Okoboji is known as an excellent summer vacation destination. There is never a lack of things to do in Okoboji; this is among the reasons why people return to this small lakeside town in Dickinson County, mainly for the natural scenery and outdoor activities.
This small town on the shores of West Okoboji Lake is a popular tourist destination in Iowa that would be perfect for a short vacation.
In addition to being adjacent to West Okoboji Lake, this town is gaining popularity primarily for its vintage-style attractions, including an old amusement park and classic comfort food.
It also includes trending activities for the current generation.
Okoboji is full of surprises and awaits many visitors who decide to spend their holidays there.
Its main attraction is, of course, the majestic glacier-carved lakes full of outdoor recreation.
To give you a broader idea of what awaits you in this small town, here are some fascinating things to do in Okoboji:
Fun Things to Do in Okoboji
1. Experience the Aesthetics at East Okoboji Lake
Your Okoboji itinerary will include a lot of lakes.
One of the best lakes that you must visit is East Okoboji Lake, which is over 1,800 acres and is also part of the Great Lakes of Iowa.
Like West Okoboji Lake, it became home to the Eastern Dakota Sioux or Santee people.
Compared to West Okoboji Lake, this lake offers a calmer experience as it is less crowded than the previous one.
Apart from that, it is also one of the most preferred residential areas in Okoboji, so expect a mix of commercial and residential properties there.
In addition to its peaceful atmosphere, East Okoboji Lake is also an excellent place for outdoor activities such as boating, swimming, and fishing.
2. Don’t Miss a Ride at Okoboji Boat Works Marina Boating
For an unforgettable experience during your visit to Okoboji, hop on a boat and sail the sparkling waters of West Okoboji Lake.
If the experience is worth it, head to the Original Okoboji Boat Works Marina and join other tourists for a boat ride on West Okoboji Lake.
This company is known throughout Dickinson County for boat rentals, boat tours, and extreme water sports rentals.
At Okoboji Boat Works Marina, you can also rent a variety of watercraft such as kayaks, paddle boats, water skis, paddle boats, and jet skis, should you want some private adventure.
Okoboji Boat Works Marina is the only remaining marina in western Lake Okoboji.
It started in 1890 and is still operating today, offering seasonal and daily ticket rentals.
3. Visit Bouncelandia
Bouncelandia is every child’s (maybe adult’s) dream come true!
The Bouncelandia attraction is the world’s largest bounce house, spanning over 13,000 square feet and towering over 32 feet above the ground.
It is perfect for the kids to burn off any energy before the car ride.
The inflatables include one giant “ninja” court; then there’s another large inflatable with basketball hoops and more. They even have an inflatable Twister!
Things to Do in Okoboji at Night
1. Check Out Superior 71 Drive-in Theater
Superior 71 is located about 11 miles northeast of the Okoboji area and is a two-screen theater.
At Superior 71, you can see two movies for the price of one – the cinema is showing a double feature all summer long.
Lay back in the comfort of your car or camp out in the bed of the truck and munch on popcorn, nachos, or other treats. Enjoy the show!
2. Grab Some Bottles at Nutty Bar Stand
The nut bar stand has been serving up handmade, delicious treats since 1945.
The nut bar still retains the classic charm that has made it a staple of the Okoboji area for nearly eight decades, although it has undergone a recent makeover.
The specialty here is, of course, the Nutty Bar – a block of Blue Bunny vanilla ice cream covered in chocolate and covered in nuts.
Homemade root floats and chocolate-covered frozen bananas are also popular as well.
3. Don’t Miss Sunset & Fireworks Yacht Cruise
Looking for a unique adults-only Saturday night outing? Okoboji Boat Works has you covered.
Board the 58-foot yacht Diamond Lady at 8 pm and float on the lake, sip your drink from the fully stocked cash bar on board, and listen to the concert in front of Arnolds Park, then enjoy a prime spot in the fireworks house over West Lake Okoboji.
Tickets are $25, and you must be 21 or older. The cruise takes place on Saturdays from 8 pm to 10:30 pm, departing from Okoboji Boat Works, 1401 Lake Shore Dr., Okoboji.
