Tag: lake activities

Lake Real Estate Report Shows More Than $145.7 Million In Lake Area Properties Listed Around Tims Ford Lake, TN

Posted on Chris Melton
Courtesy of Golftime Magazine

A new lake real estate report from the country’s largest lake-focused brokerage shows listing prices in Tennessee are up over summer 2022. “The new Lake Real Estate Market Report from Lake Homes Realty shows Tennessee’s total market at $2.3 billion, up from $1.8 billion in the summer of 2022,” said Heather Boldizsar, a new agent with Lake Homes Realty, who focuses on Tims Ford Lake in Tennessee.  Lake Homes Realty operates in 34 states across the country.

“The new quarterly lake real estate report from Lakehomes.com shows Tims Ford Lake to be the seventh largest market in the state of Tennessee,” said Boldizsar. “The specialized website just showcases properties that are lakefront, have a lake view, or have lake access, so we can help clients from across the country search for dream lake properties.” As of August 9, 2023, Tims Ford Lake has 278 lake area properties listed, ranging from a $25,000 lot to a $5.4 million lake home. “Twenty-nine of the properties were listed for over $1 million,” said Boldizsar.

The average home price for listings around Tims Ford Lake is $687,068, according to the Lake Market Real Estate Report. The average lot price is $220,273 for the 97 lake area lots currently listed.

“Tims Ford Lake is located in Franklin County, Tennessee. It has a shoreline of almost 250 miles and occupies an area of 7,745 acres,” said Boldizsar.  “With almost 7,800 acres of pristine water, it is a great place to come and fish, canoe, or take a slow boat ride. Tims Ford Lake appeals to lake home seekers from across the country. Among the hundreds of people searching for lake homes and lots in Tennessee in May 2023, the top metro area looking on LakeHomes.com was Chicago, followed by Atlanta, Georgia, Washington, D.C., Nashville, Tennessee, and Huntsville, Alabama,” said Boldizsar.  “The national reach offered by LakeHomes.com works really well with my local expertise along Tims Ford Lake and the surrounding area,” said Boldizsar.  One in 37 American adults looks at LakeHomes.com each year.

“We believe our agents’ intimate knowledge about their lake real estate markets, nuances of the lakes themselves, and their involvement in local lake life is paramount to our continued growth,” said Glenn S. Phillips, CEO and Chief Economic Analyst for  Lake Homes “Heather offers outstanding customer service in the Tims Ford Lake areas and is truly a specialist in that area,” he said.

About Heather Boldizar

Heather Boldizsar‘s affinity for lakes began in her childhood, when she lived just a stone’s throw away from one. Today, she resides right by the serene shores of Tim’s Ford Lake, where she dedicates herself to assisting others in realizing their dreams of owning lakefront properties.

With more than nine years of boating experience on Tim’s Ford Lake, Heather possesses an intimate familiarity with the lake’s intricacies. Her firsthand experience in securing TVA dock permits, understanding shoreline setbacks, and mastering the unique details of Tim’s Ford equips her to guide her clients comprehensively through the process of selecting the perfect lake property.

Having previously worked as a medical device representative, Heather has shifted her focus to a new aspiration: helping other families achieve their goal of owning lakefront properties. “Lake homes bring so much joy to a family, and being a part of that milestone is truly an honor,” Heather says.

Lake Homes Realty Adds Kim Hoog to Tenkiller Lake Area in Oklahoma

Posted on Chris Melton

A new lake real estate report from the country’s largest lake-focused brokerage show listing prices in Oklahoma are up over summer 2022. “The new Lake Real Estate Market Report from Lake Homes Realty shows Oklahoma’s total market at $786 million, up from $592 million in the summer of 2022,” said Kim Hoog, a new agent with Lake Homes Realty, who focuses on Tenkiller Lake in Oklahoma.  Lake Homes Realty operates in 34 states across the country.

“The new quarterly lake real estate report from Lakehomes.com shows Tenkiller Lake to be the ninth largest market in the state of Oklahoma,” said Hoog. “The specialized website just showcases properties that are lakefront, have a lake view or lake access so we can help clients from across the country search for dream lake properties.” As of July 3, 2023, Tenkiller Lake has 118 lake area properties listed, ranging from a $5,000 lot to a $659,000 lake home.

The average home price for listings around Tenkiller Lake is $285,128, according to the Lake Market Real Estate Report. The average lot price is $76,959 for the 76 lake area lots currently listed.

