Popular Itineraries

A Day at Patoka Lake

Patoka Lake is Southern Indiana's #1 recreation area. Experience nature at its finest, enjoying the day in the sun at Patoka Lake and the surrounding area.

Remember to check out our list of events—there may be something going on that you want to be a part of. Also, other things around the lake are available as well, this is just one idea on how to spend your day in the Patoka Lake area.

Morning

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Deb's Truck Stop or another local favorite (click here for a complete listing of restaurants).

After breakfast, take a nice nature walk on the Patoka Lake Dam walking trails. Be sure to drive, walk, or bike to the Patoka Overlook for a great picturesque view of the lake. Also, view the dam and watch water pour out of this massive structure. Other Patoka Lake Trails are also available.

Rent a houseboat from Hoosier Hills Marina or pontoon from Gilligan's Boats or Patoka Lake Marina. Or take a trip down to the beach. On hot and humid days, you will want to beat the heat in the water.

Lunch

Have lunch right by the water at Patoka Lake Pizza and Wings located at Hoosier Hills Marina. If on a boat, simply pull into the boat dock at the marina to pick up some pizza. Another option is to pack a picnic or bring grilling materials. There are very picturesque locations around the lake as well as shelter houses for a picnic with many locations featuring charcoal grills. Other restaurants near the lake are also available, feel free to call if you would like to know of other options.

Afternoon

Tour the Patoka Lake Visitor and Nature Center. Different programming is also available throughout the year through the Patoka Lake Visitors Center.

Grab a large cone at the Birdseye Dairy Barn. A reader's choice in the Best of Indiana magazine, the Dairy Barn will please your sweet tooth with their large soft serve ice cream cones with a large variety of flavors. Be careful in ordering a large cone—it may be more than you can handle!

Evening

Take an evening wine or beer cruise on The Patoka Voyager. Toward dusk, the lake is usually ever-so-smooth and peaceful. What better way to end the evening then kicking back with some wine as a tour is given of beautiful Patoka Lake with the sun close low in the horizon.
OR
Only a short drive a way, head to French Lick and West Baden. Tour West Baden Springs National Historic Landmark, formerly dubbed the "Eighth Wonder of the World". The property has undergone an exciting transformation and is a beautiful place to see. Also, try your hand at the French Lick Casino—lady luck just may be on your side. French Lick also offers great fun for kids with indoor go-karting, miniature golf, big splash indoor water park, and laser tag.