Things to Do in Okoboji For Couples
1. Visit Pearson Lakes Art Center
The Pearson Lakes Arts Center in Okoboji is a wonderful place to visit.
This remarkable venue features five galleries, an outdoor sculpture trail, and a 288-seat theater.
Not to mention, it is also a place for learning.
It features several classrooms, a chef’s kitchen, and a clay room for those looking to hone their craft along these lines.
This place regularly hosts numerous art exhibitions, events, and live performances that are really worth seeing.
So add this art center to your Okoboji itinerary.
2. Try Golf at the Ranch Okoboji
Okoboji Ranch offers wholesome, old-style fun for the family.
Around three acres, the famous ‘Wizard of Oz’ themed 18-hole outdoor miniature golf course is located throughout its surroundings.
Okoboji Ranch is the best place to go if you are looking for wholesome fun in Okoboji.
In addition to an outdoor mini golf course, the Okoboji Ranch also offers a sand volleyball court, a horseshoe court, a bocce court, and a children’s playground.
After a tiring but enjoyable mini-golf experience, head to the ranch’s clubhouse and treat yourself or your family to a delicious meal from its menu.
3. Visit Barefoot Bar at Okoboji
Don’t forget to relax at Barefoot Bar in Okoboji before heading home. Okoboji generally has many excellent restaurants and bars to relax.
However, Barefoot Bar is a special place that you should not miss. This famous bar in Okoboji is located in Parks Marine by the lake.
It offers guests a cozy atmosphere combined with good music, delicious food, and refreshing cocktails.
If you have children with you, don’t worry, you can drop them off at the children’s playground while you relax in the restaurant.
Things to Do in Okoboji For Kids
1. Let Them Play at Pikes Point State Park
If you’re looking for another great place to swim in West Okoboji Lake, head to Pikes Point State Park.
This attraction has a trendy swimming platform in the beach pool where most people like to jump.
In addition to its famous beach, Pikes Point State Park offers many opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Apart from swimming, people also camp there while others head to Gull Point Lodge for a more comfortable stay.
In addition, hiking is a trendy outdoor activity that you must not miss.
It boasts more than two miles of trail winding across West Okoboji Lake.
2. Visit Arnold’s Amusement Park
Arnold’s amusement park is the only amusement park in Okoboji.
However, it is more than just your typical theme park.
The theme park has restaurants, museums, a miniature golf course, shops, and a farmers market.
Children and adults can enjoy more than 30 rides, including the famous historic wooden roller coaster called “Legend.”
Those who want a more relaxing experience should head to the farmers’ market, where they can purchase local produce, artisan foods, and gift items.
Arnold’s amusement park truly offers an unforgettable experience that you should not miss in Okoboji.
This theme park is located along Lake St, Arnolds Park.
3. Don’t Miss the Fun at the Gull Point State Park & Beach
If you’re after a worthwhile swim, head to Gull Point State Park & Beach on the shores of West Okoboji Lake.
It has a unique setting of a charming crystal clear lake that offers beautiful outdoor recreation for everyone.
This famous Okoboji outdoor attraction is located in Harpen St, Milford. It boasts an excellent spot for quality sunbathing and swimming for everyone.
In addition to the superb swimming experience, people enjoy visiting Gull Point State Park and Beach for the excellent fishing opportunities.
On the other hand, boating and other water sports are very famous in this attraction.
In addition, you can also camp there for the night or drive its 1.3-kilometer scenic trail, where you will encounter various local wildlife.
Indoor Activities to Do in Okoboji For Adults (Indoor Activities)
1. Check Out Boji Splash Indoor Waterpark
Boji Splash Indoor Water Park is a trendy indoor attraction in Arnolds Park.
Take your travel buddies or family to Boji Splash Indoor Water Park and enjoy its incredible water features: a huge pool, lazy river, slides, slides, etc.
Your kids will really have fun with its pirate-themed features, complete with water cannons to keep them entertained all day.
Boji Splash Indoor Water Park is a great place to visit if you’re not in the mood to go out.
