Things to Do in Lake of the Ozarks
You made it! You’re at your beautiful vacation home by JZ Vacation Rentals. What’s next? Well, it’s time to find some things to do in Lake of the Ozarks!
There’s plenty to choose from! With activities as varied as water sports to museums to shopping, there’s something here that every member of your family will love.
Because being outdoors is always high on the list of things to do in Lake of the Ozarks, let’s start there.
Things to do Outdoors in Lake of the Ozarks
Caves
Did you know that Missouri is home to more than 6300 caves? And the area around Lake of the Ozarks has about 300 of ‘em! Here are some of the most popular:
Bridal Cave is arguably the most famous cave in the region, known for not just hosting weddings (3000+ to date!), but also for its fascinating formations, including massive columns, stalactites, stalagmites and draperies.
Jacob’s Cave is famous for its illusion of depth, reflecting pools, ceiling sponge-work, prehistoric animal skeletons (Mastadon, bear, and Peccary), and the world’s largest Geode.
Stark Caverns, like several of the other caves in the area, was once used by Native Americans. Later on, local settlers used it for both the storage of goods and the production of Moonshine. Stark Caverns boasts an underground lake and formations in addition to the fascinating rock formations.
Beaches
What’s a vacation in Lake of the Ozarks without a day (or three) at the beach? Here are a few of our top choice:
Public Beach #1 in the Lake of the Ozarks and
Grand Glaize Beach is sometimes referred to as Public Beach #2 and is also located at Lake of the Ozarks
Water Parks
Because after all, what good is a vacation without a wild trip down a slide at a waterpark?? Check out some of our favorites:
Hiking
Reading to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails? According to AllTrails.com, here are some of your best bets:
- Rocky Top Trail | 2.2 miles | Easy
- Hidden Springs Trail | 2.5 miles | Moderate
- Lakeview Bend Trail | 1.5 miles | Easy
- Trail of the Four Winds – North Loop | 4.0 miles | Moderate
- Lake of the Ozarks State Park Lake Trail | 3.2 miles | Easy
State Parks
In addition to hiking, spending time outdoors in nature is always a balm for the soul! Be sure to visit our beautiful state parks, Ha Ha Tonka State Park and Lake of the Ozarks State Park, both of which offer many recreational opportunities, even if that means just sitting on the grass while enjoying a picnic!
The Aquatic Trail
The Lake of the Ozarks has a totally unique feature – the Aquatic Trail. This 9.75 mile self-guided trail provides boaters with a new perspective of the Lake of the Ozarks State Park as it’s viewed from the Lake. Each of the 14 stops are marked by an orange buoy.
Boating
Prefer just a leisurely trip around the lake? Perhaps you’re looking to do some fishing, waterskiing, or tubing. There are plenty of tour operators who will be glad to help you plan the day of your dreams!
Golf
With a dozen golf courses in the area, it won’t be hard to book your preferred tee time. Fore!
Shopping
And what would a list of things to do in Lake of the Ozarks be without a nod to the shopping in the area?
From furniture to toys, games and books, to hemp products, to clothes, you’ll find what you seek! The Lake of the Ozarks CVB has a great alphabetical listing of all the awesome shops in the area.
Dining
We absolutely could not make a list of things to do in Lake of the Ozarks without adding a few of our favorites restaurants.
Some of the best seafood on the lake is found at JB Hooks. Make sure to try their Alaskan King Crab Legs or Stock Yards Filet Mignon!
Craving some sweet-n-smoky St. Louis barbecue? Head over to Sweet Smoke BBQ and make sure to get the brisket.
Great Italian food is always on the list of favorites. When you’re craving a particularly good pizza, take the family over to PaPPo’s Pizzeria
For an absolutely delicious and unique breakfast, take a drive over to On The Rise Bakery & Bistro. You’ll love it!
While you’re here, you simply must enjoy at least one meal with a lake view. Let it be the Paradise Restaurant & Bar. It’s going to be hard to choose between so many mouth-watering starters, entrees, and desserts!
Are you one of those people always on the lookout for the perfect burrito? You’re bound to find it at Mama Cita’s Mexican Cantina.
Wineries
Did you expect that your list of things to do in Lake of the Ozarks would include a stop at a winery? Maybe you should have! We have many excellent options for an engaging or romantic evening out. Here are a few:
Golden Rock Winery
Spas
Sometimes, there’s nothing more important on the things to do in Lake of the Ozarks than pamper yourself. After all, it’s your vacation, too! Check out one our favorite spas and enjoy a relaxing massage, facial, or mani/pedi. You deserve it!