“Boating is extremely popular on Tenkiller Lake, as are its related activities, waterskiing, tubing, and wakeboarding,” said Hoog.  “With almost 13,000 acres of pristine water, it ventures into the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. Tenkiller Lake appeals to lake home searchers from across the country. Among the hundreds of people searching the lake homes and lots in Oklahoma in May 2023, the top Metro area looking on LakeHomes.com was Dallas, Texas, followed by Wichita, Kansas, and Chicago,” said Hoog.  “ The national reach offered by LakeHomes.com works really well with my local expertise along Tenkiller Lake and the surrounding area,” said Hoog.  One in 37 American adults look at LakeHomes.com each year.

“We believe our agents’ intimate knowledge about their lake real estate markets, nuances of the lakes themselves, and their involvement in local lake life is paramount to our continued growth,” said Glenn S. Phillips, CEO and Chief Economic Analyst for  Lake Homes “Kim offers outstanding customer service in the Tenkiller Lake areas and is truly a specialist in that area,” he said.

About Kim Hoog

Kim Hoog is currently living her dream by selling properties on the lake where she spent her childhood. A resident of Gore, Oklahoma, for nearly three decades, she proudly calls it her home. Kim is deeply engaged in the community, having raised her children there, and her strong ties and experiences make her a true expert on Tenkiller Lake.

Having previously worked as a contractor for the U.S. Department of Energy, Kim has transitioned her dedication to real estate. With thirty years of living near the lake, she possesses an intimate knowledge of the area. Kim wholeheartedly believes that Tenkiller Lake is one of Oklahoma’s most pristine gems, and she eagerly anticipates every opportunity to showcase its beauty.

“My number one passion is helping others, which is initially what attracted me the most to real estate,” Kim says. “I enjoy the relationships I get to cultivate with my clients. I love meeting new people and helping them along their journey to finding a new home.”

Autumn Splendor: Fall Foliage Boat Cruises

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Photo courtesy of Sunstone Tours & Cruises

If you’re seeking an authentic autumn experience, a fall foliage boat cruise is one of the most exhilarating ways to take in the breathtaking bejeweled landscape. After all, lakes and rivers are Mother Nature’s mirrors, and the reflections of the colorful foliage on the water’s surface amplify the beauty and tranquility that comes with the season. Additionally, many of the lakes and rivers featuring boat cruises are renowned for their charming communities, local cultural flavors, and outdoor recreational opportunities, all of which are especially appealing when the first nip of fall is in the air.

For a quick list of some of the top leaf-peeping regions, check out these fall foliage boat cruises and river cruise destinations. Many of these locales offer various boat cruises, so be sure to check your area for updated options and schedules to help you plan your fall foliage adventures on the water.

Lake Winnipesaukee, NH

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Spectacular Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire’s largest lake, transforms into a brilliant scenic spectacle in the fall. Savor an afternoon boat cruise across these colorful lake waters to take in the area’s charming islands, wooded landscapes, and vibrant homes dotting the shoreline. An idyllic lake voyage offers an intimate and enchanting encounter with fall foliage like no other.

One such cruise offered by Champlain Tours will take you on an extraordinary journey to witness the very best of Lake Winnipesaukee’s stunning autumn beauty. The itinerary includes luxurious motor coach transportation from Northern Vermont to Weirs Beach in Laconia, NH, where you will board the Motor Ship Mount Washington. Additionally, you will enjoy a buffet lunch onboard before landing at America’s oldest summer resort in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire. Guests will have time to disembark and experience this quaint setting before heading back home. For other tour options, visit Lake Winnipesaukee Boat Tours.

Upper Mississippi River Cruise

Photo courtesy of American Queen via Country Living

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring the territory that was once Mark Twain’s muse, then a Mississippi River cruise gives you a perfect opportunity. The grand river’s upper reaches stretch north into a scenic countryside that is still as vibrantly untamed as it was during the writer’s lifetime. Today, the mighty Mississippi still flows vigorously with rivercraft, offering stunning adventures for those who embark on these historic waters.

Passengers can take in all the scenic beauty of the landscapes and quaint small towns dotting the river bends from the Deep South to the Midwest. American Queen Voyages offers an array of cruising options, including a luxurious nine-day sojourn through the Upper Mississippi. The itinerary features Mark Twain’s beloved Hannibal, Missouri, and winds all the way up to Red Wing, Minnesota, one of National Geographic’s most historic places. Visit American Queen Voyages for cruise destinations, dates, and booking information.

