West Lake Okoboji
![[CommunityTitle], [CommunityType] Community](https://leadcity-solution.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/vwr51329/community/large/west-lake-okoboji.jpg "[CommunityTitle], [CommunityType] Community")
Live, play, vacation, whatever...West Lake is the reason for the season. Much history surrounds West Lake, 1 of 3 blue water lakes in the world. With a maximum depth of an astoinishing 136 feet, coverage of over 3800 acres, and average depth of 39 feet, one will rarely find a more inviting and cleaner lake. If you are lucky enough to traverse the waters in March and early April, you would likely be the only boat on the lake providing for awesome views of the lake bottom. In the Winter, you will find that the lake freezes, allowing fishermen to bring their shacks and also allowing the possbility of the University of Okoboji Winter Games. West Lake has fantastic fishing ranging from small pan fish like crappie and blue gill to large game fish such as the muskie. Land prices on West Lake were at a high in the mid 2000's prior to the economic collapse, and they have slowly crepped up to a range of $10000-$17000 a linear foot. This is fairly subjective depending on location, approach, depth of lot etc. West Lake is also known for a number of families with long and rich heritages having passed their cottage down from generation to generation. Come ski, swim, parasail, fish, or just lay an anchor. You are sure to enjoy.
The following is from Wikipedia:
West Okoboji Lake (sometimes known as West Lake Okoboji) is a natural body of water, approximately 3,847 acres (15.57 km2) in area, in Dickinson County in northwest Iowa in the United States. It is part of the chain of lakes known as the Iowa Great Lakes. The area was long inhabited by the Santee or Dakota Sioux. The Dakota-language name for the lake was Minnetonka, meaning "great waters".
The cities of Arnolds Park, Okoboji, West Okoboji, and Wahpeton sit on its shore. Okoboji was derived from the Dakota name for the lake, and Wahpeton was the name of one of the major historic Sioux bands in the nineteenth century. Today the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux are a federally recognized tribe.
Area Insights
Big Acai Bowls
OkobojiWelcome to Big Açaí Okoboji, a local food truck offering healthy sorbet based bowls topped with granola, fruit, seeds/nuts and more. Go to their Facebook page: Big Açaí Bowls - Okoboji for their weekly locations/days/times.
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.
Bella Via Salon & Day Spa
OkobojiBella Via Salon is made up of individual stylists, that are always learning more to make their clients look, and feel their best. This full service salon offers all hair needs, including hair cuts, coloring, highlights, blow outs, updo's and more. They also offer manicures, pedicures, massages, and make up applications. They also sell professional hair care, and body care products. We have never left Bella Via disappointed, and are always impressed with the skill of their staff!
Deli on the Ave
Spirit LakeServing fresh deli sandwiches, grilled paninis, salads, sweet treats, specialty coffee and much more! Feel free to dine in and enjoy the atmosphere this unique deli provides, or order and take out. Ordering online is also an option for take-out and they also do corporate box lunches. Serving gluten free as well! You will definitely want to check out Deli on the Ave!
The Ritz
Arnolds ParkBest pizza in town with an amazing view! Dock the boat and stop in the Ritz for a pizza and cold beverages. They offer live bands in the summer and during winter games! The Ritz offers a breakfast buffet and an amazing bloody mary bar on Sundays! Make sure to stop in when you are in town.
Great Lakes Guide Service
OutdoorsIf you like to fish but don’t know the area or if you think you’d like to try fishing but don’t know where to start, give Great Lakes Guide Service a call. Shane is an avid fisherman. With over 20 years of experience as a professional Iowa fishing guide, he really knows the Iowa Great Lakes and how to find the fish. He has half day and full day options.
Disc Golf in Lake Park
Lake ParkIn 2012, thanks to many local sponsors the city of Lake Park was able to build and design a 9 hole disc golf course. Nestled around the city park, pool, campground, and football field, the disc golf course offers some great challenging holes. The course was designed by Lake Park disc golf enthusiasts Nicholas Hemphill and Tristam Nebelsick. Disc Golfing offers a family friendly opportunity get out and enjoy the outdoors.
Okoboji View Golf Course
Spirit LakeOkoboji View is a public 18-hole golf course with membership availability. It is a beautiful golf course with an emphasis on nature and offers many challenges with fast greens, beautiful water features, tree lined fairways and rolling hills.
The newly remodeled restaurant and bar - renamed Pub19 Bar & Grill in 2015 - is full service and you can enjoy drinks and dining on the large new deck overlooking the golf course.
