Frozen Treats:
The Frozen Parrot
For a truly unique dessert in the Iowa Great Lakes, head to The Frozen Parrot in Arnolds Park. This new favorite serves up handcrafted gourmet popsicles in fun and flavorful varieties like Blue Raspberry Jolly Rancher, Very Berry Cheesecake, and Pistachio Almond—perfect for cooling down on a warm Okoboji summer day. In addition to popsicles, The Frozen Parrot also offers small-batch artisanal gelato with rotating flavors such as Strawberry Lemon Shortbread and Cookie Monster. It’s a one-of-a-kind sweet treat experience for all ages!
Tropical Sno
Nothing says summer in Okoboji like a cold, colorful cup of shaved ice from Tropical Sno. Conveniently located in Arnolds Park near the amusement park, West Lake Okoboji, and the Central Emporium, this local favorite is perfect for a quick and refreshing treat during a day of lake adventures. Tropical Sno serves up shaved ice in a wide variety of bold, fruity flavors, from cherry and watermelon to tropical blends and kid-approved combos. Whether you’re walking the Arnolds Park Boardwalk, enjoying the rides, or coming off the water, it’s the ideal stop to cool down.
Nutty Bar
A trip to Arnolds Park isn’t complete without a stop at the iconic Nutty Bar Stand! Serving the Iowa Great Lakes since 1945, this beloved destination has been a part of Okoboji summer traditions for generations. Known for its signature Nutty Bars, a vanilla ice cream bar dipped in chocolate and rolled in crushed peanuts, it’s a nostalgic treat locals and visitors look forward to every year. Located right next to the Arnolds Park Amusement Park and steps from West Lake Okoboji, the Nutty Bar Stand is the perfect place to grab a refreshing snack while enjoying all the action. Whether it’s your first time or part of your yearly tradition, make sure to stop by the Nutty Bar Stand and experience one of the most classic desserts in Okoboji.
Topog
Located in the heart of Queens Court, just steps from Arnolds Park Amusement Park, Topog Coffeehouse is your go-to destination to cool off and indulge in a sweet treat. Known for its hand-dipped, premium ice cream, Topog also offers creative specials that combine rich ice cream with bold, fresh-brewed coffee, like cold brew floats and affogatos, perfect for hot summer days in Okoboji. Guests can also enjoy a full menu featuring locally roasted coffee, fresh-baked bagels, house-made bakery items, and grab-and-go lunch options. Whether you’re stopping by for a scoop, a snack, or a satisfying coffee break, Topog Coffeehouse is a must-visit stop in Arnolds Park and a local favorite for ice cream and more.
Bon Bon
Bon Bon Frozen Yogurt is a self-serve sweet spot nestled right on the shores of West Lake Okoboji, offering more than just delicious treats, but also one of the best views in town. After a sunny day on the water or exploring Arnolds Park, BonBon is the perfect place to cool down with a refreshing cup of frozen yogurt while enjoying lakeside scenery that’s hard to beat. Families love the interactive self-serve experience, where you can swirl your favorite frozen yogurt flavors and load up on toppings to create your own custom masterpiece. With options ranging from fruity and tart to rich and chocolatey, there’s a flavor for every craving. Their frozen yogurt contains live and active cultures, offering a tasty treat with health benefits, too!
Candy
the Sugar Shack
Tucked inside the historic Central Emporium, The Sugar Shack has been a beloved sweet spot in Okoboji for over 52 years. This nostalgic candy shop is packed wall-to-wall with colorful sweet treats, old-fashioned candies, and hand-crafted chocolates. From sour gummies and creamy fudge to chocolate-dipped goodies and classic penny candy, there’s something for every craving. Mix and match your favorites and pay by weight—perfect for grabbing just a little or filling a whole bag. A visit to The Sugar Shack is more than a candy run—it’s a step back in time and a must-stop for families, kids, and anyone exploring the best sweet treats in the Iowa Great Lakes.
Goodies
Goodies Handmade Candies is a must-visit sweet shop in the Iowa Great Lakes, delighting visitors since 1985. This family-owned gem is known for its handcrafted chocolates, buttery caramels, and nostalgic candy, all made in small batches using fresh, high-quality ingredients with no preservatives, just butter and love. Located in the heart of the Lakes area, Goodies also serves premium ice cream, coffee, and offers a selection of unique gifts. Whether you’re craving a rich chocolate treat or a scoop of something cold, Goodies is a timeless stop for candy lovers and families exploring Okoboji. With over 35 years of tradition, it’s a local favorite that keeps visitors coming back for generations.
Sweet Memories
Located in Queens Court just across from Arnolds Park, Sweet Memories is a beloved Okoboji candy shop known for its handmade sweets and nostalgic charm. Their signature black walnut taffy is made in-house and packed with rich, old-fashioned flavor that keeps visitors coming back year after year. Beyond the taffy, you’ll find fresh caramel apples, nut rolls, and a variety of other sweet treats, all crafted with care right in the store. Whether you’re exploring Arnolds Park or strolling through Queens Court, Sweet Memories is a must-stop for anyone craving authentic, homemade candy in the Iowa Great Lakes.
Baked with love
Spudnutz
If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful stop during your time in the Iowa Great Lakes, Wyman’s Spudnutz is a local favorite you won’t want to miss. Serving up fresh donuts and smooth coffee, this unique spot has become a staple for both visitors and locals since it opened in 2012 Located in a restored Standard gas station right along Highway 71, Wyman’s Spudnutz offers a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere that makes it easy to slow down and enjoy time with family and friends. Whether you’re grabbing a quick treat or bringing a box back for a group, the experience is always worth the stop. Pair it with a cup of coffee, and you’ve got the perfect start to any Okoboji morning!
Boji Spudz
If you’re craving a warm, sugary treat during your time in the Iowa Great Lakes, make a stop at Boji Spudz. This local favorite is known for its freshly made glazed donuts topped with creative, crowd-pleasing flavors, from the classic PB&J to picks like Strawberry Rhubarb. Open year-round, Boji Spudz offers rotating donut flavors to match every craving and season. Whether you’re out with family, heading to the lake, or just in need of a quick sweet fix, it’s a go-to spot for all ages. Plus, with gluten-free options, everyone can join in the fun. Made with love and glazed to perfection, Boji Spudz is a flavorful way to treat yourself any day in Okoboji.
B&J Sweets
B & J’s Sweets is your go-to for homemade cakes and cupcakes in the Iowa Great Lakes. Known for their delicious flavors and beautiful custom designs, they create the perfect sweet treat for birthdays, weddings, and every celebration in between. You can find them every Saturday at the Farmers Market at the Park in Arnolds Park, and at their weekend shop near The Ritz, open Friday through Sunday evenings. Each dessert is made from scratch with love, offering a sweet way to add joy to your day in Okoboji.
Lisa’s Bake Shop
Located in Spirit Lake, Lisa’s Bake Shop is a local favorite for fresh, homemade baked goods and savory comfort foods. From custom cakes and cupcakes to pies, cakes, and stromboli, Lisa’s has something for every occasion, or just because. In a hurry? Swing by for same-day pickup on a variety of fresh treats, or take home one of their made-from-scratch pot pies or hearty lasagnas, perfect for an easy, delicious dinner. Whether you’re planning a celebration or simply craving something homemade, Lisa’s Bake Shop offers flavor, warmth, and quality in every bite.