What to DoLeisure

Beach House Pub is a real hot spot on Buckeye Lake! Enjoy the summer on their spacious patio where they offer live music and lots of fun. A variety of delicious food is available, and you’ll find great drink specials and Happy Hour offers. This bar and grill is open every day for your enjoyment.

Big Stan’s Bar & Grill offers customers a fun, family-friendly, enthusiastic environment, just minutes away from the shores of Buckeye Lake! They are known for their fresh salads, jumbo wings, tasty sandwiches & hotdogs + their cold beers & malt beverages.

The Boatyard at Buckeye Lake is your go-to lakeside destination for fun, food, and relaxation in central Ohio. Whether you’re a local or visiting, this vibrant tavern offers something for everyone.

🎶 Live Entertainment & Dining

Enjoy live music on the water, featuring local bands and karaoke nights. The Boatyard Tavern-n-Grill serves a variety of dishes, from appetizers and chicken wings to tacos, burgers, nachos, and seafood.

🍳 Brunch on Saturdays & Sundays

Starting May 24, 2025, the Boatyard introduces brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Indulge in a selection of breakfast favorites to kickstart your weekend.

🍦 Sweet Treats from Dips on the Lake

Cool off with a sweet treat from Dips on the Lake, offering hand-dipped ice cream cones and other desserts to satisfy your cravings.

🛥️ History of the Boatyard at Buckeye Lake

In 1904, Henry Sayre an established plumber and his wife Mary moved from Newark, Ohio to the “Swamp” (now known as Buckeye Lake). They built a row of boathouses with apartments above, where they lived and began selling and repairing boats, and also rented boat docks. In 1928, the Sayre’s opened one of the first Chris-Craft dealerships in the world, and the first in America! They had three sons, Earl, Fred and Ray. In 2019, three local gentlemen had a vision to open what is now the Boatyard Tavern-n-Grill along with Dips on the Lake, right next door in the original building! In 2023, the LaCabra Craft Kitchen was welcomed. Today, the Boatyard is one of Buckeye Lake’s favorite destinations for locals, boaters and new visitors to the lake.

For more information or to book a table, visit boatyardatbuckeyelake.com or call (740) 822-0079. Don’t forget to check out the live music schedule and plan your visit accordingly!

Come out if you want to spend time with good friends and enjoy a good drink! Folks love the private outdoor space, too.

Take a break at the lake and enjoy this local brewery with outdoor seating and a tap room that serves draft beer, local wine, and bourbon!  Getting hungry?  Grab a bite from the Chef Shack, serving tacos, burgers, and more, located inside the Buckeye Lake Brewery.

If you’re anywhere near Buckeye Lake, Buckeye Lake Coffee Co. is a gem you won’t want to miss. Located dockside with beautiful lake views, it’s the perfect spot to relax with a great cup of coffee and soak in the scenery.

They proudly serve high-quality brews made with beans roasted locally by One Line Coffee in Heath, Ohio, and their breakfast menu is crafted with fresh ingredients sourced from local suppliers. Whether you’re craving something sweet or savory, there’s always something delicious to enjoy.

On sunny days, their lakeside patio fills up fast with guests enjoying the sunshine, coffee in hand. But even on gray or chilly mornings, the inviting indoor space—with free Wi-Fi and plenty of outlets—makes it just as comfortable.

Whether you’re pulling up by boat, strolling the shoreline, or just passing through town, Buckeye Lake Coffee Co. is a perfect stop for your morning coffee, a relaxed breakfast, or a mid-day pick-me-up.

At the Fraternal Order Of Eagles 2801, meet new friends and get involved in groups that care and make a difference in a carefree and stress-free atmosphere. Enjoy good food and great company!  Public is welcome but must sign in upon entering.

Buckeye Lake Margaritas is a Mexican restaurant in the village of Buckeye Lake. Enjoy authentic Mexican food and delicious drinks just minutes from the lake!  In the warmer months, enjoy their new outdoor patio!

Buckeye Lake Moose Lodge 2434 is a family oriented club with more than 1,000 members in the Perry, Fairfield and Licking County area.

Located on the southern banks of Buckeye Lake, Buckeye Lake Winery offers a full-service restaurant with outdoor and indoor seating and delicious food. They are committed to producing great wine by bringing the Napa Valley experience home and creating an atmosphere of relaxation.

This location is perfect for parties, weddings, and special events. Impress your guests when you host your rehearsal dinner, wedding, and reception and on the shores of beautiful Buckeye Lake!

Ask about The Chef’s Table – a private dining experience.

Brunch is available every Saturday & Sunday!

Buffalo Lick is a newly renovated western-style saloon located on the south side of Buckeye Lake in Fairfield Beach. The saloon offers a wide variety of draft & bottled beer, creative + tasty cocktails and activities like pool, cornhole & darts!

