Located right on Interstate 90 with access to most major cities, Fairmont is a popular site for recreational activities any season of the year. The city’s population is 10,463 with a median home value of $97,000. If you prefer a stroll down memory lane you will find many sites to visit, such as the Fairmont Opera House, Pioneer Museum, Sisseton Model RR display, Red Rock Center, or Heritage Acres. Our multitude of specialty shops offers a real shopper's paradise.
Boji Tan is a great tanning salon located in Spirit Lake. They offer different types of beds that are four different levels. This local business is very clean and the staff is always friendly and provides you with great service. At Boji Tan they don't only offer tanning but you are able to purchase AdvoCare products also. If you are going on a trip and want to get a base tan before you leave or if you just want to warm up on those cold summer days make sure to stop at Boji Tan!
Jimmy John's slices our all-natural meats and fresh veggies in-house every day. Our fresh-baked bread is made right here where you can see it, and our house-made tuna salad is fresh every day. The flavor of a ripe tomato, crisp shredded lettuce, combined with fresh-baked bread, fresh-sliced meat and real Hellmann's mayo - that's when the magic happens. Made with love every single day since 1983. That's Jimmy Fresh!
For the outdoorsmen who like to hunt ducks and geese, you have come to the right place. NW Iowa has a wide array of wetlands and great habitat and conditions to attract a large number of migratory birds. You can find a wide array of duck species in this area as well as a big population of Canadian geese. Duck hunting seasons start in September and ends in early December; Goose season starts in September and runs til the first week of January. See Iowa DNR for exact season dates and limits.
From stylish furniture for casual living to cutting edge design in home decor. Visit INTERIORS for the best selection of Furniture, Wall Art, Everyday & Seasonal Decor, Lighting, Kitchen, Bed and Bath.
Spirit Lake Spillway
Looking for some entertainment with the kids on a nice summer weekend, come check out the Spillway. The Spillway connects Big Spirit Lake to East Lake Okoboji allowing overflow water to move from Big Spirit Lake to the chain of lakes. This helps keep water levels under control on Big Spirit.
Depending on the time of year you visit, you may see hundreds, if not thousands of fish, mostly carp swimming upstream, it’s a neat site to see.
While you are here, you can launch your boat for a day on the lake, or you can visit Orleans Beach next door. Or you can grab lunch at the Spillway Drive In.
Real Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Lakes Agent Insight Description of West Lake Rush Lake in the Lake Section of the Area Category
Okoboji Youth Basketball Association (OYBA)
The Okoboji School system and basketball program is really blessed to have such a great nucleus of coaches and a system in place designed to really build the children through team work and skill building. OYBA has put together a board and a mission that is really great for the kids and is designed to develop the kids to prepare them for High School Basketball.
Each winter, OYBA puts out teams ranging from 3rd grade up to 8th grade, both girls teams and boys teams.
I am one of the coaches for the 5th grade girls team, we have 24 kids out for basketball, for such a small class, those numbers are amazing.
We put together 3 traveling teams and each of our teams is signed up for 5 tournaments this winter season, the kids love it.
Whether you are new to town or have been here for a long time, if you have kids going to the Okoboji School system and want to play some ball, check out the website, call one of the board members or give me a call and I'll point you in the right direction.
If you're in the mood for a movie, this is the place to go! They've recently updated all of their seating, so its comfier than ever to enjoy a movie here! They offer daily snack and drink specials, as well as free showings from time to time. Their screens are all digital projection, to ensure the clearest movies possible.
The Humane Society of NW Iowa is an amazing non-profit organization in the lakes area. They are a no-kill shelter, run on donations from locals, and special events in the area throughout the year. The facility has started "PAWS with a Cause," a program that gives back to the community, by bringing animals to care facilities in the area, as well as provide a program for the youth in the area to teach them about how to be a responsible pet owner.
