Summer in the Willmar Lakes Area means one thing: patio season is officially in full swing, and our outdoor dining game is strong! Here’s a fun rundown of the hottest spots—great for family meals, date nights, or just kicking back with friends in the sunshine.

The Oaks at Eagle Creek (Willmar)
Perched across from Willmar Lake, The Oaks boasts a patio deck with a cozy fireplace—ideal for evening gatherings. With daily happy hour specials, a handpicked craft beer and wine list, and stunning lake views, it’s both relaxing and refined.

Ruff’s Wings & Sports Bar (Willmar)
Sports fans, unite! Ruff’s outdoor bar and patio feature heat lamps, fire features, and a giant 70″ HD TV (plus three more!). It’s the ultimate spot for live game broadcasts, happy hour, and wing nights.

Green Mill Restaurant & Bar (Willmar)
Offers a welcoming, umbrella-shaded patio that feels both sunny and intimate. The food gets top marks, and the atmosphere is perfect for afternoon lunches or relaxed dinners.

Foxhole Brewhouse (Willmar)
Ranked among the top outdoor dining spots in Willmar, Foxhole Brewhouse mixes craft beer vibes with a comfortable patio atmosphere. From its outdoor seating, you’ll catch a peek at Willmar Lake, making it a scenic spot for sunny afternoons. And if you’re in town for Willmar Fests, Foxhole’s patio becomes one of the best seats in town for the fireworks—beer in hand, sky aglow, summer magic in full effect.

O’Neil’s (Spicer)
A local gem overlooking Green Lake, O’Neil’s patio is iconic for its live music, classic lake views, and laid-back vibe. It’s where Minnesotans go to chill before or after hitting the water.

Zorbaz on Green Lake (Spicer)
This lively lakeside spot features a sandy beach, patio fire pit, game room for the kids, and the area’s largest beer selection on tap. Bonus: arriving by boat (or float plane!) adds to the fun factor.

Max’s on the Green (Spicer)
Set right on the Little Crow Golf Course in Spicer, Max’s offers sweeping views, a spacious patio, and an extensive menu of wings, salads, sandwiches, and entrees. Whether you’re here between rounds or just soaking in the scenery, it’s a perfect escape.

Sweet River Cafe (New London)
Heading further north, Sweet River Café’s patio on New London’s Main Street is a sweet oasis of shade and sunshine. Think decadent desserts, coffee drinks, and cozy summer brunches.

Goat Ridge Brewing Co. (New London)
Nestled beside the scenic Middle Fork Crow River, Goat Ridge is shaded, tranquil, and just the place to sip small-batch brews while listening to the water flow and birds chirp. But don’t let the peaceful vibe fool you—this spot comes alive with live outdoor music, cozy fire pits, and a community feel that makes every night feel like a backyard jam session. It’s a must for music lovers and craft beer fans alike.

Pro Tips for Patio Season:

• Live music and fire pits make O’Neil’s, Goat Ridge and Zorbaz crowd favorites.
• Fires & TV screens = Ruff’s; it’s sports lovers’ paradise.
• River vibe, craft beer, and cozy concerts = Goat Ridge’s chill atmosphere.
• Umbrella shade & secluded seating = Green Mill and Sweet River Café are underrated delights.

A Sample Patio Crawl:

• Lunch at Max’s on the Green—start with a sandwich overlooking the golf course.
• Afternoon beer flight at Goat Ridge, with the river as your soundtrack.
• Dinner at Zorbaz—pizza, pints, and sand between your toes!
• Evening vibes at Ruff’s: wings, big screens, and a lively crowd.

From playoff dinners to beach days, happy hours to brewing adventures, the Willmar Lakes Area is patio perfection. Grab your sunglasses, apply that sunscreen—and let the summer eats and outdoor sips begin!

Let me know if you want menus, live music schedules, or nearby activities to pair with your feast.