Located along the eastern shore of a lake of the same name, Okoboji is a small populated city in Iowa with an easygoing atmosphere and plenty of activities for families. Shop at one of the antique gift shops, or tour the Higgins Museum of National Bank Notes and learn the history of money. At night, head to one of the local clubs or bars for drinks and a bite to eat. Meanwhile, kids can enjoy live concerts and the picnic areas at Preservation Plaza. Book a stay a Okoboji vacation rental today. Check out the most exciting points of interest in and around Okoboji.
1. West Okoboji, Iowa
Located in Dickinson County, West Okoboji lies between Arnold Park and Wahpeton. Chose lakefront vacation rentals that offer excellent views and a variety of amenities to make your trip perfect. Car lovers will enjoy taking a guided tour of the Okoboji Classic Car Museum, then eat at one of the local restaurants. The Arnold’s Amusement Park provides thrill rides for all ages, and if you want to cool off in the summer, opt for Ranch Okoboji Water Park.
2. Spirit Lake, Iowa
Just to the north of Okoboji lies Spirit Lake, a small city that is surrounded by five interconnected lakes. The warm water is ideal for swimming, or you can rent a boat and go boating and skiing. On July 4th, the lake is ideal for watching fireworks, and you can bring a picnic and have dinner by the water. Take the family to the local candy store for homemade treats, or catch a flick at the drive-in theater.
3. Browns Bay, Iowa
Enjoy sitting on your deck and watching the sunset on Lake Okojobi when you choose a vacation rental in Browns Bay. Enjoy soft sand beaches surrounded by lush flora and fauna at the Terrace Park Beach. The calm waters make it the ideal spot for wind sailing, and see if you can catch the Kona Ice Truck for the kids as it passes through the park in the summer.
4. Minnewashta Lake, Iowa
Minnewashta Lake lies to the southeast of Okojobi. Vacation rentals nearby have immediate access to the Lake Minnewashta Regional Park. This beautiful swimming beach includes a dog park, so you can bring your pet along with you on vacation, or you can go fishing and let the kids play on the playground. Picnic shelters can be reserved for special events like birthdays and family reunions, and there are over five miles of trails for those who enjoy hiking.
5. Linn Grove, Iowa
Experience life in a tiny town when you take the family to Linn Grove. Located south of Okoboji. Linn Grove features several cozy cabins that make you feel like you are remote and self-sufficient. Visit the Linn Grove Dam and go kayaking or canoeing. Drive along the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway for photographs, or stop and sample one of the local wines at the InnSpiration Vines and Wines.
6. Hadley, Minnesota
To the north in Minnesota, Hadley offers a quiet respite from the crowds of the city. Go hiking in Skinner State Park, rent a bi-plane and soar high in the sky, or stop by the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge where you can feed the fish and learn more about nature and animals of the region.
7. Fairmont, Minnesota
Grab your ice skates and head to the frozen lakes in Fairmont, Minnesota in the winter. in the summer, kids enjoy the Fairmont Water Park, which has a variety of waterslides and other attractions. Fans of the opera will enjoy a concert at the local opera house or take the family to Heritage Acres where you can see a variety of antique equipment on display.
8. Jackson, Minnesota
Spend your winter holidays playing in the snow in Jackson, Minnesota. Bring your sled and take turns with the kids sliding around the Benes Recreation Area. See the latest blockbuster hits at the Historic State Theater, or visit the Red Barn Shop for souvenirs and gifts. before heading back to your vacation rental, stop by the Fort Belmont History Museum which houses artifacts from the region.
9. Sioux Falls, South Dakota
If you don’t mind a drive, Sioux Falls lies approximately an hour from Okiboji. The largest city in South Dakota, Sioux Falls offers a wider variety of vacation rentals for families of all sizes. Here you can escape to the Great Plains Zoo, or pet the sting rays at the Butterfly House and Aquarium. The Falls Park is a lovely place for kids to slide and play in the waterfalls, there is also plenty of grassy areas for a picnic.
10. Round Lake, Minnesota
Experience small town life when you visit Round Lake, Minnesota. Because the population is small, everyone seems to know everyone. You’ll find locals are friendly and helpful, and the area is calm and peaceful. Go for a leisurely stroll through Round Lake State Park and take pictures of the flowers in full bloom. In the summer, fishing and watersports are the primary recreational activities in the area.
11. Heron Lake, Iowa
Heron Lake is a peaceful place to take the whole family on a fishing holiday. Look for lakefront cabins and homes that provide easy access to the water. Raccoon River Park has a large play area for children, you can also bring your dog and take them for a hike around the water. Afterward, take the family to the Northwest Iowa Kart Club for some friendly racing competition.
12. Mason City, Iowa
Take time to appreciate the architecture in Mason City. Vacation rentals in the city range from furnished apartments to houses that are conveniently located to everything. Tour the Charles H. MacNider Art Museum and look at various exhibits from local artists. Take the family to the Lime Creek Nature Center for a day of hiking and biking, and be sure to stop by the Mason City Visitors Center to learn about all of the various points of interest.