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
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 here.
Lighthouses
Around the shore, you can spot a handful of lighthouses from both land or lake! Hint: Checkout the North Shore, the Kayak Launch, and Snug Harbor Village for a few places to start. How many can you spot?
Queen of the Lake
The Queen of the Lake III is the only sternwheel boat on an inland Ohio lake. Find this historical piece at Liebs Island and tour Buckeye Lake’s history with special, ticketed events perfect for a group outing or date night, including Sunday Brunch Tours, Friday Night Music Tours, Dinner Cruises, and more!
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 sunsets 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.
May 24th, 2023
Lake season is here and it’s time to get reel… boats are starting to dock, patios are opening, and it’s the perfect time to plan your lake escape! Whether a last-minute spring getaway or your summer vacation destination, Buckeye Lake is the perfect place to cast a line, indulge in a delicious meal, or simply relax on the 35 miles of shoreline all season.
National Fishing and Boating Week (6/3-6/11)
Set sail on 3,100 acres of water with the perfect rental from Buckeye Lake Boat Rental! Choose from pontoon boats and kayaks, and grab your open or closed-reel fishing poles to celebrate National Fishing Week. Check out the lake fishing map for more information on finding your perfect catch! If you’re looking for a relaxing cruise, book a private pontoon boat tour with Captain Buck or climb aboard the Queen of the Lake III for a tour of the lake’s history – now with more tour options than ever, including sunset tours and brunch tours.
Wine & Woodies 30th Annual Antique & Classic Boat Show (6/17)
The 30th annual “Wine & Woodies Antique & Classic Boat Show” will be held Saturday, June 17, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Buckeye Lake Winery. This event is completely free to spectate and enjoy – you can also enjoy free parking at the winery. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy delicious wine, stunning lake views, and cool boats!
4th of July Boat Parade
Residents and visitors alike celebrate Independence Day each year with a fun, patriotic boat parade! Decorated boats depart from Liebs Island and make their way along the North shore, through Cranberry Bay, past Harbor Hills and end at Papa Boo’s. Prizes are awarded based on a different theme each year. Come out and enjoy the red, white, and blue parade and spend a day on the water. Follow the Buckeye Lake Area Civic Association website for more information to come!
Buckeye Lake Area Star Spangled Tradition (BLASST) (7/3)
Watch the beautiful Buckeye Lake Area Star Spangled Tradition fireworks display over Buckeye Lake from the water or on the shore on July 3rd! Follow the BLASST Facebook page for more information.
Ice Cream Day (7/16)
Officially the best day of the year, celebrate Ice Cream Day the right way… on the lake, of course! Grab a classic cone from Millersport staple, Weldon’s Ice Cream Factory, serving the lake town since 1930, and enjoy a view of the water right from the front porch! If you’re in the Village of Buckeye Lake, swing by the Boatyard Tavern & Grill and enjoy their very own Dips on the Lake serving Johnson’s Ice Cream products. Lastly, indulge in premium, old-fashioned frozen custard that is made on-site daily at Hank & Stella’s located across from the Kayak/Canoe Launch! Enjoy floats, shakes, sundaes, and more at all of these locations!
Buckeye Lake Pub Paddle (8/12)
The Buckeye Lake Pub Paddle is an annual bar crawl via watercraft that supports our local Buckeye Lake businesses while still having a lot of fun! Join the 7th Annual Buckeye Lake Pub Paddle and follow the Buckeye Lake Pub Paddle Facebook page for more information.
Buckeye Lake Tour of Homes (8/13)
Relax on this one-hour pontoon boat ride visiting the beautiful homes and islands at Buckeye Lake and view the unique and eye-catching houses that line the shoreline! Follow the Buckeye Lake Area Civic Association website and Facebook for more information to come.
Tour de Buckeye Lake (8/19)
Bike for a benefit! Join the Tour de Buckeye Lake for their 7th annual ride and help fundraise for trail development, safety, and bikes for underprivileged children – now with 3 different route options, a beer garden, live music entertainment, and more food options than ever! Learn more and register for this event here, and don’t forget to RSVP on Facebook.
Millersport Sweet Corn Festival (8/30-9/2)
Get ready for this fun festival that you’re sure to find ear-resistable! Bring your family and friends to discover over 20 rides and games, tractor pulls, and parade. Compete in the fun contests held throughout the week and enjoy a myriad of corn-based and flavored food options, including ice cream! Learn more at sweetcornfest.com.
