Issuu

2024 Visitor’s Guide to the Iowa Great Lakes | vacationokoboji.com

Vacation Okoboji is published annually by the Okoboji Tourism Committee, a committee of the Iowa Great Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. Advertising Information: Rebecca Peters, Tourism Director (712) 332-2209

Photography: Tom Gustafson and Okoboji Tourism, unless otherwise noted. Art Direction/Design: Web Graphics, Inc., (712) 338-2442 Kirsten Norman, Designer

@all_around_okoboji

DISTANCE TO REGIONAL CITIES: Sioux Falls, SD . . . . . . . .87 mi. Sioux City, IA . . . . . . . . 110 mi. Rochester, MN . . . . . . 172 mi. Omaha, NE . . . . . . . . . 179 mi. Minneapolis, MN . . . . 181 mi. Des Moines, IA . . . . . . 205 mi. Kansas City, MO. . . . . 332 mi. Chicago, IL. . . . . . . . . . 509 mi.

VISITOR SERVICES OKOBOJI TOURISM OFFICE 243 W. Broadway Arnolds Park, IA 51331 712-332-2209

OKOBOJI SPIRIT CENTER IOWA WELCOME CENTER 243 W. Broadway Arnolds Park, IA 51331 arnoldspark.com 712-332-6550

IOWA TOURISM OFFICE 800-345-IOWA traveliowa.com

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

Welcome

Step into the picturesque Iowa Great Lakes! Seven distinctive communities bordering a series of lakes sculpted by ancient glaciers await your arrival, offering a warm and familiar embrace. Immerse yourself in the nostalgia evoked by the fusion of rich historical elements with modern amenities designed to delight both visitors and residents throughout the year. The region boasts a flourishing arts and cultural scene, complemented by exceptional locallyowned dining establishments, shops, and lodgings, ensuring your next trip to the Iowa Great Lakes will be an unforgettable experience!

TRAVELER’S PHOTOS Find inspiration from photos shared by our travelers as they mark milestones, family reunions, weddings and more.

VACATIONOKOBOJI.COM Bookmark vacationokoboji. com for your ultimate online resource! Find maps, itineraries, events, places to explore and, so much more!

VIDEO SERIES Take a tour of the adventures awaiting you in winter, spring, summer, and fall! Our videos showcase the excellent activities and attractions

VACAT ION OKOB OJI 2 024

happening all year long. We can’t wait to show you our favorite landmarks!

SPOTIFY PLAYLIST Put yourself in an “Okoboji State of Mind” while listening to musicians who have played in Okoboji, are coming soon, or songs that inspire the Okoboji vibe!

@SherriBornhoft

Calendar of Events . . . . . .8 Lodging Guide . . . . . . . . . .10 Resort Directory . . . . . . . .12 Campground Directory . .29 Dining Guide . . . . . . . . . . .32 Entertainment Guide . . . .50 Sports & Rec Guide . . . . .64 Shopping Guide . . . . . . . .96 Living the Okoboji Life. . .110 Iowa Great Lakes Regional Map . . . . . . . . . . 126

BLOG Whether you’re looking for a couples’ getaway, dining guide, girl’s weekend itinerary, or where to find all the live music venues, our blog is the best resource for planning your Okoboji vacation.

VISIT US Stop by the Okoboji Spirit Center/ Iowa Welcome Center located at 243 W. Broadway, Arnolds Park, or call 712-332-6550. V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

SEASONS

SCAN FOR MORE!

of fun SPRING

CAST A LINE Save the date for the 42ND ANNUAL IOWA GREAT LAKES WALLEYE WEEKEND May 4-5, 2024! Ten walleye are tagged and released into the chain of Iowa Great Lakes and you can cast your chance at catching one worth $42,000! Win prizes all weekend long - from the largest fish categories to raffle prizes.

EXPLORE Visit the newly expanded Pollinator Paradise at the DICKINSON COUNTY NATURE CENTER to play (and learn) on museum-quality, handson exhibits that are fun for all ages. Step outside and explore the Nature Playscape, Okoboji Gold Disc Golf Course, geocaching, and trails – ALL FREE!

SPLASH AROUND BOJI SPLASH WATERPARK at Bridges Bay Resort is just the place to entertain stir-crazy kids and enjoy a weekend family getaway. The kids will also love the NEW state-of-the-art arcade. When everyone is worn out, enjoy flatbread pizza at the WATERFRONT GRILLE.

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 024

PLAY & SLIDE

GOLF

The Iowa Great Lakes boasts many great parks for kids to spend hours of playtime enjoying! The newest addition is the MINNIE QUEEN at East Lake Park in Okoboji. You’ll also find new play equipment at FLORENCE PARK in Milford and PICKLEBALL COURTS at Speier Park in Okoboji and Sawmill Park in Arnolds Park.

With more than 90 unique holes, golf opportunities are abundant in the Iowa Great Lakes. You can golf a different and unique course every day! With such great courses, we look forward to an early spring each year!

SUMMER

FIREWORKS Enjoy a fireworks display over West Lake Okoboji every Saturday night, Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day Weekend. You’ll also find fireworks on special days over Big Spirit, East Lake, and Silver Lake in Lake Park.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Whether it is pickleball, biking, hiking, disc golf, beach volleyball, kayaking, paddleboarding, or yoga, summer is an amazing time to enjoy outdoor adventures in Okoboji! Participate for fun or register for one of the many rides, tournaments, or competitions!

FAMILY TIME With two mini golf courses, art classes, children’s theatre, beaches, a splash pad, and Arnolds Park Amusement Park, there are plenty of things to do while enjoying quality time with your family.

LAKE TIME

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

THE QUEEN II, OKOBOJI BOAT WORKS FLEET, and several of the country’s top marinas make it easy to get out on the water for a public cruise, a rental or a boat of your own. You can even rent a paddleboard or kayak! If you would rather keep your feet planted on dry land, there are many beaches to put your toes in the sand while enjoying the lake view!

Excellent live entertainment can be found around every corner in Okoboji! Where else can you find live theatre for adults and children throughout the summer, and live music overlooking an Okoboji sunset? Join us at the many unique LIVE MUSIC VENUES throughout the Iowa Great Lakes!

SCAN FOR SUMMER FUN!

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

FALL

FESTIVALS & EVENTS Fall kicks off with a family favorite, DEE’S BEE & BUTTERFLY FESTIVAL. Then we ride on to the OKTOBERFEST BIKE RIDE & FESTIVAL. Explore local artists’ studios during the ARTISAN’S ROAD TRIP WEEKEND in October. Take in BOJI SCARE at Arnolds Park Amusement Park throughout October. Finally, spend a weekend in November sipping and shopping with friends during the WOMEN’S OKOBOJI WEEKEND.

ESCAPE & RELAX Fall is the perfect time to plan a couples’, girls’, or guys’ getaway to Okoboji! Explore the antique shops and shopping malls, play a round of golf, or relax with a great lakeside dinner.

@okobojichamber

BIKE OR HIKE Enjoy the changing colors and beautiful landscape by hiking or biking on the area’s expansive paved and unpaved trails. While the area boasts more than 60 miles of dedicated trails, the “spine” of the system is a 14-mile, hard surface trail that links Milford to Spirit Lake and all of the communities and attractions in between.

SIP & SAVOR Soak up a gorgeous fall day by sampling the local flavor at one of the area’s many locally-owned RESTAURANTS, BREWERIES, and WINERIES. Watch our events calendar for grape stomps and special wine and beer releases!

@littlesiouxorchard

APPLES & PUMPKINS, OH MY Fall is not complete without these two great fall family activities! At LITTLE SIOUX ORCHARD, you can pick your own apples and navigate a challenging corn maze. THE GROVE has a variety of family-friendly activities and themed weekends. Of course you’ll want to leave with a locally-grown pumpkin.

SCAN FOR MORE!

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 024

@thebarefootbarokoboji

WINTER

UNIVERSITY OF OKOBOJI WINTER GAMES Endless opportunities for fun bring family and friends together each January for an unforgettable weekend – always the final full weekend in January.

SCAN FOR MORE WINTER FUN

ICE FISHING

Dickinson County boasts hundreds of miles of groomed snowmobile trails throughout the winter, giving you the perfect reason to get out and ride. You will also want to check out the VINTAGE ICE DRAGS in February!

Look out across the lake each winter and you will see villages of fishing huts. Get out on the ice and see why so many people flock to Okoboji to ice fish each winter. Use your own equipment, hire a local guide, or stop by the Fish Shack to drop a line and reel in a big one!

@lakeokobojifishing

HIT THE POWDER

HOLIDAY SPIRIT The holidays are magical in Okoboji with fantastic shopping events like SANTA’S VILLAGE on Hill Ave, the HOLIDAY FANTASY in Milford, and many open houses. Your eyes will light up with the reflection of holiday lights at the HOLIDAY WINDOW LIGHTING. The sounds of the holidays can also be heard at numerous concerts and area light displays throughout the holiday season. V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C OM

Calendar

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES Join us for events galore in 2024! We have a full slate of seasonal events, tournaments, flea markets, bike rides, holiday celebrations and more in store for you. Visit vacationokoboji.com for a complete schedule and updates.

Calendar events/dates subject to change.

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 024

JANUARY

AUGUST

University of Okoboji Winter Games. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25-28

Estherville Sweet Corn Days . . . . .1-4 Lake Park Farmers Appreciation Days. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4 9th Annual Tiki Bike Ride . . . . . . . . . .3 Pearson Lakes Art Center Art in the Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 IGL Rotary Brew Fest . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 University of Okoboji Point to Point Swim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Okoboji Bible Conference. . . . . . 3-10 Okoboji Blue Water Festival . . . . . . 10 11th Annual Black Knights Car Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Induction Weekend . . . . . . . . . . . .Aug 30-Sept 1 Okoboji Antique & Flea Market Weekend . . . . . . . . . . .Aug 31 – Sept 2

FEBRUARY Okoboji Snowmobile Vintage Ice Drags. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Escape the Nature Center . . . . . . . . . .5 Leap Day Adventure . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

MARCH Explore Okoboji Home & Sports Show . . . . . . . . . . 9-10

APRIL Women Rising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Midwest Country Music Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

MAY Spirit Lake Sip & Stroll . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 42nd Annual Iowa Great Lakes Area Walleye Weekend . . . . . . . . . .4-5 Okoboji Antique & Flea Market Weekend . . . . . . . . 25-27

OKOBOJI BLUE WATER FESTIVAL - AUG. 10 The Okoboji Blue Water Festival supports stewardship of clean water and other natural resources through participation, education and celebration. Come and share the experience that is designed for all ages.

CONCE RTS WEEKL Y

JUNE

SEPTEMBER

University of Okoboji Soccer Classic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9 Spirit Lake Cruise In . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 University of Okoboji Campus Bike Ride . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Dee’s Bee & Butterfly Festival . . . . . .6 University of Okoboji Couples Golf Tourney . . . . . . . . . . .6-8 Clay County Fair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-15 Okoboji Writer’s Retreat . . . . . . 15-18 University of Okoboji Oktoberfest Celebration and Bike Ride . . . . . . . 28

JULY Okoboji Antique & Flea Market Weekend . . . . . . . . . . .4-6 BRASL (Bike Ride Around Spirit Lake) . . . . . 13 University of Okoboji World Tennis Classic . . . . . . . . . 13-14 Milford Pioneer Days . . . . . . . . . 19-21 University of Okoboji Homecoming Races . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Antique & Classic Boat Show . . . . . 27 ‘Vettes in the Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

DECEMBER Milford Holiday Fantasy . . . . . . . . . . .7 Santa’s Village on Hill Avenue . . . . . .7

2025 University of Okoboji Winter Games. . . . . . . . . . . .Jan 23-26

OCTOBER Artisans Road Trip. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-6 Escape the Nature Center . . . . . . . . 14 Fort Defiance Fright Hike . . . . . . . . 26

NOVEMBER Women’s Okoboji Weekend . . . . . . 8-9 Hill Ave Holiday Window Lighting . 30

SCAN FOR ALL EVENTS

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

Lodging

GREAT PLACES TO STAY With an abundance of hotels, resorts and vacation rentals in the Iowa Great Lakes area, you’ll find the perfect fit for your next getaway. We’re glad you’re here!

VACATION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

OKOBOJI GETAWAY

PLAN YOUR NEXT

The region boasts a variety of

VISIT TO THE IOWA

accommodations, from full service resorts

GREAT LAKES

and comfortable inns, to cottages and quiet campgrounds. All are conveniently located with easy access to the lakes, attractions, dining and shopping! Okoboji is not only an excellent vacation destination year round, but is also ideal for conventions, corporate retreats

MAKE MEMORIES IN OKOBOJI FOR YOUR NEXT SPRING BREAK!

Lodging Directory . . . . . . . . . . 12 Camping Directory . . . . . . . . . 29 Event Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

and business travelers.

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

@anita_wordgirl

LODGING DIRECTORY The region boasts a variety of accommodations, from full service resorts and comfortable inns, to cottages and quiet campgrounds. All are conveniently located with easy access to the lakes, attractions, dining and shopping! Okoboji is not only an excellent vacation destination year round, but is also ideal for conventions, corporate retreats and business travelers.

Map

Resort Name

Location

Type

AMERICINN LODGE & SUITES americinn.com

1005 Brooks Park Drive Okoboji, IA 51355 Reservations 800-634-3444 or 712-332-9000

Hotel/Motel

BIG SPIRIT RESORT bigspiritresort.com

100 N. Hill Ave. Spirit Lake, IA 51360 712-336-6989

Cottages

BLUE WATER BUNGALOWS bojibluewaterbungalows.com

1711 Jeppeson Rd Milford, IA 51351 402-672-7816

Cottages

BRIDGES BAY RESORT & BOJI SPLASH bridgesbayresort.com

630 Linden Drive Arnolds Park, IA 51331 712-332-2202

CRESCENT BEACH FAMILY RESORT crescentbeachresort.com

CUTTY’S OKOBOJI RESORT CLUB cuttysofokoboji.org

See Ad

Open

Year-round

Lakefront Resort/ Conference Center

Year-round

212

1619 Lakeshore Drive

Lakefront

May-Oct

Milford, IA 51351 877-656-2654 712-337-3351

Resort

1528 Hwy. 86 Spirit Lake, IA 51360 712-336-2226

Private Ownership

Year-round

ESCAPES VACATION RENTAL Facebook.com/ escapesvacations

Bridges Bay Condos, Arnolds Park 515-401-2563

Vacation Rentals

Year-round

ESTHERVILLE INN & SUITES esthervillehotel.com

2008 Central Ave Estherville, IA 51334 712-362-5522

Hotel

Year-round

FILLENWARTH BEACH fillenwarthbeach.com

87 Lakeshore Drive Arnolds Park, IA 51331 712-332-5646

Resort Lakefront Cottages

May-Sept.

KABELE’S LODGE kabeles.com

504 Hill Ave Spirit Lake, IA 51360 712-336-1512

Lakefront Cottages

Year-round

NORTHLAND INN northlandinnspiritlake.com

2051 Hwy. 9 Spirit Lake, IA 51360 712-336-1450

Hotel/Motel

Year-round

THE OAKWOOD INN theoakwoodinnokoboji.com

23131 Nature Center Rd Spirit Lake, IA 51360 712-332-8057

Bed & Breakfast

Year-round

OKOBOJI COUNTRY INN B&B okobojicountryinn.com

1704 Terrace Park Blvd West Okoboji, IA 51351 712-332-2358

Bed & Breakfast

Year-round

3400 Okoboji Ave. Milford, IA 51351 712-338-4424

Hotel/Motel

Year-round

OKOBOJI INN & SUITES theokobojiinn.com

Kitchen/ Kitchenette

VACATION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

Pool/ Whirlpool

Lakefront w/ Dock

Cookout Facilities

Restaurant w/ Cocktails

Pets* Allowed

Comp. Cont. Breakfast

Internet

Meeting Room

Workout Facility

Map

Resort Name

Location

Type

See Ad

Open

16 OKOBOJI VACATION COMPANY SellingOkoboji.com

1714 Hill Ave. Spirit Lake, IA 51360 712-336-0888

Vacation Rental

Year-round

17 PICK’S LAKESHORE RESORT www.picksresort.com

108 Monument Drive Arnolds Park, IA 51331 712-332-2688

Lakefront Cottages

Year-round

18 RAMADA www.ramada.com

2704 17th Street Hotel/Motel Year-round 50 Spirit Lake, IA 51360 Reservations 800-272-6232 or 712-336-3984

19 RESTON INN & SUITES restoninn.com

10 11th St SE, Hotel/Motel 21 Year-round 40 Spencer, IA 51301 712-580-4077

20 RODEWAY INN choicehotels.com/rodeway-inn

1511 Okoboji Avenue Hotel/Motel 23 Year-round 40 Milford, IA 51351 Reservations 888-422-3887 712-338-4701

21 SAND BAR BEACH RESORT sandbarbeach.com

11302 270th Place Lakefront May–Sept. 15 Spirit Lake, IA 51360 Cottages Winter 972-596-8645 712-336-0538

22 SLEEPY HOLLOW Stayinokoboji.com

2803 Hwy 71, Milford, IA 51351 712-898-0601

Vacation Rental

May–Sept.

23 SUPER 8 super8.com

2203 Circle Drive West Spirit Lake, IA 51360 Reservations 800-800-8000 or 712-336-4901

Hotel/Motel

Year-round

24 THE INN HOTEL theinnhotel.com

515 Dam Rd Hotel 20 Year-round 38 Arnolds Park, IA 51331 712-337-6400

TRAVELODGE BY WYNDHAM 1905 W 18th St Hotel/Motel 22 Year-round 36 wyndhamhotels.com/travelodge Spirit Lake, IA 51360 Reservations 712-336-2668 26 TRIGGS BAY RESORT 180 Linden Drive Resort 23 May–Sept. 48 triggsbayresort.com Arnolds Park, IA 51331 Lakefront 712-332-2215 27 VILLAGE WEST RESORT 20785 170th Street villagewestresort.com Spirit Lake, IA 51360 712-337-3223

Lakefront 24 Year-round 257 Resort/ Conference Center

28 VINTAGE BLOCK INN AND SUITES VintageBlockofOkoboji.com

1107 Sanborn Ave Hotel/Motel 25 May-Oct. 54 Okoboji, IA 51355 712-332-8040

29 WEST OAKS RESORT westoaksresort.com

25 Lakeshore Drive Lakefront 26 Year-round 38 Arnolds Park, IA 51331 Resort 712-332-7711

*Some locations have a weight limit or require leashes for pets.

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

Escape to the lake

EXPERIENCE OUR COZY, COMFORABLE AND CONVENIENTLY-LOCATED BUNGALOWS Blue Water Bungalows are located just a short distance from Terrace Park Public Beach. Our six fully furnished bungalows are situated on the Dickinson County Trails, with a beautiful view of West Lake Okoboji. Whether you want to grill and picnic on a lazy afternoon or access the beach across the street, you will always find fun here! KITCHENETTE, PATIO/GRILL, FIREPIT, FREE WIFI, A/C, HEATING, LAWN GAMES & PICNIC TABLES.

OPEN YEAR ROUND 1711 Jeppeson Rd | Milford, IA 51351 402-672-7814 or 402-672-7816 bojibluewaterbungalows.com 16

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

LODGING GUIDE

Estherville Inn & Suites

2008 Central Ave., Estherville 712-362-5522 esthervillehotel.com Only a 20-minute drive from the lakes area and just minutes from Fort Defiance State Park, Little Swan Lake Winery, and the Wild Rose Casino. Enjoy your day at the lakes and relax with quiet nights in the beautiful community of Estherville or enjoy our indoor hot tub and heated pool.

Kabele’s Lodge

504 Hill Ave., Spirit Lake 712-336-1512 | kabeles.com This cozy lodge offers all the modern amenities a guest could want, yet has a wonderful natureretreat feel. Each unit features a kitchenette, pillow-top queen bed and full-size sleeper sofa. Located across from beautiful East Lake Okoboji and Kabele’s Trading Post, this lodge is a fisherman’s dream.

Fillenwarth Beach

87 Lakeshore Dr., Arnolds Park 712-332-5646 | 800-332-7236 fillenwarthbeach.com

15 Dam Rd., Arnolds Park 712-337-6400 theinnhotel.com

The special amenities are what characterize this time-honored, family-owned and operated resort on West Lake Okoboji. The complimentary offerings include million dollar home and history cruises, sailing, arts and crafts, beer/wine/champagne tastings, skiing, fishing clinics, canoes/paddleboats/rowboats and cruises on the 49-foot Sun Runner. This century-old resort excels at family vacations!

Experience luxury at The Inn Hotel. Located in the heart of Arnolds Park, just steps from the beach, The Inn Hotel offers high-end hospitality and easy access to all Okoboji has to offer. Enjoy some fun in the sun and a hand-crafted cocktail poolside.

Northland Inn

The Oakwood Inn

2051 Hwy. 9, Spirit Lake 712-336-1450 NorthlandInnSpiritLake.com

23131 Nature Center Rd. Spirit Lake | 712-332-8057 theoakwoodinnokoboji.com

Whether traveling for business or pleasure, enjoy the comfortable, lodge-like decor of the Northland Inn. Reasonable rates, personal service, and complimentary continental breakfast make this popular motel a real value. Large rooms contain high-speed internet, cable TV, microwaves and refrigerators. Located near the north end of West Lake Okoboji.

The Oakwood Inn is a grand estate in the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes, providing an adults-only environment to guests looking to Reconnect, Relax & Refresh. Guests will enjoy the expansive gardens, waterfall and ponds while relaxing on the patio, gazebo, pavilion or tree swing. The 11 spacious rooms at The Oakwood Inn have full bathrooms and fireplaces. A scratch-made gourmet breakfast is served each morning featuring family recipes and the estate’s own coffee.

H VACATION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

The Inn Hotel

HOTEL

MOTEL RESORT CABIN

B&B

VACATION RENTAL

More than just a place to stay Fillenwarth Beach is a family-owned and operated resort with 96 units spread across four locations (Main Beach, South Beach, North Beach and Cottage Colony) in Arnolds Park, the area’s entertainment center. With indoor and outdoor pools, canoes, paddleboats, rowboats and large sunning docks, you will find something for everyone here!

All accommodations are lakeside or nearby with lake access. Enjoy fullyfurnished suites, apartments, studios and cottages equipped for one to 18 with kitchen, patio/grill, TV/DVD, free inroom Wi-Fi and air conditioning. And, our guests enjoy an in-season recreation program with daily activities.

FREE GUEST ACTIVITIES • Cruises on our 49'

Sun Runner boat*

• Million Dollar Home Cruise • History Cruise • Sailboat Rides • Waterskiing and

Ski Instruction

• Beach Parties* *

with complimentary beverages

87 Lakeshore Drive • PO Box 536 • Arnolds Park, IA 51331 • Ph 712-332-5646 Reservations Only 800-332-7236 • Email: info@fillenwarthbeach.com • www.fillenwarthbeach.com V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

LODGING GUIDE

Okoboji Country Inn

1704 Terrace Park Blvd. West Okoboji 712-332-2358 OkobojiCountryInn.com

Okoboji Inn & Suites

3400 Okoboji Ave., Milford 712-338-4424 theokobojiinn.com

For the Inn traveler seeking a truly historic Iowa vacation. Fully restored to experience modern comforts combined with the nostalgia of Okoboji farmhouse splendor. You’ll be greeted with a wine and cheese platter upon your arrival and enjoy a gourmet breakfast, luxurious linens and gorgeous décor during your stay in the heart of Okoboji.

Welcome to Okoboji Inn & Suites! Located on Highway 71 just south of Arnolds Park. Okoboji Inn and Suites offers comfort and cleanliness far beyond your expectations. Modern guest rooms and complimentary hot breakfast are just a couple of reasons to choose Okoboji Inn and Suites. Let us elevate your comfort in the lakes area today!

Pick’s Lakeshore Resort 108 Monument Dr. Arnolds Park 712-332-2688 picksresort.com

This family resort has panoramic views of Arnolds Park Amusement Park and the blue waters of West Lake Okoboji from 180 feet of lakeshore. Each unit is individually styled with kitchenettes, air-conditioning, and cable TV. There is ample space on the large private dock for sunbathing, swimming, fishing, boating and just relaxing.

1943

SINCE

Private, rustic retreat close to Arnolds Park.

MORE than your typical

Summer

1900’s Cabin & Guest House | Hot Tub | WiFi

STAYINOKOBOJI.COM

108 MONUMENT DRIVE | ARNOLDS PARK 712.332.2688 | picksresort@hotmail.com Open Memorial Day to Labor Day

Reconnect

Relax

Refresh

www.TheOakwoodInnOkoboji.com (712) 332-8057 | 23131 Nature Center Road Spirit Lake, IA

H VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

HOTEL

MOTEL RESORT CABIN

B&B

VACATION RENTAL

Okoboji Inn & Suites 3400 Okoboji Ave. Milford, IA 51351 712-338-4424 Okobojiinn@gmail.com TheOkobojiInn.com

Enjoy elegantly appointed, contemporary guest rooms and suites. Conveniently located on Hwy 71 with access to the Iowa Great Lakes, Arnolds Park and all the lakes region has to offer. We look forward to meeting you!

Stay in a great hotel close to Lake Okoboji.

