Discover the Schmitz Family’s Favorite Stops Around the Iowa Great Lakes
Looking for the best family friendly things to do in Okoboji? You’re in luck! Local parents Brad and Ali Schmitz, along with their three adventurous kids-Landon (12), Bennett (10), and Bowen (8) have curated the ultimate Best of Okoboji itinerary that families everywhere will love. From morning donuts to lakeside concerts, this crew knows how to pack fun, food, and unforgettable memories into one perfect Okoboji day. Get ready to explore their favorite stops and get inspired to create your own Okoboji family adventure!
Tee Off & Frog Hunt at Okoboji Golf Courses
Start your day with a round of golf-Schmitz-style! The family loves hitting the local golf courses, not just for the sport, but for a bit of frog hunting between holes. It’s the perfect combo of nature, fun, and friendly competition. Don’t miss the clubhouse snack stop for frozen candy bars, chips, and ice-cold Gatorade!
Pro Tip: Courses like Brooks Golf and Emerald Hills Golf Club offer junior-friendly tees and scenic fairways.
Family Fun at Snappers Turtle Bay Café
Snappers is the Schmitz family’s go-to for all-in-one fun – and a shining example of the family friendly things to do in Okoboji that make every visit memorable! With lakeside views, yard games, and a kid-friendly fishing pond (BYO rod!), it’s a hit for all ages. During winter, the pond becomes a charming ice-skating rink-proving that Okoboji is a year-round family destination.
Bonus: Arcade games + great food = happy kids and relaxed parents.
Reel in the Fun with Okoboji Fishing Adventures
Fishing is a treasured tradition for this crew. Whether casting off a public dock or hiring a guide for a lake excursion, there’s always excitement in the air-and the occasional fish tale! With calm waters and plenty of hotspots, fishing easily ranks among the Best of Okoboji outdoor activities for families.
Pro-tip: Head to the local bait shops for fresh bait and inside information on the best locations to drop a line!
Bike to the Farmers Market in the Park
Ali and Bennett’s favorite route leads to the Farmers Market in the Park. Coffee for mom from Topog, rides for the kids at nearby Arnolds Park Amusement Park, and a sweet treat to wrap it all up? It’s the perfect morning and definitely one of the most scenic and family friendly things to do in Okoboji.
Family Must-Do: Bring bikes for a scenic ride through Okoboji’s lush trail network. Don’t want to haul your bikes? There’s great rental options for all ages at The Okoboji Cyclist.
Lunch + Live Music at The Okoboji Store
At The Okoboji Store, it’s all about the vibe. With lake views, live music, and kid-friendly activities like Lego play stations, this lunch stop earns its place on the Best of Okoboji list for families.
Insider Tip: Check the music schedule before your visit-family dance parties encouraged!
Spudnutz Donuts at East Lake Park Dock
Early mornings are sweeter with Spudnutz donuts on the public dock at East Lake Park. Watch boats go by, explore the Queen II playset, and enjoy the peaceful start to your day. This scenic park has it all – bike racks, picnic spots, and Insta-worthy views. It’s a quiet, delicious start and one of the best family friendly things to do in Okoboji for early risers.
Don’t Forget: Bring a thermos of coffee and plan a relaxing start to your family adventure.
Sports + Imaginative Play at Aspen Seemann Memorial Park
Basketball, tennis, pickleball, and an epic playground-Aspen Seemann Memorial Park is built for family fun. With Landon on the courts and the rest of the family joining in, this park becomes a hub of energy and creativity.
Why Families Love It: Unique play structures and lots of space to burn off steam.
Slide, Splash & Score at Bridges Bay Resort
Water slides, splash zones, and an epic arcade? Bridges Bay Resort checks all the boxes. The kids race for the slides while Brad and Ali enjoy a relaxing break. Rain or shine, it’s a top pick for all-weather family fun.
Pro Tip: Get a day pass or stay overnight to make the most of this water-filled wonderland.
Dinner, Concerts & Fireworks at the Lake
The Schmitz family loves wrapping up the day with dinner on Captain’s Getaway Rooftop followed by a live concert at Preservation Plaza. Fireworks over the lake make for a perfect summer nightcap! Evening entertainment like this easily qualifies as part of the Best of Okoboji experience.
Make It Magical: Arrive early for the best lawn spots and bring a blanket!
Sweet Treats at Tropical Sno
No summer day in Okoboji is complete without a stop at Tropical Sno. Each of the boys has their punch card and a favorite flavor combo. From classics to wild mixes, this is the place to cool off and indulge in some family-approved sweetness.
Pro Tip: Snap a family pic with your cones-it’s a vacation tradition in the making.
Plan Your Perfect Family Day in Okoboji!
With so many unforgettable stops, it’s no wonder the Schmitz family keeps coming back for more. Whether you’re in town for a weekend or a week, this Okoboji day trip itinerary is your guide to laughter, adventure, and lake-loving fun.
We hope you’ll be inspired to try out some of the Schmitz family’s favorite spots that represent the Best of Okoboji and discover your own family-friendly things to do in Okoboji. With adventures around every corner, Okoboji is the perfect place for families to explore, play, and make unforgettable memories.
Ready to start planning? View our digital edition of the 2025 Vacation Okoboji Visitor Guide or check out more ideas at VacationOkoboji.com!