UPDATE: America Quessn Voyages ceases operations. View alternative Upper Mississippi cruises here: https://usarivercruises.com/destination/usa/midwest/upper-mississippi/

Lake Champlain, VT

Photo courtesy of Rove.me

Nestled between New York and Vermont, the gorgeous Lake Champlain is renowned for its vibrant fall foliage and picturesque landscapes. A cruise on these majestic waters offers passengers awe-inspiring views of the Green Mountains and the Adirondacks, all ablaze with stunning autumn colors.

Visit Spirit of Ethan Allen to book one of their excellent tours, from scenic narrated cruises and lunch on the lake cruises to breathtaking sunset and dinner cruises.

Hudson River, NY

Free Bear Mountain State Park, New York, USA image, public domain CC0 photo.

Glide across the Hudson River while enjoying the vibrant fall scenery against a backdrop of rolling hills, quaint towns, charming lighthouses, and iconic landmarks. This Classic Harbor Line‘s NYC Fall Foliage Cruise takes you north up the river during a 2.5-hour journey aboard the luxury yacht Manhattan.  

Breathe in the crisp autumn air as you drift past the George Washington Bridge, the Cloisters, the Palisades, the Little Red Light House, and the Tappan Zee Bridge.

Relax and sip on a soothing hot beverage as you take in this extraordinary and majestic seasonal cruise. For a 3.5-hour journey, you can hop aboard Classic Harbor Line’s Schooner Adirondack and enjoy a Grand Palisades Fall Foliage Sail. When it comes to rich fall foliage, the Hudson River’s brilliant display rivals that of the New England region, offering a breathtaking experience to both native New Yorkers and visitors alike.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan

Photo courtesy of Pictured Rocks Cruises

Discover the sublime beauty of Lake Superior from Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, nestled along Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Pictured Rocks Cruises offers a menu of three different tours that allow guests an intimate view of East Channel Lighthouse on Grand Island, Miners Castle, Lovers Leap, and other impressive landmarks. In addition, the Pictured Rocks Park area boasts beautiful natural dunes, beaches, stunning waterfalls, sea caves, and remarkable sandstone cliffs with spectacular mineral stain formations along the rock face. Incredibly vibrant in autumn, the crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior offer a pristine backdrop for its forested shoreline rich with jewel-tone hues.

Flathead Lake, MT

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Located in northwest Montana, Flathead Lake is surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains and offers stunning vistas of fall foliage against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Flathead Lake Boat Tours offers various excursions to suit every taste, from Morning and Evening Tours to a scenic Bay Cruise that features photograph-worthy views of the lake, surrounding bays, and Narrow Islands. Each extraordinary cruise takes you through serene waters, providing a peaceful and picturesque journey. Along the way, tour guides will give a fascinating history of the area and the ecological environment. So, prepare for an unforgettable journey where you can reconnect with Mother Nature’s vast beauty.

Coeur D’Alene Lake, ID

Photo courtesy of Coeur D’Alene

From the water to the mountains, Coeur d’Alene Lake is stunning in any season—especially in fall. The autumnal lake palette presents incredible hues, from vivid golds and reds to sage green and steel blue. With the season’s arrival, the sunsets illuminate the lake with magical glowing orange and purple displays.

So, now is the time to partake in an exhilarating boat cruise across the sparkling waters of Northwest Lake Coeur d’Alene. Offering daily adventures, Lake Coeur D’Alene Cruises boasts climate-controlled boats featuring double decks for sightseeing, indoor and outdoor options, experienced captains, and hospitable crews. Enjoy an intriguing mix of local history, scenery, and wildlife that delivers an unforgettable experience. From all of us at Lake Homes Realty, happy leaf peeping on the colorful autumn waters—and cheers to the lake life!

Whiteboard Topics: Selling a Lake Home Requires Broader Marketing

Posted on Chris Melton

If you’re thinking of selling your lake home, you’ll have to broaden your marketing. Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, gives reasons to market to a broader audience.