2008 Central Ave | Estherville, IA 712.362.5522 esthervillehotel.com

• Free Hot Breakfast • Free High-Speed Internet • Free Parking (Bus Parking available) • Indoor Heated Pool/Hot Tub • Exercise Room • Business Center

Amenities Include: BY CHOICE HOTELS

Unwind & Relax Near Okoboji

• Free WiFi • Indoor Heated Pool • Indoor Whirlpool/Hot Tub • Free Continental Breakfast • Exercise Room • Picnic Area • Pet Friendly • Bus Parking/Truck Parking

1511 Okoboji Ave | Hwy. 71 N | Milford, IA | 712-338-4701

RESTON INN & SUITES Just 15 minutes’ drive from Lake Okoboji, this Spencer, Iowa hotel serves a daily continental breakfast.

10 11th St SE, Spencer, IA | 712-580-4077 Book online at restoninn.com V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

LODGING GUIDE

Ramada

Reston Inn & Suites

2704 17th St., Spirit Lake 712-336-3984 ramada.com

10 11th St SE, Spencer, IA 712-580-4077 restoninn.com

The Ramada of Spirit Lake is an ideal destination for regional travelers seeking a respite from the road or a busy career. Situated near all the best attractions, the Ramada features 50 spacious guestrooms ideal for business and pleasure seekers. With complimentary continental breakfast, high-speed internet access available in all guestrooms and public spaces, a heated indoor pool and our well-appointed Business Center, this Okoboji hotel is a top choice.

Only 12 miles south of the Iowa Great Lakes, Reston Inn & Suites is conveniently located at the corner of Hwy 71 & 18 in Spencer. This newly remodeled property will soon become your home away from home. Join us for the World Famous Clay County Fair or a summer getaway. Our property features a complimentary hot breakfast every day and indoor pool & hot tub. Get your REST ON at Reston Inn & Suites!

Rodeway Inn Choice Hotel 1511 Okoboji Ave., Milford 712-338-4701 choicehotels.com/rodeway-inn The Rodeway Inn is within walking distance to restaurants, and minutes from lakes area attractions. It features a business center, newly renovated guest rooms, large family accommodations, and luxury honeymoon Jacuzzi suites. Indoor pool and hot tub, outdoor patio and grill, and a complimentary continental breakfast are just a few of the amenities you will enjoy.

SINK INTO COMFORT, STYLE AND VALUE New Cozy Beds ★ Free Breakfast ★ Free Wi-Fi ★ Heated Indoor Pool Outdoor Fire Pit & Patio Area ★ Earn Wyndham Rewards Points

OKOBOJI, IA 712.332.9000 | 800.634.3444 Reserve online at AMERICINN.COM for the best value and packages.

H VACA TION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

HOTEL

MOTEL RESORT CABIN

B&B

VACATION RENTAL

Triggs Bay RESORT

ENJOY:

N Best value in the Lakes Area! N Condo style units with either 1 or 2 bedrooms N 300’ of natural sand beach N Large sun and pool decks N 4 large docks for fishing, boats, swimming or relaxation N Gas dock and hoist space N 20’ x 40’ heated pool N Playground & recreation room N Free Wi-Fi

Our specialty is great memories! RENTALS: Speed boats, wave runners, fishing boats, paddle boats, canoes, pontoons, kayaks and paddleboards

Located in the Heart of the Lakes Region

180 Linden Dr., Box 116 | Arnolds Park, IA | Book Your Stay: In-Season: 712-332-2215 | Off-Season: 712-320-2231 Email: triggsbayresort@gmail.com | www.triggsbayresort.com

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

LODGING GUIDE

Sand Bar Beach Resort

Super 8

11302 270th Ave. Place Spirit Lake 712-336-0538 sandbarbeach.com This resort has housekeeping cabins on the northeast side of Big Spirit Lake, overlooking the lake and a natural sand beach. Families and fishermen love the quiet location and return annually. Bait is available at the store which offers guest boat, pontoon, and paddleboat rentals.

Travelodge

Triggs Bay Resort

2203 Circle Dr. West Spirit Lake | 712-336-4901 Super8.com

1905 18th St., Spirit Lake 712-336-2668 wyndhamhotels.com/travelodge

180 Linden Dr., Arnolds Park 712-332-2215 TriggsBayResort.com

The Spirit Lake Super 8 is part of the largest economical lodging chain in the United States. Recently renovated, each room is designed for comfort, including cable TV with HBO, hair dryers, complimentary coffee, microwave, refrigerator, and free breakfast. Whirlpool suite and King Executive rooms are available. The Super 8 is conveniently located to area attractions.

This 36-unit motel, with recently renovated rooms and breakfast area, is within minutes of everything the Okoboji area has to offer. Perfect lodging for budget-minded travelers in town for leisure, business or extended stays. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast with ample parking with outdoor plug-ins for trucks, boats or snowmobile trailers.

Nestled in a protected bay on the South Shore of East Lake Okoboji in the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes, guests will enjoy 300 feet of the finest natural sand beach, a heated outdoor pool, recreation room, 4 docks, boat rentals, picnic tables, grills, a playground, and condo-style accommodations perfect for a family vacation.

R ESORT & HOT EL

OPEN YEAR-ROUND | villagewestresort.com | 712-337-3223, ext. 253 WEEKLY/MONTHLY CONDO RENTALS, CALL 712-337-3223, EXT. 250

20785 170th St., Spirit Lake, IA 51360

H VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

HOTEL

MOTEL RESORT CABIN

B&B

VACATION RENTAL

Located near the East Lake Boat Dock Access Minutes to every area aaraccon!

www.VintageBlockofOkoboji.com Suites sleep up to 10 guests • Kitcheneees • Grills Outdoor Pool & Gazebo • Surrey Bikes & Bicycles Green Space with Firepits, and Lawn Games

LODGING GUIDE

Village West Resort

Vintage Block

West Oaks Resort

20785 170th St., Spirit Lake 712-337-3223 villagewestresort.com

1107 Sanborn Ave., Okoboji 712-332-8040 VintageBlockofOkoboji.com

25 Lakeshore Dr., Arnolds Park 712-332-7711 westoaksresort.com

This full-service resort and conference center rests on the shores of West Lake Okoboji. Guests are also invited to take advantage of the family recreation program, indoor & outdoor pools, beach, mini golf course, fitness room, arcade, full-service gas dock and boat rentals.

With 54 rooms ranging from a 2-bedroom apartment to 13 family suites, Vintage Block has created a one-of-a-kind experience. Less than one block west of the East Lake Okoboji public dock and within minutes of all area attractions. Enjoy our outdoor pool, gazebo, Surrey Bikes, corn-hole, fire pits, grills and picnic tables.

Located in the heart of Arnolds Park on the beautiful shores of West Lake Okoboji, West Oaks is within walking distance to the Amusement Park, restaurants and shopping. Every two-bedroom condominium comes complete with everything you need for your stay. The resort offers indoor and outdoor pools making it a prime choice for your vacation destination.

SCAN FOR SPRING BREAK FUN!

Resort & Condominiums

Stay in Style

West Oaks Resort is located in the heart of the Iowa

Great Lakes region. Nestled among the giant oaks on beautiful West Lake Okoboji, you’ll experience the best the lakes have to offer.

Relax in your luxurious two-bedroom, two-bathroom

condominium and enjoy the convenience of a fully-equipped kitchen, indoor and outdoor pools, private dock and boat hoists.

Open Year Around • Special Off-Season Rates • Walking Distance to Major Attractions • Rentals & Timeshares • Canoes, Paddle Boats & Bikes • Free WiFi

P.O. Box 119 • Arnolds Park, IA 51331 • 712-332-7711 • Fax 712-332-5050 • www.westoaksresort.com

H VACATION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

HOTEL

MOTEL RESORT CABIN

B&B

VACATION RENTAL

Vacation

VACATION TO

RENTAL PROPERTIES

Escapes Vacation Rentals

Okoboji

Bridges Bay Condos, Arnolds Park 515-401-2563 Facebook.com/escapesvacations Escape to lakefront luxury accommodations in 3-4 bedroom, 2 bath condos at Bridges Bay Resort. Enjoy high-end appointments; fully stocked kitchen, grill, washer/dryer, Wi-Fi and underground parking. Receive six daily passes to the indoor/outdoor (seasonal) waterpark with water slides, hot tub, lazy river, and other water features.

Okoboji Vacation Co.

VRBO

1714 Hill Ave., Spirit Lake 712-336-0888 | BookBoji.com Okoboji Vacation Company professionally manages, markets, reserves and turns over short term vacation rentals for over a decade in the Iowa Great Lakes area. We host over sixty properties and are locally owned and operated. Offering Homes, Condos, Cabins, and Townhomes on Big Spirit Lake Lakefront, West Lake Okoboji Lakefront, Bridges Bay Resort, Spirit Lake, Arnolds Park and Okoboji area. Book your next Boji stay online at www.bookboji.com.

Sleepy Hollow Retreat

VACATION RENTALS

2803 Hwy 71, Milford 712-898-0601 Stayinokoboji.com Stay on a 1.5 acre private setting 2 blocks away from the famous Arnolds Park in beautiful West Lake Okoboji. The property occupies a 1900s cabin and a Guest House that have been thoughtfully renovated. Amenities include Wi-Fi, Pool, Hot Tub and a Rustic Wood Burning Fireplace. We look forward to sharing this rustic and privately set property with you!

booking.com airbnb

next r u o y k o o B ay at okoboji st com bookboji. es $$$ e and save f Waterpark Passes Included

Bridges Bay Condos Bridges Bay Vacation Cabins Big Spirit Lakefront Homes West Lake Lakefront Homes CentralPark Townhomes and Stone Fountain Condos walking distance to the Arnolds Park Amusement Park Area Arnolds Park | Okoboji Homes

TIES 70+PROPER E BOOK ONLIN OM BOOKBOJI.C

VACATIONS

+712-336-0888

www.bookboji.com

info@bookboji.com

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

HAPPY

Campers

The Iowa Great Lakes has over 1,200 camping sites for you to park your RV or pitch your tent. Many sites are located near the lakes with great fishing and hiking! Remember to reserve state park campsites three months in advance.

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

©Estherville Chamber

Cutty’s Okoboji Resort Club

Fieldstone RV

1528 Hwy. 86, Spirit Lake 712-336-2226 | cuttysofokoboji.org

110 202nd St., Arnolds Park 712-332-7631 | fieldstonervpark.com Open Seasonally

Cutty’s is a private ownership resort with a down home atmosphere focused on yearround family fun. In addition to 57 rental units, there are 298 full hook-up campsites available for owner use. Amenities: clubhouse, planned activities, an indoor pool, horseshoes, playgrounds, mini-golf, paddleboats as well as showers, restrooms and laundry facilities.

Relax and enjoy everything the Iowa Great Lakes has to offer! Fieldstone is the newest addition to the Iowa Great Lakes and offers 200 deluxe RV sites. Sites include full RV hook-ups with electric, water, and sewer. Amenities: laundry room, free Wi-Fi, restrooms, showers, and clubhouse. Seasonal reservations accepted, open May through October.

State Parks iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com | 877-IAPARKS (877-427-2757) Together, Iowa’s state parks in Dickinson County have more than 300 campsites for overnight visitors. They range from tent sites to full hook-ups (sewer, water and electricity). Seventy-five percent of these campsites can be reserved up to 3 months in advance. The remaining twenty-five percent of campsites are available for walk-in (first-come, first-served) camping. From Nov. 1 to March 31 camping is on a first come, first serve basis only.

CAMPGROUND DIRECTORY To view locations, see the map on page 126 Name/Phone

Tent Sites

Reservations

Electric Available

Location

Open

Rates

$ ARNOLDS PARK CITY CAMPGROUND Off US Hwy. 71, on Bascom St. May–Sept 35-$50/night 15 $ MINNEWASHTA Arnolds Park, IA 51331 25-$40 w/o elect. 712-332-2341 $ 28.50-$40.50/night 153 CENLA CAMPGROUND 1 mile south of Hwy. 9 & 71 April 15– Oct 15 okobojicamping.com Jct. 3200 US Hwy. 71, Spirit Lake, IA 51360 712-336-2925 $ ELINOR BEDELL STATE PARK* On Highway M56 Year Round 26/night 8 877-427-2757 Spirit Lake, IA 51360 $ 14-$26/night 82 EMERSON BAY STATE PARK* On Hwy. 86, East of Treasure Village Year Round 877-427-2757 3100 Emerson St., West Okoboji, IA 51351 FIELDSTONE RV PARK 110 202nd Street May-Oct Seasonal 245 fieldstonervpark.com Arnolds Park, IA 51331 712-332-7631 $ 14-$26/night 112 GULL POINT STATE PARK* Off Hwy. 86, turn at Crescent Beach turnoff Year Round 877-427-2757 1500 Harpen St., Wahpeton, IA 51351

$ LUTHERAN LAKESIDE CAMP 2491 170th St. Spirit Lake, IA 51360 May-Oct 45/night 712-336-2109 2 night minimum

$ $

MARBLE BEACH STATE PARK* 877-427-2757

West side of Big Spirit Lake 12320 240th Ave, Spirit Lake, IA 51360

14- 26/night

Year Round

10 122

VICK’S CORNER On NW corner of 9 & 86 Jct. Year Round 20/n water & elect 69 712-336-5602 4 miles west of Spirit Lake depending 15/w elect. $ $

RR Box 9131, Spirit Lake, IA 51360

NOTE: PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE. *IOWASTATEPARKS.RESERVEAMERICA.COM

on snow

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

THE GARDENS

Boat-Up Bars & RESTAURANTS

Whether you’re boating to dinner or stopping for a snack and beverage on a summer afternoon, Okoboji has a large variety of boat-up restaurants!

MAXWELL’S BEACH CAFE

VACA TION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

THE GARDENS

OKOBOJI STORE

WHERE TO GO BAREFOOT BAR

East Lake THE BOARDWALK

West Lake BOB’S IN ARNOLDS PARK

West Lake BRACCO

East Lake CRESCENT BEACH PUB

West Lake WATERFRONT GRILLE

THE FISH SHACK

West Lake THE GARDENS

West Lake GINGHAM INN TO-GO

East Lake KAZARELLI’S

West Lake MAXWELL’S BEACH CAFE

West Lake O’FARRELL SISTERS

West Lake OKOBOJI STORE BAR & KITCHEN BAREFOOT BAR

Jct of East & West Lake PIRATE JACK’S

West Lake PRIME BOJI

West Lake THE RITZ

East Lake SNAPPERS TURTLE BAY CAFE

East Lake WATERFRONT GRILLE

East Lake WOUDE’S BAY BAR

East Lake

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

Photo: Bonfire Marketing

Okoboji Store Bar & Kitchen

Time to Dine

DELICIOUS EATS

Photo: Bonfire Marketing

From gourmet, full-service restaurants to casual bars and grills to quaint coffeehouses, the Iowa Great Lakes has it all.

The Friozen Parrot

VACATION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

Bracco

Okoboji Store Bar & Kitchen

Yesterdays

LOCAL MARKETS

PATIO DINING & DRINKS

Farmers Market in the Park, Arnolds Park Saturdays, May 25 - Sept. 28 8:30 am - 12:30 pm farmersmarketinthepark.com

The Iowa Great Lakes Area offers some of the best patios for dining outdoors. You can relax with fine dining and a lakeside view, have drinks and smashburgers on a rooftop deck with friends, or appetizers with a view of the golf course. There are so many great options, we think you’ll want to try them all!

GREAT PATIOS FOR OUTDOOR DINING & DRINKS

Lakes Area Farmers Market Dickinson County Fairgrounds, Spirit Lake Wednesdays and Saturdays June 1 - Oct. 5 | 7:30 am - Noon Makers Market Hill Avenue – Spirit Lake Thursdays, June 6 - Aug. 29 5:00 - 8:00 pm

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

DINING GUIDE

Betsy’s Diner, Boathouse Bakery 20785 170th St., Spirit Lake 712-337-3223 villagewestresort.com

Boji Spudz

Bracco

50 Hwy 71, Arnolds Park 712-320-0580 Open Year Round

317 240th Ave., Arnolds Park 712-332-7900 BraccoBoji.com Open Seasonally

Enjoy a variety of dining options serving breakfast and lunch throughout the year at Village West Resort. Check our website for hours.

Get Hot Fresh Donuts! From our kids’ favorite PB&J to our Lemon Creme, there’s something for everyone at Boji Spudz. New varieties added regularly. Be sure to ask about our gluten free options when you stop by for your sweet treat. ‘Get glazed’ in Okoboji!

Dudley’s Garage Bowling

El Mariachi Bar & Grill

Fareway

1511 18th Street, Spirit Lake (712) 339-9669 el-mariachi-bar-grill.business.site Open Year Round

1906 Keokuk Ave., Spirit Lake 712-336-5802 | fareway.com Open Year-Round

103 Main St., Lakefield, MN 507-662-5418 dudleysgarage.com Open Year Round

Eat. Drink. Bowl. A warehouse-chic restaurant where guests can expect to enjoy freshly prepared dishes with locally sourced ingredients, a full bar featuring unique cocktails in our indoor dining area or outside on the patio deck. If you are not listening to live music, you can watch old music videos, hilarious TV commercials from the past, or catch the game on one of our 12 televisions and the big screen. Expect to be wowed.

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

El Mariachi is a locally owned and operated Mexican Bar & Grill with all your favorite Mexican dishes as well as traditional American favorites. Daily lunch and dinner specials are available. If you want great food and excellent service in a family friendly atmosphere, make sure and stop at El Mariachi in the Great Lakes Mall, Spirit Lake.

Enjoy Island-Themed Cocktails, Burgers, Sandwiches, Jambalaya, Pasta and more with several Gluten-Free options available. Bring the whole family to this island-themed atmosphere offering a large deck overlooking East Lake Okoboji... perfect for boat watching while you dine! Come by boat or car. Dogfriendly on patio.

Fareway is your full-service grocery store located in Spirit Lake offering farm-fresh produce, full-service meat counter, carry-toyour car service, propane tanks and more. The name Fareway symbolizes treating employees and customers fair—where hard work receives a fair wage and customers fair prices. Store hours: Mon.—Sat. 8 a.m. — 9 p.m., closed Sundays and holidays.

OPEN HOURS

TUES FRIDAY, OPEN AT 11 AM SATURDAY, OPEN AT 9 AM

50 U. S. Hwy 71, Arnolds Park Lakes Center Mall • 712-320-0580 follow us on Facebook!

LOCATED AT: 103 Main Street Lakefield, MN 56150

LIVE MUSIC CATCH THE GAME ON ONE OF OUR 12 TVs

SCAN FOR MENU

dudleysgarage.com

•Full Service Meat Counter • Farm Fresh Produce • Carry-to-your Car Service • Propane Tanks • Wine & Spirits

1906 Keokuk Ave., Spirit Lake | 712-336-5802 Open Mon-Sat, 8am-9pm | Closed Sundays Local Specials & Online Ordering @ gogodfathers.com

2402 Okoboji Ave, Milford: (712)338-9000 2310 17th St, Spirit Lake: (712)336-5000 113 Grand Ave, Spencer: (712)262-7742

Special edition DINE WITH US

CATERING

LIMO SERVICE

Join us Thursday Saturday from 5 to 10 PM (kitchen), with our bar open until midnight.

The Hi-Lo Club proudly offers catering in SW Minnesota and NW Iowa for all events.

Enjoy a night free of worry and let us do the driving. Book now at the Hi-Lo reservation #.

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

DINING GUIDE

The Frozen Parrot

108 Hwy 71, Arnolds Park 727-366-3882 Facebook.com/thefrozenparrot Dip, Top, Drizzle & Enjoy the Coolest Treats in Okoboji! At The Frozen Parrot you can enjoy handcrafted gourmet popsicles in delicious, unique flavors like Blue Raspberry Jolly Rancher™, Very Berry Cheesecake, Oreo™ Cookies & Cream, Pistachio Almond and more. Pop in for a one-of-a-kind experience for all ages!

The Hutt Bar & Grill 250 Hwy. 71 S, Arnolds Park 712-332-8074 thehuttbarandgrill.com Open Year Round

The Hutt Bar and Grill serves up lunch and dinner daily starting at 11 am all year long. With a full bar and Okoboji’s BEST Bloody Mary; an incredible staff who will greet you like an old friend, The HUTT is a MUST on your Okoboji to do list! You will NOT go away hungry! Host your next event in our party/meeting room.

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

Godfather’s Pizza 2402 Okoboji Ave., Milford 712-338-9000 2310 17th St., Spirit Lake | 712-336-5000 gogodfathers.com | Open Year Round Godfather’s Pizza is proud of our long history in the Spirit Lake, Milford and Spencer area dating back to 1977. Our pizza is made fresh daily using the freshest ingredients and created by a dedicated staff working together to provide the best pizza pie piled high in the area. Dine-in, carry-out, or give our heated bag delivery a try!

Hi-Lo Club

80626 Hwy 86, Lakefield, MN 507-662-5992 Hiloclub.com | Open Year Round Food at its finest since 1946! The HI-LO CLUB has an updated 1950’s, Rat Pack vibe, but even then the decor is the food! Their fine dining menu consists of delicious steaks, house-made pasta, unique entrees and shareable sides, along with a can’t miss dessert menu. The extensive elevated cocktail and wine menu is sure to please every palate. Enjoy the main dining room, beautifully appointed bar, or private dining room for family gatherings or corporate events. Limo Service available. Walk-ins welcome, reservations preferred.

Jimmy John’s

Los Pueblos

228 Hwy. 71, Arnolds Park | 712-332-2305 1007 18th St., Spirit Lake | 712-336-2424 JimmyJohns.com Open Year Round

384 Hwy. 71 S., Arnolds Park 712-332-7315 lospueblosokoboji.com Open Year Round

Jimmy John’s®: The Sandwich of Sandwiches. Freaky Fast® sandwiches using high quality ingredients built onto fresh-baked bread using premium meats and fresh veggies, sliced by hand daily. Jimmy John’s also offers delivery and convenient catering to make any occasion the perfect moment. Choose from their Party Boxes, Mini Jimmys®, Box Lunches, or Lil’ Lunches for your next event. Order all your favorites online or in the Jimmy John’s app today. Excluding limited-time offerings.

Los Pueblos is a Mexican-American Grill that adds spice to dining in the Iowa Great Lakes. They offer a full menu of authentic Mexican entrees and American favorites. Order a full meal or choose from the a la carte menu for your perfect Mexican meal. Lunch, dinner and happy hour specials are available daily. Reasonably priced and guaranteed that patrons will leave full. Located on Highway 71 south of Arnolds Park Amusement Park.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

Great Lakes Mall • Spirit Lake • 712-339-9669

©Bonfire Marketing

Home of Okoboji’s Best Bloody Mary

Breakfasts

Weekends starting at 8 AM Including: Crab Cake Benedict & Stuffed French Toast

Lunches

Something for Everyone, from our Specialty Salads to the Hutt Burger!

Evening Meals

Some of your favorites & NEW ones too!

Custom & Specialty Meats

Great Gifts

TH VE N G

TheHuttBarAndGrill.com est. 2002

Host your next event in our Party Room!

P R O C E SS

Award-Winning

We offer a line of quality fresh and award-winning smoked retail meats along with seasoning rubs, cheese, liquor, pop and cold beer. We are a one-stop shop and local favorite!

Convenient Parking

Located directly across from Arnolds Park Amusement Park 250 Hwy 71 South • Arnolds Park

712.332.8074

Locations in Ruthven, Spencer, Arnolds Park, & Spirit Lake | 712-837-5334 | Ruthvenmeat.com V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

DINING GUIDE

New Ulm Brewing & Beverage Company 120 7th Ave. NE, Sleepy Eye, MN 507-794-1919 1919rootbeer.com buddyssoda.com Open Year Round Some things never go out of style, that’s why Lakes Area vendors proudly serve 1919 Draft Root Beer! The New Ulm Brewing and Beverage Company is the producer of 1919 Draft Root Beer and Buddy’s Original Orange, Grape, Strawberry, and Lemon Sour sodas. America’s original brewery-made root beer has been putting smiles on the faces of Okoboji travelers for years.

O’Farrell Sisters 1109 Lakeshore Dr., Okoboji 712-332-7901 parksmarina.com/ofarrell-sisters Open Seasonally A lakes area tradition since 1947 offering Okoboji’s most legendary pancakes, cinnamon rolls, hearty breakfasts like the Hangover Helper, nine different Eggs Benedict and a wide lunch menu. Enjoy an eye opener, Super Bloody Mary or Mimosa at the full bar. And save room for dessert with our famous pie.

Okoboji Store Bar & Kitchen

Outrigger

Pub 19 Bar & Grill

1404 Hwy. 71 S., Okoboji theokobojistore.com Open Seasonally

1301 Hwy. 71 S., Okoboji 712-332-6020 Open Year Round

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a night out with friends, you’ll love sitting outside on the large deck overlooking where East meets West at the Okoboji Store. The Store features an intriguing food and drink menu, extensive live music line-up, and is very family friendly. Come by car or boat, valet boat service available!

The Outrigger is an Okoboji classic! Enjoy great food in a cozy supper club atmosphere. The menu offers a wide variety of appetizers, steaks, seafood, broasted chicken, pork chops, burgers, sandwiches, pasta, local favorites, and fantastic desserts! Fun drinks, beer, and fantastic wine options. Chef’s features and prime rib offered on the weekends.

