Restaurants of the Iowa Great Lakes
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Whether in Spirit Lake, Okoboji, Arnolds Park, Milford or any part of the Iowa Great Lakes, there are an abundant number of fantastic restaurants to choose from. If you had a little south to Spencer, you have quite a variety as well ranging from the bar-b-que of Gary's on the River to an outstanding salad bar at the Prime Rib. Some of the restauraunts in the Iowa Great Lakes shut down for the winter as traffic dwindles a bit, but those that are left are certainly worth visiting.
Area Insights
The Lost Gypsy Boutique
Arnolds ParkLook What’s new In Arnolds Park:
The Lost Gypsy Boutique offers fun and nicely priced apparel that will be perfect for your Okoboji wardrobe! Hats, shoes, purses, and unique fashions in the latest colors will have everyone asking “where did you get that!”. Located just east of Table 316 in the former Dragon Palace restaurant. CHECK IT OUT!
Furniture Mart
Spirit LakeFurniture Mart
2502 17th St
Spirit Lake, IA 51360
Located just west of Walmart and next door to the Ramada Inn, The Furniture Mart offers a HUGE floor space filled with a great selection of furniture. Selections include Living Room, Dining, Bedroom and Office furniture. They also offer Mattresses, TV Stands and different Decor and Accent pieces. In home delivery available as well.
Dickinson County Courthouse
Spirit LakeLocated at the corner of Hill Ave and 18th St(Hwy 9/71), the County Courthouse offices the following: Auditor, Assessor, Board of Supervisors, Conservation, Community Services, County Attorney, Emergency Mgt, E-911 Administrator, County Engineer, IT/GIS, Recorder, Sheriff Dept, Trails, Treasurer, Veterain’s Affairs, Weed Commissioner, Zoning and Environment Health.
The current courthouse was built in 2005-2007 on the same site as the old courthouse was located. In fact, some of the bricks used on the exterior of the new courthouse came from the old courthouse.
All Pets Animal Clinic
Spirit LakeAll Pets has always gone above and beyond for our pets, providing amazing customer service, and pet service for years. Dr. Roti has always been so informative, and kind to us and our pets whenever our pets have had any illnesses, and even emergency care needed in the middle of the night. Their staff really loves each animal that walks into the door, and they put you at ease when you need to leave your pet over night. All Pets has state of the art diagnostic equipment, making them by far the best veterinarian clinic in the area. We wouldn't trust our pets with anyone else!
The Family Diner
Spirit LakeThe Family Diner is Spirit Lake, IA is a local favorite! They offer up a large portion for small money, but whether you come early or late you may be in for a wait. With homemade bread and the largest sausage patty you have seen, The Family Diner is consistently delicious. They are open only for breakfast and lunch and closed two days a week. In my former career at Stylecraft, the family diner was definately a favorite when our friends would visit from North Carolina. They were always inpressed with the bread and rolls and corn beef hash.
Bridges Bay Resort
East Lake OkobojiBridges 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.
Rabab's at the Lake
Arnolds ParkBest food in town? We sure think so. Rabab has outdone herself here in the Central Emporium! This upscale, fine dining restaurant will not disappoint. She offers Mediterranean and American dishes. The food is the best part, but Rabab's also has arguably one of the best views, overlooking beautiful West Okoboji lake. Not only is her food extraordinary, she offers an extensive selection of fine wines and cocktails.
The Sports Page Bar & Grill
SpencerSports Page is a fan favorite restaurant in Spencer, Iowa. With their never ending menu, with classic American food, its sure to please everyone that visits! With TV's everywhere you look, you won't miss any of the action, whether it be football, baseball, basketball, or any of the other major sports, Sports Page has you covered! This family friendly restaurant offers a comfortable atmosphere for all to enjoy.
EAST Algona
AlgonaReal Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Lakes Agent Insight Description of East Lake Rush Lake in the Lake Section of the Area Category.
Humane Society of NW Iowa
MilfordThe 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.
Silver Lake Campgrounds
Lake ParkLake 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.