  1. Out-of-State Buyers: Agents who have had the most success selling lake homes are the ones who market to out-of-state buyers. When choosing an agent, consider if they will be able to tell you how many buyers in other states are shopping your lake. With more realistic buyers, you have better opportunities for more return on investment when you sell.
  2. Specific Lake Might Not Matter: While some buyers may be committed to one lake, there are many who look at several lakes in multiple states when buying a lake home. This should affect where you are marketing and how you are pricing houses. You should price competitively for multiple markets, not just your own.
  3. Local Marketing = Limited Marketing: Most buyers come from the web, so you should have a broad market reach. Putting out signs and listing in a local MLS are beneficial to a point, but limit your pool of buyers.
  4. Web Portals Are Crowded: Big web portals that list many types of property are crowded with people looking for all types of houses, not just lake houses. This causes buyers who want to specifically look for lake homes to sift through the other types of property. Listing on a niche website that specializes in lake property puts you ahead of the listings on big web portals.

Agents and sellers must think broadly when selling lake property. Utilizing these strategies, sellers can maximize their return on investment with their lake home. Connect with an agent at lakehomes.com if you’re looking to sell your lake home to a broad market.

Whiteboard Topics: Why Lake Home Real Estate is a Long Game

Posted on Chris Melton

Buying and selling a lake property is nothing like buying a primary residence when it comes to its schedule. People often experience urgency with a primary residence due to events such as moving to a new town for a job. Lake Homes Realty CEO, Glenn Phillips, explains why lake real estate is a long game.

  1. Discretionary = Patience: Similar to a high-end restaurant, a lake home is a discretionary property. Buyers aren’t paying for shelter alone, but also a premium for the lifestyle and access to the water. With discretionary property, buyers can be more selective in what they purchase.
  2. Mortgage Rates are NOT a Driver: Unlike other residential property, mortgage rates do not push people in and out of the lake real estate market. Many buyers complete transactions with cash, and buyers can often pay extra for their property. 
  3. Dream Homes are Different than Urban/Suburbs: Buyers can afford to wait until their dream home is available on the lake they want. They can also buy property on that lake and build their dream home themselves. Additionally, buyers often wait to see what the market does over time, especially in times of compressed inventory.
  4. New Lake Buyers have a Learning Curve: New lake home buyers often enter the market with minimal knowledge of lake real estate, and need time to learn. Many of them don’t realize that the price of a house increases when it is on lake property. These new buyers need time to understand and adjust their mindset while in the lake homes market.

Don’t be surprised if the buying and selling process is taking a while. Successful lake home agents realize that the lake real estate market is a long game and work to compress it. Connect with an expert lake agent who understands the importance of playing the long game at lakehomes.com.

Whiteboard Topics: What to Ask When Selecting an Agent to Sell Your Lake Home

Posted on Zac Parnell

You’ve made the decision, you’re ready to sell. But how do you go about finding a real estate agent that will help sell your lake home? Good news, there are actually some great questions to consider when it comes to this decision. Lake Homes Realty’s CEO, Glenn Phillips, provides a series of questions you should be asking, as well as one you should try to avoid. 

WRONG Questions to Ask: Which agents…

  1. Have the most listings? Having a plethora of listings can sometimes be deceptive. Agents might have multiple listings due to them not being able to move the inventory. This could be because of overpricing or other reasons. That’s not to say having multiple listings is always a bad thing, but a good rule is to try and avoid this question.
  2. Do I personally like the most? Picking out which agent you’ll work with does rely on some foundation and rapport, but that doesn’t mean they should act as close friend. Find an agent who will help you from a business standpoint is what you should be searching for. They’ll be the ones to help you sell after all.
  3. Have an office nearby? Because buyers are strictly looking to buy, finding someone to sell your home is the main goal. A physical office can bring a sense of security. However, at the end of the day, if you’re buying or selling, the office shouldn’t matter.
  4. Do I want to help? Knowing someone personally won’t always help them. Besides, if you’re truly wanting to sell your property, you’re going to be looking for a seasoned agent. The bottom line:  you should want to help yourself. 

CORRECT Questions to Ask:

  1. Are all agents the same? Just like all of us aren’t the same, not all real estate agents are either. Determining the one who is best equipped and qualified for success in helping you sell is what you should be thinking about.
  2. Most capable of helping me achieve my goal? Referring to the first question, the agent that has the capabilities to meet your goal is what you should keep in mind. Whether it’s selling your lake home quickly, maximizing the return, etc. Whatever it might be, this question is important to remember.
  3. Focused on lake real estate? Being focused on the lake real estate market is more than likely going to have a better payout than an agent who isn’t. A lake expert will know the ins and outs of this market and ultimately ways to leverage it.
  4. Have a proven pipeline of out-of-town buyers? A big thing to take into consideration is that many buyers are from all over the state and even across the country. Obtaining the maximum amount buyers increases the likelihood of getting the price you want.