1665 Hwy. 86, Spirit Lake 712-332-8142 pub19barandgrill.com Open Year Round

VACA TION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

Enjoy the distinctive atmosphere of Pub 19 Bar and Grill! Beautiful bar, relaxing deck and windowed dining room overlooking the golf course. Full menu includes appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, salads, steak, pasta and more. We are Okoboji’s East Coast Style Pizzeria. The Pizza is made by hand and baked on hot bricks – “Just like in the Old Country.”

Photo: Bonfire Marketing

OKOBOJI’S BEST MEXICAN FOOD Enjoy one of our famous Margaritas and munch on some chips and salsa. Whether you’re in the mood for enchiladas, fajitas, or fish tacos, we have something the whole family will enjoy! Come sit on the patio in the sun with your favorite furry friend. (All pets must be leashed.)

384 HWY. 71 NORTH | ARNOLDS PARK | (712) 332-7315 LOSPUEBLOS@YAHOO.COM

Okoboji Store Bar & Kitchen

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

DINING GUIDE

Round Lake Vineyards & Winery 30124 State Hwy 264 Round Lake, MN 507-945-1100 roundlakevineyards.com Open Year Round Just minutes from the Iowa Great Lakes, Round Lake Vineyards is a destination for fun and relaxation. The estate winery offers wine tasting, a full-menu restaurant, complete bar options and lots of nature and space for couples and families alike. Come see us for a full day of fun.

Snappers Turtle Bay Cafe 24457 178th, Okoboji 712-332-8293 parksmarina.com/snappers Open Year Round Snappers is more than a great meal. It’s a fabulous meal in an extraordinary relaxing atmosphere. Family friendly and just steps away from the World-Famous Barefoot Bar. Open year round for lunch or dinner. Daily drink and food specials. Come by boat or car, there is plenty of parking.

VACATION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

Ruthven Locker at the Lakes 1608 Hill Ave., Spirit Lake 712-837-5334 Ruthvenmeat.com Open Year-Round Ruthven Meat Processing is known for their quality service, highly skilled, traditionally trained butchers. When you shop at their Locker at the Lakes or use their custom processing service, you can be confident that you are purchasing meat of the highest quality, cut with care, and priced right.

Topog Coffeehouse 37 Lake St., Arnolds Park www.topog.com Open Seasonally TOPOG is the perfect place to come together, relax and enjoy a delicious array of coffee, baked goods and Ashby’s hand-dipped ice cream. Enjoy our cozy and refined space from the perfect location right across the street from Arnolds Park Amusement Park. Shop carefully curated merchandise and make TOPOG a must-see stop during your Okoboji adventures. TOPOG is your place on the map.

Smokin’ Jakes 117 W Broadway, Arnolds Park 712-332-5152 | smokinjakes.com Open Year Round Smokin’ Jakes hickory smoked baby-back pork ribs are smoked fresh daily and so good we put our special BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Tender smoked meats, fresh sandwiches, homemade soups and crisp salads are just a few of the delectable favorites that are made fresh daily. Join us for lunch, dinner and late night breakfast (10pm-3am) for excellent homemade food. Win a package of meat or cash in our Thursday night Meat Raffle and Key Chain Cash Drawing. Smokin’ Jakes casual and friendly atmosphere is the perfect place to meet with family and friends. Catering available.

Waterfront Grille & Event Center 610 Linden Dr., Arnolds Park 712-220-3200 waterfrontokoboji.com Open Year Round Enjoy Steaks, Burgers, Seafood, Flatbread Pizzas, Pasta, and more with several GlutenFree options throughout the menu. Bring the whole family to relax in the comfortable indoor dining area or enjoy lakeside dining on the patio with stunning sunset views! Come by boat or car. Dog-friendly on patio.

Open 7 days a week at 11AM

ceful

Pea patio

West O Pizza

Yesterdays

503 Terrace Park Blvd., West Okoboji 712-332-8090 Westobeer.com Open Year Round

131 W Broadway, Arnolds Park 712-332-2353 Yesterdaysokoboji.com Open Seasonally

West O Beer is a local award-winning Microbrewery and Pizzeria. We are familyfriendly and along with beer, wine and soda offer our very own Neapolitan-Style Brick Oven Pizza, 100% made from scratch daily with the freshest ingredients. Grab a seat, lounge on the patio or take pizza and beer to go. Social Media: @westobeer

When you want an excellent meal served ‘Okoboji Style’, visit Yesterdays, a local favorite for nearly 40 years. Yesterdays has a complete dinner menu, features nightly specials and has an extensive wine and cocktail list. Enjoy seafood specialties, steaks, and gourmet sandwiches. Save room for homemade Key Lime Pie or Bananas Foster!

LIVE MUSIC GREAT FOOD FUN ATMOSPHERE

If we’re open, we’re serving food! FULL BAR

OUR WINES, UNIQUE WINE SLUSHIES, BEER, HARD HONEY AND LIQUOR

FULL MENU

Delicious Seafood Entrées Charbroiled Steaks Homemade Key Lime Pie Let Yesterdays Cater Your Next Event! Located on Broadway St. in Arnolds Park For Reservations, call 712.332.2353 YesterdaysOkoboji.com

Okoboji’s Finest Seafood Restaurant for Over 30 Years!

We proudly serve

FEATURING BISON BURGER AND STEAKS.

’ 117 W. Broadway, Arnolds Park 712-332-5152 | smokinjakes.com

ENTREE MENU STARTING AT 4PM.

ROUNDLAKEVINEYARDS.COM 30124 STATE HWY 264, ROUND LAKE, MN 507.945.1100

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

BARS & NIGHTLIFE

Bars &

NIGHTLIFE

The Barefoot Bar

Crescent Beach Pub

24457 178th St., Okoboji parksmarina.com/the-barefoot-bar Open Seasonally

Drake’s - Oak Hill Outdoor

1620 Lakeshore Dr., Milford 712-337-3351 CrescentBeachLodge.com Open Seasonally

2188 Hwy 86, Milford 712-337-6440 Oakhilloutdoor.com

The Barefoot Bar is located at Parks Marina and is one of the region’s most popular destinations. Key West comes to Iowa, complete with Palm Trees, Tiki bars, great beach-fare food, FREE live entertainment, famous “Full Moon Parties.” Shop for your shirt or souvenir with the world-famous Barefoot logo.

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

The Pub at Crescent Beach offers a selection of wine and liquor. Our beer is served in a chilled mug and always 34°. When you are out enjoying the trails in Wahpeton stop by for a refreshing beverage or a quick snack from our appetizer menu! You won’t be disappointed!

Enjoy happy hour, a full bar, and menu at Drake’s at the Lakes! Located inside Oak Hill Outdoor, see live music, enjoy comfortable, lounge seating, and find easy parking at Drake’s! Full food menu and seasonal and lunch menu specials, too! Yearly cook-offs, bands, and events and lots of space for your gatherings. Stop in and grab an ice-cold beer or drink!

@chris_chapman5

Rent Today!

Whether you’re docking at one of the area’s lively bars to enjoy dinner and a famous fish bowl or getting the courage to karaoke, the Okoboji nightlife and vibrant entertainment scene has something to offer everyone. You’ll find yourself singing, dancing and laughing in no time to one of the bands, comedians, dances, concerts or shows that make up the lake area’s nightlife.

westobeer.com/loft

For All Your Private Events!

Craft Brewery & Pizzeria Award-Winning Craft Beer Neapolitan-Style Pizza Taproom + Outdoor Patio Beer - Wine - Cider - Soda

The Fish Shack

The Gardens

1401 Lakeshore Dr., Okoboji 712-332-9904 parksmarina.com Open Year Round

West O Beer

144 Lakeside Ave., Arnolds Park 712-332-2990 parksmarina.com Open Year Round

503 Terrace Park Blvd., West Okoboji 712-332-8090 Westobeer.com Open Year Round

The Fish Shack is a West Lake spectacle and the most popular of Okoboji Boat Works excursion boats with regular cruises every Sat. afternoon from 1-5, complete with bartenders and a DJ. When she’s not Shaking the Lake, the Fish Shack is open while in port and features a full bar and is a great place to sit and watch the boats go by. During the winter months, The Fish Shack has TVs to watch games, hot food, fishing, and ice skate rentals.

Whether it is the DJ where you tell us the dance grooves you want, live music on the weekends, the wings, burgers and pizza or a cold drink with a dock, deck and view of beautiful West Lake Okoboji, The Gardens has it all -- including cruises. From Memorial Day to Labor Day Gardens Siesta Cruise departs from the Gardens Sunday - Friday. Boaters are welcome as dock space is ample. A popular place with locals and visitors alike.

West O Beer is a local award-winning Microbrewery and Pizzeria. We are familyfriendly and offer house-brewed craft beer, local wine and soda. Hungry? Enjoy our Neapolitan-style Brick Oven Pizza, made from scratch daily. Grab a seat, lounge on the patio or take beer and pizza to go. Social Media: @westobeer.

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

Photo: Bonfire Marketing

Okoboji’s venues build a true live music destination

BY JONATHAN

REED

Okoboji Store Bar & Kitchen

JUST LISTEN: It’s possible to find musicians strumming, plucking, blowing, or singing every week at the Iowa Great Lakes. While some cities might have strictly jazz-only clubs, open-mic-only bars, or country clubs, Okoboji’s venues offer equal-opportunity musical genres. It’s like the weather—wait a week and it’ll change. So here’s where to go.

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

TAKING THE STAGE YEAR ROUND

The Roof Garden Ballroom The modern version of the 1923 ballroom hosts local and touring musical groups all year long. What do you enjoy? Classic rock, ‘50s doo-wop, contemporary country, ‘90s hits, or big band jazz? The Roof Garden brings it all, even free Jazzed Up Big Band music Tuesdays all summer, and old time Rock ’N Roll in the Majestic Pavilion on Thursdays.

Captain’s Getaway Powered by trips to Nashville with one ear tuned to Sirius XM’s The Highway channel, Captain’s Getaway has become a hot performance venue for country music, presenting acts both up-and-coming and national headliners. “What we are looking for is bands that have a great sound, with great songs, and (who) perform unforgettable shows,” says Captain’s Getaway’s Jason Christensen. Look for around eight NashLO concerts (Nashville + Lake Okoboji, get it?) every year, plus at least one pop/rock show. Tip: If you see Captain’s hosting a band you like, get tickets right away.

SCAN FOR LIVE MUSIC!

OUTDOOR SEASONAL

The Barefoot Bar

The late musician Jimmy Buffett would be proud, as this “sunny lakeside day bar” has championed live music with an awesome funloving atmosphere since it opened. The Barefoot books around 30 performers in a summer with afternoon bands on weekends followed by higher-energy evening headline groups cranking it up all summer long. Palm trees complete the Key West vibe.

The Gardens A spirited bar overlooking Okoboji, their Funset Sunset celebrations sign around 50 musicians every summer for the lakeside deck, which amounts to over 100 straight days of live music. Late night music inside lights up every weekend, too.

The Okoboji Store

Captain’s Getaway Mark Richter @uofgov

Pearson Lakes Art Center

The Ritz

The 300-seat Lauridsen Theatre is home to 20+ performances annually, bringing in regional and nationally-known acts ranging from tribute bands of the ‘50s - 90s; Mondays, Pomerantz Hall downstairs hosts the locally famous Dick Bauman Big Band during the summer.

Take your popular local bar/restaurant and periodically add equally popular local musicians throughout the year—typically weekends—and you get a good time for all.

Little Swan Lake Winery With locally produced wine and bison-based meals available, this rustic performance barn is home to folk, country, classic rock and jazz performers, typically Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. No admission charged.

The Okoboji Store’s outdoor patio is a big attraction due to its fun vibe and lakeside lookie-loo location between East and West Okobojis. With a small covered stage housing performers, a play area nearby helps kids to burn off energy while parents enjoy a beverage and tap their toes to familiar musicians. Look for popular midwest regional acts on weekends.

continued on page 46

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

Preservation Plaza Stage

Preservation Plaza Stage “Lake Okoboji, who knew?” mused legendary recording artist Melissa Etheridge when awed by the new Preservation Plaza Stage. This breathtaking venue offers all that any national touring group could want, plus a large and enthusiastic crowd to cheer them on. Name your favorite musical genre group and chances are they will perform (or already have) at Preservation Plaza. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets to come for the music—most are free with only a few paid shows—and stay for over-the-water fireworks after the show.

Iowa Rock ’N Roll Hall of Fame Patio Noontime host on Saturdays to local favorites and the occasional Hall of Fame musician as well.

The Wine Bar and Art Gallery sets up solo performers on the front patio to enjoy tunes with summertime sunsets. Farmers Market at the Park The area’s premier Saturday morning social event puts on local favorites outside the Roof Garden Ballroom.

Farmers Market at the Park

VACA TION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

POP-UP VENUES Last-minute pop-up performance places offer delightful surprises: • The Concert Deck Lounge next to the stage • West O Taproom • Drake’s Oak Hill • Nektar’s new location • Pick’s Resort hosts occasional front lawn concerts • Rooftop bars on Broadway: Captain’s Getaway and Portside Pizza Crow’s Nest

•Relax under grass tiki huts •Enjoy great food & live entertainment •Barefoot frosty drinks, cold beer & cocktails •Playground & waterslide for the kids •Shop boats at Parks Marina •Boat & car parking available •Famous monthly Full Moon Parties

THEBAREFOOTBAR.COM

Lorem Ipsum One Mile East of Hwy 71 | East Lake Okoboji, IA | 712.332.7303

JUST STEPS FROM THE

BAREFOOT BAR

CHOOSE TO CRUISE Public & private cruises available on our nine excursion boats.

LOCATED RIGHT ON THE WATER! ENJOY SNACKS, BEER & ICE TO GO

FISH SHACK OPEN WHILE IN PORT

CRUISE TICKETS:

DAILY CRUISES - EXTRA HOLIDAY CRUISES OFFERED Pro-Shop • Beach • Ship Store • Swimwear & Shopping 24 Hr Gas Dock • Complete Marina Facilities-Seasonal & Transient Boat Slips Libations Available Daily on the Fish Shack when in harbor!

WE HAVE THE EASIEST BOAT RENTALS IN BOJI!

RUNABOUTS • PONTOONS • WAVERUNNERS • PADDLEBOARDS & MORE

RENT A BOAT:

BUY CRUISE

TICKETS

Located in Smith’s Bay - West Lake Okoboji | PH: 712.332.9904 | okobojiboatworks.com

STAY & PLAY ALL DAY

A A TT TT H H EE H HO OM M EE O O FF YY O O UU RR FF A A VV O O RR II TT EE M M EE M MO O RR II EE SS SS II N N CC EE 11 88 88 99

ArnoldsPark.com

VACATION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

Historic HistoricArnolds ArnoldsPark ParkAmusement AmusementPark Parkisisaa501(C)(3) 501(C)(3)nonprofit nonprofitorganization organization

T HE IO WA G R EAT LAK ES

PREMIER CONCERT VENUE

FOR UPCOMING EVENTS VISIT

ROOFGARDENBALLROOM.COM F OL L OW

U S

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

PLAY TIME! Don’t sit still, there’s so much to see and do! Here you’ll find the top attractions and entertainment for the best in family fun.

Family Fun

ENTERTAINMENT Y OU R GU I D E T O AR E A AT T R A CT ION S, A RT S & EN T ERT A IN M EN T

@djoy_27

@thethreesons

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

©David Radler

©Estherville Chamber

SO MANY WAYS TO What’s more lively than an Okoboji summer? Boating, swimming, and socializing is what the area is known for, along with world-class marinas and sandy beaches. Screams of delight come from the Arnolds Park Amusement Park, vying with free concerts on the Preservation Plaza stage and numerous other venues. Talk about adding spice to your life! Looking for enthusiasm and creativity? Okoboji Summer Theatre gives professional-level entertainment

play

every week. Golfers have nearly one course for every day of the week. Plus, there are two miniature golf courses for kids of all ages, and the Okoboji Gold Disc Golf course in Kenue Park. Local museums share our history: The Dickinson County Museum in Spirit Lake, The Higgins Museum of Bank Notes (with its unbelievable Iowa postcard collection), the Clark Museum in Milford, and the Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum to name a few!

FIND YOUR FUN See Our Kid’s Activity Guide! Public Art Displays . . . . . . . . . 52 Area Entertainment . . . . . . . . 54 The Magic of Museums . . . . . 60

SCAN FOR MORE AREA ATTRACTIONS

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

Displays Snap a selfie by one of the colorful murals or public art displays found in Okoboji!

SCAN FOR PUBLIC ART DISPLAYS

VACATION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

You’ll find a thriving arts & cultural

showcases national, regional, and local

community in the Iowa Great Lakes

artists while inspiring the artists of the

Area. Live music, theatre, and art can be

next generation through classes. Live

found throughout the year. Public art

music can be heard in intimate venues,

consisting of murals and sculptures greets

outdoor amphitheaters, and state-of-the-

you along the trails that wind around

art performing arts theatres. Explore the

the lakes. The Pearson Lakes Art Center

cultural side of Okoboji!

Find the Ferris wheel. 7 Ferris wheels have been hidden in this Kid’s Guide. Can you find them all?

LOCAL TEENAGER’S PERFECT DAY ITINERARY by Teegan Jones

Spirit Lake resident Teegan Jones is amidst his Junior year at Spirit Lake High School and is involved in Student Council, Key Club, Youth in Philanthropy and Boys Tennis. Teegan will be serving as a Senate Page in the Iowa senate for the 2024 legislative session.

8:30AM TOPOG COFFEEHOUSE When a teenager rises from their hibernation, what better way to start the morning than coffee? The Topog Coffeehouse along Queen’s Court in Arnolds Park is there to satisfy that teenage urge for a trendy café drink! From one teen to another, I recommend their famous “A Latte Caramel” and delicious Avocado Toast to compliment! 😊

9AM STORE HOP Calling all shopaholics! Just up the Arnolds Park Promenade, the Central Emporium has everything you need! As teens, we have an acute need for the newest wear, and trust me, the Central Emporium has got you covered. At the Animal House, you’ll find only the latest trends in teen fashion- including local brand, Freed Sailors! Freed Sailors attire is a must-have at Lake Okoboji so be sure to check it out!

BURGER & CO. FOR LUNCH

10AM BEACH VOLLEYBALL AT ARNOLDS PARK Beach Volleyball near Bob’s (Volleyball not provided)

Time to slip around in the sand and pretend to be a D1 Volleyball player! Beach Volleyball is the perfect way to add a little bit of spice to that “perfect” set of yours. Can’t blame the setter if they lose their footing. Head down the Arnolds Park Promenade and you’ll find yourself at the Beach Volleyball courts in the sand, adjacent to Bob’s In Arnolds Park- home to some of the best milkshakes in Iowa!

BIKE RIDE TO LUNCH

11:30 am

So long as you stay within a manageable distance of the restaurant- you might as well make your way to lunch in fashion! The Iowa Great Lakes Trails are designed to take you everywhere around the Lakes! Take advantage of a glorious day and add a little twist by biking to lunch! I highly recommend renting an E-Bike! If you’ve never tried one, rent one out to make this perfect day just right! I promise you’ll never want to go back to normal biking again, especially with the inexpensive options from BOJ•E Bikes.

Where should our bike ride destination be? To Burger & Company on Hill Avenue of course! As one of the most popular burger joints in the region, the original BC Burger has been a staple for local teenagers since the restaurant opened in 2020. Burger & Co. is the perfect intermediary option if you’re noon looking for something a little more than fast food, but not overly expensive!

3:15pm

1:30pm

POPSICLE SNACK AT FROZEN PARROT MINI GOLF AT TREASURE VILLAGE Be sure to give yourself some ample time to bike back home from Burger & Co.! Just off Highway 86, you can find Treasure Village Mini Golf! Treasure Village offers visitors a fun, friendly experience with 27 hand-crafted holes! I believe that a couple of holes grant superpowers. On some holes, you can spin a wheel with a chance for the spinner to land on a specific request for how you are supposed to make the shot. Whether it’s a no-look shot or a one-legged shot, it is sure to be a good time! One time, I had to take a shot with my eyes closed and I ended up getting a hole-in-one! So, yeah... superpowers granted.

4:00pm

Time for an afternoon snack at the Frozen Parrot! A very recent addition to the area, the Frozen Parrot offers a very unique treat- popsicles! These aren’t just freezer popsicles you’d find at Hy-Vee; Frozen Parrot offers visitors a choice between water or milk-based popsicles. After choosing (and I highly recommend milk-based, it’s unforgettable!), pick a dip for your popsicle, add toppings, and drizzle! I never thought a popsicle dessert could taste so good!

MOVIE AT MILFORD PIONEER THEATRE Provided a solid movie is showing, the Milford Pioneer Theatre is the perfect place to experience that movie Mom said you can’t watch. This theatre has some of the friendliest staff I have ever met and some of the cleanest auditoriums I have been in! The Milford Pioneer Theatre is made to serve! With reclining seats and pull-out trays, this theatre has all you need to sit back and relax for your favorite film.

6:15pm DINNER AT THE HUTT

7:30pm

App: Cheeseballs Entrée: The Legend Burger It’s getting about that time, huh? Fresh off the reclined seats of the Milford Pioneer Theatre, let’s find somewhere to dig in! Rolling back into Arnolds Park, just off the highway, you’ll find The Hutt Bar & Grill! At The Hutt, you’ll find only the kindest employees and some of the region’s best food! I recommend starting with an order of cheeseballs. Every breathtaking dining experience begins with cheeseballs. And what better to complement our appetizer than with the Legend Burger, named after the famous Legend Roller Coaster in Arnolds Park Amusement Park! With affordable prices and delicious food, what more do you need when it’s all at The Hutt Bar & Grill?

FREE CONCERT IN ARNOLDS PARK + FIREWORKS AT 10:30PM You read that right. Free. Concert. What more do I need to say? To end this perfect day with a blast, what better to do than a concert? Regardless of if the music is rock, country, or pop, the concerts at Preservation Plaza in Arnolds Park are bound to be a good time. You’re either swaying back and forth, waving your phone light, or, if you’re lucky, bouncing up and down screaming your heart out in the mosh pit. Either way, you get to end the night on a high note... with fireworks! Stick around till the end of the concert and you can gaze at the exploding lights over West Okoboji Lake! What a way to end such a perfect day.

Find more ideas at VacationOkoboji.com

Help the bee find its hive! START HERE

WANT TO SEE A BEEHIVE UP CLOSE? Head to the Dickinson County Nature Center! There you’ll find a functioning live beehive. You can even become the bee in their Pollinator Paradise play area and learn all about what it means to be a bee!

Bucket

List

HERE’S A FREE & FUN OKOBOJI BUCKET LIST!

View native fish at the State Fish Hatchery in Spirit Lake

wi np

ba ld

Experience the magic of fireworks over the lake

is hr @c

ee sp he @t

Cannonball into the springfed waters of Okoboji

hoto graphy

Watch an Okoboji sunset

ch m

Build a sandcastle on an Okoboji beach Play at the Memorial Park Splash Pad in Spirit Lake

Go for a bird hike at Iowa Lakeside Laboratory Be creative in the Pearson Lakes Art Center’s ArtSmart Gallery Build a Pollinator at the Dickinson County Nature Center Unearth years of history in one of our local museums Watch a fish bite your hook while ice fishing Take a selfie with kites on ice during Winter Games Splurge: Purchase an Okoboji shirt that you’ll wear proudly until your return!

v pi dy

Ride the Lake Loop Bike Trail

an @r

Attend a live concert in Preservation Plaza

OKOBOJI WORD SEARCH

Fireworks Topog Beaches Fishing

Volleyball Emporium Boat

M S

M L

W A

W O

W S

M E

W I

M P

M L

ROOM TO ROAM

Explore Every Playground in the Iowa Great Lakes and rank THEM! Just color in the number of stars to indicate your level of fun!

ARNOLDS PARK Abbie Gardner Park

OKOBOJI

East Lake Park Kenue Park

Central Park Harmony Park

Speier Park

ORLEANS

Sawmill Park

Ainsworth Beach

MILFORD

Bouncelandia

SPIRIT LAKE

Buchanan Park

Bob Allen Park

Calkins Park

Gilbert Park

Florence Park

Johnny Jahn Park

Memorial Park

Kiwanis Park

South Shore Estates Park

Little League Park Memorial Park

FOR PARK ADDRESSES: VACATIONOKOBOJI.COM

SUMMER CAMPS Whether you’re a frequent Okoboji visitor, enjoying a brief stay, or a local seeking summer activities for the kids, there’s a diverse range of camps, classes, and lessons to captivate every child! Your kids will have fun learning something new!

SCAN FOR SUMMER CAMPS

Dickinson County Nature Center

Dickinson County Nature Center Live Animals Pollinator Paradise

Free fun for everyone!

Okoboji Gold Disc Golf Outdoor Playscape Free Events Summer Camps

Scan QR for events & programs! www.dickinsoncountynaturecenter.com (712)336-6352 22785 Nature Center Rd | Okoboji, IA 51355

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

ENTERTAINMENT

Arnolds Park Amusement Park 37 Lake St., Arnolds Park 712-332-2183 arnoldspark.com Open Seasonally Make memories on more than 30 rides and attractions, including the famous wooden ‘Legend’ Roller Coaster. There are rides for every size child, young and old, and games to challenge your skills! FREE parking, FREE admission to Arnolds Park Amusement Park, just pay to ride the rides. The Park and Raceway are open daily at 10 am in the summer.

