FEATURE by Vicki Wood
The emerging west side of the Lake
K
eeping it close to home once again with gas prices still near $3.80, explore little-known places around our Lake area. A trip to Stover from Osage Beach can take about 90 minutes, depending on the route. It’s an often-neglected side of Lake of the Ozarks when one thinks of tourism. But that is changing. Ozarks International Raceway ran inaugural races in April. It’s the first stop on the Highway 135 corridor. Ozarks International Raceway was built by PF Racing of Kansas City and brings high speed racing of not only their fleet of Ford Mustang Modified cars in bright pink, but also exotics and antiques on the paved course. With tickets of only $10, it’s an affordable, family friendly venue on Highway 135. Food & Drink
Five miles past the Ozarks International Raceway lies Ivy Bend Road, which takes Day Trippers down to lakeside relaxation. Patriot’s Point Marina has a beautiful view of the 60 mm and offers refreshment and opportunity to take in the peaceful waters and watch families cruise in for drinks. Patriot’s Point Marina is housed in the former Rebel Docks complex. A city-style market popped up in the new marina, with Kansas City-brand Scimeca meats and foods, and other specialty Missouri products. One can find all the meats and seasoning they could want to grill out. Slushie machines provide cool drinks on tap, and a shot of your favorite spirit can be added. Sit out on the handmade lawn where giant Connect Four games and cornhole are installed on a football Food from Patio 52 Bar and Grill. field-style lawn. Patriot Point Marina is located at 34501 Rebel Road, Ivy Bend, or the 60 MM by water. For a complete meal on the go, visit Shady’s Shack in Ivy Bend. Some weekends the food truck is on the road to a festival. The rest of the time it’s parked in its home base down Ivy Bend Road. They offer an eclectic Mexican menu of fresh tostadas, burritos, and, if you’re lucky, freshly made tamales. Breakfast is available Saturdays and Sundays from 8 to 11a.m. Build your own breakfast burrito before jumping back in the car for the next destination, or eat biscuits and gravy, donuts, or their specialty “Shipwreck” of potatoes and meat and veggies topped with gravy at their nearby picnic tables. Churros and ice cream round out their menu. Shady’s Shack can be found at 33971 Ivy Bend Road, or the 59.5 MM by water.
22 VACATION NEWS
May 6 - 19, 2022
