If you live in Oconomowoc or just visiting, there are plenty of things to do in Oconomowoc during summer. In the late 19th century, Oconomowoc became a favorite summer retreat for tourists and wealthy vacationers, including former U.S Presidents. Get out and experience summer in Oconomowoc. Events mentioned below are subject to change and should be verified before attending.
HERE IS OUR LIST OF THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN OCONOMOWOC DURING SUMMER.
KAYAK OR STAND-UP PADDLE BOARD.
Being located in Lake Country, Oconomowoc has plenty of lakes and rivers in the area to paddle on.
Jane: I kayaked from Fowler to Oconomowoc Lake along the Oconomowoc River last summer – it was beautiful and I’d definitely recommend. You can rent kayaks at Sherper’s.
I love paddle boarding on Lac La Belle. If you need to rent a paddleboard, Paddleboard Specialists is great.
THE KILTIE DRIVE-IN.
When their flags are flying, you know The Kiltie is open for the season. The iconic drive-in custard stand is a local favorite and only open during the summer months.
THE OCONOMOWOC HISTORIC WALKING TOUR.
Oconomowoc’s rich history is evident by the historic real estate found throughout downtown and around Fowler Lake. Take the scenic, self-guided tour using the tour map from the Oconomowoc Historical Society. On your way to the 2nd historic site on the tour, stop in front of our office to check out the site of the 1st motion picture theater in Oconomowoc: The Crystal Theater, silent movies (1908-1930).
SPEND A DAY AT THE LAKE OR BEACH.
There are many lakes to choose from in the Oconomowoc area for swimming, boating, and recreation on the water.
THE OCONOMOWOC SUMMER FARMERS MARKET.
The local farmers market take place on Saturday mornings from 8 AM to Noon, on the east side of Downtown Oconomowoc. The market offers a variety of local vendors and an assortment of products. Pete’s Pops is Jane’s favorite booth this year (really great popsicles in fun flavors). They’re @petespops on Instagram.
INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE AND FIREWORKS.
On July 3, watch the Independence Day Parade which ends at Fowler Park. Stay for the fireworks show at dusk.
OUTDOOR CONCERTS.
There are plenty of free concerts throughout summer in Oconomowoc. Visit the bandshell at City Beach for the Oconomowoc American Legion Band concerts and Bands at the Beach. Magic Mansion in the Park is another free concert event at Fowler Park in the summer.
MOONLIT MOVIES OF OCONOMOWOC.
The 2021 dates for Moonlit Movies of Oconomowoc are June 22, July 8, and August 12. The free, family-friendly event is back at Fowler Park. Come early and find a spot along the shoreline to catch the Badgerland Waterski show beforehand.
DOWNTOWN OCONOMOWOC BEER GARDENS.
Downtown Oconomowoc hosts an outdoor beer garden on the Village Green throughout summer. Enjoy local microbrews on tap along with other drinks and refreshments. This year’s beer garden dates are scheduled for June 17-19, July 15-17 and August 20-22, 2021
FISHING.
A great way to enjoy the area lakes is to go fishing. We’ve heard rumors of a secret musky population in Lac La Belle that only the best anglers can find. Wisconsin’s free fishing weekend is June 5 and 6, 2021.
LIGHT UP THE LAKE BOAT PARADE AND FIREWORKS.
Light up the lake is August 21, 2021 on Lac La Belle. A local favorite! Come see all the decorated and lit up boats in the boat parade and stay for the firework show.
OCONOMOWOC FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS.
The Oconomowoc Festival of the Arts is the third weekend in August, at Fowler Park. Enjoy free admission and shop a wide variety of artwork.
THE CONCORD ZOO.
The Concord Zoo at Concord General Store has provided a sanctuary for animals from all different walks of life. Concord Zoo provides you the opportunity to reconnect with nature and animals. Plus, the best part: it’s free!
MEET DIRTY KETTLE.
Dirty Kettle visits Concord General Store a few weekends throughout the summer. He brings Native American history alive with his hands on presentations and teepee replica.
COMPETE IN A RACE.
Throughout summer in Oconomowoc, there are multiple races you can participate in, including the Yellow Brick Road 5k Run/Walk and Kids Fun Run, Lake Country Triathlon, and Midwest Paddlefest.
WATCH A REGATTA PUT ON BY THE LA BELLE YACHT CLUB.
If you don’t want to compete in a race, watch one instead.
RIDE TO THE BARNS.
Ride to the Barns is a fundraising bike ride through Lake Country and rolling farmland in neighboring counties. Rest stops are at farms serving locally produced food and the ride ends with a post party featuring food, beer, refreshments and live music.
FROZEN TREATS.
After a day on the lake, a frozen treat may be just what you need. Whether you prefer ice cream, custard or gelato- you can find them all in Oconomowoc. Jane’s excited for Mullen’s, which just opend behind Roots.
DINE ALFRESCO.
Take advantage of the weather when it’s nice out and dine outdoors. There are plenty of local restaurants and coffee shops that offer outdoor seating in Oconomowoc. If not, grab a to go order and find a table out on the Fowler Lake Boardwalk or have a picnic at Fowler Lake Park.
LAKESIDE SUNSETS.
One of the best ways to unwind from the day is to catch a sunset lakeside. Lac La Belle has offered some of the most breathtaking sunset views.