The Last Touch / Benjamin Moore Paint Store
Spirit LakeIf you're looking for great interior or exterior paint check out The Last Touch Benjamin Moore Paint Store at 2230 33rd Street, Suite 1, in Spirit Lake. They have a great selection of authentic colors and have been ranked highest in interior paint by JD Power and Associates for several years running. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and always ready to help whether it's with a free estimate or a color consultation. They also offer cleaning services for new construction, remodels, top-down or general cleaning plus janitorial services. You can reach them at 712-336-4475 or visit their website at www.lasttouchllc.com. When you're ready for your next project give The Last Touch a try! You won't be disappointed!
Ranch Okoboji
OkobojiRanch Okoboji has something for everyone. The ever popular mini golf course in Okoboji is a fun Wizard of Oz theme. They also have Tyotee's Mining, which is a fun little adventure for kids to mine gemstones, arrowheads, and fossils! For the adults, they have a margarita bar, with tons of flavors, all made with their own secret recipe! Once you're done with whichever adventure you choose at the Ranch, don't forget to shop at their little boutique area, with home decor, outdoor decor, and their extensive collection of flags!
Bracco
Arnolds ParkBracco 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.
Downtown Church
Arnolds ParkDowntown 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.
Allure & Co.
Spirit LakeAllure & Co. is a great one stop shop with many businesses all in one building! Home decor, rugs, furniture, lighting, a yoga studio, photographer, hair salon, massage and a coffee shop all under one roof! They offer so many great brands to provide some great shopping in the lakes area. The staff is very friendly which makes it a fun place to shop.
Spencer Golf & Country Club
SpencerSpencer Golf & Country Club, established in 1919, is a Semi-Private Golf Club featuring its well manicured 18 hole championship golf course and full service restaurant experience. Outstanding membership rates are available to residents, non-residents, and corporations. If a membership isn't right for your needs, non-residents of Spencer are welcome to play anytime that the course is available, as often as you would like. If you are looking to host a corporate outing, organization fundraiser outing, or group golf outing, look no further than Spencer Golf & Country Club. We can accommodate groups as big as 200 golfers and more with all the professional golf tournament services. The Country Club is also an excellent choice for your next business meeting, banquet, or wedding reception.
Okoboji Boat Works
West Lake OkobojiOkoboji 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.
Pheasant Hunting
OutdoorsFor the outdoorsmen that like to go track a pheasant, once again, you’ve come to the right place. The conditions and habitat in this area allow upland game populations to thrive. There is a vast amount of state land as well as private land prime for pheasant hunting. Season runs from October 29 to January 10
Winther Stave & Co
SpencerAt Winther, Stave & Co., LLP we use a team approach. You have a team of accounting professionals at your disposal, not just one person. With specialists in many different areas, we can draw on that breadth of knowledge and experience to help with services ranging from taxes, to payroll, to wealth preservation.
SUNNYVILLE BAKERY
Arnolds ParkReal Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in SunnyvilleAgent Insight on the Sunnyville Bakery in Sunnyville City
Wilder Thymes Natural Foods
Spirit LakeLooking 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!
The Bear
SpencerThe Bear is an eclectic little coffeehouse and wine bar nestled in Spencer. The bear serves amazing breakfast, lunch and dinner year round, as well as beer, wine, and of course, the finest coffee. It has a casual, comfortable setting, sure to keep you coming back for more. Its also great for meetings, work events, or just a nice spot to meet friends. They host events, local live entertainment, and more; they're very involved in their community.
Bay View Gifts & Garden
Spirit LakeBay View Gifts & Garden
3202 Hwy 71
Spirit Lake, IA 51360
Bay View Gifts & Garden is another opportunity for those of you who are looking for antiques. One can find other Gifts, Outdoor Décor and Plants here as well. Take a look at the selection of Adirondack chairs as you drive by on Hwy 71. Located across the street from us at RE/MAX Lakes Realty
Bedell Family YMCA
Spirit LakeThe Bedell Family YMCA offers many programs to kids and adults alike. Children can get their first experiences with various sports, and continue their interests as they grow into specific programs. Adults also are offered many sports, health, and wellness programs at the Y, they even provide childcare while you attend your program, or work out. The Bedell Family YMCA is also the creator of Camp Foster, an amazing camp for kids in the summer.
