9 Fun Things to Do on Your Next Vacation at Lake of the Ozarks

on 08 Oct 2018


Whether you’re traveling solo, on a romantic getaway, vacationing with family or attending a conference, you’ll definitely find activities to enjoy at Lake of the Ozarks. There are tons of things to do in the water, on the water, and even attractions for the landlubbers among you. Click on the links to read more about each activity. When you’re done with our list, you’ll know all your options and be able to plan the best vacation ever!

1. Play all day at a waterfront restaurant

Whether you’re traveling by boat, by car, or you’re sleeping in a room next door, some lakefront restaurants pack all kinds of fun into your visit. Many lakefront restaurants have really stepped up their game to offer more than just a tasty lunch or dinner. You can always make a quick stop for some great grub on your way to cove out.  You can also pull in for breakfast and stay till bar close enjoying the music, pools, lounging, frozen drinks and full swim-up bars, karaoke, DJs, and more. If you’re looking for an all-day party, this is it!

Some of our favorites are, Dog Days, Captain Ron’s, and Shady Gators, but you should check out our full list here!

2. Get out on the water with a boat rental or extreme water sport

Of course, the best way to have fun at the Lake is to be on it. If you are lucky enough to own a boat, there are plenty of public boat ramps. If you don’t, no worries! There are plenty of marinas offering boat rentals. Choose a waverunner for some fast-paced fun with a buddy. Get a pontoon for a laid-back party boat experience. If you don’t want to leave your boat all weekend, a houseboat rental will be right up your alley. Check out our boat rental listings to find the perfect boat for your kind of vacation. If you’re not into commandeering a boat, another option is a cruise on the giant tour boat, The Celebration.

If your idea of a vacation is more adventurous, there is plenty for you too! Parasailing lets you see the Lake from a bird’s eye view. Kayaking and paddleboarding can give you a workout and let you stay in control. If you’re up for some serious fun and an even better workout, wakeboard lessons will be right up your alley.

3. Get in on family fun

There are tons of activities off the water too. Anyone who likes the wind in their hair will have a blast driving go carts on the hilly tracks here. Test your putting skills at one of the many mini golf courses. Challenge your friends to a mystery and see if you can make it out of an escape room. You can also take a helicopter ride to get a view of the lake you only see in pictures.

4. Live that tourist life with an afternoon on The Strip

Immerse yourself in all the fun at the historic Bagnell Dam Strip. Pick up some flip flops, a swimsuit, a coverup, or a beach bag for all your goodies. Snag a funny Hillbilly souvenir at Dogpatch. Don some saloon garb and pose with your date for an Old Time Photo. Play skee ball and collect your tickets for a prize. Satisfy your sweet tooth with fresh fudge and a huge variety of candy at Grandma's candy kitchen. Bring the kids on a weekend for a Summer Nights dance party. If you need a break, stop in at one of the many bars and restaurants for dinner, a drink, a snack or frozen treats.

5. Bask in all the outdoors have to offer

Besides all of the great activities in the lake, there is so much to enjoy in Ozarks nature. Bridal Cave keeps you cool in the summer with their underground cave tours. If you're in the mood for a hike, the castle remains at Ha Ha Tonka will be right up your alley. You can take a quick walk from your car to the castle, or tour the whole property including a spring, water tower, and carriage house. Lake of the Ozarks State Park also offers hiking trails and beaches for swimming and picnicking.

6. Shop great deals and unique boutiques

The Outlet Mall in Osage Beach is known for fabulous sales and name brands. With over 80 shops to choose from, there is something for everyone in your group. If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind shopping, the Lake offers art/decor shops, an awesome barstool store (yes, you read correctly- barstools), and even a kitchy basket store. Plan an hour or more for the home goods store, Evergreen. Don’t miss it around the holidays when it’s chock full of Christmas trees dressed to impress.

7. Pamper yourself with a spa trip or destress with a yoga class

There are plenty of spa experiences to enjoy like Spa Shiki at the Lodge of the Four Seasons, or Windjammer Spa & Salon at Tan-Tar-A. Slip into deep relaxation with a massage, aromatherapy, or facial. You can also catch a yoga class at a resort or a studio like SQeZ juice + health.

8. Bring your clubs for an Ozarks golf experience like no other

Some people plan their whole Lake Ozark vacation around golf. Others just take a morning to get away and enjoy one of the beautiful courses here. Don’t be afraid to throw your clubs in the car- you won’t regret it! We have courses like Lake Valley Golf Club for newbies who just want to enjoy a game. Courses like Osage National Golf Club and The Ridge offer a more challenging experience. With 15 courses racking up lots of awards, you won’t get bored anytime soon.

9. Come be a part of your favorite event

Don’t forget to check out the events and festivals happening at the Lake. There many on-the water events like the Shootout, harbor hops, and fishing tournaments. Stay dry with off-the water events like Bikefest, Fiber Arts Festival, woodcarvers competitions, golf tournaments & concerts. Just about anyone can find their niche.


So what do you think? There are so many fun things to do here, you’ll have to come back again and again to check everything off your list. The Lake area offers the best in all sorts of attractions, water sports, and just plain tourist-y fun. See you soon!