Arnolds Park Raceway

Boje-bikes

37 Lake St., Arnolds Park 712-332-2183 arnoldspark.com Open Seasonally

28 Ackley St, Arnolds Park 712-330-6750 | bojebikes.com Open Seasonally

The Raceway at Arnolds Park is perfect for a family or company outing, team building, or client entertainment. The Family Track, for ages 9 and up, offers the opportunity to experience the thrill of racing in a safe controlled environment. Single rides, daily or season passes available.

Boje-bikes is a locally owned e-bike rental and sales small business. They carry the luxury E-Lux brand of e-bikes from Fountain Valley, California. The seasonal rental location is conveniently located next to the Iowa Great Lakes trail system in Arnolds Park. Rentals are offered from 2 hours to 2 weeks. Instruction about the e-bike, a helmet, lock and trail map are provided with each rental. Rental reservations are by appointment, please call, text, email or send a Facebook message to secure your rental(s). (if there is room) Cash, card and Venmo are accepted.

Boji Splash Waterpark

Bouncelandia

Dickinson Co. Nature Center

630 Linden Dr., Arnolds Park 712-332-2202 bridgesbayresort.com Open Year Round

2501 Boji Bend Dr., Milford 712-318-1031 Bouncelandia.com Open Seasonally

22785 Nature Center Rd., Okoboji 712-336-6352 dickinsoncountynaturecenter.com Open Year Round

Bring the family and make a splash any time of the year at Boji Splash waterpark; the only one in the area! The outdoor waterpark (all new pools and slides in 2020) will WOW you! Jet down the tube slide or float along the lazy river. When hunger strikes, grab a snack, lunch, frozen treat or drink at the Pickled Parrot Cantina. Have fun all day long at Boji Splash!

Bouncelandia is the most unique and exciting inflatable attraction in the Midwest. We have the World’s Largest Bounce House covering over 13,000 square feet and towering over 32 feet above the ground. Also, we have a 1000 ft long obstacle course. New inflatables and virtual reality experiences added each summer!

It’s all free at the Dickinson County Nature Center! Check out the live animals, indoor beehive, kids’ space area, topography sand table and interactive exhibits in Pollinator Paradise. Head outside to the Nature playscape, pond-viewing tower, disc-golf course, trails and the Westport Schoolhouse. Year-round programs are free.

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

Dudley’s Garage Bowling 103 Main St., Lakefield, MN 507-662-5418 dudleysgarage.com Open Year Round Dudley’s Garage offers an entertainment experience for everyone. The completely renovated 1940’s building still has the original 4-lane bowling alley updated with automatic scorekeeping. Challenge your friends and family to a friendly game of shuffleboard, darts, Buck Hunter and more in our new game lounge or step outside on our patio for a game of cornhole. Live Music often and great food always! Expect to be wowed.

Ingham Okoboji Lutheran Bible Camps

Iowa Lakeside Laboratory

1203 Inwan St., Wahpeton (on West Lake Okoboji) www.okoboji.org | 1-800-OKOBOJI

1838 IA-86, Milford 712-337-3669, Ext. 7 lakesidelab.org Open Year Round

Since 1924, campers of all ages have gathered for fun and Christian growth at Ingham Okoboji Lutheran Bible Camps. IOLBC is a year-round ministry featuring: youth camps, family camps, Elderversity camps (55+), adult retreats, youth recharges, and family-friendly events. Join the mission and ministry of Ingham Okoboji: “To know Jesus Christ and to make Christ known to all.”

Iowa Lakeside Laboratory is a field station of Iowa’s state universities. Although education, research, and water monitoring are Lakeside’s primary functions, it also serves as a nature preserve and historic district. As a Regents Resource center, it also offers public and school year programs for learners of all ages. Lakeside Lab is the perfect stop all year long to explore the trails and view migrating birds.

www.KurioKastle.com 709 16th St. Spirit Lake 712-336-6881

Get Kre

ative!

POTTERY PAINTING

www.KurioKastle.com

DISCOVER WHY

IOWA ROCKS WWW.IOWAROCKNROLL.COM

Comfort, Fun & Miles of Smiles!

Experience the thrill and ease of electric bikes 28 Ackley St., Arnolds Park • bojebikes.com Rentals by appointment: Call or text (712) 330-6750

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

ENTERTAINMENT

Kurio Kastle

Lakes Ice Arena

Little Sioux Orchard

709 16th St., Spirit Lake 712-336-6881 kuriokastle.com Open Year Round

3800 Sunner Ave., Spirit Lake 712-759-1227 lakesicearena.com Open Seasonally

2618 160th Ave., Milford 712-320-8707 littlesiouxorchard.com Open Seasonally

Kurio Kastle is an awesome place for a family fun outing. We provide the pottery, glaze, tools, and ideas; all you have to do is be ready to have creative fun. Just walk in and get started. No appointment necessary, call ahead for groups of 6 or more. Come, paint, let your inner artist out.

The Lakes Area Hockey Association manages all programs at Lakes Ice Arena. Open skate is held most Fridays and Saturdays from 7-9 PM, and Sunday afternoons during the late fall and winter months. Watch Facebook at Lakes Ice Arena for opportunities to enjoy the ice. Admission: $6 per/person; $3 for skate rental. Dress warm!!

Looking for a late summer or fall activity right here at the Lakes? Visit Little Sioux Orchard just outside Milford — the area’s only pickyour-own orchard. With varieties ripening throughout the season, tractor rides, corn maze, play area and apple slingshot, you’ll be sure to find something fun for every age. Opens mid-August.

Memorial Park Splash Pad 300 Lake St., Spirit Lake cityofspiritlake.org/parks Open Seasonally If you are looking for a great friends or family destination to cool off, splash and play, the Splash Pad is the place to be. Memorial Park, overlooking East Lake, has two shelters, playground equipment, picnic tables and the centerpiece Splash Pad! Bring your lunch and enjoy a day at the park.

VACATION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

Okoboji Gold Disc Golf Course 22531 Nature Center Rd., Okoboji 712-336-6352 dickinsoncountyconservationboard.com/ okoboji-gold-disc-golf-course Open Year Round Okoboji’s best disc golf course boasts an 18hole, championship course with tees for Gold and White level players. In Kenue Park, routed through a nicely maintained mature oak savanna over rolling terrain that is 60% wooded. Several holes traverse a kame that rises about 30’ and runs for more than 300’.

Okoboji Summer Theatre Hwy. 71, Okoboji 712-332-7773 okobojisummertheatre.org Open Seasonally Every summer for more than 65 years, audiences look forward to the professional guest artists and students from the Conservatory for Performing Arts at Stephens College returning to produce the Okoboji Summer Theatre’s weekly productions. This talented ensemble also produces shows for children in the adjacent Boji Bantam Children’s Theatre. See you under the awning!

Okoboji Summer Theatre

Professional Summer Stock Theatre

Join us for

Season 66!

Hwy. 71, Okoboji, IA Box Office: 712-332-7773 boxoffice@okobojisummertheatre.org

The Conservatory for the Performing Arts at Stephens College

INDOOR GOLF �& EVENT CENTER

Hunting & OTHER SPORTS AVAILABLE

simulators AVAILABLE

GOOD FOR $1 OFF

Cascading waterfalls, pirate ship Cascading ship ruins and waterfalls, more makepirate this the ruinsperfect and more make this the family outing! family outing! next to Arnolds Openperfect May-Sept. OpenPark May-Sept. at the entrance Amusement Park. to Arnolds Park Amusement Park. For hours, call 712-332-6094 Call 712-332-6094

or visit www.piratescove.com

Bring Bring this this ad ad in in for for $1 $1 OFF OFF everyone everyone in in your your group group for for 18 18 holes. holes. Not valid with other offer. Not valid with other offer.

THE ORIG ORIGINAL THE IN A L ADVENTURE A DVEN T URE GOLF GOLF V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

ENTERTAINMENT

Pearson Lakes Art Center 2201 Hwy. 71, Okoboji 712-332-7013 lakesart.org Open Year Round | FREE Admission Enjoy all the arts have to offer at the Pearson Lakes Art Center with 5 galleries, a 288-seat theatre, classrooms, clay studio, outdoor sculpture trail and culinary arts kitchen. Sign up for a class, enjoy world-class entertainment yearround, or just take an afternoon to view the everchanging art on display or play in the ArtSmart Interactive Children’s Gallery.

Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf 25 Lake St., Arnolds Park 712-332-6094 piratescove.net | Open Seasonally For hours, please check our website or call the course. Pirate’s Cove offers an unequaled miniature golf experience! The adventures and legends of infamous pirates come to life in our award-winning theme park settings. Putt your way through caves, over footbridges and under cascading waterfalls, all amidst a fun-filled atmosphere of natural wonders, extraordinary landscaping, and enchanting pirate lore.

Treasure Village Mini Golf

Yoga Okoboji

2023 IA-86, Milford 712-337-3730 treasurevillage.org Open Seasonally

3753 Zenith Ave., Spirit Lake 712-336-YOGA (9642) yogaokoboji.com Open Year Round

Our 52nd year! Play Mini Golf on the area’s only 27-hole course with creative obstacles and Mischief Spinners. We’re off the bike trail with 7 picnic tables and can accommodate groups from 10-100 people. Enjoy delicious ice cream or our free carpetball while you make memories with family and friends.

Stepping into Yoga Okoboji is an immersion into yogic tradition and modern expertise with skilled instructors and over 80 years of combined experience. Offering private, heated, non-heated and outdoor yoga around the lakes area. The studio is handicap accessible, offers sliding scale prices and a variety of classes.

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

Queen II Arnolds Park Amusement Park Arnolds Park | 712-332-2183 arnoldspark.com | Open Seasonally Climb aboard the historic Queen II excursion boat, where visitors of all ages, will enjoy a narrated cruise around West Lake Okoboji. The Queen II went through major mechanical improvements over the winter and is ready for passengers to board once again for the summer season. The Queen II offers cruises several times a day on scheduled rides and may be chartered for private parties and weddings. Just sit back, relax and let the Captain do the driving.

DIZZY DRAGONS Arnolds Park Amusement Park offers rides especially for kids! Freddie the Fish, Kiddie Boats, Kiddie Coaster, the Carousel, Spin the Apples and of course, the Dizzy Dragons, will bring smiles, giggles, and “Let’s do that again!”

A Full-Service Classic Car RESTORATION SHOP & MUSEUM

CLASSIC CAR SALES 

Buy, trade, or sell your classic car

FULL-SERVICE RESTORATION SHOP 

Upholstery, Mechanical, Body Shop, Paint Booth, and Chassis Dyno Service

MUSEUM GUIDED TOURS 

Take a step back in time on a guided tour filled with history, artwork, and classic cars

For current hours, scan the QR Code:

GIFT SHOP 

Your source for gifts and apparel for classic car enthusiasts * Museum rental available for special events

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

IOWA G RE A T LA K E S M A RIT IM E M U SE U M

ARNOLDS PARK MUS EUM

The magic of They are protectors of culture, history and art, collections of artifacts that preserve the past. They are known collectively as museums, and Dickinson County is blessed with a wealth of them.

Abbie Gardner Cabin

Dickinson County Museum

Open Memorial Day-Labor day, visitors can learn about the Spirit Lake Conflict and the events leading up to and following this tragedy. Hours are 12-4:00 PM Tuesday – Sunday. The Dickinson County Conservation Board staffs the Abbie Gardner Cabin in an agreement with the Iowa State Historical Society.

The Dickinson County Museum preserves and shares the heritage of Dickinson County through a variety of exhibits. The Museum is one of the original depots found along the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul Railroad, and it now houses an extensive collection that depicts the area’s historic railroad, agricultural, resort and industrial eras.

Arnolds Park Museum

Higgins Museum

74 Monument Dr., Arnolds Park dickinsoncountyconservationboard.com Open Seasonally

243 W Broadway, Arnolds Park 712-332-2183 | arnoldspark.com Open Seasonally If nostalgia is what you are looking for, look no further than the Arnolds Park Museum. The Funhouse Toys: the slide, barrel, and sugar bowl were donated back to Arnolds Park. The slide is in operation and included in a season or day pass. It is also available to ride for $1 per person. Also, purchase tokens to play the vintage pin ball machines.

ABBI E G ARDNER CABI N

1708 Keokuk Ave., Spirit Lake 712-336-5928 | Open Year Round

1507 Sanborn Ave., Okoboji 712-332-5859 | thehigginsmuseum.org Open Seasonally

WI NCHESTER STORE MUSEUM

The Higgins Museum is devoted entirely to the history of national banking in the United States from 1863 to 1935. Exhibits of national bank notes from Iowa and adjoining states illustrate the heyday of America’s use of hometown paper money. Open daily (except Mondays) Memorial Day to Labor Day. Group tours available by appointment.

Clark Museum

2151 213th Ave., Milford | clarkmuseumofokoboji.com | 712-338-2147 | Open Year Round Established in 1985, The Clark Museum features a vast collection of pictorial and written histories, old memorabilia, signs and a large display of Arnolds Park artifacts. Many people intend to stop for a few minutes and end up spending hours viewing the displays. For hours, call 712-338-2147.

VACA TION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

OKOBOJI CLASSI C CARS

Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum

243 W Broadway, Arnolds Park 712-332-6550 | arnoldspark.com Open Year Round Relive the days of steamboats, motor launches and wooden cruisers with a visit to the Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum. The museum has amassed a vast collection of local photographs, articles and artifacts from the Iowa Great Lakes early ‘golden days’ of boating. See the newly rescued Century boat from Haywards Bay. IO W A ROCK ‘N ROLL MUS EUM

Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Museum 243 Broadway, Arnolds Park 712-330-0889 | iowarocknroll.com Open Seasonally

Take a rockin’ trip down memory lane at the Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Museum. Tour the recording studio and radio booth, play the jukebox and view vintage posters and record albums. Join them for Rock The Roof concerts in the Roof Garden Ballroom.

Okoboji Classic Cars

810 Jeppeson Rd., West Okoboji 712-332-8029 I okobojicc.com Open Year Round

H IGGI NS MU S E U M

C L AR K MU SEU M

Okoboji Classic Cars is the ultimate destination for classic car enthusiasts, gear heads, art collectors and families looking for a memorable experience! Take a stroll down the vintage storefronts of Spencer, Arnolds Park Boardwalk and West Lake Okoboji. Along with a step back in time you can check out the state-of-the-art restoration shop, and even purchase your favorite vintage ride! Open year round.

Westport Schoolhouse

22531 Nature Center Rd., Okoboji dickinsoncountyconservationboard.com 712-336-6352 | Open Seasonally To relive days of the past in a one-room school, visit the Westport Rural Schoolhouse built in 1896 and used until 1952. Featuring: historic primers, desks, piano and maps. Located in Kenue Park and open seasonally Tuesday through Sunday. D ICK I NS O N C O U N T Y M US EU M

Winchester Store Museum Spirit Lake jankek@thewinchesterstore.com thewinchesterstore.com Open by appointment

The Winchester Store Museum is a personal collection of Winchester Hardware store items owned by David and Jane Kruse, housed in a recreated 1928 Winchester Hardware Store. This collection is one of the largest of its kind in the country and is the only collection on display in a recreated hardware store that was built to the original specs of the Winchester company. This 4,000 square foot museum is open by appointment only.

W EST P O R T SC H OOLHOUS E

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

©David Radler

s there a better way to gain complete understanding than to learn-by-doing? Every summer for the past several years, as many as 120 international visitors come to the Iowa Great Lakes to learn about America while working. Most are college students enrolled in a study abroad program, aka cultural immersion. Some hope to increase their English skills while others come to make money while gaining greater knowledge of how America works. We encounter them at the Arnolds Park Amusement Park, Bridges Bay Resort, and at several other businesses in the area. But work is only part of the Okoboji experience.

A TRUE MELTING POT Last season’s students home countries reads like a UN roll-call: Jamaica, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Bulgaria, Turkey, Thailand, and Kazakhstan, but across the years as many as 100 nations have been represented, if not more. The students visit on two different visas, J-1 and H2B. Jon Pausley, CEO of Arnolds Park Amusement Park, explains the J-1 visa is based on cultural exchange; these students are here to

THE OPPO travel and learn about America and business. “In the Amusement Park we have students who are studying to be doctors, lawyers, engineers, teachers, marketing, and hospitality, to name a few.” A smaller group of H2B visa employees stay longer, and return annually to help open and close the park, Pausley says, sending money back home. A year’s income can be made during a summer here.

VACATION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

BY JONATHAN

REED

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS LEARN BY BEING HERE Our Board of Directors made it a priority to ensure safe and comfortable accommodations for our critical seasonal staff. Our goal is to make our international employees feel valued as people and not simply for the work they do day in and day out at Arnolds Park.”

LAND OF RTUNITY MORE THAN WORK, FUN TOO Keep in mind that they are kids, first, says Martin Mendez, a Global Friends coordinator working with the Downtown Church in Milford. Most are affluent by their local standards, but coming to Okoboji opens their eyes to a different world. “The kids taste the flavor of the culture here,” Mendez says, “but being young they are pretty vulnerable.” Work, new country, new languages (for some): Sometimes it is a challenge to learn about our local culture.

Consequently, the amusement park organizes a variety of Okoboji-style events, often with volunteer partners. These include bonfires with s’mores, mini-golf, American football, a day at Camp Foster, boating, jetskiing, movie nights, a trip to a Minnesota Twins game, the Mall of America and karaoke, Pausley reports. Cultural immersion isn’t just about special activities—it’s also about things we might consider mundane: Going to a supermarket, attending a movie with new friends, experiencing a different church service, or being open to new foods. It might be as simple as trying a hot dog or an apple. “What we are used to isn’t what they are used to, and sometimes not even available to them,” says Marcie Graval of Bridges Bay Resort. How do we fare as hosts? “Iowa Nice” is real. Mendez is proud to point out how open and embracing our community is. Culturally, employers elsewhere—where a worker is only a worker, Mendez says—aren’t as welcoming as here at Okoboji. “But here, the people engage with the students, smile at them, and share respect. Every single ride, they say ‘thank you.’” What do employers hear from their summer students? Bridges Bay Resort’s Gravel says, “I love it here!” is what she hears most from students...usually followed by, “Can I come back next year?” “They want to reapply to the same place because they loved it here,” Mendez says. “Okoboji is a pretty special place to visit and live.”

OUT OF MANY, ONE (WORLD) Imagine a walk through the new dormitory next to the amusement park, opened for the students in 2023—you might hear three or four different languages along with unfamiliar music from home, and catch a fragrance from cooking not normally found in northwest Iowa. It’s the same for them as they experience Okoboji. That unfamiliarity binds the students together, Pausley says. “By the end of the summer…there are many tears of goodbyes from living and working together.” V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

Sports &

RECREATION The Iowa Great Lakes chain is one of the largest tourist destinations in the state, attracting thousands of families annually. It is one of the most diverse destinations for outdoor recreation in the Midwest and the opportunities for family fun are endless.

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO OUTDOORS

VACA TION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

Photo: Bonfire Marketing

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES One of the most popular ways to enjoy Okoboji is by spending time in, on and around the water. Visitors can play in the waves or cruise along them by renting a boat, kayak, canoe or personal watercraft. Regardless of the type of travel you choose, you’ll find it’s easy to cool off with great recreational opportunities at the Iowa Great Lakes. Visit vacationokoboji.com for awesome getaway ideas! Our vacation blog covers every

EXTREME WATERSPORTS okobojiwatersports.com

37 Lake Street, Arnolds Park Arnolds Park Amusement Park

712-332-5406

May-Sept.

MAKE-A-WAKE WATERSPORTS*

20785 170th St. Spirit Lake

712-337-3223 Ext. 238

May-Sept.

OAK HILL RENTALS* oakhillmarina.com

176 Hwy. 71 S., Arnolds Park

712-332-2701

Year Round

OKOBOJI BOAT WORKS* (PARKS MARINA) parksmarina.com

1401 Lakeshore Dr., Okoboji

712-332-9904

Year Round

TRIGGS BAY RESORT* triggsbayresort.com

Linden Drive, 2 blocks east of 712-332-2215 US Hwy. 71, Arnolds Park

May–Sept.

Paddle Boats

Wave runners

Water-skis

Wakeboards

Tubes | Swim Mats

Ski Boats

Pontoon Boats

Paddleboard

Open

Parasail

Phone

Fishing Boat

Address

Ice Skates

Name

Canoes | Kayaks

RECREATIONAL RENTALS

Boat Hoists | Slips

type of getaway with suggestions on how to make the most of your time in Okoboji!

n n n n n n n n n

n n

n n n n n n n n

n n

n n n n n n

n n n n

n n n n n n n n

n n

n n n n n n n n

* GAS/CONVENIENCE STORE

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

SLX 260

2024

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

Mau Marine

MARINAS

1400 Gordon Dr., Okoboji | 712-332-5626 maumarine.com | Open Year Round Mau Marine is a full service marina and dealership on the banks of the Iowa Great Lakes. Located “Where East Meets West” on Highway 71, Mau Marine specializes in boat sales, boat service, boat storage, and slip rental. Shop the all new Ship’s Store for all the toys and boating gear a boating enthusiast needs. “It’s not the one thing, it’s the thousand little things we do that make us the best.”

Oak Hill Marina 176 Hwy. 71 S, Arnolds Park | 712-332-2701 oakhillmarina.com | Open Year Round Oak Hill Marina, a 5-Star MRAA Certified Dealer, provides a vast range of top boat brands, marine products, service, and on-water rentals. Our waterfront, multi-level showroom is filled with Regal pleasure boats, MasterCraft tow boats, personal watercrafts by Kawasaki, and pontoons from Bennington, Godfrey and Sylvan. Oak Hill Marina carries a wide selection of pre-enjoyed boats. Oak Hill’s Certified Technicians handle any service job, keeping you on the water all summer long! Oak Hill offers seasonal hoist rentals, valet, boat and winter storage, 24-hour on-the-dock gas, hourly boat rentals, water accessory and golf cart rentals.

Oak Hill Outdoor 2188 Hwy. 86, Milford | 712-337-6440 | oakhilloutdoor.com Open Year Round Oak Hill Outdoor, a subsidiary of Oak Hill Marina, offers the same great sales and service as Oak Hill Marina. Oak Hill Outdoor, located on the corner of Highway 86 and Highway 71 in Milford, has the largest indoor showroom in the lakes area! Filled with boat brands, including Ranger and Triton, EZ-Go golf carts, and all your outdoor needs! From hunting gear, ammo, fishing equipment, live-bait, and the top outdoor apparel brands. Drake’s, located inside Oak Hill Outdoor, is a full-service bar with good eats and two golf simulators to rent by the hour. This one-stop shop will be your new favorite hangout!

Parks Marina 2457 178th St., Okoboji | 712-332-7303 parksmarina.com | Open Year Round Parks Marina is a consistent, award-winning marina lifestyle destination featuring the industry’s most elite boats like Cobalt, Crownline, and Nautique, Robalo and more. Pontoons from Barletta, Crest and Premier. Offering a full pro shop to take care of all your boating needs. Ask about our convenient slips and dry-rack service for your daily boating pleasure.

EQUIPMENT

C&B Powersports 4105 U. S. Hwy 71 South, Spirit Lake (712) 336-6871 | cbpowersports.com Open Year Round C & B Powersports is a leading provider of outdoor recreational equipment, offering a diverse inventory that includes Polaris products and select John Deere equipment. With a strong focus on adventure and quality, they cater to enthusiasts seeking off-road thrills and utility solutions. Explore their offerings at C&B Powersports today!

VACATION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

LIFE’S BETTER IN A BOAT.

BOAT SALES, SERVICE, & PARTS • RENTALS • BAR, FOOD & LIVE MUSIC • STORAGE, GAS & MORE

712-332-2701 ARNOLDS PARK • MILFORD TWO GREAT LOCATIONS FOR ALL YOUR BOATING & OUTDOOR NEEDS. V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

RENTALS

Okoboji Boat Works 1402 Lake Shore Dr., Okoboji | 712-332-9904 parksmarina.com | Open Year Round Okoboji Boat Works is Okoboji’s oldest marina offering lakefront convenience store, 24-hour gas, rentals for boats, wave runners, and paddleboards. Book a cruise on any of our 9 fun-themed Excursion Boats, cruising every weekend with specialty holiday cruises available.

Oak Hill Rentals 176 Hwy 71 S., Arnolds Park | 712-332-2701 oakhillmarina.com | Open Seasonally Oak Hill Marina Rentals stocks excellent options for the weekly vacationer with a full-service Rental Department offering hourly boat and water accessory rentals - as well as daily and weekly golf cart rentals. Our on-site C-store offers beer and snacks perfect for your on-water adventure! Oak Hill’s on-the-dock gas is available 24-hours/7-days a week. Oak Hill is a one-stop shop!

Triggs Bay Resort Boat Rentals 180 Linden Drive, Arnolds Park 712-332-2215 | triggsbayresort.com | Open Seasonally Triggs has been in the boat rental business longer than any Okoboji establishment. We are locally owned and operated. You will generally find lower prices for rentals and boat gas at our docks. You will find powerboats, pontoons, PWCs, paddleboards and bikes, kayaks and canoes. Why pay more? We rent to the public!

