This affordable small town has 440 residents and the estimated median house value is $54,000.
Arrowwood Resort, next to beautiful Brooks Golf Course is one of Okoboji's most well-known hotel/resort. Featuring an indoor and outdoor pool, numerous convention/meeting rooms, and a restaurant, companies and individuals flock to Arrowwood for their consistency of great stays.
For most leisure boaters in the Iowa Great Lakes, there are 2 main hot spots to go throw an anchor, sit back, and just relax. Sometimes this will result in numerous boats tying up to one another (you may not even know your neighbor), and sometimes it results in a little more privacy where you can chill just by yourself. Every weekend, boaters make the trek across the deepest parts of West Lake to either Gull Point (North AND South side) and Miller's Bay. Thought there are many other great areas to throw an anchor, relax, and swim, these are the two hot spots. If you aren't sure where to go on a Saturday afternoon or wonder where your friends might be, these two spots would be a good start.
Founded in 1960, the Three Sons has been a staple of Milford, IA retail. From Herman and Emil Richter, owners, was born the University of Okoboji, a ficticious university that calls the entire Iowa Great Lakes the campus of the U of O. Part of the experience of shopping the three sons, if walking the old battered floors, and taking a trip upstairs for half price, plus a buck. Brands you would expect in Milford Iowa are abundant, such as Patagonia, Oakley, Under Armour, Tommy Bahama, and more. There are currently 2 other stores; one at the amusement park, and another near the Regal Beagle called the bridge store. No self-respecting visitor to Okoboji leaves without visiting one of their stores.
Located in Spirit Lake Lisa's Bake Shop offers a large selection of bakery items along with to-go deli items. If you are looking for something specific you certainly can call ahead and order a personalized cake or cheesecake or just stop in a grab some of their famous cinnamon rolls and caramel rolls. If you cant decide what to have for lunch or dinner stop in and check out their large selection of take and bake meals and soups. You will not be disappointed!
Hibachi 88 is a great place to enjoy Chinese food and sushi! They have a large dinner menu and also have a separate lunch menu. If you don't feel like going out or cooking at home call for take out there is something for everyone. If you are a sushi fan make sure to try the Boston roll it is one of my favorites!
X marks the spot for this family fun pirate themed mini golf! Pirate's Cove is located in Arnolds Park right next to the amusement park. The kids will love this summer activity. They will be able to putt their way through caves, over bridges, and under waterfalls. Being right in the middle of all the summer action you are also walking distance everything that downtown Arnolds Park offers.
Go check out Boji Roots Salon in Milford! Sherri does an amazing job of doing exactly what you ask and is very good at giving you ideas on new trends. The salon it's self to so cute inside! She also offers a great supply of products for you to purchase so you can feel like your at the salon even at home. Sherri is very flexible and also fast! When you are very busy its great knowing you wont be sitting at the salon for hours!
Captains Getaway in Arnolds Park is the spot for the best live music entertainment in Okoboji. Highlighting the talent rolling through the lakes is the Nashlo Series of talented up and coming performers along with artists we have all heard of. Captains Getaway in Arnolds Park is the spot to be in Okoboji for the best live music!
Looking for a unique experience, here is one for you. If you are interested in coins and different paper money, come to The Arnolds Park Museum
The Three Sons is your go to University of Okoboji shop!! They offer everything you need for the family from name brand items to your local Okoboji gear. The Three Sons has been a family owned and operated business since the summer of 1960. You will feel like family while you are shopping here. If you are on the boat in the summer don't forget you can also shop their inventory on the Arnolds Park Boardwalk! University of Okoboji gear is one of our favorite ways to represent Lake Okoboji on a vacation!
Haywards Bay on West Lake Okoboji boasts low approaches and one of the few areas on West Lake to offer sand beaches. Renowned for the "bay of the flags", you will know you are in Haywards bay because of the all the American flags on the end of the docks. Fishing is great in Haywards Bay and the sunsets are one in a million. To get to Haywards Bay by car, one would drive the east side of the lake on Lakeshore Dr.