Whether you need a golf lesson or a professional club-fitting, or if you need to schedule your corporate golf outing, wedding rehearsal dinner/reception or class reunion, or just want to enjoy playing at one of the best courses in Northwest Iowa - Okoboji View Golf Course, a family run facility, is for you.
St. Patrick's Day!
EmmetsburgCheck out Emmetsburg for your St. Patrick's Day celebration! You may just be surprised what a great location this is for some fun. It was even featured among the 10 most surprising places to celebrate St. Patty's!. See for yourself below!
Okoboji Store
OkobojiBringing back the old Okoboji general store from 1884, the Okoboji Store has made a huge name for itself since it opened in 2015. The Okoboji Store is nearly always busy, thanks to their amazing food and drinks. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, during the summer and fall. The restaurant also hosts some of the areas best live musicians, which is always a great time. But, the best part of the Okoboji Store is of course, the view of the lake. Its beautiful location is sure to keep anyone coming back for more.
The Coffee Shop & Cafe
MilfordThis establishment offers a variety of coffees, espressos and smoothies plus mouth-watering baked goods--not to mention the fabulous breakfast and lunch items--made to order! There are daily specials as well as homemade soups. Did I mention this all comes with an Italian flair? The staff is amazing and the atmosphere inviting. Located at the Gateway to the Iowa Great Lakes on Okoboji Ave (Hwy. 71) in Milford. Stop in, you won't be disappointed!
Bombazi Salon
Arnolds ParkBombazi, by definition, means of the highest quality. Bombazi Salon is located in Arnolds Park, IA along the broadway strip. They offer hair care, pedicures, manicures, and waxing. All of our services are available for weddings and other parties. Tammy and her staff will take great care of you! Click below to view their webpage.
Los Pueblos
Arnolds ParkLos Pueblos is a family owned business known for serving some of the best food around with a very festive atmosphere. Enjoy one of their famous margaritas while you munch on some chips and salsa. Whether you are in the mood for enchiladas, burritos, fajitas, or fish tacos, they have something the whole family can enjoy!
Okoboji Bible Conference Ministries
Arnolds ParkOkoboji Bible Conference Ministries
7 S. Highway 71
Arnolds Park, IA 51331
Every summer the Okoboji Bible Conference is held in the heart of the Lakes Area, drawing in thousands of Christians of all ages to the area. The conference has a number of speakers as well as musicians. 2017 will be the 83rd year of the Okoboji Bible Conference.
2017 schedule- July 30 - August 7, 2017
Wild Child
Spirit LakeWild Child, which features stylish clothing, accessories and awesome toys for children and newborns, is all about quality clothing and toys. Wild Child is the "go to" store for people with all budgets, and offers styles that cannot be found anywhere else, and strives to offer unique apparel and toys that are fun, functional and educational.
Boat House Apparel
Spirit LakeBoat House Apparel brings chic clothing to the Okoboji area, with her designs centered around life at the lake. The stylish tops, dresses, and more have witty sayings, anchors, and all things that remind us of the lake we all know and love. With a large online presence, Boat House is not only popular in Spirit Lake, but all over the country! Bringing comfort and chic to her amazing designs, the owner of Boat House, Laura, has sure made an amazing clothing line right here in the heart of Spirit Lake.
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.
Arnold's Bark-ery
Arnolds ParkThis new business to the lakes area is sure to be a hit! Arnold's Bark-ery makes healthy, fresh made snacks for all of the lucky dogs in the surrounding Okoboji area. They also provide natural, and holistic pet foods in their shop. A fun place to bring your dog to shop, as well as a place to get them groomed. What a fun addition to the area!
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!
Horseshoe Bend Recreation Park
OutdoorsHorseshoe Bend Recreational Area
1924 240th St
Milford, IA 51351
Do you like to sled? Don’t miss out on this one if you do. Just southwest of Milford, Horseshoe Bend has some great hills for sledding and tubing, including a lift for the tube hill. Also, cross country skiing and snowmobile trails.
During summer months, there are picnic areas, hiking and horseback trails, as well as camping sites and canoe launch for the Little Sioux River.
Cheap vs high end quality. A buyer's perspective.
The "Real" Estate BlogHere's the scenario. You are building a house or remodeling your house. Material costs are up. Labor costs are up. You ask yourself, where can I save a buck? Before answering this question, you must be careful, especially if your home is located in an area where other quality homes are built, whether on the lake, off the lake, or in higher valued developments such as golf course developments, etc. Growing up in construction and with a plethora of new construction and remodels under my belt, let me share with you some of the easy things that your future buyers will recognize when they are looking for quality.