LAKE SERVICES

Boji Dock Service LLC BojiDocks.com | 712-330-7896 With 30 years of dock experience, call Boji Dock Service for dock sales, installation and removal, as well as new and used boat hoist sales and service. Boji Dock Service is the area’s only manufacturer and installer of custom docks! We offer new aluminum docks along with standard plank docks and dock accessories. For timely and professional service, give us a call for your dock installation and removal.

Kuhlman Lake Service & Welding 239 252nd Ave., Spirit Lake | 712-336-1388 kuhlmanlakeservice.com Kuhlman Lake Service strives to provide great service at an affordable rate. We have a full-service welding repair and fabrication shop, which includes steel and aluminum, full lake service capabilities and a friendly staff ready to help when needed.

VACA TION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

YOUR DEPENDABLE LAKE SERVICE PROVIDER

boat hoists

• Hoist Installation/Removal • Hoist Repairs • Cover Service/New Covers • Repair Covers • Preferred ShoreStation Dealer Sales/Service

Full Service Welding & Custom Fabrication

docks unlimited

barge/shoreline services

Sectional dock system in 4' x 8' or 4' x 16' sections, as well as custom sizes, to arrange in any layout. Designed to hold up in the strong wave action.

Haul 3' boulders, tree branches and debris to or from your lakeside property.

239 252nd ave, spirit lake 712-336-1388 kuhlmanlakeservice.com

bojidocks.com With 30+ years experience in the dock building business you can count on your dock being build right the first time. Choose from either our all new aluminum dock “the last dock you would ever need to buy” or a standard plank dock. Dock accessories also available. Call us at (712) 330-7896 to schedule your dock or lift installed when you want it in.

THE AREA’S ONLY MANUFACTURER AND INSTALLER OF CUSTOM DOCKS NEW & USED BOAT HOIST SALES & SERVICE

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

OFF

POLARIS PARTS GEAR & ACCESORIES* ˚All POLARIS parts, winter or riding gear including apparel & accessories. Must present coupon upon purchase. One coupon per customer. 20% off single, regular priced item. In store only. Some exclusions may apply. Expires 12/31/24.

OFF

JOHN DEERE TOYS˚

˚All John Deere Kids, Prestige, Replica, Big Farm, Monster Treads, and riding toy collections. Must present coupon upon purchase. One coupon per customer. 20% off single, regular priced item. Some exclusions may apply. In store only. Expires 12/31/24.

4105 US Hwy 71 S • Spirit Lake, IA • (712) 336-6871 cbpowersports.com

72 72

VACATION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

EQUIPMENT, SERVICE, GEAR & TOYS!

TAKE ME TO C & B!

YOUR LOCAL WORK, PLAY & SERVICE DESTINATION AT THE HEART OF THE LAKES. V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

GETTING A aintaining the quality of Okoboji’s lakes dates back way more than a century, but today’s understanding requires data. Specifically, how do we measure the health of our lakes, and who will do that? Volunteers, that’s who. Enter the Cooperative Lakes Area Monitoring Program (CLAMP), started in 1999 and coordinated by Jane Shuttleworth of the Iowa Lakeside Laboratory. “At that time, citizen monitoring efforts were just starting to emerge in the U.S. and she saw involving citizens as a win-win situation,” notes laboratory Executive Director Mary Skopec. “The labor they volunteer is extremely valuable both from a cost savings perspective (labor is often the most expensive piece of monitoring), but also from a perspective of growing awareness within the community about the health of the lakes,” Skopec notes. CLAMP has roughly 50 volunteers; some signed up the first season 25 years ago. Volunteers are trained in late May with a mix of classroom and hands-on work, including the how-and-why (data gathering) plus how to prepare samples for chlorophyll tests in the lab. Total training lasts about two hours.

ON OUR WATER QUALITY BY JONATHAN

REED

Twenty five years of CLAMP data is available online: clamp1909.blogspot.com/

“People can pick the lakes they want to monitor,” Skopec says. “We do Silver Lake, West and East Okoboji, Big Spirit, Little Spirit, Upper Gar and Lower Gar. The time needed for a monitoring run varies, but typically takes 1 to 2 hours.”

DATA FOR DECADES The Iowa DNR regularly uses CLAMP data to understand the overall health of our lakes. The data have been also used by Rep. John Wills with the Dickinson County Soil and Water Conservation District and Clean Water Commission to target activities that can improve water quality—such as installing shoreline restoration, having landowners add wetlands, or fixing septic issues.

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

Want to get involved?

“We have seen dramatic improvements in the lakes.” - Mary Skopec

Executive Director Iowa Lakeside Laboratory

CLAMP data is gathered during June through September, but they are considering taking underice samples in the future. Stay tuned for that. You can become a CLAMP volunteer by calling the Lakeside Laboratory’s Education Coordinator Ashley Scheve at 712-337-3669 ext 7, or emailing ashleyscheve@uiowa.edu

HOW ARE THINGS GOING? “West Okoboji has gone from 10 feet of average water clarity to more than 20. Phosphorus levels have decreased by 50 percent, with similar trends in East Okoboji and Big Spirit.” Over the span of 25 years, she finds this gratifying, because it speaks to investment in permanent conservation around the lakes area.

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

PUBLIC

beaches FAMILY-FRIENDLY & FREE!

Arnolds Park Amusement Park Beach West Lake Okoboji

Situated next to the iconic park, this beach gets a lot of usage. A lively setting for swimming, beach volleyball and lunch or ice cream from Bob’s in the Park.

Arnolds ParkAmusement Park Beach

Arnolds Park City Beach West Lake Okoboji

Watch the boat traffic funnel through the bridge area and enjoy swimming at this beautiful public beach. It’s a great area to spend the day with family.

Emerson Bay State Park Beach

Arnolds Park City Beach

West Lake Okoboji

This is a bustling, renovated state park area with a public boat ramp and swimming beach. Also a great picnic destination.

Crandall’s Beach Spirit Lake

A large, quiet beach on the northwest corner of Spirit Lake. Complete with grills and picnic tables for a full day of fun.

VACA VACATION TION OKOB OKOBOJI OJI 22002244

Gull Point State Park Beach West Lake Okoboji

One of the most popular of the lakes area beaches, this one features a natural-sand playground and deep blue water.

Crandall’s Beach

Pikes Point State Park Beach West Lake Okoboji

A swimmer’s delight! This state park area is a day-tripper’s dream with swimming and picnicking opportunities.

Okoboji Boat Works Beach West Lake Okoboji

Orleans Beach Spirit Lake

With playground equipment and beach loungers, this is the perfect beach to relax all day long.

This is a gem on the “quiet lake” featuring a lovely sand beach, playground equipment and the Spillway Drive In.

TERRACE PARK BEACH West Lake Okoboji This wildly popular public gathering spot (pictured at left) offers a large stretch of sandy beach to swim, picnic and enjoy fun in the sun! An exciting renovation is currently enhancing this popular lakes area beach and will be ready for summer 2024!

Gull Point Emerson Bay

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

@lakeokobojifishing

CAST A LINE The chain of lakes that comprise the Iowa Great Lakes have long harbored a reputation as being an angling paradise.

ANGLING

Adventures

The Iowa Great Lakes consist of Iowa’s largest natural lake, Spirit Lake, and

five interconnected lakes: West Okoboji, East Okoboji, Upper Gar, Lower Gar, and Minnewashta. West Okoboji Lake is a beautiful shade of blue, 136’ deep and is spring fed. It is the centerpiece of the five chain lakes. Tucked away among the prairies, wetlands and farmland of northwest Iowa, these lakes and the surrounding

@David Radler

©fishokoboji.com

communities provide the backdrop for Okoboji’s year round playground.

ICE FISHING FUN HERE!

VACA TION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

Campbell Fishing Expeditions 239-860-0976 | fishingokoboji.com Open Seasonally Captain John has fished the Iowa Great Lakes for decades, knowing where the fish are hiding, and how to catch them. In a typical day on the water clients catch a lot of fish: Walleye, Musky/Northern Pike, Bass, Bluegill, Perch and Crappies. For many families it is the best day on the water ever experienced.

JTG Expeditions John Grosvenor 712-330-5815 | fishokoboji.com Open Year Round John Grosvenor has been a professional fishing guide on the Okoboji chain of lakes for more than a decade. Every day in his boat and on the ice, John helps families create memories to last a lifetime. It’s not unusual to catch at least 7 species, from panfish to trophies, in one half-day adventure.

The Hook Up 2188 Hwy. 86, Milford | 712-337-6440 oakhilloutdoor.com | Open Year Round The Hook Up at Oak Hill Outdoor is the newest and largest bait and tackle dealer in Northwest Iowa. The Hook Up is every angler’s convenient one-stop resource for quality fishing bait and tackle, apparel, and accessories. A unique destination experience where your company is always welcome and the fishing stories are guaranteed to be shared.

State Fish Hatchery 122 252nd Ave., Spirit Lake 712-336-1840 | iowadnr.gov Open Year Round The Iowa Great Lakes fisheries, as well as many others in the state, are supported by efforts at the State Fish Hatchery. The hatchery offers free, informational tours during the annual spring fish-rearing season and is a popular destination for anyone seeking to view the aquariums that showcase the area’s fish species.

OUR LAKES BIG SPIRIT LAKE – at 5,684 acres, it is easily Iowa’s largest natural lake. Max. depth: 24’ (median depth: 17’) LITTLE SPIRIT LAKE – 618 acres Max. depth: 10’ (median depth: 6’) WEST LAKE OKOBOJI – Iowa’s second largest natural lake at 3,847 acres and easily the state’s deepest natural lake. Max. depth: 136’ (median depth: 39’) EAST LAKE OKOBOJI – 1,835 acres Max. depth: 22’ (median depth: 10’) UPPER GAR – 37 acres Max. depth: 5’ (median depth: 3.5’) LOWER GAR – 242 acres Max. depth: 6’ (median depth: 4’) MINNEWASHTA – 126 acres Max. depth: 16’ (median depth: 10’) SILVER LAKE – 1,041 acres Max. depth: 11’ (median depth: 6’) CENTER LAKE – 263 acres Max. depth: 17’ (median depth: 12’) When fishing, please practice selective harvest. Keep only those fish you can use and release the others. It is a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ in the lakes area that the muskie, largemouth bass and smallmouth bass species are catch-and-release only.

Family memories to last a lifetime...

Okoboji’s #1 Guide Service

John Grosvenor

fishingokoboji.com

(712) 330-5815 • fishokoboji.com

Ten walleye are tagged and released into the chain of Iowa Great Lakes. Starting at 12:01 am on Saturday, May4th you can cast your chance at catching one of these 10 tagged walleye worth $42,000! There are many other chances to win prizes all weekend long - from the largest fish categories to the raffle prizes at the awards luncheon. Register at okobojichamber.com. V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

ishing is one of the most popular activities in the Iowa Great Lakes. Perhaps the best way to capture a memorable fishing vacation is through photographs.

for taking the

best photos in Okoboji

As an avid angler myself, and having had the privilege of interviewing and photographing several area fishing guides, I’ve picked up a few tips over the years, as well as learned through trial and error, some of the best ways to capture a great fish photo.

KNOW YOUR EQUIPMENT I could dedicate quite a bit of space to the technical aspects of taking a photo, but I’m going to keep it simple: know your equipment. Whether you’re using a smart phone or a professional DSLR, knowing your camera’s capabilities and limitations ahead of time will allow you to spend less time fiddling with settings, give you the ability get a quick quality photo and get back to fishing. As silly as it may sound, practice at home, see what works and what doesn’t, so you don’t have to think about that aspect when you’re on the water.

Photo courtesy of OKOBOJI Magazine

Rylan Howe: Bio: Rylan’s passion for photography was sparked as he earned his bachelors degree in journalism from the University of Kansas. He has developed his skills further while writing and photographing for the Iowa Information Media Group, including OKOBOJI Magazine, DISCOVER! and The N’West Iowa REVIEW since 2007. In 2022 Rylan opened his own studio to capture special moments for families called Rylan Howe Photography. facebook: Rylan Howe Photography | Email: rylan.howe@gmail.com | RylanHowePhotography.com

Drone photo by Tom Gustafson

SURVEY YOUR SURROUNDINGS Speaking of being on the water, make sure you know your surroundings. This applies as much to creating a good composition and background for your photo, as much as it helps ensure you don’t lose expensive equipment over the side of the boat, onto the rocky shoreline, or through a hole in the ice. If you’re wary of giving away a secret fishing spot, keep zoomed in closely, limit the background to water or sky, and just know someone will still scrutinize every ripple in the water trying to determine where you caught that monster smallmouth.

SMILE FOR THE CAMERA If all this sounds like a lot to keep in mind just to get a photo of a fish, simply remember to smile for the camera. Whether you visit the Lakes once a year or are a lifelong resident, fishing outings are all about making memories, having fun, and enjoying the natural beauty of this area. And if that fish flops away before you get a perfect photo - that’s simply a great story to tell and a memory to last a lifetime.

TIMING IS EVERYTHING All these points tend to tie together. Obviously, timing is big, one second too soon or too late and that fish might take you by surprise and flip right out of your hands. The wake of another boat might throw you off balance a bit (this goes back to surveying your surroundings). Timing also applies to another aspect of fishing. If the goal is taking home a bucket of bluegill for fish tacos you have plenty of time to get your ideal fish photo. But if you’re practicing catch and release, you’ll want to work quickly, get a shot or two, and get that fish back in the water happy and healthy as quickly as possible.

GET A GRIP. BEWARE THE FISH FLOP! Being aware of your surroundings also plays into this point - make sure you have a good grip and realize this is a live animal you’re trying to wrangle for a photo. Its biggest priority is to slip that grip and escape back to the lake. Sometimes you’ll get lucky and that giant walleye or pike will be tired from a big fight and pose calmly and quietly. Other times you’ll let your guard down and a perfectly timed fish flop will put him back in the water or on the bottom of the boat leaving you with a bewildered expression and a blurry tailfin in your photo. Check out the social media feeds of some fishing pros and fishing guides and check out their poses and grips, and just know they suffer from the fish flop from time to time too.

continued on page 82 V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

FOR TAKING THE BEST PHOTOS IN OKOBOJI

Drone Photography

First thing is safety and legality. Make sure flying in your specific location is legal with the FAA airspace and the local ordinances. Make sure your takeoff and landing spot is safe from people. [Note: It is illegal to fly over people]

Have a general idea before taking off what your subject is. Also have your drone’s camera settings in place so you’re not fumbling around in the air doing it and therefore wasting flight battery time.

The name of the game with drone photography is variety. You will want to change altitude, angles, and distances from the subject to get different looks of the subject because you may find the most pleasing composition is different than what you originally thought.

The BEST composition is the one pleases YOU the most! If you find a particular composition fascinating, beautiful, or fun then you’ve taken a good shot!

Land safely with enough battery power left so you’re not stressed in the process.

Tom Gustafson: Tom Gustafson was one of the first professionally licensed drone pilots in the United States and has thousands of flight hours photographing Okoboji and many other places domestically and internationally. He’s published 10 books of drone photographs and continues to create more. He has been featured in magazines, travel guides, and on television. You can see more of his work here: Facebook: Drone Photographs By Tom Gustafson | Instagram: @tom.gustafson | visionAIRydrone.com

Three quick tips for better “at the table” food photography Lighting Light is always the first thing you should think about when shooting food. Flash is never a great idea. Indirect window light or natural light is your best bet. Sidelight works well and adds interest and shadows. (Don’t be afraid of shadows, they add interest!)

Angle Most foods that have some dimension look better at a 45-degree angle, while others that are flatter look better from

the top down. For example, a delicious piece of strawberry pie usually looks better at an angle, but pizza usually looks best from the top.

Composition Try your best to isolate the most important piece of food you want to highlight. You can shoot the whole plate, but if there’s something that really stands out to you, don’t be afraid to put your phone into portrait mode and zoom in. Doing this can highlight your favorite part of the dish.

continued on page 84

Chris Baker Photographer Chris Baker is a co-founder and partner at F8 Creative in Spencer. F8 provides commercial photography as well as video production, graphic design, and web design services to businesses and organizations of all sizes. f8creative.com | Instagram: f8creative | Instagram: christopherbaker.71 V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

FOR TAKING THE BEST PHOTOS IN OKOBOJI

Shooting photos at night Night photography can be intimidating, here are a few tips to get you started! 1. Use a sturdy tripod and a timer to prevent camera movement. 2. Open the Aperture to let in light, then use Shutter Speed and ISO to expose the image properly, with a goal of keeping the ISO low to decrease image “grain/noise”. 3. Focus on the farthest light source for the best focal depth. 4. Use photo planning apps like PhotoPills to find the timing of sunrises, moonsets, Milky Way visibility and more to increase your chances of success. 5. Shoot in a RAW file format to give yourself editing superpowers when using editing software such as Adobe Lightroom, to adjust the lighting and colors of your photo to your heart’s content. Camera Setting Examples: Fireworks: 2 - 10 seconds f2.8 - f8 ISO 100

Stars: 10-30 seconds f1.4 - f4 ISO 100 - 8000

Ben Ford

Ben Ford is a professional landscape photographer from Cedar Rapids, Iowa specializing in outdoor, night and travel photography. After buying a digital camera in 2013, one of his first photos was of the Arnolds Park ferris wheel at night, and he’s been in love with night photography ever since. Ben has had family ties to the Iowa Great Lakes since 1921, when his great, great grandfather Frank Hutchinson of Hutchinson Ice Cream (later Borden’s Ice Cream), started supplying to Ice Cream Parlors at Arnolds Park, namely the Park Theatre. That same year Frank purchased a property in Okoboji, which remains in the family to this day. You can find Ben’s photography available locally at Mary’s Gift Shoppe in Spirit Lake, Iowa or on his website: BenFordPhotography.com Instagram: @mr._ford | Facebook: facebook.com/BenFordPhoto

VACA TION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

Tips for AMAZING Senior Photography

Okoboji’s Photographic Palette Through the lens of 10 photographers, “Okoboji’s Photographic Palette” is a new book offering a kaleidoscope of visual beauty of the Iowa Great Lakes area. From lakeside serenity to lively gatherings, these photographs create a captivating tapestry celebrating Okoboji’s unique character. Find it this summer at local retailers or order online at www.visionAIRydrone.com.

LOCATION: We like to choose a location that reflects the Senior’s personality and interests. It could be a favorite park, urban area, or even their school football field or building. WARDROBE: We encourage Seniors to wear outfits they feel comfortable and confident in. Solid colors or simple patterns that won’t distract from their face usually work the best. LIGHTING: Golden hour, the hour after sunrise or before sunset, provides beautiful soft light. Aim for natural light and avoid harsh shadows. The exception to this is our ability to use off camera flash. This allows us to photograph any time of the day to create dynamic portraits of your Senior and make them stand out from their background.

POSES AND EXPRESSIONS: Use natural and relaxed poses that capture the Senior’s personality. We guide them with prompts to evoke genuine emotions and expressions. PROPS: Incorporate props that are meaningful to the Senior, such as sports equipment, musical instruments, or hobbies they enjoy. These props add a personal touch to the photos. CANDID MOMENTS: Capture candid shots in between posed shots to capture the Senior’s true personality and emotions. These spontaneous

moments often result in the most genuine and memorable photographs. COLLABORATION: Involve the Senior in the creative process. Ask for their input, ideas, and preferences. This collaboration will help them feel more comfortable and engaged during their photoshoot. HAVE FUN: Make the photoshoot a fun and enjoyable experience for the Senior. Encourage them to relax, be themselves, and have a good time. A relaxed subject will result in more authentic and beautiful photographs.

Remember, every senior is unique, so adapt these tips to suit their individual style and preferences.

Rocky Thompson

Rocky Thompson is a local Okoboji area photographer who specializes in portrait photography. What started off as a hobby taking landscape photos several years ago has turned into a full time passion as a leading photographer in the Midwest. Blending typical photography techniques with his own artistic style, Rocky creates unique and bold images that have earned him local, state and national recognition. Rocky has infused his own creativity into not only senior portraits and headshots, but most recently high volume photography, lifting the level of all images to a fun and new perspective for local school districts and leagues. Rocky is the owner of SplitRock Photography, LLC and has a studio located outside of Milford Iowa. www.rockytphotos.com Instagram: @rockythompsonphotography | Facebook.com/rockythompsonphotography

Trail Time

EXPLORE MORE Dickinson County Recreational Trails are perfect for biking, hiking, snowmobiling and cross country skiing. With more than 60 miles of dedicated bike trails and miles of additional signed routes that wind around the lakes and through our communities, it’s a great way to discover the area and connect with nature.

DICKINSON COUNTY RECREATIONAL TRAILS

LEISURELY LAKESIDE STROLL

The “spine” of the Dickinson County Recreational Trail system winds through the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes joining the communities of Spirit Lake, Okoboji, Arnolds Park and Milford. Connecting to the Spine Trail is an everexpanding network of hard-surfaced trails that weave around the lakes, and connect even more of our communities. In addition to the dedicated trails, more than 60 miles of signed biking routes loop from the spine over low-traffic county roads for users who want a more challenging workout while enjoying the

Park near the Central Emporium in Arnolds Park and enjoy a walk on the new sidewalk along the lakeshore down the Arnolds Park Promenade and wooden boardwalk, around Pillsbury Point, and along Sunset Beach. Turn around where the sidewalk ends or explore Arnolds Park’s residential streets with a stop by the Abbie Gardner historical site on your return. This walk is just under 2 miles roundtrip. This stroll around the point was envisioned more than a century ago when early landowners planned on a park-like development, and brought to life recently by the City of Arnolds Park.

rural countryside Dickinson County has to offer. A printable map is available at dickinsoncountytrails.com, and copies are available at the Iowa Welcome Center in Arnolds Park. Groomed cross-country ski trails are available from Brooks Golf Course to the Dickinson County Nature Center, and at Kettleson Hogsback Management Area on the west side of Spirit Lake. Dickinson County Trails updates cross-country ski trail conditions on its Facebook page throughout the winter.

WEST LAKE LOOP

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

BIKE RIDE

Gull Point State Park Barney Peterson Memorial Interpretive Trail

Horseshoe Bend

Hike the 1.5 mile self-guided interpretive trail where visitors can learn about the natural and cultural history of the area. A variety of songbirds and wildlife are often spotted near the trails, and cross-country skiing is available in the winter.

This 180 acres of preserved land offers an extensive trail system winding through the river valley of the Little Sioux River. Visitors can enjoy a three-season shelter house, bathrooms, picnic areas, mowed trails, bird watching blind; as well as tubing and skiing with a warming shelter in the winter.

Kettleson Hogsback Wildlife Management Area 125th St., Spirit Lake

The 2,040-acre Kettleson Hogsback Wildlife Management Area reaches from the west shores of Big Spirit Lake northwest to the Minnesota state line. A native prairie, this never-been-plowed treasure is home to white lady slippers, prairie fringed orchid, prairie bush clover, wooly milkweed and porcupine grass. It is one of the most bird-rich of any areas of Iowa with more than 270 species identified.

1500 Harpen St., Milford

1924 240th St., Milford dickinsoncountyconservation.com/ parks

Dickinson County Snowhawks 712-320-5187 | Open Seasonally dickinsoncountysnowhawks.com 2:41 PM

The Dickinson County Snowhawks is a non-profit organization made up of over 50-member families and is dedicated to keeping the sport of snowmobiling alive. We maintain and groom over 100 miles of trails. For more information or to become a member, visit dickinsoncountysnowhawks.com or search for us on Facebook.

dickinsoncountysnowhawks.com Visit website for a printable trail map

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

Tee Time

HIT THE LINKS While the lakes and associated activities dominate the Iowa Great Lakes recreational landscape, golf opportunities are plentiful. Dickinson County golf courses have 36,233 yards to play! Golfing in Okoboji is exceptional and diverse with a course for everyone.

AREA GOLF TOURNAMENTS

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

Brooks Golf PAR 107 | 27 HOLES Off Hwy. 71, West of AmericInn, Okoboji | 712-332-5011 | brooksgolfclub.com Brooks Golf offers 27 holes with 3 distinct 9 hole layouts. Enjoy smooth greens and bentgrass tees & fairways. The clubhouse consists of a full service golf shop and Pub that is open daily. Brooks is the perfect golf facility for tournaments, events and private parties. The course is fun and challenging to golfers of all skill levels.

Okoboji View Golf Course

Emerald Hills Golf Club

Okoboji View combines a great golf experience with the added benefit of Pub19 Bar and Grill. With over 12 acres of wetlands, tree-lined fairways and large, fast greens it is a pleasure to play for all levels. Memberships, leagues and a great dining experience are available. Tee times recommended and twilight rates available.

PAR 72 | 18 HOLES Hwy. 71 South, Arnolds Park 712-332-7100 golfemeraldhills.com With lush green rolling hills and an abundance of trees, Emerald Hills will ensure golfers of all skill levels a fun challenge at affordable rates. The staff at Emerald Hills is ready to accommodate you with fast, friendly service. Emerald Hills is open to the public – memberships are also available, and tee times are recommended.

Drake’s Oak Hill GOLF SIMULATOR 2188 IA-86, Milford, IA 51351 (712) 337-6440 | oakhilloutdoor.com Tee-Up at Drake’s Oak Hill! Full-service bar with food offerings and two brand new Golf Simulators give you the opportunity to golf 40 of the TopRanked Courses in the World. Grab some friends and join Drake’s at Oak Hill Outdoor for golf, drinks, a bite to eat, and live concerts. Call to set up a Tee Time!