The Waterfront
East Lake OkobojiThe 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.
Overhead Doors
Arnolds ParkOverhead Doors
652 Okoboji Grove Road
Arnolds Park, IA 51331
Located right off of Highway 71 in Arnolds Park.
Overhead Door Sales & Services has been around since 1985 offering sales and service for commercial and residential garage doors and openers. They offer service for most makes and models of garage doors and openers.
They offer the following brands: Hormann, Haas Door, Wayne Dalton and Great Northern Door Company.
Service area includes NW Iowa and SW Minnesota.
Burger & Company
Spirit LakeGourmet Burgers, Spicy Chicken Thigh Sandwiches, Lobster Rolls on Friday & Saturday, Cubans, Hot Tots, Rosemary Sea Salt Fries, Beer Battered Cheese Curds, Scrumptious Milk Shakes, Crisp Salads, Huge Cookies & More!
EAST Algona
AlphaReal Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Lakes Agent Insight Description of East Lake Rush Lake in the Lake Section of the Area Category.
Spirit Lake Noon Kiwanis PAPER DRIVE
Spirit LakeIf you are looking for a way to get rid of paper and don't want to throw it in the garbage, the Spirit Lake Noon Kiwanis Group offers a great solution. In addition to being eco-friendly you are helping this Kiwanis Group raise money to help children and the community out in other ways.
A couple time of month the local group will go out and pick up paper from your curb side, contact the group for their schedule.
OR
Just South of Faraway and just North of Kiwanis Park, is parked a semi trailer with a sign "Spirit Lake Noon Kiwanis Paper Drive" At any time you can take your paper to this trailer.
Goodies
Spirit LakeGoodies Handmade Candies is a small family-run business located in Spirit Lake, Iowa. Goodies has become a "must stop" place when visiting the area.
Goodies offers handmade candies, ice cream, coffee, and gifts. Each batch uses fresh quality ingredients and no added preservatives.
Customers from all over rave with remarks such as, "Goodies makes the best candies they have ever had."
Boji Bay Funhouse Pavilion
MilfordBoji Bay Funhouse Pavilion
2501 Boji Bend Dr
Milford, IA 51351
Boji Bay Funhouse Pavilion offers a LOT.
Facilities Include: Banquet area with a giant indoor rug slide, kitchen/catering, Bar area, Conference Room, 2 Outdoor Pools, Boji Bay Legacy Park Concert area, mini golf, as well as the Clubhouse restaurant.
One can rent out the pools for a concert, or the Banquet area for weddings/parties.
Studio 1328
Spirit LakeLooking 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
Boji Toes
Arnolds ParkIf you're visiting the lakes area, and want to be pampered, Boji Toes gives the best pedicures in town! Also offering manicures, from traditional to shellac, as well as waxing, they really take pampering to the next level. I also know that they love to get male clients, and will even offer them a beer! Talk about great service!
The West Lake "Tie Up"
West Lake OkobojiFor 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.
Stan's Bait Shop
MilfordStan’s Bait Shop
2306 Okoboji Ave
Milford, IA 51351
Stan’s Bait shop is located on the Hwy on the North end of Milford. Stan’s offers a great selection of products and services including fish cleaning. If you have a bucket full of fish, but either don’t have the time to clean them or simply don’t know how, take them to Stan’s.
Stan’s also offers guide services and fishing tips.
Harvey's Five Star Roofing and Gutters
Spirit LakeWhether you need a new roof or roofing repairs, the team at Harvey’s Five Star Roofing can finish the job quickly & for an honest rate that works in your budget. Fully licensed, bonded and insured - Plus an unbeatable lifetime warranty!
Elinor Bedell State Park
Spirit LakeElinor 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.
Los Lagos
Spirit LakeCalling all Mexican food lovers! Los Lagos has a wide variety of authentic Mexican food to choose from. Come in and sit down in the large, open dining room with a full-service bar. They offer happy hour drink and food specials that are sure to please!
