Whether you’re looking for Labor Day Weekend plans or just a fun lakeside getaway with friends or family, Minocqua is waiting! With classic activities like water sports and nature walks to all the best dining, camping, glamping, and more, here is a sample itinerary for a summer holiday weekend in Minocqua to help you make the most of your time in the Island City.
Day 1: Arrival and Lakeside Relaxation
Welcome to Minocqua, where all kinds of summer fun awaits. Before you do anything else, soak up those lakeside views while checking into a property on the water. You can opt for rustic cabins at Brandy Lake Resort, get a condo with a lake view at Pointe Resort and Club, or stay in a cottage big enough for the whole family at The Beacons of Minocqua. If you’re looking for a camping or glamping adventure, reserve your spot at Patricia Lake Campgrounds or the Indian Shores RV Resort, some of the best places to stay on the lake.
Once you’ve gotten settled, take a leisurely walk along the scenic Bearskin Trail, which offers over 20 miles of accessible walking and biking space. If you’d like a more relaxing afternoon, head to the heart of Island City to browse a selection of local shops and pick out a sweet treat.
To wind down after your first day in Minocqua, enjoy a cozy barbecue at your campsite, try a Friday Fish Fry (a local supper club specialty) at Norwood Pines, or cool down with a cocktail at the Lakeside Grill before retiring to your accommodation for the night. You’ll need your rest for a full day of adventure tomorrow!
Day 2: Water Sports and Adventure
Day two of your holiday weekend is all about water sports. So start by heading to one of the many boat rentals in town, like full-service marina Lakeside Rentals, Minocqua Pontoon Cruises & Rentals for pontoon boats, Chequamegon Adventure Company for kayaks, and Minocqua Powersport Rental for jet skis and more.
Hit the Minocqua Chain of Lakes for activities like water skiing, tubing, and jet skiing, or try your hand at catching northern pike, muskellunge, and both large and smallmouth bass. Grab some bait at Kurt’s Island Sport Shop, then head to lakes like Big Arbor Vitae, Madeline Lake, or Clear Lake. If you don’t want to go it alone, hire a fishing guide from Rollie & Helen's Musky Shop or Captain Hooks Fishing Adventures.
In between your water sports sessions, dock your boat at lakeside restaurants where you can fuel up for the next round of outdoor adventure. Try the Minocqua Yacht Club on Lake Minocqua, local-favorite The Thirsty Whale, or Slo’s Pub in Arbor Vitae for great food and views to match.
Day 3: Scenic Tours, Hiking, and Dining
On your last full day in Minocqua, start with a homemade breakfast at Cafe Sonder before a morning boat tour, like Minocqua Pontoon’s Morning Nature Cruise, where you’ll likely see eagles and loons against the picturesque lake backdrop.
After lunch at a casual family restaurant like Black Bear Bar and Grill or Lida’s Breakfast and Lunch, go for an afternoon hike on the Raven Trail Nature Loop, where you can choose from several different trails of varying difficulties.
In the evening, get your fill of locally sourced dishes at Northfork Fin and Filet, or sip local beer at Otto’s Beer & Brat Garden downtown. Before bed, gather around a lakeside bonfire to reminisce about the new memories made, then take a last walk along the shore as you check out the stars, letting all the fun you’ve had during this summer holiday weekend sink in.
Explore even more exciting activities with our guide to summer fun in Minocqua, from thrilling water sports to serene nature walks. Check our events calendar for special events and activities happening throughout the season to make the most of your visit.