The Venue

GOLF SIMULATOR 1605 Hill Ave., Sprit Lake (712) 336-0495 | thevenueokoboji.com This century old restored building in downtown Spirit Lake is the perfect venue to work on your swing year round. You can play some of the best courses in the world on two golf simulators. Book a tee time online or call for reservations. The Venue also hosts winter golf league.

PAR 71 | 18 HOLES Hwy. 86 West, 2 mi. S of Vick’s Corner Spirit Lake 712-337-3372 | okobojiview.net

Spencer Golf & Country Club PAR 72 | 18 HOLES 2200 W. 18th St., Spencer 712-262-2028 | spencergolfcc.com Visitors often call the course a hidden gem of Northwest Iowa! The course is a short 20 minutes from the Lakes area. Non-residents of Spencer are invited to schedule a tee time any day the course is available. After the round, enjoy a meal and drinks in the recently renovated clubhouse open throughout the year.

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

G OL FE R ’ S

EMERALD HILLS GOLF CLUB Randy Rohlfsen

PGA Professional, General Manager

• Public 18 hole course • The finest bent grass tees and greens • Snack Bar • 50 electric carts available • Cocktail Lounge

• Excellent driving range • Customized Golf Schools and Clinics • Private Lessons • Beautiful party facility for any occasion

Located on Hwy. 71 South of Arnolds Park 712.332.7100 | www.golfemeraldhills.com

GOLF

PARADISE BY JONATHAN REED

The Iowa Great Lakes area has long lured golfers with its unique blend of beautiful links, sociability, and engaging attractions. One of the most popular events is the University of Okoboji Couple’s Tournament, played at area links every September for more than 20 years among 3 courses. The reason? They’re beautiful!

EMERALD HILLS When opened in 1970, 3,500 trees were planted, assuming many wouldn’t make it through the first winter—but they all did! Most still stand proud today, making this a defining feature of Emerald Hills. The site of multiple tournaments throughout the summer, Emerald Hills is fun for both novice and accomplished golfers. REASON FOR PLAYING: A CHALLENGING COURSE WITH BEAUTIFUL TREE-LINED FAIRWAYS THAT REQUIRES THE USE OF EVERY CLUB IN YOUR BAG.

BROOKS GOLF COURSE

A N U N PA R A L L E L E D O KO B O J I G O L F E X P E R I E N C E .

Public course with a private setting • 40 acre natural grass driving range 3 courses and 27 unique holes • 25% Off for Non-2023 Members brooksgolfclub.com • 712-332-5011 • 1201 Brooks Park Drive. Okoboji, IA

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

Check Facebook for Events

With 27 holes, Brooks Golf Club is the area’s largest, offering three distinct 9-hole layouts to challenge both rookies and experienced golfers on the only bentgrass fairways in northwest Iowa. Located adjacent to Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center and AmericInn, Brooks has earned a 4-1/2 star rating by Golf Digest magazine. REASON FOR PLAYING: THREE 9-HOLE LAYOUTS EQUALS GENEROUS TEE TIME AVAILABILITY AND A GOLFER-FRIENDLY PACE OF PLAY.

OKOBOJI VIEW Okoboji View has two signature holes: #7 is a par 3, 175 yard throw over water and a sand bunker; par 4 #16 is a 352 yard run where a water hazard from the tee brings you to an elevated green. Whether you are celebrating a great round or commiserating your golf sorrows, popular Pub 19 Bar & Grill offers great food with a beautiful view. REASON FOR PLAYING: A FULLSERVICE GOLF EXPERIENCE WITH AN EXTREMELY WELL MANICURED COURSE WITH FAST AND TRUE GREENS.

SPENCER GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB A classic tree-lined 18-hole layout open to public golfers, the Spencer Golf & Country Club is host to the Northwest Amateur Golf Tournament, a four-day event begun in 1921. With an excellent on-site restaurant and well-stocked pro shop, Spencer Golf & Country Club is widely known for its friendly social environment. REASON FOR PLAYING: APPRECIATED FOR ITS CONSISTENTLY MANICURED COURSE CONDITIONS, GOLFERS OFTEN COMMENT THIS IS THE FAVORITE COURSE THEY’VE EVER PLAYED.

18-Hole Public Golf Course Driving Range and Practice Area

Call for Tee Times 712-337-3372 www.okobojiview.net

Lessons Available with Iowa Hall of Fame PGA Professional, Curt Schnell Fully Stocked Golf Shop

Okoboji’s East Coast Style Pizzeria! Full menu sure to satisfy your cravings Hand-tossed gourmet pizzas Full bar and microbrews on tap

Now Open Year Round!

To Go orders call 712-332-8142 www.pub19barandgrill.com

1665 Highway 86, Spirit Lake, Iowa V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

Memories MADE HERE

Weddings and special events here are anything but ordinary. The region offers excitement, imagination, and spectacular settings. Plan your next Okoboji event with confidence.

VACATION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

OKOBOJI WEDDING Every year, Okoboji is the preferred destination for numerous couples seeking a unique wedding experience due to its diverse venue options, stunning scenery, and abundant nostalgic charm. Emma Brown and Drew Anderson celebrated their special day on a picturesque June afternoon in Okoboji. This enchanting location holds a deep significance for Emma and Drew, making it the ideal setting to gather loved ones from across the nation for a weekend filled with love and joy. The Oakwood Inn was a wonderful venue for out-of-town family to call home for the weekend, and for the couple to get ready and take their first wedding day photos. The Lodge at Gull Point State Park was a perfect location for an outdoor ceremony along the shores of West Lake Okoboji followed by a fun reception in the historic lodge.

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

EPIC EVENTS

Arnolds Park Event Space

Elements Design Studio

37 Lake St., Arnolds Park 712-332-6557 arnoldspark.com Open Year Round

36 S Hwy. 71, Arnolds Park 712-332-2602 okobojiweddings.com Open Year Round

Events are more MAGICAL at Arnolds Park Amusement Park. With several venues: we can host your wedding on the Queen or the beach; rehearsal dinner or reception in The Majestic Pavilion; Corporate Function in the tent on Preservation Plaza overlooking West Lake; and fundraising event at the brand-new Roof Garden. The possibilities are endless!

Elements Design Studio specializes in designing, organizing and making your dream wedding or event come to life. We offer floral design, rentals and full planning services. With over 25 years of experience, we can help with your venue, vendors, and anything along the way. Call to plan your dream day!

The HI-LO Club is excited to continue the tradition of catering celebrations and in southwest Minnesota and northwest Iowa. The HI-LO Club’s extensive catering menu, which can be found on the website, offers a unique variety of options. Always happy to customize any menu to reflect personal preferences and budget. Perfect for events of all types and sizes.

The Inn Hotel Cabana

Maser Monarch Lodge

Parks Boat Club

15 Dam Rd. Arnolds Park 712-337-6400 theinnhotel.com

22785 Nature Center Rd., Okoboji 712-336-6352 Open Year Round

Rally your crew and get ready to party poolside at The Inn Hotel Cabana. This stylish space features ample seating, wet bar, fridge and smart TV. Enjoy direct access to the rooftop pool. Perfect for birthdays or bachelorette parties with 5-15 guests. Call today to reserve 712-337-6400!

The Maser Monarch Lodge provides muchneeded event and gathering space in a natural setting at Kenue Park in Okoboji. The new lodge is approximately 6,000 square feet, seating 150 people and contains a catering kitchen and restrooms. The Lodge features a 2,900 square-foot covered, open-air shelter which will seat 60.

24457 178th St., Okoboji 712-332-7303 parksmarina.com Open Year Round

VACA TION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

HI-LO Club Catering 80626 Hwy 86, Lakefield, MN 507-662-5992 Hiloclub.com Open Year Round

Parks Boat Club is a perfect venue for weddings, social gatherings, business dinners, and reunions. Parks Boat Club is 2,500 square feet, has a dance floor, and full-service catering on-site. Surrounded by a wall of windows and a large deck, Parks Boat Club overlooks East Lake Okoboji and Turtle Bay. The view is unforgettable!

Round Lake Vineyards & Winery 30124 State HWY. 264 Round Lake, MN 507-945-1100 roundlakevineyards.com Open Year Round Looking for a unique experience for a wedding, business, social, or family event? Round Lake Vineyards offers the perfect setting to celebrate a wedding, groom’s dinner, or host your private corporate event. Contact them today to set up a tour of their event center, The Cellar, or to host an event in the winery.

The Venue 1605 Hill Ave., Spirit Lake 712-336-0495 Venueokoboji.com The Venue is the most fun space to book for your private party, big or small! The Venue features high-tech audio/visual presentation technology including the area’s best indoor golf and hunting simulators along with a variety of other games to bring your party to life. Open 7 days a week on Hill Avenue in Spirit Lake.

The Waterfront Grille & Event Center 610 Linden Dr., Arnolds Park 712-220-3200 waterfrontokoboji.com Open Year Round The Waterfront Event Center is perfect for business meetings, weddings, seminars, and more. Offering panoramic windows overlooking the lake, this space has room for up to 400 guests! The flexible facility, on-site catering, lakefront wedding gazebo, and all that Bridges Bay Resort has to offer will leave your guests in awe!

Elements Design Studio

Home Decor • Giis • Jewelry • Fresh Floral Design

OkobojiWeddings.com 712-332-2602 | 36 S. Hwy 71 | Arnolds Park, IA 51331

West O 503 Terrace Park Blvd., West Okoboji 712-332-8090 Westobeer.com Open Year Round West O Beer welcomes you to The Loft at West O, the Lakes Area’s one-of-a-kind “industrial speakeasy” event and rental space, overlooking our brewery. Accommodating a group of 60 seated or 70 standing, The Loft is a form-fit space for your wedding rehearsal dinner, birthday party, corporate event, presentation, or celebration!

Yesterdays Restaurant and Catering 131 W. Broadway, Arnolds Park 712-332-2353 yesterdaysokoboji.com/catering/ Catering & private events available year round Elevate life’s celebrations with a team passionate about food! We provide the highest level of culinary excellence and service for your events, weddings, and corporate gatherings. Let us bring your vision to life with precision and delicious perfection.

Elevate life's celebrations with a team passionate about food!

Experience culinary excellence and service for your events, weddings and corporate gatherings.

712.332.2353 • YesterdaysOkoboji.com/catering

Okoboji’s Finest Seafood Restaurant for Over 30 Years! V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

Homeology

Adventures IN SHOPPING

Shop the Iowa Great Lakes for the most eclectic, exciting, enticing collection of retailers, quaint shopkeepers, antique dealers and other storekeepers and business people whose offerings include a unique array of gifts, clothing, souvenirs and specialty goods.

Topside

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

Books-N-Things

Bungalow 29

The Three Sons

Homeology

ART IN THE PARK, AUG. 5 This annual Pearson Lakes Art Center event, overlooking the beautiful West Lake Okoboji and next to Arnolds Park Amusement Park, is a juried show featuring handcrafted work of over 60 artists from throughout the Midwest. Categories include sculpture, pottery, glass, drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, folk art, furniture, mixed media, and more. This is a must-see if you’re in Okoboji the first

WOW: Women’s Okoboji Weekend Shop the Iowa Great Lakes Nov. 8-9 for the most eclectic, exciting, enticing collection of retailers, quaint shopkeepers, antique dealers and other storekeepers and business people whose offerings include a unique array of gifts, clothing, souvenirs and specialty goods.

Lakes Area Farmers Market

Treasure Village Flea Markets 2023 IA-86, Milford | 712-337-3730 treasurevillage.org

Over 50 vendors will be selling antiques, collectibles, metal art, tools, toys, jewelry, many home-based businesses, concessions like jerky, kettle korn, BBQ sauces, and most EVERYTHING! Located at Treasure Village with its Mini Golf course, large parking lot, clean restrooms, and lots of shade trees. Come find a treasure!

weekend in August each year.

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

Books-N-Things Books-N-Things is excited to welcome you for our 36th year in Queen’s Court with a new logo but the same great quality and selection. We have Okoboji gear for the entire family. With sizes running from toddler to 5X, you are sure to find something for everyone, including your Boji Dog. We carry a wonderful selection of children’s books, games, toys, unique cards and gifts.

Arnolds Park Amusement Park Gift Shop Come visit the friendly staff at the Arnolds Park Amusement Park Gift Shop. They have a wide variety of Okoboji souvenirs from clothes to magnets, books about Okoboji written by local authors, and lots of items for the kids. Check out the FREE brochure rack for local tourist information, as well as for the entire state of Iowa.

Pink in the Park Pink in the Park is one-stop shopping for all your Okoboji clothing and accessories. This jammed-to-the-rafters store has something for every member of the family and all at reasonable prices. From tanks, to t-shirts and sweatshirts, Pink in the Park has a colorful array of Okoboji apparel for the whole family.

SHOP ARNOLDS PARK QUEEN’S COURT 37 Lake St. • Arnolds Park

Topside Shop a curated selection of summer essentials for the whole family for your summer at Lake Okoboji! Whether you are just visiting or a local, stop by Topside and experience this beach-vibe boutique located in Queen’s Court at historic Arnolds Park.

books-N-things Serving the Okoboji community for over 50 years! • Okoboji Wear sizes toddler to 5X • Resort Clothing • Unique Gifts & Home Decor • Childrenʼs Books & Games Souvenirs • T-Shirts • Sweatshirts Sunglasses • Sandals • Jewelry

Located in Queenʼs Court Arnolds Park, Iowa

Located in Queen’s Court, Arnolds Park

bntokoboji.com

VACATION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

• Our own brand of Okoboji collars, leashes, harnesses & accessories for your furry friends.

your story starts here

Queen’s Court, Arnolds Park Souvenirs • T-Shirts • Sweatshirts Sunglasses • Sandals • Jewelry V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

Located in Queen’s Court, Arnolds Park

West Boutique 1401 Lakeshore Dr., Okoboji 712-332-9904 Open Year Round shop.okobojiwest.com West is located on Lakeshore Drive at the top of the hill from the famous Okoboji Boat Works Marina. Focusing on the fashion-forward shopper, West offers trendy brands from Marina Layer to Vineyard Vines with selection of Okoboji gear denim, shoes, trendy tops, dresses and designer swimsuits. New, seasonal fashions weekly.

SHOP THE CENTRAL EMPORIUM Central Emporium 144 Lake Shore Dr., Arnolds Park | 712-332-5293 | Open Seasonally The Central Emporium is an Okoboji Tradition! Featuring 20 Retail shops, dining — inside or out — on the two-level deck at the Gardens. The Central Emporium is a one-stop shopping destination for all things Okoboji including Lilly Pulitzer at Palm at the Park and so much more!

Dellapina

Palm at the Park

144 Lakeshore Dr., Arnolds Park Lower Level Central Emporium 507-840-1689 dellapina.com Open Seasonally (May-September)

144 Lake Shore Dr., Arnolds Park 712-332-8393 shop.palmatthepark.com Open Seasonally

Owner - designer Marcy Costello offers her family’s homemade Peruvian sterling silver jewelry right here in Okoboji. Find uniquelydesigned rings, necklaces, bracelets, and charms, as well as Alpaca goods and lake-themed items. If you can’t find what you are looking for, Marcy can design and create your piece for you!

100

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

Palm at the Park is the first Lilly Pulitzer Specialty Store in Iowa. Located on the main level of the Central Emporium this Palm Beach inspired store will make you feel happy the minute you walk in with the bright, handpainted prints that make the brand so unique. Women’s and children’s clothing along with jewelry, shoes and swimsuits are featured.

The Central Emporium has been an iconic location on West Lake Okoboji for more than 100 years. The building was originally built in 1901 and has provided entertainment for generations! During the big band era, the entire upstairs of The Central Emporium was a dance hall and hosted famous musicians like Count Basie, the Dorsey Brothers, Woody Herman, Louis Armstrong and Glenn Miller. In 1971 the interior of the building was remodeled and renamed The Central Emporium which contained 2 to 3 stores. Present day, The Central Emporium has undergone additional renovations and will continue to entertain locals and visitors alike for decades to come!

Great Lakes Mall

Fashion Formula

1500 18th St., Spirit Lake 712-336-8851 | iowagreatlakesmall.com Open Year Round

Interiors

1500 18th St., Spirit Lake 712-336-3824 Open Year Round

1500 18th St., Spirit Lake 712-336-1000 Open Year Round

You are invited to visit the Iowa Great Lakes Mall in Spirit Lake to SHOP, RELAX AND ENJOY Yourself! The Iowa Great Lakes Mall is full of locally owned boutique shops that are stocked with fashionable, cutting-edge things that will fit your needs. Follow us on Facebook for updates on deals, events, and more.

Fashion Formula focuses on getting you outfitted in affordable items that will enhance your appearance and sense of style. Discover women’s clothing for all Okoboji occasions, including class reunions, boating, dining out, and more. Visit Fashion Formula to find out how to always appear stylish while looking fantastic. Sizes available range from small to plus sizes. Follow us on Facebook for new arrivals.

WOW! Is one of the first things we hear when someone walks through our doors! From stylish furniture for casual living to cutting-edge design in home decor. Visit Interiors for the best selection of furniture, wall art, everyday and seasonal decor, lighting, kitchen, bed, and bath. For the latest furniture and home decor trends follow us on Facebook.

SHOP THE GREAT LAKES MALL

The Look Fashions 1500 18th St., Spirit Lake 712-336-1000 Open Year Round The Look Fashion has the “LOOK” for you! When your wardrobe needs to go from drab to fab, this is the shop for you. The Look Fashions carries the latest styles from KanCan, Steve Madden, Flying Monkey, Grace and Lace, and much more! Open all year long; follow us on Facebook & Instagram for new, trendy arrivals!

102

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

Spirit Lake Silver & Gold

Wild Child

1509 18th St., Spirit Lake 712-336-5405 spiritlakesilverandgold.com Open Year Round

1519 18th St., Spirit Lake 712-336-6902 Open Year Round

With over 40 years of genuine, honest customer service, Spirit Lake Silver and Gold is your trusted diamond experts and jewelers. From diamond engagement rings to anniversary jewelry and custom designs, we have what you’ll love. Make sure to also check out our custom line of Okoboji Jewelry that is perfect for keeping memories of Lake Okoboji close to your heart! No appointment is needed; just stop in with your ideas and jewelry dreams, and let’s start creating! Get daily Sparkle updates by following us on Facebook and Instagram!

Mom and Grandma adore all the lovely, cute outfits that are available for both boys and girls! OH, and the baby section has the softest, sweetest outfits to wrap your new baby in! Oh, and the kids love all the toys! Wild Child has everything you need for all the girls and boys in your life in sizes newborn to size 16 for tween girls and boys. Wild Child carries Under Armour, Adidas, Nike, Roxy, Mayoral, and many more brands! Follow us on Facebook for new arrivals.

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

103

Bungalow 29

Homeology

29 Dam Rd. (Off Hwy. 71) Arnolds Park 712-332-2903 Open Seasonally

Little Red Gift Gallery

248 Hwy. 71, Arnolds Park 712-332-8015 Open Year Round Facebook: Homeologyboji

220 Hwy. 71 N., Okoboji 712-332-7013

For 19 years, Bungalow 29 has tempted even the most discriminating shopper. Women of all ages love browsing upscale designer brands in a comfortable, cottage atmosphere. Bungalow 29 features contemporary yet classic lines such as Veronica Beard, White + Warren, Frank & Eileen, Xirena, Apiece Apart, and Kinross Cashmere, and more. Call for store hours or make a private appointment with Amy.

Homeology Decor & Boutique, open year round, specializing in making your house a home! We carry small furniture, lamps, mirrors, wall art, lake decor, florals, home fragrance, kitchen accessories, gourmet dips and mixes, women’s clothing, jewelry, purses, baby gifts and children’s books!

712-332-8015 248 Hwy. 71 S. Arnolds Park, IA

@HomeologyBoji

A nod to the “Little Red Building” that was the original Lakes Art Center in the 1960’s, the Little Red Gift Gallery features locally made art, products, cards and much more. Located inside the Pearson Lakes Art Center, visitors can browse and enjoy coffee on the adjoining outdoor patio.

Summer hours: Mon-Sat, 10:00-5:00 Sun, 12:00-4:00 * Hours change seasonally Check Facebook for updates

VACATION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

MEN’S, WOMEN’S, CHILDREN’S CLOTHING, SHOES, ACCESSORIES

LOCATED 1 BLOCK EAST OF BANK STOPLIGHT

OPEN SINCE

OPEN

902 10TH ST. MILFORD, IA

1960

ALL YEAR 7 MIN. SOUTH OF ARNOLDS PARK V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

105

Allure & Co

Allure & Co | The Warehouse

1618 Hill Ave., Spirit Lake 712-339-9602 allureandcompany.com Open Year Round

Antiques Etc.

1796 Hwy. 71, Okoboji 712-339-9602 allureandcompany.com Open Year Round

101 Hwy. 71, West Okoboji 712-330-4031 Open March-December

Allure & Co. is your one-stop shop Downtown Spirit Lake! Find clothing for the whole family, furniture and home decor and discover the boutique services offered at The Lofts at Allure & Co. You can enjoy a coffee, drop in for a yoga or barre class, relax with a facial or get styled at the hair salon!

An extension of Allure & Co. downtown Spirit Lake, The Warehouse is a 15,000 sq ft furniture, art and lighting showroom. Follow @allure_thewarehouse for hours or call for an appointment.

Wander leisurely through 40 dealer booths offering merchandise from collectibles to furniture, vintage clothing, linens new and old, as well as one-of-a-kind items you can’t seem to find anywhere else! Whether you’re adding to your collection or finding the unique piece to complete your latest Pinterest project, make Antiques Etc. your destination March thru December.

Mary’s Gift Shoppe

Old School Mercantile

3001 Aurora Ave. (off Hwy. 71) Spirit Lake 712-336-1643 marysgiftshoppe.com Open Year Round

Three Sons

10 W Broadway St, Arnolds Park facebook.com/OldSchoolMercantile/

902 10th St., Milford 712-338-2424 threesons.com Open Year Round

Mary is well-known for her ever-changing creative displays that help our clients find the unique fit for their home. From home decor, extensive kitchen gadgets, clothing, hilarious cards, jewelry, purses, gourmet food, Okoboji souvenirs and so much more, we are confident you’ll love your experience at Mary’s! Open year round.

106

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

Old School Mercantile is located in the heart of Arnolds Park on the corner of Broadway and Highway 71. Shop for your favorite antiques, art, and much more all by local business owners. Space is still available so stop in and check it out.

The official University of Okoboji outfitter is still family owned & operated. Just a few minutes south of the lake, you’ll find the most unique shopping experience in Iowa. See our full page of name brand merchandise on page 105. Don’t miss the famous upstairs ½ price plus $1 SALE every day!

Flea Markets May 25-27 | July 4-6 August 31 – Sept 2

The newest shopping center in the heart of Arnolds Park.

An Upscale Shopping Experience

10 W. Broadway St. Arnolds Park, IA

— Open Seasonally —

Frank & Eileen | Veronica Beard | XÍRENA 29 Dam Road – Arnolds Park – 712.322.2903

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

107

SAFETY IN NUMBERS From simple calamities like a sprained ankle to critical events like fires, vehicle accidents or potential heart attacks, there’s a team of people who run toward the trouble: They’re called Heroes. Most of us don’t consider the planning, training, and resources that go into making an area safe, including our Iowa Great Lakes. Fortunately for both visitors and residents, we have a Team of Heroes who study and train for events to keep us safe. Local public safety personnel are available 24/7, helping people who find themselves in peril, large or small. Each department responds to literally hundreds of calls each year. The glue holding all these departments together is the 6-person staff of the county-operated communications center, which stands ready to direct emergency calls.

IT TAKES A

TEAM OF

HEROES BY JONATHAN

REED

Your dedication is showing Volunteer commitment isn’t just limited to on-call availability; it really shows its mettle with ongoing training. Police and fire personnel represent the front line of safety for most of us, and it doesn’t happen overnight. Consider that it requires 180 hours of classroom time to reach Firefighter I status. That’s over a month of 8-to-5 learning, and it’s just the beginning. Arnolds Park-Okoboji Fire & Rescue’s Chris Yungbluth points out that even

long-certified personnel have a monthly continuing education (CE) class, plus two or three nights a month for firefighters. To be a “first responder” (now termed Emergency Medical Responders), you have additional 12 hours of training and classes; paramedics, 48 hours…and it only increases from there to higher levels of certification.

108

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

The EMT who rips your shirt open to use a defibrillator? That’s an additional 24 hours of CE every two years, just to stay up on latest techniques and technology. Dive Team members who help pull anyone from the water, summer or winter, have even more regular training beyond their certification— two to four more hours every month.

28 17 21 4 5 5 19 4 6 10-20

SAFETY IN NUMBERS

Arnolds Park-Okoboji Fire & Rescue Volunteer Members Milford Fire & Rescue Firefighters Spirit Lake Fire Dept. Firefighters Okoboji Police Dept. Full-Time Staff Arnolds Park Police Department Officers Milford Police Dept. Officers Dickinson County Sheriff’s Dept. deputies Dickinson County Jailers Dickinson County Dispatchers Iowa DNR, Seasonal Conservation Officers

That’s a lot of evenings and weekends sacrificed by volunteers to keep our community safe. And we’re not even talking about the many inter-agency meetings and training sessions that go on. All the departments have to learn to work together efficiently. We’re fortunate that this area has the community support—annual Fire/Rescue and fire department fundraising activities are typically well-attended functions—but also the volunteers themselves stick with it for many years.