BonBon Frozen Yogurt
Arnolds ParkAs 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.
Underwater Solutions
MilfordLocated in the Iowa Great Lakes, Okoboji - Underwater Solutions provides aquatic weed removal by hand pulling the roots or cutting. Shoreline clean up, ice recovery of snowmobiles and vehicles, underwater inspections & video, intake cleaning, bathymetry, scraping Zebra Mussels. Call them today at 712-260-7818.
Ruthven Meat Locker
RuthvenRuthven Meat Locker is a local family owned business. Ruthven Locker at the Lakes is their 2nd retail store (with the original Meat Processing plant being a staple in the small town of Ruthven, Iowa). They are a full service meat shop providing their customers with excellent high quality cuts of beef & pork. Also provided are smoked meat snacks which they make right on site in Ruthven. Sure to please even the pickiest of palates! Ruthven Meat Locker prides themselves on promoting other local small businesses by selling them in our Spirit Lake store. You find everything from fine wood pieces to local honey, microgreens, baked goods, and delicious cheesecake. The Butcher’s Wife is always available to answer your questions and take special orders. Come on in and you’ll soon see that the rumors are true!
The District
Spirit LakeWhere muscles burn, skin sweats and community happens!
The District is a boutique fitness studio offering classes including indoor cycling, TRX® and more. The District strives to create community while encouraging and motivating all levels of fitness. Whether you're looking to PR your next race or just coming to workout with your friend, consider The District in your daily routine.
RE/MAX Lakes Realty
Big Spirit LakeMy 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.
Lake Park Public Pool
Lake ParkLake Park is one of the few cities around the Iowa Great Lakes that has an outdoor public swimming pool. It offers some great rates for annual memberships. 2016 family membership was $100 and an individual membership was only $65. They also offer swimming lessons, starting as early as infants and toddlers. Specific evenings also offer classes for adults. The pool's normal hours of operation in the summer are 1PM to 8PM.
Kiwanis Park
Spirit LakeKiwanis Park
1100 23rd St
Spirit Lake, IA 51360
Close to the schools, Fareway Grocery and the bike trails, Kiwanis park offers a Shelter house, access to the bike trail system, good playground equipment, especially for younger kids, grills, park benches, picnic tables and has handicap-accessible restroomsKiwanis Park
1100 23rd St
Spirit Lake, IA 51360
Close to the schools, Fareway Grocery and the bike trails, Kiwanis park offers a Shelter house, access to the bike trail system, good playground equipment, especially for younger kids, grills, park benches, picnic tables and has handicap-accessible restrooms
Good News Community Church
OkobojiGood News Community Church
1010 Julia Street
Okoboji, IA 51355
Services
Sunday at 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.
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Saint Joseph Catholic Church
MilfordSaint Joseph Catholic Church
1305 Okoboji Ave
Milford, IA 51351
Office: 712-338-2274
Mass Schedule
Winter
Saturday at 4:30 PM
Sunday at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.
Summer
Saturday at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Sunday at 7 a.m., 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.
Forbes Meat
Spirit LakeForbes Meat
2508 Enterprise Ave
Spirit Lake, IA 51360
If you want to grill out tonight, this is the place. Forbes Meats offers amazing steak, pork chops, roasts and other cuts, as well as fresh and smoked sausage products.
Oh, and don’t forget to try the beef jerky, it is amazing.
Easy to find, next door to Renew and across the highway from Lakes Regional Hospital.
Mill Creek Restaurant & Lounge
MilfordMill Creek is located on the NE corner of Okoboji Ave (Hwy 71) and 9th Street in Milford. Dine in or carry out. There's something for everybody--daily and nightly specials, too! The staff is friendly and the atmosphere relaxing. Great burgers, sandwiches, pizza and appetizers. A couple of my faves are the Fried Pickle Chips and the Kentucky Bourbon Sandwich. Hours are Monday-Saturday, 11 AM - 11 PM (grill open til 10 PM) and Sunday from 5 PM - 9 PM. Have a party in the events room with family and friends. Games for the kids, too!
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