32 Best & Fun Things To Do In Okoboji, IA

Are you a resident or tourist looking for fun things to do in Okoboji, Iowa?  Look no further! You’re at the right place, as we’ll be taking you through the list of best and fun things to do in Okoboji, IA, making your trip unforgettable.

Okoboji is a charming town located in Dickinson County, along the eastern shore of West Okoboji in the Iowa Great Lake region. This picturesque town is known for its stunning natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and rich history, and it’s a perfect destination for travel enthusiasts seeking relaxation and outdoor adventure.

Beyond its recreational offerings, Okoboji boasts a thriving arts and cultural scene that captivates visitors with its blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and cultural offerings.

This charming town invites you to experience the best of what Iowa’s Great Lakes region has to offer, ranging from adventure on the water, relaxation in the great outdoors, or a taste of small-town charm.

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32 Best And Fun Things To Do In Okoboji, IA (2024)

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1.  The Higgins Museum of National Banknotes

Huggins Museum of National Banknotes is one of the must-see attractions in Okoboji, Iowa.  Located in the heart of Okoboji, this unique museum is dedicated to preserving the captivating financial history of America.

Established in 1978, this museum houses a collection of national Banknotes from Iowa, Minnesota, and Missouri, and artifacts like bank teller cage, safes, and a spider printing press. The museum’s permanent collection boasts an impressive array of National Bank Notes issued between 1863 and 1935.

The Huggins Museum of National Banknotes caters to visitors of all ages. With its well-organized exhibits and informative displays, this attraction is engaging for adults and children alike.

What’s more, there are friendly and knowledgeable staff who add to the overall experience and kids often receive goodie bags, making the museum visit even more memorable.

Begin your Okoboji adventure by Stepping back in time and discovering the history and the evolution of the American currency, a mystery only a few can tell.

Address: 1507 Sanborn Avenue, Okoboji,  IA 51355, United States.

2. Boji Splash Indoor Waterpark

Are you looking for where to have water fun regardless of the season? One of the interesting things to do in Okoboji, IA, is visiting the vibrant Boji Splash Indoor Waterpark which offers splashtastic escape for families, friends, and thrill-seekers of all ages.

Located within Bridges Bay Resort in Okoboji, IA, this waterpark offers many opportunities for different exploration and amenities such as party rooms, whirlpools for adults, a sparkling pool, restaurants, and accommodations nearby.

For a feel of an adrenaline rush, get immersed on the exciting water slides like the tube slide, perfect for a group adventure, or challenge yourself on a solo ride down a twisting and turning waterslide.

Address: 630 Linden Drive, Arnolds Park, IA 51331, United States.

3. Iowa Rock ‘N Roll Music Association Hall Of Fame & Museum

Located in Arnolds Park, about 6-minute drive from West Okoboji Lake, lies the Iowa ‘n’ Roll Music Association Hall of Fame & Museum, an institution that prides itself on celebrating the rich history and legacy of the rock and roll music within Iowa.

Established in 1997, the museum offers an intensive experience, taking visitors back in time to uncover the evolution of rock and roll music in Iowa, showcasing a trove of memorabilia from inductees, including instruments, stage costumes, photographs, and records.

Interactive displays and informative panels bring the stories of Iowa’s rock legends to life.

Exploring the Hall of Fame should be on your bucket list of fun things to do in Okoboji, IA, as this is a must-see for music enthusiasts.  You will discover and appreciate the diverse talent that Iowa has contributed to the world of rock and roll.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply curious about the state’s musical heritage, the museum offers a captivating journey through Iowa’s rock and roll legacy.

Address: 243 Broadway Street, Arnolds Park, IA 51331, United States.

4. Pearson Lakes Art Center

One of the fun things to do in Okoboji for art enthusiasts is to admire the beautiful artwork at  Pearson Lakes Art Center. This vibrant and intriguing center serves as a cornerstone for the region’s artistic community, offering various exhibits, classes, and events throughout the year.

Established in 1973, the Pearson Lakes Art Center features six well-curated galleries showcasing diverse artistic mediums, from traditional paintings and sculptures to contemporary installations and multimedia pieces.

Visitors will find captivating works by established regional artists, thought-provoking pieces by emerging talents, or thematic exhibits exploring specific artistic movements or social issues.

Within Pearson Lakes Art Center lies the 288-seat theater, classrooms, clay room, an outdoor sculpture trail, and the new culinary arts kitchen where you can sign up for a class.

