The Abbie Gardner-Sharp Cabin is a genuine 1850’s log cabin built by the Gardner family, along with an interpretive center with all the historic information regarding the Spirit Lake Massacre. Many artifacts from the era are on display. Hours are 12pm to 4pm. Tuesday- Sunday. Admission is Free-Will donation.
Only two years after the Dickinson County Conservation Board was established, it took on the care of a beautiful recreation area on the south side of Big Spirit Lake. The conservation board worked on an agreement with the State Conservation Commission for 25 years of management of Orleans Beach. The area east of the spillway Read More »
Make memories on more than 30 rides and attractions, including the famous wooden ‘Legend’ Roller Coaster. With the recent renovation you will see for yourself how smooth it really is! No visit is complete without a ride to see the spectacular view of West Lake Okoboji 65′ up on the Ferris Wheel. There are rides Read More »
What is more All- American than a hot dog and a vanilla malt from Bob’s fast food place along with a day at the beach than on Arnolds Park Amusement Park beach?! Bob’s overlooks a popular area for visiting tourists and locals. The beach is a close walk to the amusement park as well as Read More »
In September 2017, the Park received a surprise call with the announcement that the Funhouse Toys would be coming back to the Park through a generous donation from Dan Wells, Jared and Jacqui Penne, Mackenzie Wells, Carly Wells, and Tim and Joren Kinnetz. The slide, barrel and sugar bowl were all installed inside the newly Read More »
Back in the day, big bands and old-time rock n’ roll ruled the stage at the fabled Roof Garden. While the sound has changed, the spirit remains the same. Each summer, Historic Arnolds Park hosts a FREE concert series at Preservation Plaza.
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. The Slick Track has drivers sliding around corners with wide eyes. Single rides, daily or Read More »
Address: Lake Street Arnolds Park Iowa 51331 United States
Open Months:
Open Year Round
The iconic Roof Garden – which became famous throughout the Midwest for hosting marquee swing and then rock n’ roll bands – is in the process of a major rebuild. The New Roof Garden will closely resemble the historic two-story ballroom that was demolished in 1987.
At Arts on 16th you can browse the remarkable original art by local, regional and national artisans, many with ties to the Iowa Great Lakes Area. Many of these original handcrafted pieces are also available for purchase. Open seven days a week in the summer and Wednesday – Sunday during the off-season.
The Bedell Family YMCA has grown to impact one out of two people in the Iowa Great Lakes. The YMCA boasts activities such as sports, aquatics, fitness, school-aged programs, special events and more. Caring staff will make you experience at the Bedell Family YMCA a home away from home.
You want it on the water – We rent it! The Iowa Great Lakes boat and water toy rental giant, Boat Okoboji Rentals features Okoboji’s newest and most comprehensive selection of rental boats and ski gear. Our fleet includes boats by Sea Ray, Avalon and Misty Harbor Pontoons, Sea Doo Personal Watercraft as well as Read More »
Whether looking to join a team or just to learn how to skate, the Lakes Area Hockey Association welcomes all levels of ability and skater. Those interested in playing hockey are encouraged to join the Boji Blizzard Hockey Team. New this year, the Learn-to-Skate program introduces individuals to the basics of skating – developing coordination, Read More »
Enjoy three unique golf layouts and play through parkland, prairie and wetlands at Brooks Golf. Serving the golfing public since 1932 with an updated expansion to 27 holes completed in 1999, Brooks is a beautifully maintained course accommodating seasoned veterans and beginners seeking a challenging game. Multiple tee selections, bent grass fairways and greens make Read More »
Captain John has fished Okoboji and the Iowa Great Lakes for decades. He knows where the fish are hiding, and how to catch them. John competed at the highest levels in wally tournaments for over 25 years, finishing as one of the top anglers of all time. The Captain enjoys teaching people how to become Read More »
Established in 1985, The Clark Museum, features a vast collection of pictorial and written histories, old memorabilia, signs and a large display of Arnold’s Park Amusement Park artifacts. Many people intend to stop for a few minutes and end up spending hours viewing the displays. For hours of operation call 712-338-2147.
The Dickinson County 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.