The ice is in and its time to mark some fish! Drag the sled right down the ramp off of Dam Road in Arnolds Park and you are catching fish in minutes. On Minnewashta, no spot is a bad spot. Surrounded by a number of beautiful lake homes, the scene is perfect for drilling some holes and jigging your way to a fresh meal. Gills, perch, crappie and walleye will keep you busy in your fish shack. If have not fished on Lake Minnewashta, now is the time.
Brooks Golf Club is one of the premier golf courses in the Iowa Great Lakes. Located in Okoboji, Iowa, Brooks is one of the few 27 hole golf courses in Iowa. I've personally been a member here for a number of years, and can tell you that not other course offers the beauty and upkeep that Brooks provides. The numerous flower beds, Caribbean beach like bunkers, bent grass fairways, natural prairie grass, and rolling hills provide for an aesthetic pleasure as you play all 27 holes. Brooks also has one of the nicest practice facilities in the state as well. Come say hi to John, Bret and their teams of professionals. if you are an avid golfer and in Boji, you won't want to miss these links.
Boulders Inn and Suites promises to make your Okoboji vacation comfortable and relaxing. This new hotel just south of Emerald Hills golf course between Milford and Arnolds Park offers 40 rooms with suites to meet your individual needs. One of the best things about Boulders Inn is that it is within walking distance of the Taco House. For some of you, I know that can be a big deal!
"The Bridge" has been referred to by the Wharf Bridge, the Kentucky Fried Chicken Bridge, the bridge connecting East and West, among other names. In the good old days, this was actually a draw bridge converted to the current permanent structure. In the 90's when the 3 lane was installed, there was talk about removing the bridge and making some drastic changes. All in all, the base of the bridge remained, and the upper structure was improved. I remember as a kid jumping off the bridge, and fishing on and under the bridge. In fact, an unforgettable memory I have is when I was fishing with my cousin and I casted out trying to reach the opposite corner of the bridge with my lure. In mid air, a pigeon flew and the timing was so great that my line wrapped around the pigeon, and the pigeon went into the water. I reeled it up and had caught a pigeon. My cousin then decided to hold this pigeon inside the front of his coat. We went to show people at Okoboji Boats what we had caught. When we got there, he opened his jacket, and the pigeon had pooped all over his white shirt.
New to Okoboji is The Market Scratch Kitchen. They proudly offer salads, sandwiches and grab 'n go options made with fresh ingredients and prepared daily. Ask about the 'Vacation Mom' meals featuring nutritious and nourishing take-and-bake dishes ready to serve you and your Okoboji vacation family. The community is excited for a healthy food option choice in our area!
A home town favorite! The Taco House is a hidden gem in the Great Lakes area. If your looking for delicious Mexican food give this a try. Taco House is not open during the winter months but you are able to put in a freezer order before they close to satisfy your craving on those cold days. Whatever you decide to order don't forget the Taco House hot sauce, you won't be disappointed.
Okoboji Restaurant & Bar is located in the Okoboji. Their menu offers a little of everything! From classic pastas and aged steaks to seafood everyone will leave satisfied.
Omaha Beach is on the north end of Echo Bay, extending out into Omaha Point. Known for its secluded private access from Lakeshore Drive, Omaha Beach properties are some of the most sought after on West Lake, easily fetching over $15000 per linear foot of lakeshore.
Arrowood is a year-round conference center and hotel with over 100 guest rooms, whirlpool suites and a "Great Room" for hosting group events and hospitality suites. Formerly known as Village East, the resort offers an outdoor pool, deck, playground, volleyball and croquet courts and a heated indoor pool area. Hotel goers can also enjoy an on-site salon, Minervas Bar and Eatery and lit parking. Located on Brooks National Golf Course, Arrowwood Resort offers some of the finest lodging around. Years ago, Brooks Golf Course clubhouse was actually housed on the rear side of Arrowood, but since then, the course has been converted to 27 holes with a a new separate clubhouse. Also, the Racquet Club was a part of the facility, offering workout facilities, racquet ball, and tennis. However, with the addition of the YMCA, the racquet club was unsustainable and converted into retail.