So, when you’re in Okoboji, don’t forget to check out this indoor water park.
2. Get Some Coffee at Topog Coffeehouse
Topog Coffeehouse has long become a local favorite since introduced to the Okoboji area in 2021.
Choose from a selection of coffees, made-from-scratch baked goods, grab-and-go lunch options, and hand-dipped ice cream.
Here you can enjoy your treats in a relaxed, modern environment or take your treats away. When you’re done? Head to the beach or theme park – both within walking distance.
3. Visit Sanford Museum and Planetarium
This Sanford Museum and Planetarium offers a variety of exhibits and programs that cover a range of subjects, including natural history, astronomy, geology, history, and prehistory – giving visitors an incredible insight into our world.
On the lower level, visitors can explore everything from space to archeology before moving on to the Sanford Room, where you’ll step back in time and think about the lives of people living in the 19th century; we expect you’ll find life over 150 years ago quite different from of your lives today!
Don’t miss the East Gallery, where the art wall features incredible artwork from local artists, as well as works that tell the story of Cherokee development and the struggles and triumphs of early settlers.
Of course, the Sanford Museum is also home to an amazing planetarium with a super cool SciDome theater that shows a variety of amazing programs and shows that can take you on an amazing journey into the Solar System, space, and beyond!
Each month the planetarium programs focus on a specific theme, and public shows are held every Wednesday and Sunday at 4:00 pm.
Romantic Things to Do in Okoboji
1. Check Out Dickinson County Nature Center
This is a fascinating place to visit in Okoboji if you are fascinated by its history and local flora and fauna.
The nature center offers year-round environmental education programs where visitors follow a variety of trails with Dickinson County’s local wildlife.
During your tour, you’ll come across an eagle’s nesting cam, a butterfly house, an indoor beehive, and native gardens.
In addition, the Dickinson County Nature Center has an art gallery with beautiful artwork by local Okoboji artists.
It also has a science-themed kids’ corner where they can play their hearts out while learning something.
2. Try a Picnic at the Emerson Bay State Park
Another outdoor attraction not to be missed in Okoboji is Emerson Bay State Park in Wahpeton.
This is a premier camping and picnic area in Dickinson County that is accessible to other outdoor attractions.
At Emerson Bay State Park, you wouldn’t have to go anywhere else because the park has everything you want.
Emerson Bay State Park has a sandy beach with the crystal clear waters of West Okoboji Lake.
In addition, it has a large recreational area, a picnic area, and a children’s playground.
You and your loved ones will surely love to spend a day or two at this camp and be mesmerized by the spectacular scenery of West Okoboji Lake.
3. Experience the Queen II Excursions
No visit to Okoboji is complete without actually getting on the lake. Queen II offers 60-minute guided tours around West Lake Okoboji.
The open upper deck and closed lower deck allow passengers to experience the ride in two ways.
Free Things to Do in Okoboji
1. Appreciate the Beauty of the West Okoboji Lake
West Lake Okoboji covers an area of more than 3,800 acres with an area of 15.57 square kilometers giving a scenic view.
West Lake Okoboji is one of Iowa’s most popular destinations for its pristine blue water and outdoor recreation.
West Okoboji Lake is part of the Great Lakes of Iowa and was once home to the Dakota Sioux or Santee people.
After arriving in Okoboji, you should first go to Lake West Okoboji and admire its majesty.
Due to its natural beauty, this lake has appeared in various myths as one of the world’s three blue water lakes.
The others are Lake Louise in Canada and Lake Geneva in Switzerland.
In addition to its beauty, Lake West Okoboji is known for swimming, boating, sailing, fishing, and water skiing.
If you are a seasoned angler, you are sure to get the catch of a lifetime, thanks to the abundance of fish in this lake.
Lake West Okoboji is rich in bluegill, yellow perch, and walleye.
2. Take a Hike Along Okoboji’s Lakes
You should add hiking or biking to your itinerary and explore more than 60 miles of scenic trails along the shores of the famous Okoboji Lakes.
