Boat floating out on the water.

There’s no doubt about it - summertime is best spent out on a boat. Whether you prefer kicking back and relaxing on a pontoon or the rush of cruising on a speedboat, there are plenty of great places to go boating in the Midwest. This week at GiftWorksPlus, we wanted to share some of our favorite lakes to take the boat out with friends and family. Here are just a few of our top recommendations to check out this summer:

Elk River Chain of Lakes, MI

If you’re wanting to escape to a tropical paradise, you need to check out Elk River Chain of Lakes in beautiful Michigan. The waters are known for being so clear that the lakes resemble the ocean on a tropical beach. The chain runs through 14 different lakes that then run out into Lake Michigan in the northwest corner of the lower peninsula. The chain is about 75 miles long so there will be plenty of beautiful sites for you to catch!

West Okoboji Lake, IA

Iowans know and love Okoboji as a fantastic summer vacation spot. There are plenty of beaches, amusement parks, waterparks, and of course, boat rental locations. Not to mention lakeside patios for dining out and beaches for relaxing on a hot summer day. 

Lake Minnetonka, MN

There is plenty to do and see on Lake Minnetonka. Locals will go fishing, jet-skiing, canoeing, and boating. You can enjoy lakeside dining at restaurants like Maynard’s and Lord Fletcher’s, cruise lines for party planning, and plenty of great spots to hop off the boat and go for a swim in the clear waters. 

Lake Winnebago, WI

An ideal location for jet-skiing, sailing, or speedboating, Lake Winnebago is well-known around the state for being a summertime must. In the summer, the area hosts boat races, fishing tournaments, and even music events!

Frame Your Boating Photos

Put on some sunblock, sunglasses and a Jimmy Buffett playlist and head out to the boat launch this summer! While you’re making the most of your time on the lake, snap a few pics then check out our boating-themed photo frames at the GiftWorksPlus website. Perfect for sailors, fishermen (and women), or if you’re just looking to frame your favorite boating memories. Check out our options today!