The Dickinson County Nature Center is a center for environmental learning! It is open year round! The Dickinson County Nature Center can by found a Kenue Park, a 70-acre park, located at 2279 170th St., Okoboji, that includes three different native Iowa habitats — a restored tallgrass prairie, a wetland and an oak savanna — Read More »
With lush green rolling hills and an abundance of stately trees, Emerald Hills will ensure golfers of all skill levels a fun challenge at affordable rates. This beautifully maintained 6,651-yard course offers its players an enjoyable golf experience with its unique doglegs, water hazards, and quick breaking greens, along with a first-class clubhouse, a large Read More »
Enjoy West Lake Okoboji from a different point of view – parasailing at Extreme Watersports! Family owned and operated, they are gearing up for their 22nd season. They are open seven days a week, Memorial Day through Labor Day. Whether it is parasailing, renting ski boats, pontoon boats, paddleboards, personal watercraft, kayaks, or pedal boats, Read More »
Want to plan a gathering in the park, but don’t want to take a chance of getting rained out? The Florence Park shelter house is just for you. Constructed in 2009, the Florence Park Shelter is a perfect place for your next outdoor picnic, reception, birthday party or social gathering. The enclosed 36’x48’ foot space Read More »
5 acres, Shelter house, walking trail, 2 floating docks, approximately 500 feet of shoreline along East Lake Okoboji, basketball court, playground equipment, park benches, picnic tables, grills, handicap-accessible restrooms.
Great Lakes Marine Sales & service has proudly been serving the boating community since 2003. We do it all, we do it well: sales, brokerage, parts, service, storage, and training. We are proud dealers of Alumacraft Boats, Cruiser Sports Series, Premier Pontoons, and Skeeter Boats. Allow us to take you for a ride!
Address: 37 Lake St Arnolds Park Iowa 51331 United States
Open Months:
Open Seasonally
Harmony Park is an amazing collection of interactive musical instruments. When played they are sure to bring a smile to the faces of all who can hear! These fabulous instruments are located in front of the Queen’s Court Shops. The instruments, require no skill to play, but are fun for all ages!
The Higgins Museum, one of Okoboji’s more unusual attractions, 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, along with an extensive collection of turn-of-the century Iowa Read More »
This 180 acres of preserved land offers an extensive trail system winding through the river valley of the Little Sioux River, as well as upland forest, meadows, marshes and oxbow ponds. These diverse habitats are host to a number of creatures including deer, beaver, woodpeckers, songbirds and raptors. Facilities include a warming shelter with a Read More »
The Indian Motorcycle Experience Center showcases current and historic Indian motorcycles, displays vintage artifacts and memorabilia, and offers visitors the opportunity to purchase exclusive factory merchandise. Guests are also able to view a short video tour of the manufacturing facility during times when guided tours are unavailable. Guests are welcome to visit the Indian Motorcycle Read More »
Ingham and Okoboji Lutheran Bible Camps have a history rich in the love of Christ and the passion to share that love with others. Our ministries occur in partnership with churches of the region and at our two beautiful sites. We offer family and youth camps, RECHARGES and retreats, and spaces for families and groups Read More »
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. Special features of the museum include a fully restored boathouse, 25 classic Read More »
Lakeside Lab’s 147 acre campus serves as an outdoor classroom, nature preserve and historic district. Prairie, shoreline and savanna habitats are being restored with the assistance of community volunteers. The campus inlaces 12 structures on the National Register of Historic Places. The grounds are open during daylight hours, and visitors are welcome to visit and Read More »
Also located in the Welcome Center at The Park is the Iowa Rock and Roll Association Hall of Fame Museum. The museum preserves the legacy of rock and roll music in Iowa by honoring achievements, educating youth and inspiring artists through historic exhibits.
5 acres, approximately 1,000 feet of shoreline of Upper East Lake Okoboji, boardwalk, 2 floating docks, canoe ramp, walking trail, RV dump, picnic tables, grills, handicap-accessible restrooms, and fishing piers.
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. Its not unusual to catch at least 7 species from panfish to trophies in one half-day adventure. When Read More »
Get ready for musical, magical and memorable moments! With 40 years of passion for early childhood music and movement, Kindermusik is a world class experience. Classes are specifically created to engage whole child development through research-based music and movement. Kindermusik is fun and educational for the whole family!
1 acre that includes shelter house, trail system, playground equipment, grills, park benches, picnic tables, bicycle rack, and handicap-accessible restrooms.
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.
