner, you may be looking for somewhere to stay as you travel or maybe just a quick getaway from the busy season. Either way, now is the time to start planning your holidays at the lake.
Book a Cozy ‘Bnb
Luckily, Buckeye Lake has an abundance of photo-worthy short-term rentals! With everything from unique yurts, cozy cottages, or chic, lakefront homes – big enough for the whole family or perfect for just two – you’ll find the best place to make your trip memorable for years to come.
Holiday Shopping
Although the lake season is slowing down, there are still a myriad of businesses to shop locally around the 35 miles of shoreline! Whether you’re looking to add to your wardrobe, find your next favorite decor piece, or the perfect gift basket to give this holiday, check out these small local lake businesses to complete your shopping list.
Outdoor Adventures
As Ohio’s oldest State Park, Buckeye Lake offers plenty of outdoor activities, even in the colder months! Under proper weather conditions, enjoy the 4-mile walking path, ice skating, ice fishing, or bird watching. Plus, find Instagram-worthy spots around the lake to share your journey with family, friends, and followers. Visitors can also travel 10-20 minutes north to The Dawes Arboretum, a 2,000-acre tree museum offering 12 miles of hiking trails, 17,000 labeled collection plants, and more.
Grab a Bite
Buckeye Lake’s food scene is continuously growing! Now home to multiple cafes and casual upscale dining including the Blue Heron Kitchen & Pub, Buckeye Lake Winery, Hereinafter Cocktail Tavern, and Horvath’s Harbor, you’re sure to find your next favorite breakfast, lunch or dinner spot! Check out these cozy local restaurants for holiday specials and festive drinks.
Plan for the New Year
Can’t make it this year? No worries! There’s still plenty of time to book your trip for the annual Buckeye Lake Winterfest, the last weekend of January (January 25, 2025), or start planning a romantic getaway for Valentine’s Day. No matter the weather, Buckeye Lake is the perfect weekend getaway or vacation destination for your holidays at the lake.
For more information on what’s new and happening at Buckeye Lake, download our mobile app, sign up for our monthly newsletter, and follow us on Facebook & Instagram.
October 25th, 2023
Buckeye Lake is an exciting destination to spend the day out on the water, enjoy live music, experience delicious cuisine and tasty drinks, and admire stunning sunsets. However, there’s much more to discover beyond the shoreline. Dive into these 25 Things You Might Not Know About Buckeye Lake including its history, neighboring towns, and more!
25 Things You Might Not Know About Buckeye Lake
1. Buckeye Lake is Ohio’s oldest State Park.
2. The lake is home to over 20 islands.
3. The lake offers 3,100 acres of water.
4. The lake extends into 3 different Ohio counties – Fairfield, Licking, and Perry.
5. Multiple villages and neighborhoods surrounding the lake make up the Buckeye Lake Region: Buckeye Lake Village, Fairfield Beach, Harbor Hills, Hebron, Millersport, Thornport, and Thornville.
6. Buckeye Lake State Park is located 30 minutes east of Ohio’s capital, Columbus.
7. Buckeye Lake has 35 miles of shoreline.
8. A 4-mile shoreline walking & biking path connects the North Shore in Buckeye Lake Village to Liebs Island in Millersport.
9. The deepest part of Buckeye Lake is 14 feet.
10. Formed by a retreating glacier more than 14,000 years ago, Buckeye Lake first existed as a shallow, swampy pond, named “Great Buffalo Swamp” by Ohio Company explorer Christopher Gist in 1751.
11. The lake first served as a feeder lake for Ohio’s canal system during the 1800s.
12. From 1826 to 1830, the construction of the Licking Summit Reservoir was completed and would eventually become Buckeye Lake, a man-made lake.
13. When the lake was impounded in 1826, Cranberry Bog broke loose from the bottom and became a floating island that may conceivably be the only one of its kind in the world. Cranberry Bog State Nature Preserve, which is also a National Natural Landmark, is a small and shrinking remnant of this bog.
14. In 1894, Buckeye Lake was officially named a public park.
15. With the creation of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Buckeye Lake was officially designated as an Ohio State Park in 1949.
16. Buckeye Lake once held an amusement park with a ferris wheel, roller coaster, dance pavilions, and arcade, and was known as the Playground of Ohio.
17. During the 1940s, the dance halls hosted big Hollywood names such as Glenn Miller, Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, and more.
18. Today, the amusement park’s final remnant is the fountain that originally served as the centerpiece of the midway, which was restored in the summer of 2023.