While selecting a real estate agent to sell your lake home can come with challenges, at the end of the day the right one will help you sell your home. Following questions similar to the last set and trying to avoid the first should help you narrow down the search. However, if you still find yourself not sure, reach out to one of our lake experts at lakehomes.com. They’ll know exactly how to help you!

Whiteboard Topics: How Can I Get More Money For My Lake Home?

Posted on Zac Parnell

As you’re getting ready to put your lake house on the market, the topic of selling price will always come up. More than likely you will think “Can I get more money for my lake home?” Lake Homes Realty’s CEO, Glenn Phillips, explains a few different ways to help push for that price you want to sell for. 

  1. Start with a Market Appropriate Price: Buyers don’t care how much money you have put into the home. Most of the time they will be looking at the current market conditions. When you start at a high price to test the market, it usually does not result in the way you would like.
  2. Be clearly the best VALUE in the area: Don’t automatically make your lake home the lowest price. However, check out surrounding homes and see what’s going on. Are there nicer or newer homes nearby? Are these homes your price or lower? New construction may also become a player in this.
  3. Picture Perfect/Move-In Ready: Whether you already have your home staged or simply have your own property in the house, make sure it appears move-in ready. Buyers typically lack imagining this aspect and this will help you stand out.
  4. Would you buy it today at your price? Each day the house doesn’t sell and remains on the market, you are effectively buying it again at your price. In reality, the only price is that of what someone will pay and what you’re willing to accept. Price accordingly and price from a buyer mindset.

At the end of the day, these 4 tips are useful in getting the best return and sell price for your lake home. , Connect with one of our lake agents today at lakehomes.com and see what they can do!

Picnic on the Water: The Perfect Boat Food

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder
food on table on boat in the water
Photo courtesy of Get My Boat

Lake season is finally here, which is always a cause for celebration. This long-awaited season splashes in on Memorial Day, peaks on the Fourth of July, and commemorates its season finale on Labor Day—with plenty of festivities in between. Of course, it’s also synonymous with picnic season and idyllic days spent on the boat with family and friends. So, if you’re gearing up for a party cruise, you’ll want to pack plenty of drinks, snacks—and even food for cooking onboard—for you and your guests to enjoy. From delicious grilled meats, fish, and seafood, to lavish charcuterie boards and veggie trays, we’ve got you covered for a fantastic floating picnic. Check out our ideas for the perfect boat food and tips for packing the essentials.

Sizzle On the Water

Grilling lobster on the boat with an electric built-in grill
Photo courtesy of Cook with Kenyon

There’s nothing like hot food fresh from the grill. So, if your boat comes equipped with a built-in grill or even an attached marine grill, fire it up for an onboard barbecue. Depending on your grilling skills and the guests you’re entertaining, you can cook almost anything on the water. From simple hot dogs, brats, and hamburgers to fresh fish and seafood, there’s no limit to your menu options. Even side dishes like corn on the cob wrapped in foil and other grilling veggies make the perfect complement to your entrée. For simple all-in-one meals, prepare kabobs ahead of time and take them aboard to grill. You can skewer almost anything, including shrimp, steak, chicken, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, potatoes, mushrooms, and fruits.

Here are some other tips and essentials for grilling on your boat:

  • Don’t forget grilling utensils like tongs, basting brushes, spatulas, foil baking pans, aluminum foil, skewers, and zip-lock bags or plastic containers for food storage and leftovers.
  • Bring the supplies and condiments required for your meal, like buns, ketchup, mustard, relish, cheese slices, chopped onions, salt, pepper, seasonings, barbecue and cocktail sauces, and other desired toppings.
  • Always take safety precautions while grilling onboard, and never leave your grill unattended while it’s running.

For more inspiring ideas designed for boat grilling, check out these delicious food suggestions at MarineMax.

Grazing & Nibbling

veggie patter with dipping sauces
Photo courtesy of MarineMax
chips and salsa
Photo courtesy of Pinterest
charcuterie board
Photo courtesy of Get My Boat

When it comes to appetizing on the boat, you can go as extravagant or fuss-free as you like. It all comes down to the occasion, the size of your boat, and the length of time you will spend on your boat. For example, if you’re having a soiree or a sunset cruise, you can prepare a charcuterie board fit for a gourmet. This offers everyone a smorgasbord of cured meats, cheeses, breads, fruits, nuts, veggies, dipping sauces, and whatever else you’d like to add. Plus, it makes an appealing visual display on the table as guests mingle about the boat.