Arnolds Park-Okoboji Fire & Rescue has a couple of members with 30+ years’ tenure; Spirit Lake has four with that level of experience; and Milford at least two.

Our protected lakes As any boater will tell you, our water resources are well-patrolled. We have two fulltime DNR conservation officers year-round, plus 10 to 12 seasonal Water Patrol officers assigned here—with an additional 10 called in for holiday throngs. These are the people you want when things go sideways. Why? Again, training. Conservation officer Daniel Dirks explains: “After completing initial basic training at the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy, newly hired officers must complete the Probationary Conservation Officer Academy and Field Training Program.” In other words, more school. You never know what can go wrong on the water, but it won’t be good. Conservation officers learn defensive tactics, firearms, communication skills, ice and swift water rescue, and law enforcement driving. “Officers are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week by radio and telephone,” Dirks says. “Most maintain offices in their homes and in their assigned work vehicles.” The DNR equips officers with uniforms, firearms, and seasonal apparel including waders, snowmobile suits, and flotation devices. They never know when they might have to save a life. So no matter the department—on our highways or our lakes—the Heroes who run toward trouble are ones you can count on.

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

109

Okoboji

A PLACE TO CALL HOME

@montgoe2714

Excellent schools, good employment opportunities and a healthy business climate complement the area’s beauty and culture. Enjoy loads of recreation and hometown friendliness!

110

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

DICKINSON COUNTY POP. 17,703 | dickinsoncountyiowa.org

Dickinson County, known as a growing, progressive area in Iowa, offers a wonderful place to live and work. Home to 27 homegrown and international industries, a variety of great jobs are available. Housing opportunities are plentiful to fit an array of budgets and preferences for rural, town and waterfront locations. There are four quality school systems — Harris-Lake Park, Okoboji, Spirit Lake, and GraettingerTerril — that generate substantial hometown pride.

LOCAL RESOURCES Our Communities . . . . . . . . . 112 Organizations . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Banking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Communications . . . . . . . . . 119 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 Health & Wellness . . . . . . . . 122 Advertisers & Chamber Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124 Regional Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126 Relocation Checklist . . . . . . 130

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO OUTDOORS

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

111

OUR COMMUNITIES

ARNOLDS PARK

Pop. 1,110 | 712-332-2341 arnoldsparkcity.com In Arnolds Park, the City of Five Lakes, the emphasis is on entertaining and accommodating visitors. Experience the oldest amusement park west of the Mississippi, distinctive shopping, a premier golf course, and a full-service marina. A variety of restaurants, lounges, and nightlife abound!

LAKE PARK

Pop. 1,230 | lakeparkia.com Lake Park is just 10 minutes west of the Iowa Great Lakes. Progressive industries and businesses have found success in locating to Lake Park. With a modern school/athletic complex, 9-hole golf course, Silver Lake, parks and public swimming pool, Lake Park is where you can enjoy a visit or a lifetime.

Harris-Lake Park Community School District Harris-Lake Park CSD is located in Lake Park, Ia, consisting of two buildings. The Harris-Lake Park Elementary accommodates PK – 5 students. Technology is an essential tool for providing a creative and innovative education in the school district. In 3rd through 12th grade students have their own Chromebooks, while the PK through 2nd grade students have access to iPads.

112

VACA TION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

MILFORD

Pop. 3,321 | 712-338-2741 milford.ia.us For any business or family wanting to experience the benefits of small-town caring at the Iowa Great Lakes, contact the Milford Commercial Club. The southern gateway to the Iowa Great Lakes, Milford is home to Okoboji Community Schools, a high quality, award winning educational system with a new Middle School.

Okoboji Schools At Okoboji Schools, we are “Pioneering Pathways for Every Student” by creating learning experiences to prepare every student to solve the problems of tomorrow. By building on the outstanding foundation and diverse learning opportunities available, we are able to construct pathways of success that allow our students to excel in communicating, collaborating, critical thinking, and fostering community wherever their paths lead.

Okoboji

Living

THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AT THE IOWA GREAT LAKES. From upscale homes with the finest furnishings, to laid back casual times at the family cabin. From quiet mornings during the dead of winter to fun-filled, action-packed days in July.

WE COVER IT ALL. Lifestyles in OKOBOJI Magazine, entertainment in DISCOVER and quick posts on social media. Stay connected. Be in the know. Hold onto a bit of Okoboji wherever you go.

A FREE WEEKLY ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE FROM IOWA INFORMATION MEDIA GROUP

MUSICAL review

BRIDAL EDITION

Ten talented performers work nonstop during show

Indigo Row creates floral art

— SEE PAGE 13

Marlow condo is bold and brave

DISCOVER! MAGAZINE JULY 29, 2023

Vintage snowmobiles race on ice

Annual showcase highlights variety of artwork

I am excited for all of the new things that we will be adding to our event this year, and to be celebrating our 25th year. I have been to every single one of them in my life. Anyone and everyone should come. There is something for every single person — no matter who you are.” Lexie Ruter

F E B R U A RY 2 0 2 3

— SEE PAGE 17

MIDSUMMER

madness

Estherville Chamber of Commerce Executive Director

VOLUME 36 | NO. 1 | $4.95

love,

then comes

A-maize-ing Estherville to host Sweet Corn Days Aug. 3-6 — S E E P A G E 2 0

Okoboji Bible Conference is set to take place from Aug. 5-11 — SEE PAGE 9

POINT TO POINT Your source for weekend fun in N’West Iowa

7 issues per year | $20

IOWA INFORMATION MEDIA GROUP

712.324.5347 | 800.247.0186 nwestiowa.com | funatboji.com

Hartley Summer Celebration set for Aug. 4-6 — SEE PAGE 8

Swim takes participants across West Okoboji Lake — SEE PAGE 18

FunAtBoji.com

Subscribe online!

nwestiowa.com/subscribe

For events, concerts and celebrations, pick up your FREE copy of DISCOVER each week, all year long. Distributed at locations all around the Iowa Great Lakes and northwest Iowa. V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

113

OUR COMMUNITIES

ORLEANS

Pop. 521 orleans.govoffice.com

©David Radler

OKOBOJI

Pop. 768 712-332-2250 | okobojicity.com Okoboji is home to a championship golf course, two marinas, lodging properties, vibrant restaurants, local businesses, and two beautiful city parks, one of which offers direct lake access. The City of Okoboji is dedicated to preserving the quiet beauty of our community and upholding the quality of our lakes while providing comprehensive city services to residents.

SPIRIT LAKE

Pop. 5,439 | 712-336-1871 cityofspiritlake.org 712-336-4978 | spiritlakecc.com Spirit Lake is one of the fastest growing communities in northwest Iowa and recognized nationally as one of the best places to live in the U.S. Locally-owned businesses contribute to a thriving economy. The city is home to a first class educational system, stateof-the-art regional hospital and a newlyopened regional veterans clinic, a thriving downtown and beautiful parks.

114

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

Spirit Lake Community School Spirit Lake Community School is an innovative and progressive district serving approximately 1,300 students in grades PK - 12, with one-to-one technology access for all students. The district is located on one central campus with state-of-the-art facilities that maximize our students’ educational experience.

We welcome you to the City of Orleans, home of Big Spirit Lake. Whether permanent resident or seasonal resident, all find Orleans a great place to live near the shores of Iowa’s beautiful and largest natural lake.

For more than 125 years, Spirit Lake has been the ideal destination for family vacations. And, according to the 2020 census, Spirit Lake is among the fastest growing small towns in Iowa. Truly a recreation haven, the Iowa Great Lakes is rich in heritage and abundant in leisure activities. Spirit Lake offers an exciting location for business and industry as well as an excellent housing market. Whether you’re coming to Spirit Lake for a visit or a move, you’ll be certain to love our hospitality.

1710 Lincoln Ave., Spirit Lake | 712-336-4978 | spiritlakecc.com | cityofspiritlake.org

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

115

OUR COMMUNITIES

WAHPETON

WEST OKOBOJI

Pop. 308 | 712-320-4394 | cityofwestokoboji.org West Okoboji is primarily a residential community. Many West Okoboji residents and visitors soak-up the sun and splash in the water at Terrace Park, one of the area’s most popular public beaches. A stable government leads this peaceful community through carefully considered business and residential development opportunities.

ORGANIZATIONS

Iowa Lakes Corridor

520 2nd Avenue East, Suite 2, Spencer, IA | (712) 264-3474 | lakescorridor.com The Iowa Lakes Corridor is the regional economic development agency for Buena Vista, Clay, Dickinson and Emmet Counties. They assist in the economic growth and development of the region, primarily through Business Attraction, Business Retention & Expansion, Entrepreneurship and Workforce & Community Development. Visit lakescorridor.com to see why this is The Place for You.

Iowa Great Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

565 US-71 Suite 4, Arnolds Park 712-332-2107 okobojichamber.com The Chamber’s mission is to promote the area’s business, civic, tourism and agricultural interests. They manage many popular events including: University of Okoboji Winter Games, Oktoberfest and Walleye Weekend. The Chamber also works on area business development and growth, and welcoming new businesses.

Milford Commercial Club PO Box 214, Milford milfordcommercialclub.com

The Milford Commercial Club is a group of community-minded businesses that work together to promote the place we live and work. In addition to Pioneer Days in July and Holiday Fantasy in December, we also organize events to welcome new businesses, promote community spirit, and encourage local shopping. Follow us on Facebook for dates.

Estherville Area Chamber of Commerce

Spirit Lake Chamber

The Estherville Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to supporting the growth and success of businesses in our community. We specialize in event planning, marketing, economic and community development and providing support to new and existing businesses to help them thrive. As a non-profit organization, we are committed to serving as a connector, coordinator and catalyst for business and community prosperity throughout Estherville and Emmet County.

The Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce is a division of the Iowa Great Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and was formed to promote the specific interests of the Spirit Lake community. Mission: “Strengthening business, enhancing community.” They sponsor the Bike Ride Around Spirit Lake (BRASL), Cruise-In Classic Car Show, Makers Market, Retail Events and more.

601 1st Ave. S, Estherville 712-362-3541 | estherville.org

116

VACATION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

1710 Lincoln Ave., Suite D Spirit Lake | 712-336-4978 spiritlakecc.com

Pop. 345 | 712-337-3522 wahpetonia.govoffice.com cityofwahpeton.com The village of Wahpeton lies on the west side of West Lake Okoboji along Hwy. 86. Gull Point State Park and the canal system make Wahpeton a nature lover’s dream. Primarily a residential community, it is also home to a restaurant, lakeside resort, Iowa Lakeside Laboratory, the Okoboji Yacht Club, two campgrounds and three church camps.

EAT | SHOP | STAY | PLAY Escape to Estherville. Here you can hike beautiful Fort Defiance State Park, kayak or canoe the West Fork of the Des Moines River, and fish or hunt in our many public areas. Enjoy our fascinating Emmet County Historical Museum and learn about our fallen meteorite. Relax with a book at our updated and charming Carnegie Library. Eat at our delicious and one of a kind restaurants and shop our small, unique boutiques.

Play in the Ville Flight Breakfast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 4 Sweet Corn Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aug. 1-4 Sip the Ville . . . . . . . . . September/October Fright Hike . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oct. 19 Holiday in the Ville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nov. 21 TUBACHRISTMAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dec. 5 esthervillechamber.org

Stay in the Ville

Estherville Hotel & Suites . . 712-362-5522 Super 8 Motel . . . . . . . . . . . . 712-362-2400

117

BANKING

Bank Midwest 1525 18th St., Spirit Lake 712-336-0505 | bankmidwest.com Bank Midwest offers a complete menu of financial services with a commitment to customers and communities. With convenient locations around the lakes area, they offer traditional banking services from free online and mobile banking, convenient ATMs and lending, to trust, investment and insurance services. Bank Midwest — committed to providing customers a great experience every day. Equal Housing Lender, Member FDIC.

Farmers Savings Bank 2121 Okoboji Ave., Milford 712-338-4800 | fsbfostoria.com Farmers Savings Bank, a locally owned, community minded bank in Milford and Fostoria, has been Growing Strong Relationships for over 100 years! Check out our full line of products delivered with small-town service. We offer personalized financial solutions one customer and transaction at a time. Equal Housing Lender, Member FDIC.

WHERE

Technology AND

Rela�ionships MEET

Life is busy. We know that taking just a little extra time with every customer, face to face, to help them with their ﬁnancial needs is not only helpful, it's just the way we prefer to do business.

In-person Lenders & Tellers 6 days a week Mobile App and Digital Wallet

fsbfostoria.com Milford 712.338.4800 | Fostoria 712.262.2708

Dream big. Plan wisely. Live well. Talk to us.

Spirit Lake n Okoboji n Member FDIC n BankMidwest.com 118

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

A FREE WEEKLY ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE FROM IOWA INFORMATION MEDIA GROUP

PULLING TOGETHER JULY 22, 2023

Comedy delivers at Okoboji Summer Theatre — SEE PAGE 8

— SEE PAGE 14

Pushing

DISCOVER! MAGAZINE

the

ADVERTISING & COMMUNICATIONS

Celebrate summer at Doon Days on July 28-29

BOAT out

Antique and Classic Boat Show Rendezvous scheduled for July 29

LAUGHS AMID LIFE’S

LESSONS

— SEE PAGE 19

Legendary performer returns to Pearson Lakes Art Center — S E E P A G E 7

the magic of

MARILYN MAYE Your source for weekend fun in N’West Iowa

Blink Marketing 1020 10th Street, Milford 712-338-6000 | blink26.com Blink Marketing is a boutique-marketing agency with over 29 years of experience in marketing and branding and celebrating 15 years in business. Providing outstanding service, content and creative execution, let us help you design your brand with creative and strategic ideas. Services include: Brand Development, Strategic Marketing Plans, Graphic Design, Social Media, Website Development, Photography, Video, Drone, Research and Consulting.

FunAtBoji.com

Community First Broadcasting, LLC

Okoboji Magazine

Hwy. 9 West, Spirit Lake 712-336-5800 | exploreokoboji.com

227 9th St, Sheldon IA 800-247-0186 www.funatboji.com

(Exploreokoboji.com & CF Digital)

KUOO-FM 103.9 Campus Radio is your official University of Okoboji radio station offering Local News, Weather, Music & Fun as well as the famous 4th of July Fireworks Patriotic Musical Montage. You can also listen to Okoboji’s Best Rock at 102.1 FM, Today’s Best Variety at 100.1 FM, Xtreme Country at 105.7 FM, and True Country at 1190 AM or 97.7 FM. See West Lake Okoboji anytime with our LIVE webcam at exploreokoboji.com.

Iowa Information Media Group

OKOBOJI Magazine is the premiere lifestyle publication of the Iowa Great Lakes, published for more than 35 years and filled with features on the people, places, homes, events and history of the area. The magazine’s sister publication, DISCOVER, is a free entertainment guide distributed throughout Northwest Iowa. Check out these publications and more at www.nwestiowa.com

SOCIAL MEDIA. BRAND MARKETING. WEBSITE DESIGN. DRONE. PHOTOGRAPHY. VISIT

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

119

REAL ESTATE

You can visit Iowa's paradise... Or you can own it

Naatjes Group Bluewater Brokers 1714 Hill Ave., Spirit Lake 712-336-0888 | SellingOkoboji.com Naatjes Group | Bluewater Brokers is a dynamic group of full-time real estate brokers and agents with their pulse on the market, expert negotiation skills, and marketing know-how to give our clients the edge over the competition. Our brokers have grown up “Livin’ the Okoboji Lifestyle” and their deep roots in the community bring benefits to the client. Our sole goal is to provide the results you’re looking for in today’s wild market. Leaving you the assurance that whom you’re working with will provide an elevated experience and in real estate, whom you work with matters.

We Make Finding Your NEXTHOME Easy! Download our FREE Mobile search app

NextHome At The Lakes 1410 Lake St, Spirit Lake, IA Nexthomeatthelakes.com

NextHome at the Lakes 1410 Lake St., Spirit Lake 712-336-9999 | nexthomeatthelakes.com NextHome At the Lakes is one of the Okoboji area’s newest real estate franchises. NextHome is a progressive real estate company with consumer-focused branding, technology and marketing. Download our home search app (NextHome mobile connect) and contact us today to see how we can help you with your residential, commercial and seasonal real estate needs.

Re/Max Lakes Realty 272 Hwy. 71, Arnolds Park 712-336-4967 | www.sellboji.com RE/MAX Lakes Realty is home to the finest real estate agents in the Iowa Great Lakes. We offer the area’s PREMIER real estate website and mobile app, www.sellboji.com. With SellBoji. com and the Sellboji App, buyers can easily search and save any listings available on the MLS. When thinking of buying or selling, think RE/MAX Lakes Realty.

120

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

Each office is Independently Owned and Operated

Right Size Storage 3000 18th. St., Spirit Lake 712-336-8400 Rightsize-storage.com Right Size Storage, your source for clean, quality and affordable storage in Spirit Lake and Milford. We offer a variety of unit sizes and options for car, boat, truck, trailer and RV storage. All units are located on ground level with drive-up access, roll-up doors and wide avenues for large trucks, trailers and moving vans.

MY OKOBOJI LIFE

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

121

HEALTH & WELLNESS

AeroNautiX Performance Clinic 3301 Bergquist Ave., Spirit Lake 712-339-6024 aeronautixperformance.com Our dedicated staff is here to optimize your hyperbaric experience. Hyperbaric Therapy promotes the healing process by increasing atmospheric pressure and oxygen. Our guests have reported broad-ranging improvement in conditions such as: concussions, sports injuries, traumatic brain injury, COVID injury, fatigue, headaches, memory loss and pain. Call to learn more.

Okoboji Wellness Clinic 3305 Bergquist Ave., Spirit Lake 712-339-6024 okobojiwellnessclinic.com As an Integrative Family Care Clinic, it is our mission to walk alongside the individual and empower them to take charge of their own health and wellness journey. Wellness therapies and approaches may include Hyperbaric Therapy, Functional Nutrition, Red Light, PEMF, Styku 3D Body Scan, Craniosacral and Lymphatic Massage. Call to get started on your wellness journey.

SKIN AND VEIN CLINIC

Face Lifts | Breast Surgery Fillers | Skin Checks Liposuction | Laser Face Peels Varicose Veins & much more!

712-332-6001 | rebeyou.com | Spirit Lake, Iowa Dr. Ronald Kolegraff, MD, FACS • Dr. Keli Kolegraff, MD, PhD Nicole Stall, NP-C, DCNP Dermatology Certified 122

VACA TION OKOBOJI 2 0 2 4

5 STAR HOSPITAL DESIGNATION Lakes Regional Healthcare in Spirit Lake is proud to be rated as a five-star hospital by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Their Care Compare program reports on quality measures for over 4,000 hospitals nationwide each year. Lakes Regional Healthcare is the only hospital in the western half of Iowa receive this fivestar rating, which is the highest possible rating. Lakes Regional Healthcare has received a five star rating for four years in a row, and is the only hospital in northwest Iowa to receive the highest rating in that time.

Lakes Regional Healthcare 2301 Hwy. 71 S, Spirit Lake 712-336-8799 | lakeshealth.org As the only 5-star hospital in northwest Iowa, Lakes Regional Healthcare is dedicated to providing the best service and highest quality health care to residents and visitors of the Iowa Great Lakes region. With over 130 physicians on its medical staff, patients receive care in many specialties, some of which include orthopedics, urology, obstetrics, and ophthalmology.

“I am proud of what our team does each day for our patients, families, and communities. Their commitment to providing high quality, compassionate care to every patient at every encounter is demonstrated by how we earned the highest possible star rating.” - Jason Harrington, President and CEO Lakes Regional Healthcare

LAKES REGIONAL HEALTHCARE CARE When You Need It QuickCAREClinic

Same day appointments for acute, non-emergent health concerns Saturday 8 am-Noon Call 712-336-3750 ■ Minor burns and cuts ■

Earache Allergies ■ Nausea ■ ■

Lakes Regional Healthcare ER

Immediate care for emergent health concerns 24 hours/day, every day ■ Chest pain ■ Shortness of breath ■ Major burns and cuts ■ Complications from pregnancy ■ Poisoning or drug overdose ■ Stroke-like symptoms ■ Suicidal thoughts

ReBe Skin & Vein Clinic 3301 Hwy 71, Spirit Lake 712-332-6001 rebeyou.com ReBe is one of the finest and best credential vein center clinics in Iowa. They offer a variety of cosmetic and medical procedures to begin your journey to a new you! Visit their website to learn more about the surgical and cosmetic services offered including veins, dermatology, cool sculpting, hormone therapy, and more.

lakeshealth.org

Lakes Regional Family Medicine Appointments for all other health concerns Monday – Friday 8 am-5 pm 2301 Hwy 71 South, Spirit Lake Call 712-336-3750 V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

123

ADVERTISERS & CHAMBER MEMBERS ADVERTISING/MARKETING/MEDIA BonFire Marketing CTRL Marketing Lakes News Shopper Livewire Printing Co. Plus One Media Inc. Power Source Publisher of Lake Life Okoboji Spencer Radio Group SAGA Communications Spencer Trophy & Awards Split Rock Photography Summit Productions Tri-State Litho Vertical Marketing Web Graphics, Inc.

(712) 330-6078 (712) 336-6990 (712) 338-2232 (507) 847-3771 (712) 830-6045 (712) 336-5614

(712) 262-1240 (712) 264-8736 (712) 330-4042 (402)250-9991 (712) 336-2476 (210) 823-0543 (800) 932-7746

AMUSEMENTS/ATTRACTIONS/ RECREATION

@davey_delish

Arnolds Park Amusement Park Boje-Bikes Boji Splash Waterpark Bouncelandia Brooks Golf Campbell Fishing Expeditions Corner Lanes Bowling Dickinson County Museum Dickinson County Nature Center Dickinson County Trails Emerald Hills Golf Club Freedom Boat Club Okoboji Higgins Money Museum Indian Hills Golf Course Iowa Lakeside Laboratory J & M Displays Inc Jackson Motorplex John T. Grosvenor Expeditions Kindermusik at the Lakes Kurio Kastle Pottery Painting Palace Lakes Area Activity Center Lakes Ice Arena Little Sioux Orchard Lutheran Lakeside Camp Milford Pioneer Theatre Okoboji Classic Cars Okoboji Sailing Center Okoboji Summer Theatre Okoboji View Golf Course Okoboji Writers’ Retreat Pearson Lakes Art Center Pirate’s Cove Spencer Golf & Country Club Spirit Of Harmony The Grove Okoboji The Throwing Post The Venue Treasure Village Winchester Store Museum

(712) 332-2183 (712) 330-6750 (712) 332-2202 (712) 318-1031 (712) 332-5011 (239) 860-0976 (712) 336-4418 (712) 336-5928 (712) 336-6352 (712) 336-6268 (712) 332-7100 (641) 548-8488 (712) 332-5859 (712) 336-4768 (712) 337-3669 (712) 339-5900 (507) 849-7100 (712) 330-5815 (605) 212-2731

(712) 336-6881 (712) 336-5247 (712) 759-1227 (712) 320-8707 (712) 336-2109 (515 )207-2306 (712) 332-8029 (712) 337-0121 (712) 332-7773 (712) 337-3372 (443) 223-0865 (712) 332-7013 (712) 332-6094 (712) 262-2028 (712) 336-9107 (712) 332-8667 (712) 336-0495 (712) 337-3730

AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE Boji Towing and Recovery LLC C&B Powersports EV of Okoboji Great Lakes Motor Company Jennings Tow & Repair Kemna Okoboji Motorcars & AutoSmart Kemna Okoboji Rental Cars L&C Tire Service, Inc. Lakes Autosport Motor Inn of Spirit Lake Okoboji Motor Company Phil’s Marketplace Valvoline Instant Oil Change

(712) 332-1195 (712) 336-6871 (712) 336-3333 (712) 336-2277 (712) 336-3120

(712) 336-3333 (712) 336-3333 (712) 336-0097 (712) 336-2198 (712) 336-2701 (712) 336-1500 (712) 332-8302 (712) 339-9780

BANKS & FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS American Family Insurance (712) 336-2003 Bank Midwest (712) 336-0505 Central Bank (712) 336-4100 Central Insurance at Central Bank (712) 336-5090 Citizens Community Credit Union (712) 336-1095 Dickinson County Mutual Insurance (712) 336-1262 Edward Jones - Spirit Lake (712) 336-4172 Farm Bureau Financial Services (712) 336-3260 Farmers Insurance (712) 336-6524 Farmers Savings Bank - Milford (712) 338-4800 Farmers Trust & Savings Bank (712) 262-3340 KHI Solutions (712) 332-8361 Liberty National Bank (712) 332-6424 MHR Insurance (712) 338-2654 Northwest Bank - Milford (712) 338-2411 Northwest Bank - Spirit Lake (712) 336-1034 Prairie Plans Asset Management (712)336-5399