Labor Day Weekend Getaway (9/4)
Celebrate the long weekend and the ending of the summer season with a weekend getaway! Grab a bite at the newest restaurants around the lake, stretch your legs with some outdoor fun, and shop local for decor, apparel, and more.
Backwoods Festival (9/15-17)
Kick off the fall season with one of the largest festivals around the lake, The Backwoods Fest! With over 300 vendors, more than 30 different kinds of food, and 3 days of bluegrass music in Thornvile, this event near Buckeye Lake is fun for everyone. Held rain or shine during the third weekend in September, learn more on their website or Facebook page.
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, climb aboard the Queen of the Lake III for a tour of the lake’s history, or 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 or Hank & Stella’s for a cool, 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.
January 4th, 2023
It’s a new year and 2023 has tons of fun events and festivities in store at Buckeye Lake! Starting off with a bang is Winterfest, one of the biggest events at Buckeye 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 Stay 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 get all the best deals on 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 or the Barr Hopper!
5. Brave the Polar Plunge
What better way to wash away 2022 than by jumping into freezing cold waters? On January 29th, take a dive into Buckeye Lake with the 9th annual Polar Plunge! All proceeds benefit United Way’s local programs.
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 updates on events, restaurants, and more happening at Buckeye Lake for Winterfest and all year long!
December 14th, 2022
As December winds down, it’s a great time to get out and celebrate the end of 2022 around the lake! Support small and get some last-minute shopping done for the holidays with unique gifts for your loved ones or enjoy some activities around the lake during the colder months.
Plan your upcoming lake trip for the new year today and explore what else the region has to offer, including lodging, popular restaurants, activities, shopping, and much more. 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!
Don’t Forget!
Winterfest 2023 is coming soon! Mark your calendars for January 28th as we join Benny the Bass to see if he “takes the bait” and predicts an early spring or refuses, which means six more weeks of winter. Winterfest is celebrated with fireworks, activities around the late, live music, art shows, food and drink specials, food trucks, and more. Don’t wait… book your stay now and make sure to grab your Winterfest transportation wristbands with the Ohio Party Bus or the Barr Hopper!
The team at Escape to Buckeye Lake would like to take a moment to thank you for a wonderful 2022! We are excited to be your source for new events, restaurants, and experiences coming soon to Buckeye Lake in 2023. If you haven’t already, sign up for our newsletter and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for an easy way to stay up-to-date.
Have a happy holiday and a wonderful New Year!
November 1st, 2022
The weather’s getting colder and the leaves are falling… but that doesn’t mean there aren’t exciting things still happening at Buckeye Lake! Check out these 5 fun fall things you can do in and/or around the water this season.
1. Fall Fishing
Who says you can’t cast a line year-round? Even during the chilly Ohio months, fishing is still a top activity amongst the lake. Check out the lake fishing map for more information on finding your perfect catch!
2. Snag a Bite
With over 30 bars and restaurants surrounding the lake, there’s always a good place to grab a bite to eat. Cozy up beside the outdoor fireplace at Horvath’s Harbor or the Buckeye Lake Winery and enjoy the beautiful views right on the water, or grab a refreshing drink or plate from Hereinafter Cocktail Tavern or the Blue Heron Kitchen & Pub. Just a reminder that as the weather changes, so do the hours of most businesses around the lake! Make sure to call ahead for the most accurate hours of operation.
3. Cozy Up With a Cup
Looking for a hot brew to keep you warm? Check out Buckeye Lake Coffee Company, Millersport Coffee, and Coffee Shack Coffee Roasters & Cafe for all your caffeinated cravings this autumn!
4. Outdoor Autumn Adventures
Stretch your legs before the snow falls! There’s a myriad of outdoor activities around Buckeye Lake to keep you out-and-about this autumn season. Whether you’re looking for walking trails, bike paths, or excited to enjoy the wildlife, the Buckeye Lake area has it all.
5. Book Your ‘BNB
Whether it be lakefront cottages or unique, photo-worthy homes, find the perfect place for you and your party to enjoy the lake life and dive into autumn. Near or far, Buckeye Lake is the perfect place with lots to do, no matter the weather! Make sure to check out annual festivals happening around the lake including the Millersport Sweet Corn Festival or the Thornville Backwoods Fest, and our event calendar.
Be in-the-know with all things Buckeye Lake! Check out our upcoming events, subscribe to our monthly newsletter and download our Escape to Buckeye Lake app.