Check out their Facebook for updates about upcoming events and live music!

Champs Pizza & Pub in Thornville, OH is a beloved local spot renowned for its delectable pizzas, crisp salads, hearty subs, and refreshing cold beer selection. Nestled in the heart of Thornville, it’s the ultimate destination for pizza enthusiasts craving a delicious meal paired with a laid-back pub atmosphere. Whether you’re in for a casual night out or a quick bite with friends, Champs Pizza & Pub offers a flavorful experience that keeps patrons coming back for more.

Learn more and order on their website.

This casual kitchen is located inside the Buckeye Lake Brewery. They offer a constantly evolving made-from-scratch menu that pairs perfectly with your craft brew!

Get your caffeine fix at Coffee Shack Coffee Roasters & Café in Buckeye Lake! This coffee shop is only a short distance from the North Shore and features organically grown, delicious coffee and treats. The location also offers a full breakfast and lunch menu for when you need a little more sustenance in your busy day-to-day!

You’re sure to love something on their menu! Choose from a variety of traditional and specialty pizzas, subs, wings, and fresh salads – and definitely go for one of their must-try sides!

When you’re really hungry and looking for some delicious American food, Crossroads Pub and Grub is the place to go. Discover their extensive menu in this fun, family-oriented restaurant and sports bar in Jacksontown, Ohio.

Located within The Boatyard at Buckeye Lake, Dips on the Lake is a seasonal shop serving Johnson’s Ice Cream products on Buckeye Lake’s North Bank.

Dockside Donuts & 52Nrg offers the best of both worlds—fresh, handmade donuts and coffee alongside nutritious shakes, smoothies, and energy drinks. Locally-owned and conveniently located near the lake, it’s a one-stop spot for sweet treats, healthy options, and grab-and-go convenience.

Highlights:

• Fresh donuts in classic and seasonal flavors
• Hot and iced coffee drinks
• Shakes, smoothies, and low-sugar energy drinks
• Grab-n-go snacks and wellness products
• Drive-thru, dine-in, and outdoor seating

Donatos is a family-owned pizza company famous for Edge to Edge® toppings on a crispy golden thin crust. Subs, salads, calzones, wings, and appetizers are other popular choices. And don’t forget dessert!

Locals love the large portions and great service. You’ll love the price and variety of Chinese and Asian dishes at this locally owned restaurant.

Are you ready to try one of Buckeye Lake’s best family-owned pizzerias? Firehouse Pizza & Cafe is just what you’re looking for. Start the day with their new breakfast menu including breakfast pizzas, breakfast quesadillas, breakfast wraps, muffins, coffees, lattes, smoothies, and more, or grab a tasty pizza, wings, subs, desserts, their famous Italian foldovers, and all your favorites for lunch and dinner!  Come in and play some fun free games (foosball anyone?) while eating good food and drinking cold beer. Pickup, delivery, and dine-in options are available. Be sure to check out the terrific outdoor patio!

Order online, sign-up for their rewards program, and join their mailing list highlighting upcoming events, promotions, and more!

Olde-fashioned, premium frozen custard made on-site daily! Take a break from the lake and grab your next sweet treat at Hank & Stella’s!

Enjoy a wide range of ice cream flavors, sundaes, shakes, and cones, as well as a long menu of food options including hot dogs, fries, fried pickles, and more at this locally-owned ice cream shop in Hebron, Ohio.

Hereinafter is a cocktail tavern with a mission to democratize great cocktails in a stylish tavern setting.  We serve classic unpretentious cocktails alongside food, wine, and beer.

Hereinafter, the name, is a nod to the renowned cocktail compendium The Savoy Cocktail Book written by Harry Craddock and published in 1932. In the first few pages of The Savoy, Craddock states, “Hereinafter, learn all that is known about cocktails.”  Hereinafter will serve as a dedicated center of learning about service, food, and drink, with a particular focus on cocktail service in the Sasha Petraske method.

The cocktail program is founded on a large format clear ice program. Ice is cut from 200lb blocks to glass sized cubes in the back of Tiki Thereafter. This specialized ice will be available for purchase for interested local restaurants and bar businesses as well, furthering our mission to democratize great cocktails.

Also located in Hereinafter Cocktail Tavern is an imaginative wine retail shop called Heretofore Wine Shop. Learn more about that HERE
The guest’s experience at Hereinafter Cocktail Tavern goes beyond a place to imbibe and eat. We intend to create a sacred ground where guests can bond with neighbors in this chapel to great food and drink. Hereinafter will forever be attached to the notion that putting others’ needs before our own will make us better people. But doing it for a living will make us a cornerstone of our Buckeye Lake community.