19. Outdoor recreation at Buckeye Lake includes boating, birding, fishing, kayaking, jet-skiing, hiking/walking, hunting, picnicking, and swimming. During the winter months under proper conditions, park visitors can enjoy ice skating, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and ice boating.
20. Buckeye Lake is home to the only inland sternwheeler in the state, the Queen of the Lake III – not operating as of 2024
21. Every January, the businesses that surround Buckeye Lake participate in an annual festival, Winterfest. Join Benny the Bass as he predicts a long winter or an early spring and celebrate with fireworks, activities, live music, art shows, food and drink specials, food trucks, and more! Stick around for the annual Polar Plunge at the Buckeye Lake Winery, as participants jump into the freezing cold water of the lake to help raise money for charity.
22. Buckeye Lake’s food scene is continuously growing, now home to multiple cafes and casual upscale dining including the Blue Heron Kitchen & Pub, Buckeye Lake Winery, Hereinafter Cocktail Tavern, Horvath’s Harbor, and more.
23. The Dawes Arboretum, founded in 1929, is a 2,000-acre tree museum located 10-20 minutes north of the lake, offering 12 miles of hiking trails, 17,000 labeled collection plants, and more.
24. Situated immediately east of Buckeye Lake is Legend Valley, a 230-acre live music venue and campground that has hosted concerts, music festivals, and athletic events since the 1970s.
25. Popular annual festivals that take place in the Buckeye Lake region include the Thornville Backwoods Fest, Millersport Sweetcorn Festival, Tour de Buckeye Lake, and more.
Bonus Fact: Buckeye Lake has an app! Explore what the lake region has to offer, including lodging, popular restaurants, activities, shopping, and much more. View it all at once or search by categories like Outdoor Recreation, Arts & Culture, and Shopping.
Plan your escape today. With multiple short-term rentals all around the lake, you’ll find the best stay for your getaway! Find lakefront cottages and photo-worthy homes with beautiful waterfront views to make your trip as memorable as possible. Plus, check out events happening around the lake including live music, entertainment, and more!
August 24th, 2023
Patios & Pints Around the Lake – Check out these awesome spots with outdoor seating and delicious drinks around the 35 miles of shoreline.
Horvath’s Harbor (Thornville)
Waterfront
Stop by the cocktail bar to enjoy a broad selection of wines, craft brews, and bourbons on request from one of the talented bartenders to create a lively concoction for you! Once your drink is in hand, stroll out back and relax by the fire in a comfy Adirondack chair. Check out their live music schedule and menu.
The Dirty Oar (Thornville)
Waterfront
New to Buckeye Lake, The Dirty Oar is a waterfront bar featuring live music, food trucks, and fun activities! Find their music schedule and food truck lineup on their website at TheDirtyOarBL.com
The Port Lounge & Smokehouse (Thornville)
Waterfront
Dock your boat at the Port and enjoy lakeside drinks and delicious menu options including various meats, seafood, stuffed mushrooms and more! The spacious patio hosts live music all summer long.
Buckeye Lake Winery (Thornville)
Waterfront
Located on the southern banks of Buckeye Lake, Buckeye Lake Winery offers a full-service restaurant with outdoor and indoor seating and amazing views of the lake right from the patio. They are committed to producing great wine by bringing the Napa Valley experience home and creating an atmosphere of relaxation! Check out their food and wine menu and upcoming events.
The Copper Penny (Thornville)
Waterfront
Recently renovated, indulge in a broad menu of pizza, wings, burgers, and cold drinks year round! Relax by the canal and enjoy a delicious rum bucket at The Copper Penny.
Waterfront on Buckeye Lake (Thornville)
Waterfront
Experience this lakefront sports bar with great food, live music, and cold drinks! Check out the Waterfront menu for options including pizza, tacos, salads, and more.
Papa Boo’s (Thornville)
Waterfront
Papa Boo’s is the lakeside place for good fun and great food! You’ll love this popular spot on Buckeye Lake’s shoreline with live music, tasty bites, and a full bar. Now open year-round with tons of outdoor seating!
Si Senor Taco Mexican Grill (Millersport)
Waterfront
A local staple, Si Senor Taco Mexican Grill serves up all your favorite Mexican cuisines. Experience delicious food and refreshing margaritas at this festive restaurant. Plus, boaters can float right up the canal and join their friends on the patio!
