Fall Archives - Escape to Buckeye Lake

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 (8/5)

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!
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.

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!
Follow Escape to Buckeye Lake on Facebook and Instagram for more updates on restaurants, activities, and more happening around Buckeye Lake.

6 Tips for Making the Most of Winterfest

Escape To Buckeye Lake | Jan 04, 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!

Happy Holidays from the Lake!

Escape To Buckeye Lake | Dec 14, 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!

Shopping Local at the Lake for Small Business Saturday

Escape To Buckeye Lake | Nov 18, 2022

November is known as the month for giving back and what better way to show appreciation for your community than to support those within it! Check out some shops below to celebrate Small Business Saturday this year with those local to you at Buckeye Lake.
*Remember to check or call ahead as the hours of businesses on Buckeye Lake tend to change during the winter season.
For the Coffee Connoisseur
Millersport Coffee | 12045 Lancaster Street, Millersport
Recently expanding into their new location, Millersport Coffee is a must for all your caffeine cravings! Grab a shirt or mug as the perfect stocking-stuffer.

Buckeye Lake Coffee Company | 14675 Zion Road, Thornville
With locally roasted beans by One Line Coffee in Heath, Ohio, Buckeye Lake Coffee Company works with local suppliers to source ingredients for the freshest, highest quality brews. Stop in for a latte, cappuccino, drip coffee or tasty bites!
Coffee Shack Coffee Roasters & Cafe | 4675 Walnut Road, Buckeye Lake
Only a short distance from the North Shore, Coffee Shack Coffee Roasters & Cafe features organically grown, delicious coffee and treats, as well as a full breakfast and lunch menu.

For the Craft Beer or Wine Lover

Buckeye Lake Winery | 13750 Rosewood Road, Thornville
Buckeye Lake Winery offers a full-service restaurant with outdoor & indoor seating and delicious food. Enjoy the Napa Valley experience right in the heart of the lake!
Buckeye Lake Brewery | 5176 Walnut Road SE, Buckeye Lake
Sit back and relax at Buckeye Lake Brewery! Enjoy their tap room serving draft beer, local wine, and bourbon, as well as seasonal winter flavors. Feeling hungry? Add an order from Chef Shack located next door to the brewery!

For the Foodie

Buckeye Lake Margaritas Restaurant & Cantina | 4675 Walnut Road, Buckeye Lake
Experience the taste of Mexico right in central Ohio! Enjoy authentic Mexican food and delicious drinks just minutes from the lake.
Pappy D’s Island House | 2977 Greenlawn Ave, Millersport
Situated on Leib’s Island, Pappy D’s Island House is a casual, cozy space for family and friends. Book your next holiday party or event in the newly renovated space upstairs with customizable catering options, with bartenders and servers available!
Papa Boo’s | 11356 Avondale Road, Thornville
Now open year-long, Papa Boo’s is the lakeside place for fun and food! With live music and a full bar, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the water of Buckeye Lake in any season.
Horvath’s Harbor | 14675 Zion Road, Thornville
Cozy up by the fireplace and enjoy a broad selection of wines, craft brews, bourbons and delectable food at Horvath’s Harbor!

Hometown Hot Dogs | 12031 Lancaster Street NE, Millersport
At Hometown Hot Dogs, you’ll find delicious homemade food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Along with their gourmet hotdogs, locals rave about their comfort food, including soups, sandwiches, daily specials, and the best burgers around!

For the Decorator
Buckeye Lake Place | 12041 Lancaster Street, Millersport
For unique lakeside-inspired gifts or perfect home decor pieces, visit the carefully curated, high quality selection at Buckeye Lake Place with vintage goods, nautical items, antiques, logo wear, and home decor.

Oak Creations | 2474 Blacklick-Eastern Road NE, Millersport
Find reasonable and affordable selection every day at Oak Creations in Millersport! Offering Amish-made furniture, home decor, accessories, Tiffany lamps and more.
Picadilly Vintage | 12033 Lancaster Street, Millersport
With everything from shabby chic to rustic elegance, Picadilly Vintage provides a trendy new twist on vintage home furnishings!

Melissa & Patti’s Unique Finds | 14547 Township Road 1061, Thornville
Melissa & Patti’s Unique Finds is a gift and home decor shop with handmade and refurbished furniture featuring nautical, beach styles to rustic, country styles. You can also find crafts and antiques, as well as custom work!
Smith Girls Art Gallery | West Bank Road NE, Millersport
Smith Girl Arts Gallery is home to the artwork of local watercolorist, Gayla Smith. The Gallery is adorned with Gayla’s original paintings and museum quality prints. Grab note cards, stickers and a variety of stocking-stuffers from their website!

For the Stylist
Yellow Sundress Resale Boutique | 4675 Walnut Road, Buckeye Lake
The Yellow Sundress Resale Boutique features a variety of styles to spruce up your wardrobe. Browse cute clothes, fun accessories and essential home décor items.
The Lake’s End | 9075 Boundaries Road #9400, Thornville
Shopping for the outdoors-person in your life? The Lake’s End in Thornville offers a selection of Carhartt apparel, Oakley gear, Wolverine boots, Redwing boots, Irish Setter boots, and more! Their services also include screen printing, embroidery, custom banners, and graphic design for all your custom needs.