You may always call (740) 467-6440 ahead for reservations. Walk-ins are welcome at all open times. The bar seats are very comfortable as well.

Where else can you find gourmet hot dogs? At Hometown Hot Dogs, you’ll find delicious homemade food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The variety of unique hot dogs will leave you satisfied. But you’ll find more than just hot dogs. Locals rave about their comfort food, especially soups, sandwiches, daily specials, and the best burgers around. Stop by and see why Hometown Hot Dogs are the best in town!

This hometown favorite serves up beautiful, handcrafted treats made fresh daily— from gourmet cupcakes and cookies to perfectly filled cannoli. Karen’s also creates stunning custom cakes and specialty bakes for birthdays, weddings, holidays, and any celebration in between. Stop in for something sweet or place an order for your next party!

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 and drink right by the water.

Check out the menu here.

Enjoy Buckeye Lake hassle-free with Lake Life Shuttle Service! Operated by local favorites Chris & Dave, this friendly and reliable shuttle runs seven days a week, getting you safely to boats, restaurants, bars, and more.

•  Two vehicles available, carrying up to 8 passengers per trip

• Hours: Sun–Thu until midnight; Fri–Sat until 2:30 am

•  Accepts both cash and credit

Perfect for nights out, events like Winterfest, or anytime you want to skip the driving. Just call Chris or Dave at 740‑755‑6142 to book — it’s safe, friendly, and super convenient!

Looking for the perfect spot to enjoy some awesome food during your visit to Buckeye Lake? Head on over to LakeBound Pizza! You’ll find delicious pizza and calzones, as well as salads, subs, wings, and appetizers. Take out, dine-in, or lounge around on their terrific patio!

Louie’s Corner House was opened in 1976 by Buck and Sue Malott and is still family owned today. Come in for a great time with free wifi, a pool table, juke box, dance floor, large beer garden, low prices, and a great staff!

One of Thornville’s favorite spots is your go-to on game day! Watch with all your friends while you enjoy a cold drink and plenty of good food. Warm weather brings plenty of live music on the patio.

Lulu’s is a cute and charming coffeehouse in Hebron, located right next door to Centofanti Fine Art Gallery. What makes it truly unique is that the gallery is accessible from inside the café, so you can sip your coffee while exploring local art.

The café serves delicious drinks and seasonal specialties, along with a variety of freshly baked goods. Local artwork decorates the walls, and many pieces are available for purchase, creating a warm and creative atmosphere for visitors.

Hours:

• Monday–Friday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM

• Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Sunday: Closed

Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee, meeting a friend, or browsing local art, Lulu’s Coffeehouse offers a cozy and inspiring experience.

Grab a hot slice from this locally and family-owned restaurant in Jacksontown, Ohio!  For over 35 years, Michael’s Pizzeria has been offering pizza, wings, subs, salads, and more in the Buckeye Lake region.  Stop by after a nice day on the water and try a tasty bite!

Mill Dam Corner Grille is the spot to be in Licking County!  This pub offers an array of delicious food, specials, and drinks. You will find entertainment and special events regularly.

Millersport Coffee proudly serves coffee from local roaster, Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea.  The cafe offers walk-in service or the option to order ahead for free curbside pick-up using their app.  Enjoy their comfy seating area by the fireplace as well as their outdoor patio and stylish atmosphere!

Formerly known as The Little Pizza House, Minnie’s Pizza House is under new ownership and ready to serve up delicious pizza, subs, and homemade desserts. This Fairfield Beach favorite has been a community staple for 50 years, now with a fresh twist on classic flavors. Perfect for a casual meal with family or friends, Minnie’s continues the tradition of great food and friendly service.

Offering breakfast and dinner, Nana’s & Papa’s is a locally-owned, family restaurant with delicious homecooked food you won’t want to miss!

Do you need a ride, designated driver, airport shuttle, or shuttle service for a private event? The Ohio Party Bus/Lake Area Transport Services offers a wide variety of transportation services in the Buckeye Lake area and surrounding communities. They offer easy payment options and fast, friendly service.

Everyone raves about this mom-and-pop place by Buckeye Lake. Locals recommend it for the great food at a great price. Be sure to check the daily specials!

OX-B’s is a must-visit Ohio wing spot with locations in Buckeye Lake, Westerville, Lancaster, Newark, Pataskala, and Columbus’s Short North. Known for bold flavors and creative twists, their wings come bone-in, boneless, smoked, or even tofu – perfect for every appetite.

Choose from sauces like buffalo, garlic parmesan, spicy BBQ, and Teriyaki, or try a fan favorite like OX-B’s Secret Sauce! Don’t forget the waffle fries or fried pickle chips on the side!