Hereinafter Cocktail Tavern (Millersport)
The Hereinafter is a cocktail tavern with a mission to democratize great cocktails in a stylish, tavern setting. Serving classic cocktails alongside food, wine, and beer, Hereinafter intends to create a sacred ground where guests can bond with neighbors over great food and drink. Take a break on their patio, the Lanai, with full bar service included! If you’re out on the water and feel like a drink, use their dock located across from the restaurant for easy access.
Pappy D’s Island House (Millersport)
Waterfront
Situated on Liebs Island, Pappy D’s Island House is a casual space for family and friends! Enjoy live music and book your next event in the newly renovated space upstairs with customizable catering options, with bartenders and servers available.
The Blue Heron (Buckeye Lake Village)
The Blue Heron Kitchen & Pub is an American restaurant located in the Buckeye Lake Village. Grab a bite or a relaxing drink on the outdoor seating area at this new locally-owned restaurant! The wide menu includes options such as lobster bisque, burgers, seafood pasta, pies, beer floats, and more.
Buckeye Lake Brewery/Chef Shack (Buckeye Lake Village)
Grab a local brew or a flight from Buckeye Lake Brewery and pair it with tasty bites from the Chef Shack on the outdoor patio with sunshades! The Chef Shack offers a constantly evolving menu including burgers, wings, tacos, salads, and more.
The Boatyard at Buckeye Lake (Buckeye Lake Village)
Waterfront
Located within the Boatyard at Buckeye Lake, the La Cabra Craft Kitchen offers appetizers, nachos, salads, tacos, and more! Take a break by the lake and enjoy great food, live music and refreshing drinks right by the water.
Buckeye Lake Margaritas (Buckeye Lake Village)
Experience authentic Mexican food and delicious drinks just minutes from the lake! Now, you can relax with a margarita in-hand in their brand-new, festive patio space!
Plan your escape today. With a multiple short-term rentals all around the lake, you’ll find the best stay for your getaway! Find lakefront cottages and photo-worthy homes with beautiful waterfront views to make your trip as memorable as possible. Plus, check out events happening around the lake including live music, entertainment, and more!
Get around the lake’s villages in style! Book your ride with Mid Ohio Golf Car for an easy, breezy day carting around the lake.
For more information, download our mobile app, sign up for our monthly newsletter, and follow us on Facebook & Instagram.
July 24th, 2023
Looking for a nice way to cool down this summer? We’ve got the scoop! Dive in and satisfy your sweet tooth with these 5 spots for sweet treats at Buckeye Lake.
Dips on the Lake
Located within the Boatyard at Buckeye Lake, Dips on the Lake is a seasonal shop serving Johnson’s Ice Cream products on the North Bank. Enjoy memorable views on the 4-mile bike/walking path right on the water!
Weldon’s Ice Cream Factory
What was once a hotel, Weldon’s Ice Cream Factory is a well-known piece of history to locals and those beyond! Serving the Buckeye Lake region since 1929, enjoy your homemade sundae on the large front porch and experience beautiful views of the lake.
Hank & Stella’s
Experience a Buckeye Lake favorite, Hank & Stella’s in Thornville, Ohio, serving olde-fashioned, premium frozen custard made on-site daily with a myriad of topping options, right across from the public Canoe/Kayak Launch.
Karen’s Bakery and Custom Cakes
Indulge in delicious desserts and amazing pastries at Karen’s Bakery and Custom Cakes including cakes, cupcakes, and more. Enjoy this hometown bakery and order something special for your next event or occasion!
Dockside Donuts
Find tasty donuts and pastries at Dockside Donuts (open Fridays and Saturdays, 6:30AM-1:00PM) including gluten-free options! Don’t miss out on flavors like cookies & cream, buckeye, turtle, blueberry cake, and more.
Whit’s Frozen Custard
Located in the village of Buckeye Lake, indulge in delicious frozen custard with a never-ending rotation of unique flavors at Whit’s Frozen Custard!
Worth the Drive:
• Perrydise Frozen Yogurt (Somerset, Ohio – 11 miles)
• Gracie’s in Somerset (Somerset, Ohio – 11 miles)
• Hebron Dari Bar (Hebron, Ohio – 2.5 miles)
• Clay’s Cafe (Hebron, Ohio – 3 miles)
• Schaffner’s Drive In (Baltimore, Ohio – 12 miles)
Bonus: Find other sweet drinks and pastries at the local cafes around the lake!
