Fall Archives - Escape to Buckeye Lake

Planning Your Holidays at the Lake

Escape To Buckeye Lake | Nov 13, 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.
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, 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.

25 Things You Might Not Know About Buckeye Lake

Escape To Buckeye Lake | Oct 25, 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 21 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, 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.
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!

Patios & Pints Around the Lake

Escape To Buckeye Lake | Aug 24, 2023

Patios & Pints Around the Lake – Just because the summer season is beginning to slow down doesn’t mean the fun at Buckeye Lake is! Check out these awesome spots with outdoor seating and delicious drinks around the 35 miles of shoreline.
Patios & Pints Around the Lake
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. Check out their menu.
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 this local bar.
Waterfront on Buckeye Lake (Thornville)
Waterfront | Closing for the season in late November
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!

The Canal on Buckeye Lake (Millersport)
Waterfront
A local staple, The Canal on Buckeye Lake 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. Recently added is their new 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 restaurant is an American Restaurant in 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 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.

Top 5 Spots for Sweet Treats at Buckeye Lake

Escape To Buckeye Lake | Jul 24, 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. Afterward, take a walk through the local shops in the village of Millersport, including Buckeye Lake Place, Jackie’s Creations, and Picadilly Vintage (open on the weekends).
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
Located inside Karen’s Bakery and Custom Cakes, 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.

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.

The Most Instagrammable Spots Around Buckeye Lake

Escape To Buckeye Lake | Jun 26, 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!

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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!

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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.

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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?

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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!

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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!

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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.

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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.

Why You Should Plan Your Buckeye Lake Escape Now

Escape To Buckeye Lake | May 24, 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.

Weekending at Buckeye Lake: Plan the Perfect Escape

Escape To Buckeye Lake | Apr 28, 2023

Weekending at Buckeye Lake – Whether you’re looking for a fun family trip, a romantic couple’s getaway, a girl’s weekend or a quick bro-cation, Buckeye Lake is the perfect place to be! With 3,100 acres of water, unique and lakeside short-term rentals, outdoor recreation, shopping options, and restaurants placed all around the 35 miles of shoreline, you’re sure to find something for you and your loved ones! Check out this itinerary to help you plan the perfect weekend escape and make Buckeye Lake your vacation destination.
Book Your ‘BNB
The days are getting warmer and the short-term rentals are filling up! Whether it be lakefront cottages or unique, photo-worthy homes, find the perfect place for you and your party to enjoy the lake life.
Friday
Morning: Kick off the weekend with a trip to Coffee Shack Coffee Roasters & Cafe for breakfast and your favorite brew. Afterwards, take a stroll around the North Shore for beautiful views of the lake, year-round fishing, and the best birding spots in central Ohio! When you’re done, browse through The Yellow Sundress Resale Boutique for cute clothes, decor, and more.
Afternoon: Take a drive to Millersport and shop lake life necessities at Buckeye Lake Place – whether it be a Buckeye Lake souvenir or your next favorite decor piece, you won’t leave empty handed! Grab a bite at Buckeye Lake Winery with beautiful views of the lake, and relax on the outdoor patio with fire pits!

Evening: To end the night, experience great vibes, great music, and great drinks at Papa Boo’s right on the water!
Saturday
Morning: Start the day off with Buckeye Lake Coffee Company and savor your coffee lakeside! Afterwards, discover great shopping at local stores such as Lake’s End or Picadilly Vintage.
Afternoon: Hit the water and spend an afternoon on the lake! Stop by Lakebound Outfitters or Buckeye Lake Boat Rental for all your outdoor gear needs, including kayaks, bicycles, camping gear, and paddleboards – then swing by the Thorn Township Kayak/Canoe Launch for a fun afternoon on the water!

Evening: Enjoy dinner at the new Blue Heron Kitchen & Pub for Instagram-worthy meals and desserts at this lake-inspired, elevated dining destination. Grab a nightcap and enjoy the atmosphere at the stylish Hereinafter Cocktail Tavern, open past midnight on Fridays and Saturdays!
Sunday
Morning: Grab brunch at Millersport Coffee and take a trip to Brooks Park where you can overlook the newly rehabilitated wetland and the animals that inhabit it!

Afternoon: Bike around on the 4-mile shoreline path across the top of the dam that connects the North Shore to Lieb’s Island and offers a variety of areas for fishing and relaxation!
Bonus: After checkout, grab a cone from Buckeye Lake staple, Weldon’s Ice Cream Factory, and enjoy a sweet treat before heading home!
Plan for Summer
The fun doesn’t have to end! Check out annual summer events happening around the lake, including 4th of July boat parades, pub paddles, the Millersport Sweet Corn Festival, 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!

Marching Into Spring at Buckeye Lake

Escape To Buckeye Lake | Mar 14, 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!

The Latest Bites & Beverages at Buckeye Lake

Escape To Buckeye Lake | Feb 20, 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!
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Dive Into Valentine’s Day at Buckeye Lake

Escape To Buckeye Lake | Feb 02, 2023

The most romantic day of the year is almost here, and we’re giving you all the tips and tricks to have your Valentine’s Day date night (or weekend) go smooth-sailing.
1. Book Your V-Day Getaway
With multiple short-term rentals all around the lake, you’ll find the best stay for your V-Day getaway! Find lakefront cottages and chic, photo-worthy homes with beautiful waterfront views to make your trip as memorable as possible.
2. Out & About
Located less than 20 minutes from Buckeye Lake, take a relaxing stroll through the pet-friendly Dawes Arboretum with approximately 12 miles of hiking trails! Or enjoy a peaceful walk on the lake with the 4-mile Buckeye Lake walking and biking trail with beautiful sunrises and breathtaking sunsets along the shoreline nearly each day!

3. Gifts Galore
Grab the perfect Valentine’s Day bouquet at Millersport Flowers and pair it with a Valentine’s Day-themed gift basket from Jackie’s Creations, both new, locally-owned shops in Millersport! Looking for a little more? Enjoy a short drive to the historical village of Somerset, offering unique, small-town shopping such as Gypsy Hawaii Boutique and (Mid) Western Second Hand for quality apparel, accessories, home goods, and more.

4. Donuts, Drinks & Dinner
Morning: Grab a warm cup and brunch from Coffee Shack Coffee Roasters & Cafe on the North Shore and then partake in the sweetest donut date at Dockside Donuts.
Afternoon: Indulge in a scrumptious bite including gourmet burgers, wraps and desserts, at Horvath’s Harbor or unique sandwiches, tacos, burritos and more at Chef Shack, paired perfectly with a craft brew from the attached Buckeye Lake Brewery.
Evening: Enjoy the relaxing, southern banks of the lake with a delicious and extensive menu at Buckeye Lake Winery. Afterwards, end the night at the new Hereinafter Cocktail Tavern for high-end drinks and a cozy atmosphere.

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!
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