1. One of the first things buyers of higher end homes will look for is to determine if the owner used hollow core doors. It's an immediate sign that the seller was looking for ways to save money (where else then did they cut back that I can't see???)
2. The second most obvious is the counter tops. Did the sellers spend for a quality granite, quartz, or other hard surface, or was formica used?
3. The third item that might stick out is the cabinetry. Do the drawers have dovetail construction with hardwoods? Did they use "soft close" drawers? Are there pull outs for the pots and pans?
4. Flooring is an easy one also. Was laminate used, or is it engineered or hardwoods? Does the carpet convey a quality feel and plushness? Is there a nice thick pad underneath the carpet?
5. Though there are many other items to look at, cheap vs quality lighting and plumbing fixtures are probably the next major focus.
There is nothing wrong with with using lower cost materials, especially when trying to keep a project within budget, especially when trying to build more house for less money. Just be aware that most buyers looking to spend in excess of $300k for off lake homes and $500+ for East Lake chain homes, and $1M+ for West and Big Spirit will expect the very best materials and finishes.
Pub 19 Bar & Grill
Spirit LakeEstablished in 2005, renovated in 2016, Pub19 Bar & Grill is your premier destination for great food and drink, and a superb dining experience. With an expansive menu and beautiful facilities, we’re certain you’ll enjoy your meal and your time spent with us. Indoor and outdoor seating is available!
Florence Park
MilfordFlorence Park, Milford
Located Directly across the street from the Okoboji High School to the East, Florence Park is a wonderful getaway for the kids. There is a lot of play ground equipment, as well as a indoor/outdoor shelter area. This is also the home of many activities during the weekend of Pioneer Days and is the common meeting ground after the parade.
Beer Can Alley
Arnolds ParkThe ever popular country bar in Des Moines is now a staple bar in the Okoboji area. The only bar of its kind in the area is always a good time in the summer. Their rustic country feel, and country music always blasting on the TV's is sure to create a good time for anyone visiting the area. With a huge bar, and great indoor/outdoor atmosphere, this is one bar you don't want to miss!
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.
Ace Hardware
EsthervilleAs your local Ace Hardware, we are one of 5,000+ Ace stores locally owned and operated across the globe. But we are not just about numbers. We are about helping neighbors, because each one of our stores is a part of your community. We are all committed to being "the Helpful Place" by offering our customers personal service, quality products and a convenient shopping experience from the local experts who know you best. As the helpful hardware folks in your neighborhood, we promise that helping you is the most important thing we have to do today.
Snooks of Okoboji
OkobojiSnook’s of Okoboji started primarily as a retail flooring store. After a transfer of ownership, the new owner, Bill Adams, has transformed our store into a one-stop home store. We now not only retail flooring, but also offer a wide selection of furniture, bedding, window treatments, decor and outdoor living. With the ability to purchase from the floor or order custom, we’ll make sure you get what you’re looking for to suit your space. Let our family help your’s.
Stop by today or shop online at snooksofokoboji.com.
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.
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.
Brooks Golf Course
OkobojiBrooks 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.
The Hutt Bar & Grill
Arnolds ParkThe Hutt may be a newer restaurant in the Lakes area, but they bring a big presence with them. A former owner of the Dry Dock, is the new owner of The Hutt. She has made this restaurant a great attraction to locals and tourists, being open year round. Having traditional american food means The Hutt is appealing to all! Don't miss out on their tasty breakfast during the summer, and their bloody mary's!
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
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.
Ruthven Meat Locker
Spirit LakeRuthven 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!
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.
Cafe Esteam
Spirit LakeThis 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!
Lake Park Housing Authority
Lake ParkIn 2013 the Lake Park Housing Authority was established to provide assistance to low and moderate income housing. The Dickinson County Board of Supervisors voted to release over $400,000 of TIF monies from two housing development projects to the Lake Park Housing Authority. The housing authorities goal is to preserve the Lake Park housing Stock, ensure safe housing and give assistance to rehab dwellings in Lake Park, increase owner occupied housing, down payment assistance. Funds of up to $25,000 are available for eligible applicants.
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
Chaplin's
Arnolds ParkChaplin's is a great neighborhood bar with food, value priced drinks, the best karaoke, friendly and happy staff, plenty of parking and a welcoming atmosphere.