Address: 21729 155th St Spirit Lake Iowa 51360 United States
Open Months:
Open Year Round
The Lakes Area Dog Park in a partnership with Lake Okoboji United Methodist Camp is building this dog park on the south campus of the Methodist Camp property. The design of the six-acre dog park allows two dog areas. One for large dogs and one for small / timid dogs. The dog park has been Read More »
Address: 2168 160th Ave Milford Iowa 51351 United States
Open Months:
Open August - October
Looking for a late summer or fall activity right here at the Lakes? Visit Little Sioux Orchard just outside Milford-the area’s only pick-your-own orchard. With varieties ripening throughout the season, hay rides, a corn maze and pumpkins, you’ll be sure to find something fun for every age. Opens mid-August.
Make-A-Wake Watersports is your full service boat and jet ski rental shop on West Lake Okoboji. We are located lakeside of the Village West Boat House at Village West Resort and Hotel. Open daily (weather permitting) from Memorial Weekend through Labor Day weekend. Available for rental are Pontoon Boats, Speed Boats, Deck Boats, Jet Skis, Read More »
Address: 129 Broadway St Arnolds Park Iowa 51331 United States
Open Months:
Open Weekends Memorial Day - Labor Day
Murphy’s is the BEST place to dance your tail off on Okoboji summer weekends. You can enjoy your favorite beer, cocktails or shots as the D.J. spins the tunes and you dance the night away with your friends all summer long.
There are many facts one should know when talking about Oak Hill Marina and Oak Hill Outdoor. Fact: Oak Hill Marina has ranked as a Boating Industry Top 100 Dealer for eleven consecutive years and has currently ranked as a Top 20 Dealer for the past 3 years… Fact: Oak Hill Marina sells Read More »
Address: 2188 IA-86 Milford Iowa 51351 United States
An extension of the Oak Hill Marina family – the lake’s area premier fishing dealership specializing in the sales and service of America’s #1 boat brand. Visit our huge showroom showcasing Tracker and Nitro fishing boats, Sun Tracker and Regency pontoons as well as E-Z Go carts and Textron off Road Vehicles. Located at the Read More »
Okoboji Boat Works is located in the Marina District in Smith’s Bay, West Lake Okoboji. It is the only marina on West Lake Okoboji and features daily or seasonal boat slip rentals, boat and water-sports rentals and 24-hour on-water gas dock. Families love the beach, playground and antique nautical display. Step into the lakefront In-Convenience Read More »
Address: 1401 Lake Shore Dr Okoboji Iowa 51355 United States
Open Months:
Open Year Round
Okoboji Boat Works is the located in the Marina District in Smith’s Bay, West Lake Okoboji. Families love the beach, playground and antique nautical display. The Okoboji Boat Works Beach is also dog friendly!
18-hole, 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′.
One is located right on East Lake Okoboji next to the state boat ramp across from the Kum & Go convenience store on Highway 71. There are no amenities at this park but there is a public dock and picnic area for your use. The city does not take reservations for this park.
You don’t have to live on the lake to have access to it. And, you don’t have to take a whole summer to learn the joy of a lifelong activity. You just need to attend one of our youth Beginner Camps or an adult Learn-to-Sail session to gain a skill that will change your life.
Since 1958, the Okoboji Summer Theatre has presented more than 550 plays to an audience of 1.5 million. A thousand young actors, 500+ professional faculty and 2,000+ guest artists have dedicated every waking moment to pulling off each production, accounting for nearly 40,000 exhausting hours of rehearsals. In 1958, the theatre started with nine Stephens Read More »
Okoboji View combines a great golf experience with the unmatched beauty of the NW Iowa landscape. After a major renovation of the golf course in 2014 and 2015, they have 12 acres of wetlands and reformatted holes. Driving range, practice area and lessons available with Iowa Hall of Fame PGA Professional Curt Schnell. Fully Stocked Read More »
Address: 24457 Stake Out Road Okoboji Iowa 51355 United States
Parks Marina is not your typical marina – it is an Iowa Great Lakes lifestyle destination. They feature the industry’s most elite boat brands such as Cobalt, Crownline, Grady White, Scout, Carver Yachts, Mooma and Supra Ski Boats, Ski Natique, Harris Flotebote Pontoons, and South Bay pontoons. Parks Marina has received multiple awards from the Read More »
The Pearson Lakes Art Center has been an arts & culture destination in the Iowa Great Lakes Area for over 50 year! Visitors to the Pearson Lakes Art Center can enjoy four galleries featuring collections and guest artists; also home to the center’s permanent Russian Impressionist collection. This gallery also contains the Lauridsen Performing Arts Theatre Read More »
Address: 21301 155th St Spirit Lake Iowa 51360 United States
Open Months:
Open Year Round
Pikes Point State Park is situated on West Okoboji Lake and is home to one of the most popular swim beaches in the area. Pikes Point’s beach also has a very popular swim platform located within the swimming area for users to sunbathe or play on.