The Waterfront has been a really great addition to the Iowa Great Lakes. Located on the Bridges Bay campus, it is easy to find by car or boat. Streak, seafood, pasta, crepes, pizza and numerous delicious sides on the shores of East Lake will have you always coming back for more. Also try their Sunday brunch, it will not disappoint.
For Okoboji's superfood Big Acai Bowl Okoboji, located in the Central Emporium is a perfect spot for a healthy breakfast or a snack. Acai (pronounced ah-sah-hee) is a berry extract from acai palm tree found in the rainforests of Central and South America. The acai berries have a slightly sweet favor often compared too blueberries paired with very dark chocolate. This is a must stop for a healthy treat for the whole family that has many health benefits including healthy fats, fiber, magnesium, calcium with very low natural sugar. This natural food is a must try!
Ruthven Meat Locker located downtown Spirit Lake. They offer a wide variety of quality fresh and award-winning smokes retail meats along with seasoning rubs and cheeses. You cant go wrong with the "locker trash" it definitely makes the best boat snack!
Bridges Bay Resort is built on the land purchased a few years prior which used to be owned by the Nielsen family of Arnolds Park. This huge complex consists of a hotel, 3 condo buildings (a 4th is under construction), and over 100 vacation cabins. A popular part of the resort is the indoor waterpark that cabin and condo owners have access to, but also, so does the public for a fee. Braccos is a fantastic summertime restaurant and bar which is frequented by boat, by car, and by foot, especially from the owners of the condos and cabins. All of the units at Bridges Bay have an opportunity for a boat hoist, and it is an extremely popular destination for out of towners looking for a vacation spot in Okoboji. Because Bridges Bay is not within the city limits, many owners utilize property management companies to help them rent their units by the day, week, and month. I've personally sold and shown many condo and cabin units and would be delighted to help.
The O'Farrell Sister is a historic Okoboji Tradition that one must check out for breakfast and lunch!
'Farrell Sisters History
The O'Farrell Sisters restaurant was born in 1949 at the bridge on Hwy 71, between East and West Lake Okoboji. Edna Mae and Arlene O'Farrell bought the business from Ike Kissinger who was running for Sheriff of Dickinson County.
In the early years the girls were open seven days a week and had a booming business in no time. The fried chicken dinners on Sunday evenings were especially popular. There were times when the line waiting to get in was so long they'd have to lock the door and would often run out of chicken!
In 1959 Arlene married and moved to Tallahassee, Florida with her husband Furman Henderson. Edna Mae and Ferne continued in the restaurant, moving to its present location that same year. This spot had a garden and chicken coup, which was moved to the house across the street.
Ferne died in 1974 and Edna Mae in 1978. Arlene sold the business to nieces Joyce Gapinski, Jo Ann Anderson, Charlotte Sarvie and Cheri Petersen (these are married names). The nieces successfully ran the restaurant from 1979 through 2003. After losing Jo Ann in 1997 and Cheri in 2002, Joyce and Charlotte decided to sell after the 2003 season.
The rest is to be continued...
One of a kind Authentic Mexican Cuisine right here in West Okoboji! A local favorite and rated five stars by visitors young and old. Be sure to put this as a favorite on your list of places to not miss when you are vacationing in the Lakes area. Close to Terrace Park so if you are feeling up for a small walk you may walk from Terrace Park to the Taco House.
Okoboji Boat Works is home to "The Fish Shack" and "The Inconvenience Store". Formerly a marina of thriving boat sales since 1890, OBW now offers up many different rentals, a 24 hour gas dock, excursion boats, and more. I remember the days as a child of fishing for crappie and blue gill here and along the docks of Smith's Bay. Though the scenery has changed, the outstanding fishing has not.
This new coffee shop is located in the Allure & Co. downtown Spirit Lake. They offer amazing coffee, smoothies and homemade baked goods. This is a great addition to the community!
