Mother and daughter eating at Headwaters Tavern Boulder Junction WI

Enjoy Outdoor Dining in Boulder Junction

August 25, 2022

It’s the perfect time to enjoy the tastes of the Northwoods of Wisconsin on an outdoor deck or patio. Here’s a look at some of Boulder Junction’s best outdoor dining options.

Aqualand Ale House

Enjoy a cold craft beer—there are 20 on tap—and a stone-fired pizza, tasty sandwich, or refreshing salad in the Beer Garden at Aqualand Ale House, which takes its name from a popular wildlife park that operated in Boulder Junction for 35 years.

Boulder Junction Coffee Company

Kickstart your day with a cup of coffee or tea, made-from-scratch baked goods, breakfast burritos and more. Grab a seat at one of the outdoor tables along Main Street and enjoy the weather—leashed pets are even allowed outside, so you can bring your four-legged friends, too.

Headwaters Restaurant & Tavern

Enjoy steaks, seafood (including a Friday night fish fry), burgers, and more at this restaurant and tavern on Highway M north of downtown Boulder Junction. Headwaters, a rustic tavern built in the 1930s, sits on a hill overlooking the Manitowish River and has deck seating available for refreshments or take-out orders, so there are always good views to be had.

The Ice Shanty

Located just outside of town, on Highway M North, The Ice Shanty offers everything from gyros to soft-serve. Stop by for delicious mozzarella sticks, or one of their weekly special flurries. There are plenty of tables outside, as well as a recently-updated mini golf course!

Mad Dog Jake’s

This summer favorite serves up more than 30 flavors of Chocolate Shoppe ice cream, smoothies, Chicago-style hot dogs, burgers and other treats. Grab a seat outside in the shade and enjoy the summer weather.

McGann’s Pub & Wine Bar

Looking for some Irish pub ambiance and a great selection of beer and wine? Head to McGann’s Pub & Wine Bar on Park Street just south of Main Street to grab a seat on their outdoor patio and enjoy a homemade pizza after a day of exploring Vilas County.