Papa Boo’s is the lakeside place for fun and good food! They have live music, delicious food, and a full bar, all located right on the water of Buckeye Lake. Find their menu and entertainment schedule at papaboos.com

Please check the Papa Boo’s website for their seasonal hours. 

Reserve the Boo’s Private Cabana for an elevated lakeside experience!

Get ready to elevate your lakeside experience at Papa Boo’s Private Cabana! Located on the scenic shores of Buckeye Lake, OH, this private cabana offers the ultimate relaxation and comfort for your summer outing.

Papa Boo’s Private Cabana Offers Guests:

• Access to a private balcony for viewing the lake as well as soaking in the sights and sounds of live entertainment from a unique view
• Plenty of entertaining space for your personal party at Boo’s
• Access to a private bathroom as well as a shower
• Relax in the A/C on those hot summer days/nights
• TV in the Cabana to root for your favorite teams on
• Private dock rental for the day
• Maximum number of cabana occupants is 12

Available during the summer season!

Visit papaboos.com for additional info and to submit your cabana reservation request!

Have questions about booking? Email Emilee

Situated on Liebs Island, Pappy D’s Island House is a casual, cozy 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.

Since 1972, Pizza Cottage has strived to give their customers a relaxing, clean atmosphere with fast service and outstanding food.  Enjoy a new, full bar menu with specialty drinks in partnership with Watershed Distillery.  You can also enjoy Buckeye Lake’s outdoor concerts at this location.

Find more info here.

Dock your boat and enjoy lakeside views and delicious barbeque!  The spacious patio hosts live music all summer long. Hang out with your friends and neighbors on the shore of Buckeye Lake.

A local staple, Si Senor Taco Mexican Grill (The Canal on Buckeye Lake) serves up all your favorite Mexican cuisines.  Enjoy delicious food and refreshing margaritas at this festive local restaurant.  Plus, boaters can float right up the canal and join their friends on the patio!

Fresh Deli Meats & Cheese cut to order. Dine in or carry out. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner served.

Need a ride? Call The Barr Hopper– Buckeye Lake’s premier shuttle service! The shuttle runs on Fridays and Saturdays from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m.

The Barr Hopper can be called at 740-605-2114 and is cash-only. It is $5.00 per stop and $30.00 for the day. Extra charges will be applied for places not on the list. Participating stop locations and more information can be found on The Barr Hopper’s Facebook page. Reservations are not needed.

There is also an option to rent a shuttle. Call The Barr Hopper to ask about availability and pricing.

This cool sports bar offers great drink specials, along with plenty of live music and DJs, karaoke, and fun times on the patio. Come on out and meet your friends here for a fun evening!

The Blue Heron Kitchen & Pub restaurant is an American Restaurant in Buckeye Lake Village.  Enjoy steak, seafood pasta, dessert, and a relaxing drink at this locally-owned restaurant!

Visit Buckeye Lake’s latest and greatest lakeside pub. Come relax by the water with a cold drink & enjoy some tasty sliders, wings, flatbreads and more from Hangry City at The Dirty Oar. Visit the website for the live music schedule!

Two Bros Slushy Bar is your ultimate dessert destination! Enjoy slushies, ice cream, floats, and more at this location in Buckeye Lake! Everything drinks, from delicious ice creams to insane slushies. A world full of possibilities.

Take a relaxing drive east of Buckeye Lake to experience the beautiful rolling hills of Perry County and enjoy a glass of wine with scenic, rural views!  This vineyard offers a gorgeous location for a relaxing evening or special event.  Plus, enjoy the full kitchen and tasting room at this cozy, historic farmhouse that was built in 1840. The winery hosts seven varieties of grapes totaling 3,500 vines, covering about 10 acres of farmland. They are used to create their estate wines along with others on site.

Event Barn: Plan your next event or wedding with them in their beautiful barn that dates back to 1840. Host 150 guests comfortably inside, with private parking. Enjoy bridal and groomsmen’s suites.

Private Parties: Book your next private party with them in the tasting room with on premise catering options.

Wine Tasting: Schedule a private wine pairing party for 10-20 guests. Dinner reservations are appreciated for groups of 8 or more. Call today to get your party started!

They invite you to their cozy winery in the Appalachia countryside to have a drink and enjoy their gorgeous views from the nostalgic tasting room.

Lakefront sports bar with great food, live music, cold beer, and good times!

Check out their live music schedule here.

Weidner’s Corner is a pub, grill, and drive-thru featuring great home style cooking and delicious breakfast served all day.

Founded in 1930, Weldon Ice Cream Company specializes in Ice Cream and frozen desserts. Located in the Buckeye Lake Region in Millersport, Weldon’s has been a family destination for generations. Visitors and local residents have enjoyed the delicious homemade ice cream on the front porch overlooking Buckeye Lake.