Pirate’s Cove, ‘the Original Adventure Golf,’ 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 foot-bridges and under cascading waterfalls, all amidst a fun-filled atmosphere of natural wonders, extraordinary landscaping, and enchanting pirate lore.
Playground, dock/lake access, shelter house. Park Shelter Reservation Fee $50 deposit (separate check) $15 per side to reserve; $30 for both $10 for kitchen
Speier Park is located west of the Kum & Go convenience store on Sanborn Avenue and directly across from the airport. The Speier Park property was donated by the late Sam Speier in the late 1960’s, with the first shelter house being constructed in 1970. At that time tennis courts were added, with some new Read More »
This well-manicured par 72 course has four sets of tees to accommodate players of all skill levels, and play 6,900 yards from the championship tees. The County Club welcomes non-residents of Spencer to golf anytime that the course is available. It is well worth the short drive from the lakes area to enjoy the memorable Read More »
The Spirit Lake Fish Hatchery is a walleye, northern pike and muskellunge hatching and rearing station. Production facilities include seven egg incubators with a total capacity of 1100 quarts, 20 indoor raceways, six non-drainable ponds and two natural lakes. Water is obtained from Spirit Lake and is discharged into East Okoboji Lake. The annual hatching period begins in late March, Read More »
140 feet of shoreline along south shore of Big Spirit Lake, largest natural lake in Iowa, sandy beach, park benches, trail system. The Spirit Lake Protective Association has provided a public dock facility for boaters to access the area.
10 acres Memorial Park was renovated in 2012. It has 2 shelters, a splash pad, walking path and bike trail. The park has 1,500 feet of shoreline of East Lake Okoboji, pedestrian underpass, horseshoe court, playground equipment, 2 handicap-accessible piers, 2 fishing/boat docks, park benches, picnic tables, grills, and accessible restrooms.
Address: N Templar Dr Orleans Iowa 51360 United States
Open Months:
Open Year Round
Shelter house, picnic area, restrooms, and trails. Located on the west side of Big Spirit Lake, Templar Park offers the user a boat ramp to launch their boat and several areas to fish along the shoreline. Templar Park’s boat ramp is one of the most popular on Big Spirit Lake because it is situated on Read More »
Address: 2414 Okoboji Blvd Milford Iowa 51351 United States
Open Months:
Open Year Round
One of Okoboji’s most popular public swimming areas is Terrace Park Beach. Picnics and swimming at the Beach has lingered in the memories of many of West Okoboji residents and returning visitors! New Restrooms in 2019!!!!
The Barefoot Bar located at Parks Marina on East Lake Okoboji is one of the region’s most popular family destinations. You can arrive by water or land with plenty of parking as well as docking for your boat. Featuring a full bar, great beach-fare food, pizza, and don’t miss Phil’s Famous Ribs and Seafood Boil Read More »
Hip speakeasy, that elevates cocktails with a fresh, unique shake. Trendy urban digs, with a large outdoor patio and live music. Chef driven inspired small plates. Perfect spot to book out for gatherings and events.
The Gardens on the lakeside level of The Central Emporium started out as boat storage in the 1920’s and has gone through many transformations. Relax and enjoy lunch or dinner in the comfortable, air conditioned bar or head outside to our expansive deck to soak in the sights and sounds of West Lake Okoboji at Read More »
Address: 2188 HWY 86 Milford Iowa 51351 United States
New for 2020! The Hook Up, located at Oak Hill Outdoor is every fisherman’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.