Check out more places to shop at Buckeye Lake as well as more local food options.
Keep connected with upcoming events at Buckeye Lake! Sign up for our newsletter, follow us on Facebook and Instagram and download our Escape to Buckeye Lake app.

5 Fun Fall Things to Do at Buckeye Lake

Escape To Buckeye Lake | Nov 01, 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. 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.

Buckeye Lake Dam-Walking & Bike Path
Buckeye Lake Birding Drive
Perry State Forest
Buckeye Lake State Park
Dawes Arboretum
Mount Pleasant

5. Autumn Outings
Looking for some fun things to do by the lake this month? Don’t miss these upcoming events.

Miracle on Lancaster Street in Millersport | 11/12/2022 from 12:00PM-5:00PM
Already in the holiday spirit? Stop by for carriage rides with Santa and great deals from local businesses!
River Rats “Live on the Lake” at Boatyard at Buckeye Lake | 11/12/2022 from 7:00PM-9:00PM
Listen to Zanesville, Ohio’s very own River Rats as they share live upbeat percussion, original acoustic ballads and instrumental fiddle pieces that stem from the Appalachian culture in the foothills of southeast Ohio.
Randy Gleason at Horvath’s Harbor | 11/18/2022 from 6:00PM-9:00PM
Enjoy music from Shawnee, Ohio native, Randy Gleason, as he covers everything from the ‘60s to now, including Neil Young and Three Doors Down.
Flu’z Acoustic at Horvath’s Harbor | 11/23/2022 from 7:00PM-10:00PM
Catch Flu’z Acoustic performing all of your favorite songs, from genres like rock, country, and today’s hits!
Pancake Dinner at Thornville Masonic Lodge | 11/27/2022 from 4:30PM-6:30PM
Who doesn’t love breakfast at night? Bring the kids and stop out for pancakes, fruit, coffee, raffles and more! All donations go to the Thornville Action Committee.

Keep It On Your Calendar…
Events coming up this December near Buckeye Lake.

Breakfast with Santa in Thornville on 12/3/2022
Millersport Chocolate Hop on 12/4/2022
It’s a Wonderful Life in Thornville on 12/4/2022

Stay a while! Maybe you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway without the hassle? Whether you’re near or far, Buckeye Lake is the perfect place with lots to do, no matter the weather! With a ton of lodging options, you’re sure to find the perfect place to enjoy the lake. Don’t wait, plan your trip today!
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.

Welcome to the Buckeye Lake Region

Escape To Buckeye Lake | Jun 15, 2021

Lake, land, and leisure…you can find it all at Buckeye Lake! Located in central Ohio, Buckeye Lake offers visitors their very own personal slice of paradise. Ready to experience the Lake Life? Let’s jump right in!
Pro tip: Download the app to your smartphone to plan the perfect visit!
Buckeye Lake is the region’s premier outdoor recreation destination. The lake offers plenty of ways to experience the excitement of water sports and activities. Sail, kayak, and canoe across the lake, or try jet skiing, paddle boarding, water skiing, and tubing if you want to get your feet wet. The lake is also a popular spot for fishing, and folks love swimming at the two public beaches.
Pro tip: Try a guided pontoon boat tour at sunset – what a beautiful experience!

#gallery-1 {
margin: auto;
}
#gallery-1 .gallery-item {
float: left;
margin-top: 10px;
text-align: center;
width: 33%;
}
#gallery-1 img {
border: 2px solid #cfcfcf;
}
#gallery-1 .gallery-caption {
margin-left: 0;
}
/* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */

There’s plenty to do on the land, too! Hop on a bike or take a walk along the dam trail for some great sightseeing. Have fun shopping in all the cool boutiques or check out the memorabilia from Buckeye Lake Amusement Park during a tour of the Historical Society Museum. Go exploring in Buckeye Lake State Park, a nature preserve that is designated as a National Natural Landmark.
Pro tip: Grab your binoculars and stay close to the shoreline to see a wide variety of waterfowl.
Get ready to eat and drink your way around the lake! Make sure to bring your appetite to enjoy everything from hot dogs and pizza to comfort food and ethnic dining. Get there early to secure the perfect seat for all the live music that is performed at venues around the lake. Visit the wineries, breweries, and your favorite pubs for a fun time with your friends. Make plans to enjoy one of the region’s great festivals and special events.

Pro tip: Always finish your day at Buckeye Lake with a delicious frozen treat!
Buckeye Lake’s 35 miles of shoreline means there is a lot to see as you travel around to explore the area. Grab your friends and family and head to Buckeye Lake for all kinds of fun! Lake, land, and leisure – whatever your interests, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. Planning your visit is a breeze when you go to EscapeToBuckeyeLake.com!