Terrace Park is located in Brown's Bay on West Lake, Okoboji. It is one of the largest public beaches on West Lake and has entertained beach goers for many years. Next to Terrace Park is Boys Town out of Omaha, Nebraska. I remember as a kid spending entire days at terrace park, either riding bicycle or taking a moped (yes a moped) down to meet with friends and playing king on the dock. In 2010, the morning after "the storm", Terrace Park was carnage. Boat were stacked on top of each other. Trees were uprooted, and hoists were tossed around. Boats and other water craft were found in Terrace Park that belonged to owners on the North end of West Lake.
My local expertise, experience in other markets, combined with the power and influence of RE/MAX, enables me to help achieve all your objectives in your home purchase or sale. Call me, Lynn Thompson to discuss today's Real Estate opportunities.
South Shore Estates is the newest lakeshore development on Lower Gar. Here you have access to West Lake, East Lake, Minnewashta, and Upper Gar.
Minervas is located in the Arrowwood Resort in Okoboji. Their menu offers a little of everything! From classic pastas and aged steaks to seafood everyone will leave satisfied. They offer a great "Pick Two" option for lunch and the atmosphere is excellent. They also do a pasta night that seems to be a staple in the community. Getting to pick your sauce and everything that goes into your pasta which is then made right in front of you is certainly a treat for the whole family!
Bobs in Anrolds Park is famous for the Bobs dog. This is a place the whole family will enjoy. You will be able to enjoy an old fashion maid rite, hot dog, and don't forget the amazing shakes! Located right in the heart of all the action in Arnolds Park you will be able to park the boat and walk up to Bobs. Eat on the patio over looking West Lake or take your meal to go and enjoy it on the boat!
Whether you want to sit and enjoy great live music or eat a juicy steak with a lobster tail, this is a great place to spend some time. They have great ownership accompanied by a great staff. You just cannot go wrong. Located in the center of the action on Broadway Street, you are within walking distance of Arnolds Park Amusement Park. You should definitely stop in, enjoy a nice meal and listen to some great music.
Best little gem on the lake. Located on West Lake you will be able to sit and enjoy a nice cold beverage, a wonderful staff, and one of the best views in town. They have a wonderful selection of drinks you can choose from. Make sure to try one of their margaritas, it is the best on the lake in my opinion! Whether you want to enjoy the fireworks on the 4th of July, or just any sunset in the summer, Pirate Jack's is the place to be.
This quaint coffee shop in downtown Milford, IA is the talk of the town. You must stop in for a hot or cold drink and enjoy the atmosphere of this eclectic cafe. Locals and visitors alike enjoy meeting at this town favorite.
Looking for a photographer for your wedding or event in Okoboji? Need to update your family photos? What about branding or marketing assistance with your business? Studio 1328 offers it all! They are a mulit-faceted creative studio focused on the needs of their customers and the demands of today's market. Jen does everything from your newborn's photos to your new webpage for your business. Check out not only her studio webpage, but also her Okoboji magazine, Lake Life! http://www.lakelifeokoboji.com
Its almost here!!! Walleye Weekend marks the beginning of another great summer here in the Okoboji Area. Anglers from all over come to try and catch the prize fish. Our local DNR tag and release specific Walleyes while they are gillnetting in the Spring. Whether you are fishing from shore or by boat, you cannot go wrong. It is a great time to get the season started and check out the local restaurants. Maybe you will catch the big one. For more information about Walleye Weekend you can go to http://okobojichamber.com/events-calendar/iowa-great-lakes-walleye-weekend/
Choose from a variety of luxurious condominiums and hotel-style guest rooms. Bridges Bay Resort features the area's only indoor waterpark 'Boji Splash, featuring the Cantina which serves a variety of delicious food and beverages. Bring the boat in the summer and enjoy being right on the water or get away for the weekend in the winter months and let the kids enjoy the indoor waterpark!
Dixon Family Chiropractic is a clinic located on Hwy 9, east of Walmart, next to Pizza Ranch and has convenient hours.....open 6 days a week at 7:30 am, evenings and Saturdays. Formerly in the convenient health care building south of the 4 way stop in Spirit Lake, Wade and Adalee offer a friendly staff and professional services.
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