Enjoy a day on West Lake Okoboji. Climb aboard the Queen II excursion boat, with an open-air upper deck and enclosed lower deck. Visitors of all ages will enjoy the narrated cruise around West Lake Okoboji, with beverages and snacks available for purchase. The Queen II takes passengers out several times a day on scheduled Read More »
The Studio Yoga and Barre offers a variety of classes for all experience levels: including Yoga (Vinyasa, yin, beginner, gentle & strong); Barre (mix of yoga, cardio, & light strength training); SUP Paddle-board classes in the summer launching from Okoboji Boat Works. Call for private classes and bachelorette parties. For class schedules find us on Read More »
Make memories at Treasure Village in its 48th year! The Theatre performs classics like Jungle Book, Sleeping Beauty or Peter Pan. Play Mini Golf on the area’s only 27-hole course with Mischief Spinners and enjoy an old fashioned hand-dipped ice cream cone. Find treasures at our Flea Markets. Open Memorial Day-Labor Day. For more information, Read More »
Triggs has been in the boat rental business longer than any Okoboji establishment! Triggs is locally owned and operated. You will generally find lower prices for boat rentals and gas at our docks. Featuring power-boats, pontoons, PWC(s), paddle-boards, water bikes, kayaks and canoes. We rent to guests and the general public. Why pay more? Triggs Read More »
To relive days of the past in a one-room school, visit the Westport Rural School Museum. This unique museum is in Kenue Park, one mile west of Highway 71 on the Country Home Road. For hours of operation please call: (712) 332-2969. Opening June 13 for the 2017 season!
Yoga is for every ‘body.’ Yoga Okoboji is a modern, clean and inspiring studio offering heated and non-heated classes for all levels. The studio is 100% solar powered, earth friendly, natural and warm. Any age and any body type can benefit from a yoga practice. Yoga Okoboji is a Yoga Alliance Registered School (RYS) and Read More »
Experience Intivity Center in Jackson, Minnesota. We’ve expanded our facilities and created a world-class visitor’s center in Jackson. We invite you to see some of the most advanced agricultural equipment made by a company with a long-standing commitment to farmer-focused innovation. Intivity Center and the AGCO facilities in Jackson are where premium tractors like Massey Read More »
Corner Lanes is your one stop destination for a fun night out with family and friends. There is a full service bar and kitchen. Corner lanes also will host birthday parties and group outings. For a unique night of bowling call ahead to find out when they offer cosmic bowling.
It’s a party with art; Creative Spirits allows you and your friends to Paint, Sip, and Create! It is simple – bring your friends, have your favorite glass of wine, and get ready to amaze yourself. An area artist will take you step by step to create your very own art! No experience necessary – Read More »
The Iowa Guide Service, fishing Okoboji or Big Spirit Lake, caters to both families on vacation and the serious angler. Your guide trip will be filled with fun and a chance to catch big bass, walleye, pike, and panfish, or maybe even a giant muskie. The Iowa Great Lakes offers fantastic opportunities on a series Read More »
Established in 1968 by Ed & Alice Kabele, located in the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes, surrounded by crystal clear fishing waters, our area is one of the most sought after tourist attractions. Kabele’s ownership was taken over by Thane Johnson in April 2004 with Tanya Petersen joining the partnership in 2010. Kabele’s Trading Read More »
Okoboji Classic Cars Museum features ‘days gone by’ of the Iowa Great Lakes, Arnolds Park, and downtown Spencer, Iowa. Browse vintage storefronts from Spencer’s Grand Avenue or take a relaxing stroll down the old Arnolds Park boardwalk and enjoy evening scenes of West Lake Okoboji. Along with a step back in time you can check Read More »
For a guided bicycle tour, call Okoboji Expedition Co. at 712-332-9001. They also have Tuesday and Thursday training rides and full-moon cross-country ski nights. They service bicycles, sell bicycle accessories and rent and sell quality bicycles. Kayaks, cross country skis and accessories are available for purchase or rent. The Okoboji Expedition Co. is next to Read More »
Address: 2343 175th St Okoboji Iowa 51355 United States
Open Months:
Open Seasonally
Bring the family for a day of fun at Ranch Okoboji. While your here enjoy mini-golf (either one round or an all day pass). We have a horse shoe pit, a pirate ship and boat for the kids to play on. Kids will love to pan for gemstones, fossils and rubies and emeralds in the Read More »
Come experience a thrilling adventure where you solve riddles and puzzles and find clues in order to escape out of a room. Solve the mystery puzzle before the time runs out! The NEW Okoboji Escape Room is just right for YOU! A team building activity that creates scenarios where participants must rely on each other Read More »