• Buckeye Lake Coffee Company
• Coffee Shack Coffee Roasters & Cafe
• Millersport Coffee
For more information, download our mobile app, sign up for our monthly newsletter, and follow us on Facebook & Instagram.
June 26th, 2023
Whether you’re looking to up your Instagram game this summer or planning your next weekend getaway and want to share your journey with family, friends, and followers, there are many photo-worthy spots around Buckeye Lake to make your picture perfect. With options like artsy, historic, or natural views, check out the most Instagrammable spots around Buckeye Lake (and don’t forget to use #EscapeToBuckeyeLake for a chance to be featured on our social media!)
Weldon’s Ice Cream Factory
SEASONAL – What was once a hotel, Weldon’s Ice Cream Factory is a well-known piece of history to locals and those beyond, serving Millersport, Ohio and the Buckeye Lake region since 1929. Enjoy your homemade sundae on the large front porch and enjoy beautiful views of Buckeye Lake!
Murals Around the Lake
Find the famous Benny the Bass mural at the Harbor Community Center in Buckeye Lake Village, along with eye-catching artistry at Papa Boo’s, Pappy D’s Island House, LakeBound Outfitters, Waterfront on Buckeye Lake, and more!
Nautical Homes
All around the 35 miles of shoreline, you can find beautiful, unique homes! From colorful coastal-inspired cottages and beachy abodes, take a drive or cruise around the lake to check out these one-of-a-kind houses. Tip: Find fun places to stay around the lake.
Lighthouses
Around the shore, you can spot a handful of lighthouses from both land or lake! Hint: Check out the North Shore, the Kayak Launch, and Snug Harbor Village for a few places to start. How many can you spot?
The Lake, of course!
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing drink or an exciting outdoor adventure, Buckeye Lake has it all. Offering three important features: lake, land, and leisure, and only a 30-minute drive outside of Columbus, you’re sure to find something you love at Ohio’s first state park!
Bonus: Instagram-Worthy Bites and Beverages
There are new exciting eateries popping up all over Buckeye Lake! From crafted cocktails at the Hereinafter Cocktail Tavern, upscale cuisines at The Blue Heron, delicious burgers at Horvath’s Harbor, and tastes of Napa Valley with beautiful sunset views at the Buckeye Lake Winery, you’ll find picturesque plates and drinks in all corners of the lake.
Don’t wait, book your stay! With multiple short-term rentals all around the lake, you’ll find the best stay for your getaway! Find lakefront cottages and photo-worthy homes with beautiful waterfront views to make your trip as memorable as possible. Plus, check out events happening around the lake including live music, entertainment, and more!
For more information, check out our website EscapeToBuckeyeLake.com, download our mobile app, sign up for our monthly newsletter, and follow us on Facebook & Instagram.
March 14th, 2023
It’s finally time to spring into fun at the lake! Whether you’re looking for a relaxing drink on the 35 miles of shoreline or an exciting outdoor adventure this season, Buckeye Lake has it all. Offering three important features: lake, land, and leisure, and only a 30-minute drive outside of Columbus, you’re sure to find something you love at Ohio’s very first state park!
Lake.
With over 3,000 acres of water, there are many water-based activities for lake fun including kayaking, jet skiing, tubing, and more! In need of a rental for you and your party? Opening for the season in April, stop by LakeBound Outfitters for all your outdoor gear needs, including kayaks, bicycles, camping gear, and paddleboards. Already equipped with your gear? Strap up your kayak and swing by the newly completed Thorn Township Canoe/Kayak Launch Park, a self-launching ramp for those ready to get out on the water! The ramp is also wheelchair accessible – making it easy for everyone to enjoy a day on the lake.
If you’re looking for something a little more relaxing, set sail with Captain Buck for a private pontoon boat tour.
Land.
When you’re out and about, grab a coffee from Buckeye Lake Coffee Company, Millersport Coffee or Coffee Shack Coffee Roasters & Cafe and stroll around Buckeye Lake State Park! For more outdoor opportunities, enjoy biking on the 4-mile shoreline path across the top of the dam, walking trails, year-round fishing, and some of the best birding spots in central Ohio! In need of a rental for you and your party? Starting in April, catch a ride with 3XP Tours for pedals, paddles, and pints – that includes biking along the shore, kayaking across the lake, and refreshing drinks afterward! New to the lake is Earthly Pottery Co., where you can shop handmade pottery, candles, and home goods or book a class to make your own unique piece! Plus, there are always events going on and around the lake that you won’t want to miss!