Looking for a pace to get organic, and natural foods? Wilder Thymes is your go-to place! As the only shop in the lakes area to offer such things, this quaint little shop is definitely a place to check out. They offer organic, and local foods, from snacks, spices, cooking ingredients, gluten free, dairy products, and more! Wilder Thymes also has an array of natural cleaning products, and personal care items that are hard to come by. Not only can you buy groceries here, but they also have a deli! Pizzas, wraps, braked goods, soups, and sandwiches are just some of the yummy things you can buy at Wilder Thymes!
Mother Nature's is an American Restaurant Style bar/restaurant/lounge. Mother Nature's has been a local Estherville bar and grill since 1978. Stop in for the best burgers and steaks in town!
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!
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.
You can't come to the Lakes Area, and not go to Arnolds Perk. This whimiscal little coffee shops is always very busy in the summers, and rightfully so; their coffee is amazing! They also have breakfast, lunch, and their ever famous cupcakes, along with their coffee drinks. Located just across the street from the Arnolds Park amusement park, its the perfect place to stop at on your vacation in the mornings!
The Central Emporium is the best variety of shops and attractions, all under one roof! This location features shops for swimsuits, sweatshirts, jewelry, decorations for your home and some things that are just for fun. Find sweet treats at the candy store, enjoy a lakeside lunch or cocktail at the lower level patio bar, or have dinner with an amazing view of West Lake. Make sure to stop at the Central Emporium on your next Okoboji summer vacation.
Talk about a fun place to shop--this is one of the best! The owners and staff (including Britt, the furniture dog) are so personable and welcoming that you'll find yourself hanging out in their store because it's so much like home (or what you'd like your home to be)! They have great furniture, rugs, lighting to fit any budget. They also sell vintage pieces which don't last long in the store! And plants, yes, they even have plants! Plan to spend some time when you come here because there's so much to see! Located at 3520 Hwy 71 South, Spirit Lake or go to midwestmodernfurniture.com.
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.
Katy Lynn Boutique is a fabulous women's clothing store offering a wide variety of clothing, shoes, jewelry and more. Excellent customer service with all hands-on-deck in helping you find that special outfit. You can also place clothing orders online. A fun clothing store that is sure to impress!
The Style Loft Boutique, located downtown Estherville, has all the latest trends in apparel. They offer a wide variety of clothing brands and also have the seasons must-haves in shoes and jewelry as well. Check out The Style Loft, you won't be disappointed!
Elinor Bedell State Park
located on 80 acres of land this property was gifted by former U.S. Congressman Berkley Bedell and his wife Elinor. Berkley was also the original business man who began the Berkley Fishing company which started in Spirit Lake and was taken world-wide.
The park offers prairie and wetland areas to navigate, with miles of trails, a campground, playground equipment, a shelter overlooking the lake and more.
Lake Park has a couple choices to choose from when deciding to camp on Silver Lake. Both campground are on the lake and offer daily, weekly, monthly or even seasonal rates. The one "in town" is a great spot located near the public pool, ball fields, the city park, public fishing dock, and the dam that flows out of Silver Lake. The camping season runs from April 15 to October 15 each year. Click the link to find more information as well as their camping rates.
Yesterdays Restaurant has been an Okoboji favorite and is only opened seasonally. Yesterdays has a complete dinner menu that features nightly specials. They have a wonderful martini menu that will not disappoint. Make sure to also make reservations in the Japanese Teppanyaki Room. Watch as asian inspired meals are prepared and served by your personal chef.
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.
Miracle Truss Buildings may be new to area but the company name has been around for decades. This company provides do-it-yourself building kits with clear-span web steel trusses that are made right here in the USA. It is also veteran owned. You can customize kits for garages, homes, shops, RV and marine, commercial, agricultural, cabins, hangars--anything you can imagine! Call 800-208-1969 for an appointment at their design center located at 1703 Hill Ave in Spirit Lake, or visit their website at miracletruss.com to read all about them. The knowledgeable staff is ready to help you with your next project. Free quotes, too!
West Boutique located at Okoboji Boat Works Marina carries all of the latest fashions for women of all ages and sizes.
Available brands: Free People, Anama, Velvet Heart, KUT Denim, Articles of Society, Grace in LA, Lush, Willow & Clay, Pink Martini, Pixie Mood, and more!