If you want to keep things casual and low-maintenance, prepare a veggie platter with dipping sauces like hummus, vegetable dips, and cheese spreads. In addition, cheese and cracker trays, fresh fruit platters, pre-packaged shrimp cocktail, pigs in a blanket, and hot wings make crowd-pleasing boat food. Plus, you can never go wrong with tortilla chips, salsa, and guacamole for an easy yet satisfying appetizer.

For more ideas, check out these healthy boating snacks and appetizers.

Sandwiches & Snacks

trail mix
Photo courtesy of MarineMax
sandwiches and chps
Photo courtesy of Oh Sweet Basil
wrap sandwiches
Photo courtesy of A Taste for Travel

Pre-made sandwiches, wraps, and snacks make ideal boat food that’s super-easy to transport. So, if you’re bringing the kids, this is your go-to boat food. You can wrap the sandwiches individually to prevent them from falling apart and even package them separately with a bag of chips and a wrapped cookie or granola bar for a kid-friendly sack lunch. In addition, cold-cut sandwiches, turkey or chicken wraps, or even store-bought deli sandwiches make effortless boat food. Be sure to pack condiments like mayo, mustard, and pickles separately to avoid soggy sandwiches. For snacks, pre-packaged flavored popcorn, crackers, granola, and chips travel lightly and are easy to carry onboard. Also, if you’re bringing along loose trail mix instead of granola bars, put it in a zip-lock bag and throw it in the cooler to prevent it from getting sticky in the heat.

Sweet Summer

fruit kabobs
Photo courtesy of Taste Of Home
chocolate biscotti
Photo Courtesy of Bake From Scratch
cookies in paper tray holders
Photo courtesy of Alibaba

To keep your crew happy all day, don’t forget to bring along some sweet treats. However, desserts can sometimes be messy and melty, so pack sweets that stand up in the summer sun. If you’re out in the heat, leave the chocolate bars and bananas behind. But if you have the proper refrigeration/freezer onboard, bring along the popsicles, ice cream bars, and other frozen treats to keep everyone cool. Also, fresh fruit kabobs, grapes, watermelon, orange slices, dried fruits, packaged cookies, and biscotti are great options for traveling. Plus, cold fruits are very hydrating, which is something to consider, especially when boating with children.

For more summer dessert ideas, check out these recipes at Taste of Home.

On-The-Water Essentials

drink station on boat with cup and bottle holders
Photo courtesy of Amazon

Cold beverages, fruit juices, bottled water, and plenty of ice are absolute essentials while out on the boat. Staying hydrated is critical to your health and well-being and can make or break a successful day out on the water. Also, be sure to include options for the kids, like sodas, sugar-free beverages, juice drinks, and lots of water—sparkling or still. Plus, if you don’t have refrigeration on your boat, pack a sturdy and reliable cooler that will keep drinks ice cold for hours. For added convenience, drink stations with cup and bottle holders make it easier to steady drinks and prevent spills during your boat cruise.

lemonade in mason jar and tray of break and fruits on a boat
Photo courtesy of West Shore Marine

Before you push away from the dock or boat launch, make sure you’ve packed all the necessities to enhance your picnic on the water. Bring plastic cups, ice, plates, napkins, cutlery, and eating utensils if your boat isn’t already fully stocked. Plus, you’ll also want to have any necessary grilling tools and cleaning supplies on board during your boat cruise. Also, don’t forget garbage bags that can accommodate all the trash generated throughout the day. It’s always better to be prepared rather than discover you forgot something after you’re miles from the shore. Having everything you need is part of the equation for a relaxing and carefree boat day. For more essentials to keep on board, click here.

Cheers to another glorious summer season on the lake—and on the boat. Bon voyage!

Best Vacation Destinations: 5 Family-Friendly Lake Towns

Posted on Lacey Spear
family getting in boat on lake
Photo Courtesy of Visit Table Rock Lake

From lakefront water parks to quaint shopping squares, family-friendly lake towns offer the ultimate vacation experience. Plus, these destinations are situated in various regions of the country, meaning you can find your next favorite vacation spot without driving for days. So if you’re ready to begin this year’s family adventure, check out these top lake towns!