Dickinson County Nature Center
OkobojiA place for all ages, the Dickinson County Nature Center is a place that provides learning about nature, animals, and the environment. With many events for the community throughout the year, locals and tourists alike are sure to enjoy a fun time here. The ever popular Bee and Butterfly festival is a blast for kids, and kids at heart. We've enjoyed releasing a monarch butterfly, learning about different insects, and hearing about how bees make honey. They also provide classes for toddlers and kids to learn more about animals and nature. We always have fun checking out the animals they have at the Nature Center, and learning more each time we go.
Captains Getaway
Arnolds ParkWhether 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.
Katy Lynn Boutique
Arnolds ParkKaty 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!
Spirit Lake Fellowship Church of the Open Bible
Spirit LakeSpirit Life Fellowship Church of the Open Bible
2504 Enterprise Ave
Spirit Lake, IA 51360
Services
Sunday at 10:30 a.m.
Comfortec Heating, Cooling & Plumbing
EsthervilleComfortec has trained and licensed technicians who can handle the job whether you have no heat or a loud noise coming from your equipment. We are a Carrier, Ruud and Lennox dealer giving us an advantage when it comes to working with different types of furnaces. We carry a wide variety of parts and can service any brand of furnace or AC. When it comes to needing someone to come handle your heating or cooling issue, we get there fast and get the job done right anywhere in our service region. Additionally, we provide emergency service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week because problems with your heating and cooling systems or plumbing rarely only occur during a normal workday.
Thee Garage Sale:
MilfordAn exceptional thrift store located in Milford that supports the programs and services of the Cherish Center. Great selection of furniture, decor, kitchen items, children's clothes, toys and more! Located on 22nd Street in Milford. Just 2 blocks South of Perkins.
Little Swan Lake Winery Bed and Breakfast
EsthervilleLittle Swan Lake Winery is a family owned and operated business located 1-1/2 miles north of the small town of Superior in Northwest Iowa. The tasting room, a remodeled 1920's barn, features 35 different wines all produced on site, a selection of gourmet cheeses, and buffalo meat from the owners herd which roams nearby. The vineyard consists of two acres of northern cold hardy grapes. The gift shop features clothing and wine related items. Little Swan Lake is dedicated to producing the finest and most enjoyable wines and invite you to spend an hour or an afternoon with them. The bed and breakfast is a renovated grain elevator and is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty that is Little Swan Lake! They have weekly live music, check their website for the schedule!
Pioneer Theatre
MilfordThe Pioneer Theatre is one of the area's best-kept secrets. As the owners point out on their website, The Pioneer Theatre is an "historic downtown movie theater with modern recliner seating and family-friendly prices." Checkout the website at milfordpoineertheatre.com for movies and showtimes. You may also buy your tickets and reserve your seats online! Located in Downtown Milford, Iowa--just another great reason to come to Milford!
Kurio Kastle
Spirit LakeThis place is one of the most fun businesses in the lakes area for kids, or adults who are creative, and likes to paint! Kurio Kastle is a pottery painting "palace," for anyone and everyone! You pick from an extensive array of pottery to paint, from cute animals, to mugs, and dishware. You can then stencil or draw on them, then paint it! Your masterpiece is then glazed, and put in the kiln to fire. After that, you pick it up, and take it home to enjoy! Its even a perfect place for birthday parties.
GET IN TOUCH
Local Expert Updates
Community Updates
Hidden Gem
AyrshireBeautiful views and living on the lake without all the other commotion. Silver Lake in Ayrshire is a great place to find tranquility with every day life. Boating, fishing and friendly neighbors is what you will find in this hidden gem.
Bella Via Salon & Day Spa
OkobojiBella Via Salon is made up of individual stylists, that are always learning more to make their clients look, and feel their best. This full service salon offers all hair needs, including hair cuts, coloring, highlights, blow outs, updo's and more. They also offer manicures, pedicures, massages, and make up applications. They also sell professional hair care, and body care products. We have never left Bella Via disappointed, and are always impressed with the skill of their staff!
"The Harbor"
West Lake OkobojiThe harbor is a man made inlet located on the north end of West Lake. A board walk surrounds the harbor and this is one of the most tranquil parts of the lake. Homeowners in the harbor have a more affordable way to have access to West Lake, and still get to enjoy the clean waters West Lake has to offer. Homes in the Harbor typically range from about $350k to as much as $700k.
Subscribe To Our Newsletter
The newsletter is sent periodically and will update you on the latest real estate news and offers.