Okoboji Middle School is a place where we are Pioneering Pathways for Every Student. We focus on giving EVERY student access to a world-class education in small-town Iowa. We do this in three primary ways:
We employ staff who care deeply about the lives and learning of each student. From the classroom to the kitchen, we believe positive relationships between our staff and students form the foundation for all student learning.
We focus on preparing students with the competencies and skills needed to thrive in the world beyond our school. All teachers use a common language focused on developing the following five competencies in all our students:
Critical Thinking: The ability to incorporate key information to develop solutions to complex problems
Productivity & Accountability: Demonstrate initiative, self-direction, and personal responsibility to create quality results.
Complex Communication: Successful sharing of information with a clear message.
Collaboration: Respectfully working within a group to achieve a common goal.
Growth Mindset: The incorporation of creativity, unique thoughts, curiosity, and innovation in learning.
We focus on creating learning experiences to prepare our students to solve the problems of tomorrow. Nowhere is this more exemplified than in our Midmester Academy. Through our Midmester Academy, students spend over 120 days throughout their middle school career engaging in 24 real-world, interdisciplinary, problem-based courses. Their experiences culminate in an 8th Grade Capstone Project, where students showcase their middle school learning to a panel of peers, family, and faculty.
Please click HERE to access our Midmester Academy Handbook and Course Booklet.
We hope you will take to time to peruse the Midmester Academy Handbook Course Booklet and navigate our website to learn more about our school. Most importantly, we want you to know that if you are considering Okoboji Schools for your family, we would welcome the opportunity to give you a guided tour of our facilities, which will include a detailed exploration into the programming we offer our students. Please contact any of our school offices to set up a tour.
Yours in Education,
Ryan Cunningham
Okoboji Middle School Principal
Your family deserves advanced dental care provided in a warm, friendly environment. Hill Avenue Dental excels in giving people of all ages beautiful smiles and healthy teeth. Your comfort is the highest priority of Dr. Dotson and Dr. Hartzell and their skilled dental care team.
Bracco World Cafe brings you to the beach, and tropics; you almost forget that you're in Iowa, and not in Mexico! They have the best exotic drink menu anywhere in town. This family owned restaurant has a menu like no other, featuring Island, Asian, and American cuisine. They offer a casual atmosphere for coming right off the boat. Bracco also has a large bar area, complete with sand, and hammock chair beach chairs, to ensure ultimate relaxation.
Start planning now for all of your fall and winter getaways. We are specialists in all inclusives, cruises, family reunions, honeymoons and destination weddings. In specific areas we are specialists in Mexico, Disney, cruises and hotels. You can have confidence is Sunset Travel Agency with over 35 years of experience in the travel industry.
As the only frozen yogurt place in the Lakes Area, BonBon has made quite the name for itself! We wait for the day it opens, and try to go weekly throughout the summer. This self serve froyo shop is sure to put a smile on anyone's face, with the array of toppings, and flavors, that are changing from week to week! It satisfies your sweet tooth, while still being healthy, which is a major win win for me.
2327 170th St
Okoboji, IA 51355
Prairie Chick is a great place to go for your morning coffee, for breakfast, lunch or just a spot to get away and read a newspaper. The atmosphere is great, There are numerous rooms and seating areas, including a fireplace where you are most likely going to find a local or two reading a newspaper waiting for someone to start up a good conversation with.
Very family friendly as well. In door and out door seating and a garden in the back where they grow alot of the ingredients used in their food.
They offer great coffee, scones, quiches, oatmeal, as well as other pastries. For lunch they also offer sandwiches/soup.
Their menu often changes from day to day, so stop in often and taste a little of everything.
Memorial Park
300 Lake Street
Spirit Lake, IA 51360
Located on a huge property, this park was renovated in 2012 adding new playground equipment with areas designated for young kids and areas for older kids all wrapped around a Splash Pad that the kids just love.
2 shelters, including the Clayton Seeman Memorial Shelter house. Also, access to bike trails, walking paths and around 1,500 feet of East Lake Okoboji shoreline, 2 docks, 2 handicap-accessible piers and more.