124

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

Sheeler Insurance & Investments (712) 336-8879 State Farm Insurance (712) 336-2499 The State Bank (712) 336-2455 Trek Financial (480) 658-0368 Two Forty Insurance (712) 852-6166 United Community Bank - Milford (712) 338-2781 United Community Bank - Okoboji (712) 332-7717 Walker Insurance (712) 332-7359 Wymer Insurance (712) 336-0028

BEAUTY/FITNESS

Athletic Republic Lakes Athletic Performance Bedell Family YMCA Boji Tan CrossFit Okoboji Elite Health & Wellness Faust Institute of Cosmetology The District The Hair Team The Studio Yoga & Barre Yoga Okoboji

(712) 336-4040 (712) 336-9622 (712) 336-6960 (712) 481-2122 (712) 336-4848 (712) 336-3518 (508) 930-5161 (712) 336-1440 (712) 330-9798 (712) 336-9642

CONSTRUCTION/HOME SRVCS

3D BUILDERS (712)336-3901 Advanced Water Systems (712) 332-2833 Alger Customs (712) 338-2012 Bates Construction, Inc. (712) 336-1173 Beck Engineering, Inc. (712) 336-3596 Bella Loc Homes (712) 693-6233 Carney Concrete (712) 320-5188 Carpet One Floor & Home (712) 336-5559 CFE Lumber Division Home & Kitchen Design (712) 332-8208 Closet Concepts and Designs (605) 368-0385 CODIT Tree Service (712) 339-1895 Coffman Locksmith Shop (712) 260-5625 Comfortec Heating, Cooling & Plumbing (712) 336-5431 Consumers Lumber (712) 336-3610 Culligan Water Conditioning (712) 262-1696 Custom Cut Gutters (712) 262-1013 CW Suter Services (712) 262-1514 Dulin Contracting Inc. (712) 320-2220 Great Lakes Concrete (712) 336-2142 Hahn Roofing (712) 262-8923 Harvey’s Five Star Roofing (712) 832-3660 Howard Construction (712) 330-2984 Iowa Stone Supply (515) 276-6655 Jane & Kay Cleaning Services (712) 339-1145 Journey Group Companies (605) 332-5968 K&K Masonry, Inc. (712) 320-2951 Kozy Heat Gallery (507) 662-5161 Krebsbach Landscaping & Lawn Service LLC (712) 363-3336 Lakes Appliance Repairs (712) 209-9441 Lakes Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling (712) 336-2175 Last Touch Paint (712) 336-4475 Midwest Companies (712) 466-3543 Midwest Technology Services (888) 809-7506 Mr. Appliance of Spencer (712) 710-0005 Mr. Drain Man, LLC. (712) 330-5940 Mueske Electric, Inc. (712) 336-1986 No Streaking Okoboji (712) 330-5116 Northwest Iowa Sprinkler (712) 338-2756 Pest Pros (712) 441-2197 Phillips Electric, Inc. (712) 339-6030 Plumb Supply Company (712) 336-0787 Right Size Storage (712) 336-8400 Roof-Guard Co. (866) 857-7663 ServiceMaster by Rice (712) 338-4848 Snook’s of Okoboji (712) 332-7530 Snyder Garage Doors (712) 270-1011 Steamway Cleaning (712) 336-2484 Steffes Companies LLC (712) 338-6400 What A View Window Cleaning (712) 320-2314 Woodruff Construction (712) 262-2227

DISTRIBUTING/INDUSTRY/ MANUFACTURING

A.H. Hermel Company (507)387-0575 Atlantic Bottling Co. (712) 336-3520 Brownmed (712) 336-4395 Cooperative Farmers Elevator (712) 336-6124 Doll Distributing (712) 262-4117 Kuhlman Lake Service & Welding (712) 336-1388 New Ulm Brewing and Beverage Co. (507) 794-1919 Okoboji Wines (712) 336-3492 Polaris Industries (712) 336-3797 Pure Fishing (712) 336-1520 Rosenboom Machine & Tool, Inc. (712) 324-4854 Safco-Mayline (888) 971-6225 United States Powertrain / Powersource (888) 759-0814

EDUCATION

Iowa Lakes Community College Okoboji Community Schools Spirit Lake Community Schools Spirit Lake Public Library

GAS/CONVENIENCE/ GROCERY/LIQUOR Brew Oil Co Milford Brew Oil Co Spirit Lake Fareway Hy-Vee Food Store Jiffy Convenience Store Kwik Star Krafty’s Meat Market Okoboji Avenue Liquor, Inc Okoboji Gas Company Sunshine Foods The Boonedocks The Tobacco Shop Vick’s Corner

(712) 362-0434 (712) 338-4757 (712) 336-2820 (712) 336-2667

(712) 338-2511 (712) 336-2730 (712) 336-5802 (712) 336-4900 (712) 336-3129 (712) 336-8914 (712) 339-0536 (712) 338-4676 (712) 338-2384 (712) 338-4716 (712) 332-6062 (712) 332-2915 (712) 336-5602

HEALTHCARE

Champion State of Mind (800) 592-0180 Dixon Family Chiropractic (712) 336-1365 Essential Float Eyecare Centre (712) 336-1960 Hill Avenue Chiropractic (712) 339-9778 Keelson Harbour (712) 336-4501 Lakes Regional Healthcare (712) 336-1230 Lewis Family Drug (712) 336-4731 Natural Family Chiropractic (712) 336-2626 Orthopedic Institute (605) 331-5890 Plains Area Mental Health (712)546-4624 Shade of the Tree Counseling (712) 330-9140 Accura Healthcare of Milford (712) 338-4742 Accura Healthcare of Spirit Lake (712) 336-3300 Be Radiant - Laser Skin Studio (712) 339-5894 Drip Okoboji (712) 339-1765 Elderbridge Agency on Aging (800) 243-0678 Good Samaritan Society Home Care (712) 336-3412 Great Lakes Dental Associates (712) 336-2460 Healthy Smiles Dentistry (712) 336-2533 HomeTown Physical Therapy Okoboji & Spencer (712) 336-8404 Hope Haven, Inc. (712) 336-6977 Lammers Family Chiropractic (712) 332-7775 Milford Family Care (712) 338-2461 Newell Orthodontics (712) 336-3428 Okoboji Wellness Clinic (712) 339-6024 Pas & Toale Dentistry (712) 338-2449 re*be Skin & Vein Clinic (712) 332-6001 Sanford Home Medical Equipment (712) 336-9363 Seasons Center for Behavioral Health (800) 242-5101 Spirit Lake Chiropractic Clinic (712) 336-3304 St Croix Hospice (712) 264-5674 Warner Dialysis Center (712) 264-6464 WEL-Life Assisted Living (712) 336-3553

HOTELS, MOTELS, RESORTS & CAMPGROUNDS AmericInn of Okoboji Blue Water Bungalows Bridges Bay Resort Cenla Campground Crescent Beach Resort Cutty’s Okoboji Resort Club Escapes Vacation Rentals Estherville Inn & Suites Fieldstone RV Park Fillenwarth Beach Resort Kabele’s Lodge Northland Inn Oar’s Campground Okoboji Country Inn Okoboji Inn & Suites Okoboji Rentals Okoboji Vacation Co. Pick’s Lakeshore Resort Ramada RedBrick Farm Reston Inn & Suites Rodeway Inn Sandbar Beach Resort Sleepy Hollow Retreat Smith’s Mobile Homes & RVs Super 8 Hotel The Inn Hotel The Oakwood Inn Travelodge Triggs Bay Resort Village West Resort Vintage Block Inn and Suites West Oaks Resort

(712) 332-9000 (402) 672-7816 (712) 332-2202 (712) 336-2925 (712) 337-3351 (712) 336-2226 (515) 401-2563 (712) 362-5522 (712)332-7631 (712) 332-5646 (712) 336-1512 (712) 336-1450 (712) 470-5609 (712) 332-2358 (712) 338-4424 (605) 376-6626 (712) 336-0888 (712) 332-2688 (712) 336-3984 (916) 879-5936 (712) 580-4077 (712) 338-4701 (712) 336-0538 (712) 898-0601 (712) 332-7323 (712) 336-4901 (712) 337-6400 (712) 332-8057 (712) 336-2668 (712) 332-2215 (712) 337-3223 (712) 332-8040 (712) 332-7711

MARINAS/DOCKS/HOISTS Boat Okoboji Rentals Boji Dock Service Mau Marine, Inc. Oak Hill Marina Oak Hill Outdoor Okoboji Boat Works Parks Marina/Barefoot Bar Shore Station of Okoboji Boji Boat Brokers

(712) 332-5627 (712) 336-1388 (712) 332-5626 (712) 332-2701 (712) 337-6400 (712) 332-9904 (712) 332-7303 (712) 332-6223 (712) 330-4844

NONPROFIT AGENCIES & SERVICE CLUBS

American Legion Auxiliary (712) 320-0128 CAASA (712) 363-5762 Camp Foster YMCA (712) 336-3272 Camp Okoboji - LCMS (712) 337-3325 Community Housing Initiatives (712)262-5640 CrossWinds Church (712) 336-3537 Dickinson County Ag Society (Fairgrounds) (712) 336-0479 Dickinson County Cattlemen’s Association (712) 320-2548 Dickinson County Extension and Outreach (712) 336-3488 Dickinson County Snowhawks Estherville Area Chamber of Commerce (712) 362-3541 Family Crisis Center (712) 722-4404 Home Builders Association of Northwest Iowa (712) 330-6090 Ingham-Okoboji Camping Ministry (712) 337-3306 Iowa Great Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce (712) 332-2107 Iowa Great Lakes Association (515) 266-1776 Iowa Lakes Corridor Development Corp (712) 264-3474 Iowa Rock N Roll Music Assoc. & Museum (712) 332-6540 Lake Okoboji United Methodist Camp & Retreat Center (712) 336-2936 Lakeshore Center at Okoboji (712) 337-3313 Milford Commercial Club Northwest Iowa Corridor Habitat for Humanity (712) 363-3479 Okoboji Bible Conference Ministries (712) 332-2883 Okoboji Foundation (712) 332-7177 Regional Transit Authority (RIDES) (800)358-5037 Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce (712) 336-4978 Spirit Lake Noon Kiwanis Club Spirit of Okoboji (712) 318-2989 University of Okoboji Corvette Club (712) 730-1202 Voluntary Action Center (712) 336-4444

PETS & VETERINARY

All Fur Love Pet Grooming & Boutique (712) 339-6088 Best in Show (712) 339-9877 Boji Bark (712) 338-6364 Humane Society of Northwest Iowa (712) 338-2738 Lakes Area Dog Park (712) 332-7007 Town & Country Veterinary Clinic (712) 336-1220

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

A & B Business Solutions (712) 209-7523 Advanced Network Professionals (712) 584-2024 Amazon Last Mile Delivery Partner Program (605) 351-0090 Ascend Staffing (712) 336-2048 Boji Portable Toilets (800) 469-3890 Bolton & Menk, Inc. (712) 580-5075 BonFire Marketing (712) 330-6078 Business Today (712) 336-5012 Campus Cleaners & Launderers (712) 336-3391 Converged Technologies (712) 336-5843 Cornell Abstract (712) 336-3845 CTRL Marketing (712) 336-6990 Dawn’s Dance Connection (712) 336-5253 EPS (712) 260-0053 Erichsen, Kallsen, & Associates (712) 336-2632 Erpelding, Voigt & Co LLP (712) 332-2443 ETHOS (712) 545-0542 Fast Eddies Detail LLC (712) 209-1023 GrapeTree Medical Staffing (712) 336-0800 Great Lakes Accounting (712) 336-1103 Kapco Pack & Ship Inc. (712) 336-2636 L. Miller Plumbing (712) 209-1534 Lufkin Benifit Solutions (515) 986-2064 Maahs & Walleck (712) 336-1292 Midwest Modern, LLC (712) 330-7292 Nichole Johnson Design (712) 330-8467 Northstar Appraisal (712) 330-3399 Q.L. Enterprises, Inc (712) 336-3233 R&D Industries Inc. (712) 338-2999 Raak & Assosiates (712) 259-1404 Robinson Funeral Home & Crematory (712) 336-8471 Sandy Law Firm (712) 336-5588 Secure Benefits Systems Corp. (712) 336-0203

Sportsmen’s Business Alliance Summit Carbon Solutions T & M Safety Systems The Computer Guy The Event Company The Okoboji Assistant LLC The River Coaching & Consulting, LLC Turner-Jenness Funeral Homes Williams & Company P.C. Winther Stave & Co Wow Weddings

(480) 271-8469 (712) 330-7104 (712) 330-5060 (605) 321-7605 (712) 330-6162 (515) 336-2142 (712) 336-2575 (712) 262-1500 (712) 338-2488 (712) 790-8262

REAL ESTATE

EXIT Realty Midwest (712) 336-3405 eXp Realty (712) 336-0336 Hinn Real Estate (712) 336-1240 Hoien Realty (712) 336-2790 Ingvall Real Estate Team (712) 336-1121 Integrity First Holdings (DESCO) (712) 759-1016 Integrity Real Estate (712) 337-6500 Keller Williams Okoboji (712) 340-7900 Lakeland Realty of Iowa (712) 336-0400 Listing with Lynda Bellaro Naatjes Group - Bluewater Brokers (712) 336-0888 NextHome at the Lakes (712) 336-9999 Okoboji Realty (712) 336-4000 Realty One Group (712) 336-0888 ReMax Lakes Realty (712) 336-4967 Stauss Realty (712) 332-2470 Tallgrass Apartments (712) 339-1838

RESTAURANTS/DINING, CATERING & NIGHTLIFE

Arnolds Perk (712) 332-6232 Black Earth Java Boji Boardwalk (319) 899-8906 Boji Spudz (712) 320-0580 BonBon Froyo (712) 363-5571 Bracco (712) 332-7900 Buck’s Pub (712) 320-9290 Burger & Co (712) 336-4161 Captain’s Getaway (712) 332-7045 Century Farms Distillery (712) 580-3530 Chaplin’s/BnJ Entertainment (712) 332-2297 Dairy Queen (712) 336-5483 Drake’s at Oak Hill Outdoor (712) 337-6440 Dudley’s Garage (507) 662-5418 El Mariachi Bar & Grill (712) 339-9669 Godfather’s Pizza (712) 336-9000 Hi-Lo Club Restaurant & Catering (507) 662-5992 Jersey Mike’s Subs (712) 339-6800 Jimmy John’s - Arnolds Park (712) 332-2305 Jimmy John’s - Spirit Lake (712) 336-2424 Let’s Eat Chef Services (712) 260-3541 Lidderdale Country Store (712) 822-5322 Lisa’s Bake Shop (712) 336-8410 Los Pueblos (712) 332-7315 McCreary’s Creative Catering McKeen’s Pub & Grill (712) 336-2362 Nautical Okoboji (712) 332-7879 Nutty Bar Stand (712) 332-2243 O’Farrell Sisters (712) 332-7901 Oak Tree BBQ (712)320-9000 Okoboji Barn (712) 330-6769 Okoboji Dough Company (712) 332-8059 Okoboji Store Bar & Kitchen Outrigger Restaurant & Lounge (712) 332-6020 Pirate Jack’s (712) 330-4773 Pizza Ranch (712) 336-1419 Portside Pizza (712) 332-6477 Prime Boji (712) 332-8006 Pub 19 Bar & Grill (712) 332-8142 Round Lake Vineyards & Winery (507) 945-1100 Scooter’s Coffee - Arnolds Park (712) 337-6111 Scooter’s Coffee - Spirit Lake 712-339-6025 Smokin’ Jakes (712) 332-5152 Snappers Turtle Bay Café (712) 332-8293 Sportsman’s Pub (712) 210-3961 Subway (712) 336-3516 Sugar Shack (712) 338-4825 Swiss Acres (515) 851-8680 The Bend LLC (712) 320-0921 The Fish Shack (712) 332-9904 The Frozen Parrot (727) 366-3882 The Gardens (712) 332-2990 The Hutt Bar & Grill (712) 332-8074 The Ritz (712) 332-2777 The Waterfront Grill & Event Center (712) 220-3200 The Well Coffee Shop & Eatery Toast on Hill (712) 339-9161 Topog Coffeehouse VFW Canteen (712) 336-9942 Wave 71 Nutrition (712) 330-3452 West O Beer (712) 332-8090 Yesterdays (712) 332-2353

RETAIL

Allure & Co. (712) 339-9602 Animal House of Okoboji/Brad’s Bungalow Antiques of Okoboji (712) 339-5468 Antiques, Etc. (712) 338-3377 B Fused LLC (712)229-0648 B. You Boutique & Boji Balloon Bar Barn Swallow (712) 332-7752 Bird Haven (712) 336-2473 Bloomsie Florals (712)330-7223 Boat House Apparel LLC (608) 504-3923 Boisset Collection (712) 320-0258 Bomgaars (712) 336-2287 Books ‘N Things (612) 396-4543 Bungalow 29 (712-332-2903 C & N Sales (712) 332-7220 Carolyn’s Hallmark Shop (712) 336-4525 Cottage Gardens (712) 338-4569 Creatives by Jenna LLC (515) 890-0955 Dellapina (507) 840-1689 Discount Fireworks Outlet (712) 330-7104 Elegance Boutique (712) 337-3112 Elements Design Studio (712) 332-2602 Evans Clothing & Shoes (712) 336-2862 Fashion Formula (712) 336-3824 Ferguson’s Garden Center (712) 336-2085 Fick Inc. Ace Hardware (712) 336-3373 Forbes Liquor Locker (712) 336-3800 Furniture Mart (712) 336-9004 Golden Buys Truckload Outlet Sale (507) 360-6061 Goliath Sporting Goods (712) 330-1376 Great Lakes Mall (712) 336-8851 Homeology (712) 332-8015 Interior Sewing by Lisa (712) 320-3492 Interiors (712) 336-1000 Kabele’s Trading Post (712) 336-1512 Kari’s Fine Clothing For Women (712) 332-2607 Lakes Laser Engraving & Cutting (641) 512-2158 Little Greek Girl Wreaths (712) 320-2951 Little Sioux Stems (712) 480-0307 Lucky Wife Wine Slushies (515) 320-1092 Mary’s Gift Shoppe (712) 336-1643 Matuska Taxidermy (712) 336-3256 Megan & Co. (712) 339-9051 Okoboji Mattress Co. (712) 260-2004 Okoboji Sports and Collectibles LLC (712) 330-9640 Okoboji Trading Co. (612) 385-4131 Okoboji Wholesale (712) 336-6808 Palm at the Park (712) 332-8393 Picket Trail (712) 363-3936 Pink In The Park (712) 332-6403 Ruthven Meat Locker (712) 339-9551 Salty Boutique (712) 336-1440 Spirit Lake Silver & Gold (712) 336-5405 Stan’s Bait & Tackle (712) 338-2586 The Look Fashions (712) 336-3834 The Okoboji Cyclist (712) 332-9001 The Three Sons (712) 338-2424 Timeless Consignments (712) 320-5955 Twetten’s Interiors (712) 336-6488 Wal-Mart Inc (712) 336-1339 West Boutique (712) 332-9904 Wild Child (712) 336-6902

UTILITY COMPANY

Alliant Energy Black Hills Energy GPRE, Superior Ethanol, LLC IGL TeleConnect Invenergy Red Rock Wind Energy Center Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative Lakes Cellular & Satellite Mediacom NextEra Energy Premier Communications T-Mobile Town & Country Disposal

(641) 422-1759 (712) 260-2850 (712) 858-4666 (800) 281-1072 (312) 224-1400 (800) 225-4532 (712) 336-4101 (855) 633-4226 (561) 267-5044 (800) 741-8351 (712) 320-8056 (712) 472-2493

Vacation Okoboji VacationOkoboji vacationokoboji info@vacationokoboji.com vacationokoboji.com 712-332-2209

V A C A T I O NO K O B O JI .C O M

125

IOWA GREAT LAKES

Regional Map FOLD-OUT MAP

LODGING

SHOPPING

1 . . . . AmericInn Lodge 2 . . .Arrowwood Resort 3 . . .Big Spirit Resort 4 . . .Blue Water Bungalows 5 . . .Bridges Bay Resort & Boji Splash 6 . . .Crescent Beach Family Resort 7 . . .Cutty’s Okoboji Resort Club 8 . . .Escape Vacation Rentals 9 . . .Estherville Inn & Suites 10 . .Fillenwarth Beach 11 . . .Kabele’s Lodge 12 . . Northland Inn 13 . . The Oakwood Inn 14 . .Okoboji Country Inn B&B 15 . .Okoboji Inn & Suites 16 . .Pick’s Lakeshore Resort 17. . .Ramada 18 . .Reston Inn & Suites 19 . .Rodeway Inn 20 . . Sand Bar Beach Resort 21 . . Sleepy Hollow 22 . .Super 8 23 . .The Inn Hotel 24 . .Travelodge by Wynhdam 25 . .Triggs Bay Resort 26 . .Village West Resort 27 . .Vintage Block Inn & Suites 28 . .West Oaks Resort

1 . . . . Allure & Co. 2 . . . Allure & Co The Warehouse 3 . . . Antiques, Etc. 4 . . .Bungalow 29 5 . . .Central Emporium: Dellapina Palm at the Park 6 . . .Elements Design Studio 7 . . .Great Lakes Mall: Fashion Formula, Interiors, Spirit Lake Silver & Gold, The Look Fashions, Wild Child 8 . . .Homeology 9 . . .Little Red Gift Gallery 10 . .Mary’s Gift Shoppe 11 . . .Old School Mercantile 12 . . Queen’s Court Shops: Books ‘N Things, Arnolds Park Amusement Park Gift Shop, Pink in the Park & Topside 13 . . The Three Sons 14 . .West Boutique

CAMPGROUNDS 1 . . . .Arnolds Park City Park Minnewashta 2 . . .Cenla Campground 3 . . .Elinor Bedell State Park 4 . . .Emerson Bay Park Access 5 . . .Fieldstone RV Park 6 . . .Gull Point State Park 7 . . .Lutheran Lakeside Camp 8 . . .Marble Beach 9 . . .Vick’s Corner

GOLF COURSES 1 . . . .Brooks Golf Club 2 . . .Emerald Hills 3 . . .Okoboji View / Pub 19 4 . . .Spencer Golf & Country Club

129

VACATION OKOB OJI 2 0 2 4

DINING/BARS 1 . . . .Betsy’s Diner/Boathouse Bakery 2 . . .Barefoot Bar 3 . . .Boji Spudz 4 . . .Bracco 5 . . .Crescent Beach Pub 6 . . .Drake’s 7 . . .Dudley’s Garage Bowling 8 . . .El Mariachi Bar & Grill 9 . . .Fish Shack 10 . .The Frozen Parrot 11 . . .The Gardens 12 . . Godfather’s Pizza 13 . . Hi-Lo Club 14 . .The Hutt Bar & Grill 15 . . Jimmy John’s - Arnolds Park 16 . .Jimmy John’s - Spirit Lake 17. . .Los Pueblos 18 . .Minervas 19 . .O’Farrell Sisters 20 . . Okoboji Store Bar & Kitchen 21 . . Outrigger Restaurant 22 . .Pub 19 Bar & Grill 23 . .Round Lake Vineyards & Winery 24 . .Smokin’ Jakes 25 . .Snappers Turtle Bay Cafe 26 . .Topog Coffeehouse 27 . .Waterfront Grille & Event Center 28 . .Yesterdays 29 . .West O Beer

ATTRACTIONS & MUSEUMS 1 . . . .Abbie Gardner Cabin 2 . . .Arnolds Park Amusement Park 3 . . .Arnolds Park Raceway 4 . . .Boje-Bikes 5 . . .Boji Splash Waterpark 6 . . .Bouncelandia 7 . . .Clark Museum 8 . . .Dickinson County Museum 9 . . .Dudley’s Garage Bowling 10 . . Dickinson County Nature Center 11 . . .Higgins Museum 12 . . Ingham Okoboji Bible Camp 13 . . Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum 14 . .Iowa Lakeside Laboratory 15 . .Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Music Association 16 . .Kurio Kastle 17. . .Lakes Ice Arena 18 . .Little Sioux Orchard 19 . .Memorial Park Splash Pad 20 . . Okoboji Summer Theatre 21 . . Okoboji Classic Cars 22 . .Pearson Lakes Art Center 23 . .Pirate’s Cove 24 . .Queen II Excursion Boat 25 . .Treasure Village 26 . .The Venue 27 . .Westport Schoolhouse

MARINAS/BEACHES/ RECREATION 1 . . . .Arnolds Park Amusement Park Beach 2 . . .Arnolds Park City Beach 4 . . .C&B Powersports 5 . . .Crandall’s Beach 6 . . .Emerson Bay Beach 7 . . .Extreme Watersports 8 . . .Gull Point Beach 9 . . .Horseshoe Bend 10 . .Make-A-Wake Watersports 11 . . .Marble Beach State Park 12 . . Mau Marine 13 . . Oak Hill Marina/Rentals 14 . .Oak Hill Outdoor 15 . .Okoboji Boat Works 16 . . Okoboji Gold Disc Golf Course 17. . .Orleans Beach 18 . .Parks Marina 19 . .Pike’s Point Beach 20 . . State Fish Hatchery 21 . . Terrace Park Beach 22 . .Triggs Bay Resort Rentals 23 . .Yoga Okoboji

VACATION OKOBOJI | 2024

Vacation Okoboji VacationOkoboji vacationokoboji info@vacationokoboji.com vacationokoboji.com 712-332-2209