In addition to passing these lakes, you’ll also be passing through beautiful parks that will make your outdoor adventure worthwhile.
Some of the parks you will pass are Elinor Bedell State Park, Gull Point State Park, Venue Park, etc.
While you get there, you can relax and appreciate their natural beauty before continuing your journey.
There are, of course, more hidden gems waiting to be discovered along the way in Okoboji.
3. Walk, Run, or Bike on Paved Trails
With over 40 miles of dedicated paved trails and over 50 miles of marked road trails that wind around our lakes and through our communities, there are plenty of places to see and explore.
You can take your bikes or enjoy a leisurely stroll where you can stop and take in the wonderful views of the lakes, prairies, and wildlife.
The “backbone” of the system is a 14-mile trail through the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes region that connects to several other shorter trails to explore, including the open-in new window Kenue Park Trail, open-in-new window Arnolds Park City Trail, and open-in new window Spirit Lake City Trail.
The trail also goes around the east and west sides of Big Spirit Lake, where it connects to the Loon Lake Trail in Mini-Wakan State Park in a new window.
Cheap Things to Do in Okoboji
1. See Some Relics at Maritime Museum
Inside Arnold’s Amusement Park, the Maritime Museum is a fascinating place to learn about the history of Okoboji.
It features rare artifacts used in the Iowa Great Lakes maritime industry back in the day.
While exploring this museum, you will come across a rare collection of old nautical equipment, antique wooden ships, and other fascinating things.
Whether you’re a history buff or an average visitor, the Maritime Museum at Arnold Theme Park offers a real experience for everyone.
2. Check Out the Iowa Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum
We weren’t 100% sure if the kids would be interested in the Iowa Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum, but it was actually pretty cool! It is connected to the other free museums in Arnold Park.
This museum takes a detailed look at the artists and bands that have toured and performed in Iowa, specifically Arnold Park, over the years.
The kids had fun listening to music, looking at guitars and even playing with an old jukebox.
3. See the Grotto of the Redemption
This con of nine separate caves, each depicting a scene in the life of Christ.
The Grotto includes the largest collection of precious stones and gems found anywhere in one place.
It emphasizes that art must be seen to be appreciated, and the message it provides cannot be put into words. The Grotto is often considered the “eighth wonder of the world.”
The cave was included in the National Register of Historic Places in 2001. The Iowan magazine described the cave as a “miracle in stone.”
Cool Places to Visit in Okoboji
1. Arnold’s Park Museum
Arnold’s Park Museum is known for its unique history with old-school toys and attractions.
This museum in Arnold’s theme park features old fun toys and school rides like a candy cane, barrel ride, etc.
It also features vintage slot machines and other interactive activities that highlight what toys and amusement rides were like in the past.
Overall, it offers a healthy experience for your loved ones or even your friends on the go.
2. Okoboji Spirit Center
Begin your visit at the Okoboji Spiritual Center, where there is a welcome center where friendly Okoboji experts can help you create the perfect escape.
Don’t miss the adjacent Maritime Museum, which celebrates the maritime history of the area with displays of rare wooden ships, some of which have been pulled from the depths of local lakes.
3. Arnolds Park – Roof Garden
Arnolds Park’s legendary Roof Garden is returning later this summer.
A former venue that hosted top musicians for decades is being reborn in the place it called home.
The rooftop garden was a major part of Arnolds Park’s multi-year, multi-phase fundraising effort (this is Phase 3, the final phase), which included additional parking, new bathrooms, and updated infrastructure.
The Roof Garden signage dominates the east side of Lake Street, and the venue is designed to retain the look and give off the ambiance of an actual roof garden but includes new amenities to make it a more functional and modern space.
The park has assembled a series of grand opening performances, with the first performance scheduled for August 2nd.
Conclusion
Okoboji is popular throughout Iowa for its majestic lakes, but its coastal communities offer a unique travel experience for everyone.
Okoboji is full of surprises, especially for those who love nature.
There are lots of exciting things to do in Okoboji and places to visit for those who want to experience more relaxation in this famous Iowa vacation destination.