Stop in El Parian for some of the best Mexican cuisine and margaritas. On Wednesdays lime margaritas are only $.99! El Parian offers a wide variety of authentic Mexican food for lunch and dinner. You will not leave hungry by any means!
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.
Arnold's Bark-ery and Grooming is a great place to take your fur babies for their "puppy spa day!' Not only do they offer grooming services but they have a great boutique full of yummy treats and accessories. You can even order certain treats for holidays!
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.
The Studio Yoga & Barre has two locations: Spencer or Spirit Lake @ Allure & Co. Come and experience a community of people seeking to live healthier lives through exercising the body and mind.
They offer a variety of yoga, barre, cycling and paddle-board classes for different levels of experience.
The Studio also offers yoga and exercise apparel, as well as oils and health supplements.
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.
Miller's Bay, on the west side of West Lake is a popular spot for boaters in the summer to just go chill out, throw an anchor, and relax. On the weekends, this bay is filled with boats tied up to each other offering families the opportunity to have the kids swim, or you might find a bunch of party animals chugging beers and enjoying the summer sun. Either way, everyone is having a great time, and so if you are out and about, just know that Millers Bay is where boaters go in the summer to be where the party is at.
Fisherman’s Factory Outlet
1803 18th St (Hwy 9 & 71)
Spirit Lake, IA 51360
Located across the street from Pure Fishing, the Fisherman’s Factory Outlet is a must stop for avid fishermen. This outlet store offers all kinds of fishing equipment including fishing poles, reels, tackle and bait. You can find a lot of popular brands at much discounted prices here, including factory reconditioned Abu Garcia, Fenwick, Berkley, Coleman, Pflueger, Mitchell, PENN and more .
You can also find outdoor clothing including coats, shirts, boots, gloves and more.
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!
Emerald Hills Golf Course is one of the premier golf courses in the Iowa Great Lakes. Golfers throughout Okoboji will tell you that compared to the rest of the golf courses around, Emerald Hills is probably the most challenging. When I grew up as a kid, we lived just a half block from the back side of the course. We would sneak on with a couple short little clubs and balls we found walking the course and sometimes spent more time being chased by the sprinklers than trying to hit golf balls. Emerald Hills was owned by Gordy and Bette Benit many years ago and they can be credited with growing this course into the masterpiece it has become. Later purchased by Randy Rohlfsen and a few others, Emerald has flourished as one of the best courses around. If memory serves me right, Randy has been there since the early 1990's and has always had a strong conviction to help young golfers. He has taught and coached numerous high school teams, and they also put on a 5 day junior camp every year which has been a tremendous hit. I grew up on this course and can honestly say, you better be hitting the ball straight!
Arnolds Park Boutique offering beautiful clothing that is reasonably priced, and unique. They have a variety of sizes - beautiful clothes and accessories!
Calkins Park
Located behind Dyno’s convenient store on the Southend of Milford, just a half block East from Hwy 71 on 225th St, then stretching North a few blocks, this park offers a 9 hole disc golf course
"The Tressle" bridge used to carry the old railroad that traversed the area. Now the tressle is home to some of the areas best fishing. Served as a hot spot for fisherman, and a trail for walkers and bikers, the tressle is a classic structure of the Okobojis. We spent days jumping off of the tressle doing cannonballs, preachers, flips and the like. I know in my life my friends and I have caught literally tens of thousands of crappie and blue gill off the tressle bridge.
Downtown Church
45 S Hwy 71
Arnolds Park, IA 51331
Next to Okoboji Middle School/Okoboji Bible Conference
Services:
Sunday evening at 5:30 p.m.
Small Groups- Tuesday/Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.
Jimmy John's slices our all-natural meats and fresh veggies in-house every day. Our fresh-baked bread is made right here where you can see it, and our house-made tuna salad is fresh every day. The flavor of a ripe tomato, crisp shredded lettuce, combined with fresh-baked bread, fresh-sliced meat and real Hellmann's mayo - that's when the magic happens. Made with love every single day since 1983. That's Jimmy Fresh!
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/
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