Table Rock Lake, Missouri

three young women on a tube in a lake
Photo Courtesy of Branson Table Rock Oasis

Attracting 9 million visitors annually, the lake town Branson infuses excitement into tranquil waterfront living. If you want the perfect balance of recreation and relaxation, this is the lake vacation for you. Table Rock Lake boasts many marinas and campgrounds and features all your favorite lake activities—fishing, swimming, boating, water-skiing, tubing, camping, and more. Plus, nearby Branson offers plenty of kid-friendly activities. Popular attractions include the Silver Dollar City Amusement Park, Big Foot Fun Park, Runaway Mountain Coaster, Fritz’s Adventure, Titanic Museum, and underground caverns.

Lake Lanier, Georgia

water park beside Lake Lanier
Photo Courtesy of Livin’ Upstate SC

Imagine soaking in picturesque mountain views only an hour from one of the South’s largest cities. This is vacationing at Lake Lanier—a family-friendly lake town surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and situated near Atlanta. In addition to fishing, boating, and swimming adventures, Lake Lanier boasts the Terminus Wake Park. This thrilling aqua and wake park features an inflatable water playground and cable water sports—perfect for families with kids of all ages. Additionally, Lake Lanier visitors can go whitewater rafting, canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding, and hiking.

Lake Champlain, Vermont

town and trees beside Lake Champlain
Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Boasting 80 islands, stunning waterfront parks, and intriguing historical sites, Lake Champlain makes for an unforgettable family vacation. On the Vermont side, the lake’s largest waterfront city, Burlington, attracts more than 13 million visitors annually. In addition to enjoying the lake’s parks and beaches, families can browse the town’s quaint shops at Church Street Market Place and bike the eight-mile waterfront trail. Other popular activities include the Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, World’s Tallest Filing Cabinet, Petra Cliffs Climbing Center, and Vermont Teddy Bear Factory.

Lake Lure, North Carolina

water park beside Lake Lure
Photo Courtesy of Rutherford County Tourism

Nothing compares to spending a day at Lake Lure Beach. Showcasing a water park, aquatic games, and a sandy beach, Lake Lure‘s beach will keep the kids entertained for hours. After this, you can round the family up and experience the lake’s pristine waters on the Lake Lure Boat Tours. And the fun doesn’t stop there. Nearby Chimney Rock State Park offers breathtaking mountainous views and contains several hiking trails and the 2nd largest waterfall east of the Mississippi. Plus, after conquering these outdoor excursions, you can grab a bite to eat and explore the shops of Chimney Rock Village.

Lake George, New York

Steamboat in Lake George
Photo Courtesy of Lake George

Cruising with the Lake George Steamboat Company is the best way to begin a family vacation on Lake George. Offering brunch, lunch, and dinner voyages, the Lake George Steamboat cruises provide opportunities to relax while taking in the local scenery. Then, after the cruise, you can spend time on the Lake George beaches. Usher’s Park Beach is a great spot to bring the kids. Additionally, off the lake, you can go whitewater rafting, hot air ballooning, hiking, go-karting, and mini-golfing. And if all this fun isn’t enough, you can visit the Great Escape and Hurricane Harbor Theme and Water Park.

Offering both recreation and relaxation, these lake destinations provide well-rounded family fun. So no matter which region of the country you want to visit, you can find an excellent location for your next family vacation!

FAQs

This is vacationing at Lake Lanier—a family-friendly lake town surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and situated near Atlanta.

Boasting 80 islands, stunning waterfront parks, and intriguing historical sites, Lake Champlain makes for an unforgettable family vacation.

In addition to enjoying the lake’s parks and beaches, families can browse the town’s quaint shops at Church Street Market Place and bike the eight-mile waterfront trail. Other popular activities include the Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, World’s Tallest Filing Cabinet, Petra Cliffs Climbing Center, and Vermont Teddy Bear Factory.

Nearby Chimney Rock State Park offers breathtaking mountainous views and contains several hiking trails and the 2nd largest waterfall east of the Mississippi. Plus, after conquering these outdoor excursions, you can grab a bite to eat and explore the shops of Chimney Rock Village.

Additionally, off the lake, you can go whitewater rafting, hot air ballooning, hiking, go-karting, and mini-golfing. And if all this fun isn’t enough, you can visit the Great Escape and Hurricane Harbor Theme and Water Park.