Take a quick break and shop locally at the many unique businesses in the area! Spruce up your abode with Amish-made furniture and home decor at Oak Creations, or vintage home furnishings at Picadilly Vintage. Then, update your wardrobe with cute clothes and accessories at The Yellow Sundress Resale Boutique. With the myriad of shop options, you won’t go home empty-handed!
Leisure.
After your day of excitement at the lake, grab a bite at a local restaurant with waterfront dining and live music! Enjoy a glass of wine at Buckeye Lake Winery, a craft brew at Buckeye Lake Brewery, a delicious burger at Horvath’s Harbor, or a relaxing drink at the Hereinafter Cocktail Tavern. New to the Village of Buckeye Lake, indulge in upscale casual dining at the Blue Heron Kitchen & Pub with options of soup, salads, sandwiches, pasta, and more! If you need a little refresher, stop by Weldon’s Ice Cream Factory, Dockside Donuts, or Hank & Stella’s for a homemade treat!
Ready to plan your trip? Whether it be a quick weekend getaway or your next family vacation, book your stay at one of the many unique short-term rentals (via Airbnb or Vrbo) near or on the water, and make Buckeye Lake your next vacation destination!
For more information, check out our website EscapeToBuckeyeLake.com, download our mobile app, sign up for our monthly newsletter, and follow us on Facebook & Instagram!
February 20th, 2023
There are new exciting eateries popping up all over Buckeye Lake, and others are taking notice! Check out what restaurants are coming to the lake, and of course, some favorites that have also made the headlines in years past.
The Blue Heron Kitchen & Pub
Officially opening its doors in February 2023, The Blue Heron Kitchen & Pub offers indoor dining and bar seating with an enclosed patio. 614 Now writes, “The restaurant, which features a nautical theme to its interior decor, will provide a mix of contemporary American cuisine and seafood favorites, which means everything from salmon to a gourmet pork chop sandwich will be available.” Don’t miss out on this upscale American eatery in the village of Buckeye Lake!
Hereinafter Cocktail Tavern
Already a lake favorite, the Hereinafter Cocktail Tavern brings high-end cocktails and dining to Millersport! 614 Now shares, “With its use of liquid nitrogen, frothy egg whites, and other newer gastronomic methods, the newly-opened Hereinafter Cocktail Tavern doesn’t shy away from modern mixology…” Experience classic Southern dishes, unique glass-sized cut ice cubes made from a 200-pound block, and the restaurant’s very own Heretofore Wine Shop, coming soon!
Hook & Ladder
Coming soon to Millersport, the Hook & Ladder where “fun and food collide at the lake,” is set to open in summer 2023. Plan for brews, bites, and tons of entertainment! Check out their website and sign-up for updates!
Memorable Media Mentions
Hometown Hot Dogs
Recently celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2023, Hometown Hot Dogs brings a unique West Virginia favorite to the lake! Columbus Monthly shares, “Hometown’s signature wiener is the West Virginia Dog. This delightful filled-to-the-brim frank is topped with coleslaw that sinks into layers of mild, medium, or hot Coney sauce, cut onions, and yellow mustard. It certainly requires a fork…” Stop in and indulge in gourmet hotdogs, sandwiches, and more!
Buckeye Lake Winery
As the only winery on the lake, Buckeye Lake Winery shares the taste of Napa Valley with central Ohio. Ohio.org writes, “Established in 2013, the Buckeye Lake Winery prides itself on its hands-on approach to wine. While many Ohio wineries specialize in fruity wines because growing conditions here are conducive to it, the folks at Buckeye Lake Winery work with a California vineyard to produce ‘Big Reds’ — the Lake View Red, for example — that meet their high standards.” Enjoy a full menu with outdoor and indoor seating, beautiful lake views, and of course, delicious wine!
Papa Boo’s
Expanding their hours into the winter season, Papa Boo’s is a lake favorite all year round! Finding Ohio shares, “The food was served quickly, was plentiful and tasty. Our waiter and the other employees we spoke with were very friendly and welcoming. Beyond all that, it’s just a nice environment to experience dinner at the lake.” Stop by Papa Boo’s for live music, delicious food, and a full bar right on the waters of Buckeye Lake!
Stay up-to-date with new businesses, restaurants, and more coming to Buckeye Lake with the Escape to Buckeye Lake app! Sign up for the monthly Escape to Buckeye Lake newsletter and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to keep connected.
