Things To Do
Ha Ha Tonka State Park
This is a beautiful state park accessible by lake and by land. We recommend the short but moderate hikes around the castle ruins and the spring. The sinkholes and bat caves are also cool.
Bagnell Dam Blvd.
There are numerous restaurants, breweries, and stores in this commercial area. Matt and Emily prefer hanging out south of Horseshoe Bend Pkwy, which is a bit further from the dam and main "strip." We recommend Baxter's, JB Hooks, and The Sanctuary Brewery.
Bagnell Dam
For the engineering-minded, the Bagnell Dam is what makes the lake happen!
Bear Market Consignment Sales
Emily's favorite thrift shop. Thrifting is great at the lake in general.
Ozark Distillery and Brewery
Delicious moonshines and bourbons in a variety of flavors, tours, and pizza.
PaPPo's Pizzeria & Pub Osage Beach
We recommend Beth & Pato's favorite restaurant for Italian-American food and a great beer selection.
Ixtapa Mexican Grill & Cantina
The best Mexican food at the Lake!
Osceola Cheese Co.
This is a fantastic pit stop when driving from Springfield and stocking up on hotel room snacks. We recommend the local cheeses, meats, and sweets!
Sapp Bros. Travel Center
Right outside of Kansas City, this is Emily's and Matt's favorite gas station pit stop in Missouri. The shop has some great finds and the bathrooms are exceptionally good.
General Note: Boating and Lake Life
One of the best ways to experience Lake of the Ozarks is on a boat. If you wish, there are numerous locations where you can rent or charter a boat. If you access a boat, we recommend avoiding the weekends and sticking to the "Quietside" of the Lake, which is a lot less crowded and dangerous. Let us know if you would like to "boat up" to our Sunday Lake Day at home and we'll help make it happen! There are dozens of boat-up bars and restaurants, but here are some of our favorites: -The Cave (features a large indoor-outdoor swimming pool and good food) -Margaritaville (pools and beaches) -Captain Ron's (beach, volleyball, and more) -Larry's on the Lake (frequent live music) -1932 Reserve (more upscale vibe and food)