With a dozen friendly communities and more than 1,000 square miles of land, Vilas County has plenty of places to explore. But all that exploration can make you hungry—or thirsty. So where should you go to whet your appetite or wet your whistle in the Northwoods of Wisconsin? Here are a few ideas.
Eastern Vilas County
In the southeastern corner of Vilas County sits the charming city of Eagle River, which serves as the entry point into the Northwoods of Wisconsin for many visitors. Eagle River is a hub of activity year-round, which means lots of dining options; you’ll find supper clubs, breweries, bars & grills, coffee shops, lunch spots and more. Discover Eagle River restaurants.
Further north, Conover and Phelps offer Vilas County visitors a more secluded Northwoods experience. Many of the area’s restaurants and bars are easily accessible via snowmobile or sit on the shores of scenic lakes. Find more dining options in Conover and Phelps.
Land O’ Lakes, situated along the Wisconsin-Michigan border, invites visitors to explore the vast wilderness of northern Vilas County and the Upper Peninsula. After a day spent on the snowmobile trails or cross-country skiing through the snowy wilderness, refuel at one of Land O’ Lakes’ numerous restaurants.
Central Vilas County
The Minocqua Area, which includes the communities of Woodruff and Arbor Vitae, is a popular travel destination in southern Vilas County. Visit these delicious restaurants for a Friday night fish fry or a family outing. Or, simply stop somewhere with an outstanding lake view.
Head west to St. Germain to find cozy cafes, lakeside resorts and authentic supper clubs.
The central Vilas County communities of Boulder Junction and Sayner-Star Lake offer visitors a classic Northwoods experience, but you’ll still find craft beer bars, romantic date spots and mouth-watering pizza places. Discover restaurants in Boulder Junction and Sayner-Star Lake.
Western Vilas County
Travel to northwestern Vilas County to visit Manitowish Waters, Presque Isle and Winchester, friendly towns tucked into the vast Wisconsin wilderness. Manitowish Waters has nearly two dozen eateries, from Irish pubs to homey, wood-paneled supper clubs, and visitors will find delicious dining in Presque Isle and Winchester as well.
If you’re looking for a more unique dining experience, head to Lac du Flambeau for their traditional Native American powwows—held on Tuesdays in the summer at the Waaswaaganing Indian Bowl—to try authentic, hand-made fry bread (don’t forget the honey butter).