Restaurant Recs, Local Gems + More!

Planning a summer trip to Minocqua? Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a peaceful Northwoods escape, there’s no shortage of things to do in Minocqua. From incredible local restaurants and scenic hiking trails to lake adventures and cozy cabin stays, this little slice of Wisconsin truly has something for everyone.

Here are some of our favorite things to do in Minocqua in the summer:

1. Explore the Beautiful Hiking Trails

If you love being outdoors, Minocqua hiking trails will not disappoint. The area is packed with scenic paths that wind through towering pines, along sparkling lakes, and through peaceful forest landscapes.

Some local favorites include:

• Bearskin State Trail – Perfect for hiking or biking with beautiful views.
• Raven Trail – A great option for families and nature lovers.

Whether you’re looking for a casual stroll or a longer adventure, hiking in Minocqua is a must during the summer months.

2. Dine at Local Minocqua Restaurants

One of the best parts of any vacation? The food. Minocqua restaurants offer everything from classic Northwoods supper clubs to laid-back lakeside dining.

Grab a juicy burger, enjoy a traditional Friday fish fry, or watch the sunset over the water with dinner on the patio. Many spots offer outdoor seating in the summer, making it easy to soak in the atmosphere.

Pro tip: Summer weekends get busy, and many restaurants close on Mondays and Tuesdays — plan ahead!

Our Favorites:

• Five One
• The Grill
• Northfork Fin + Filet

3. Relax and Unplug at a Cabin Rental in Minocqua

Sometimes the best thing to do is… nothing at all.

Booking a cabin rental in Minocqua gives you the chance to slow down, reconnect, and truly enjoy the Northwoods experience. Wake up to lake views, grill dinner outside, sit around a campfire, and make memories that last long after the trip ends.

If you’re looking for a cozy, comfortable place to stay, we’d love to host you. Our cabins here at Northwoods Navigator Vacations are designed to help you relax while keeping you close to everything Minocqua has to offer.

4. Rent Recreational Equipment

There are several great rental companies in the area offering everything from paddleboards to fat tire bikes. We recommend Coontail   for summer rentals and gear. Renting equipment is a fun way to explore Minocqua like a local and try something new during your stay.

5. Stroll Through Downtown Minocqua

Downtown Minocqua has that classic Northwoods charm. Spend an afternoon browsing local shops, grabbing ice cream, and exploring the island area. And don’t forget to stop at Dan’s Minocqua Fudge for a free sample — it’s basically a tradition. It’s the perfect way to slow down and enjoy the small-town atmosphere.

6. Book a Local Fishing Guide

Fishing is one of the most popular things to do in Minocqua. Booking a local guide is a great way to make the most of your time on the water.

Jeff VanRemortel with WDH Guide Service specializes in musky fishing, while Rodbenders Guide Service focuses on walleye and bass. Hook Setter Fishing Guide Service offers multi-species trips for walleye, bass, musky, and panfish.

Whether you're an experienced angler or trying it for the first time, a guided fishing trip is a fun and memorable Northwoods experience.

7. Take a Sunset Pontoon Cruise

There’s nothing quite like a Minocqua sunset from the water. Rent a pontoon for the evening or book a sunset cruise with Minocqua Potoon Cruises + Rentals and enjoy the calm lake views as the sky turns shades of pink and orange.

It’s one of the most relaxing ways to end a summer day in the Northwoods.

8. Spend the Day on the Water

Minocqua is known for its beautiful chain of lakes, and no trip is complete without getting out on the water.

Some favorite summer lake activities include:

• A day floating on the water
• Kayaking or paddleboarding
• Fishing
• Water skiing, wakeboarding, or tubing
• Check out one of the rope swing spots on the Minocqua Chain or beach your boat at Beer Can Island and take a dip!
• Stop at Lakeside or The Thirsty Whale for one of their iconic bucket drinks!

If you're staying at a cabin rental in the area (like ours 😉), lake access makes it even easier to enjoy peaceful mornings and sunset cruises.

9. Visit Rocky Reef Brewing Company

Looking to unwind after a day of adventure? Stop by Rocky Reef Brewing Company for locally crafted beer in a relaxed Northwoods setting. It’s a great spot to gather with friends, enjoy live music (seasonally), and soak in the summer atmosphere. Check out their Facebook page for food truck stops as well!

10. Explore Local Farmers Markets & Flea Markets

Summer in Minocqua means farmers markets and flea markets filled with fresh produce, handmade goods, baked treats, and unique local finds.

Head downtown on Fridays for the Minocqua Farmers Market — small but mighty and full of local charm. On Mondays, make the short drive to the St. Germain Flea Market, featuring over 400 vendors and endless treasures to browse. Stop by Wildberry Market on Saturday mornings for fresh baked goods and local produce. And on Wednesdays and Sundays, the Eagle River Farmers Market hosts around 70 vendors offering everything from flowers to handcrafted items.

It’s a fun way to support local vendors and bring a little piece of the Northwoods home with you.

Plan Your Minocqua Summer Getaway

Summer is one of the best times to experience all the things to do in Minocqua. From outdoor adventures and incredible local dining to peaceful evenings by the lake, this Northwoods destination truly has something for everyone.

If you’re ready to experience it for yourself, explore our Minocqua cabin rentals and start planning your stay today.

We can’t wait to welcome you to the Northwoods.