Relax and unwind during the day at the ever-changing art on display or play in the ArtSMART room and enjoy world-class entertainment year-round.

Address: 2201 U. S. Hwy 71, Okoboji, IA 51355, United States.

5. Arnolds Park Amusement Park

One of the thrilling things to do in Okoboji, IA, for families, friends, and nature lovers is to find peace and relaxation at Dickinson County Nature Center, a fun haven in Okoboji.

Established in 2010, the Dickinson County Nature Center located at Kenue Park serves as a hub offering environmental education, interactive exhibits, educational programs, and outdoor experiences that showcase the natural beauty and diversity of the region.

What’s more, this nature center allows personal interactions with some of the region’s fascinating creatures at the live animal exhibits. Through its displays, trails, and events, the Nature Center aims to inspire visitors to appreciate and conserve the local flora, fauna, and ecosystems.

This attraction offers a captivating experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or simply curious about the natural world, the center provides a unique opportunity to learn, explore, and appreciate the beauty of the Iowa Great Lakes region.

Address: 22785 Nature Center Road, Okoboji, IA 51355, United States.

7. Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum

One of the fun and best things to do in Okoboji is to visit the Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum. Located in Arnolds Park, Iowa, this attraction is a treasured place for history enthusiasts, boat lovers, and anyone interested in the rich boating heritage of the Iowa Great Lakes region.

Established in 1997, this museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of boating on the Iowa Great Lakes from the early days of steamboats to modern cruisers.

Through its exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs, the museum offers visitors insight into the importance of water transportation, fishing, and recreational boating in shaping the cultural and economic heritage of the region.

Step back in time as you explore displays showcasing a fully restored boathouse, over 25 classic wooden runabouts, a collection of period swimsuits, and recreational fishing and hunting gear. You’ll also find interesting remnants from Arnolds Park’s past, like retro ride parts and signs.

Address: 243 W Broadway Street, Arnolds Park, IA 51331, United States.

8. Okoboji Pioneer Theatre

Visiting Okoboji Pioneer Theater is one of the many fun things to do in Okoboji at night. Situated in Milford, IA, this historic movie theater offers a unique blend of cultural, modern, and classic small-town charm.

Established in the late 1800s, the Okoboji Pioneer Theatre has a fascinating history as a local entertainment center. It offers a plethora of quality shows like plays, and other theatrical presentations to bring scripts to life.

The Okoboji Pioneer Theatre features a charming and comfortable alternative to the usual multiplex experience. With its historic ambiance, modern amenities, and friendly staff, it’s a perfect place to catch a movie and add a touch of local flavor to your Okoboji getaway.

Also, be immersed in a warm and welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of bygone eras. While the main attraction is undoubtedly the movies, the Okoboji Pioneer Theatre sometimes hosts special events or themed nights.

Address: 905 Okoboji Avenue, Milford, IA 51351, United States.

9. Okoboji Classic Cars

Located in West Okoboji, IA, Okoboji Classic Cars is the ultimate destination for classic car history enthusiasts, and families that are in search of unique and fun-filled experiences.

Established in 2013, this attraction offers a selected collection of mint condition classic cars for sale, sightseeing of ancient car models, and repairs services handled by experienced mechanics and automobile engineers.

Moreover, the attraction offers its visitors access to a gift shop wherein there are car-themed gifts and souvenirs for families, friends as well as other car enthusiasts of all ages.

With an affordable admission fee, you can explore this family-friendly destination as it has everything to offer to everyone. 

Well-known as “The Flagship of the Iowa Navy”, the Queen II Excursion Boat is a treasured symbol in the Iowa Great Lakes, and a must-do for adventure enthusiasts seeking an exploration of the West Okoboji Lake or other fun things to do in Okoboji, IA.

Designed in 1986, the Queen II features both outdoor upper decks used for immersing in the sunlight and a lower confined deck for a cozy ride, climatic changes notwithstanding. This treasure offers rental and charter services for special events.

As a visitor seeking fun in Okoboji, Iowa, relish a tranquil 60-minute described expedition around the West Okoboji Lake with a well-experienced captain ready to show you interesting historical sights and stories.

12. Spirit Lake Fish Hatchery

Located in Spirit Lake, IA, about 13 minutes from Okoboji, a visit to the Spirit Lake Fist Hatchery is one of the most educating things to do near Okoboji, for fishing anglers and enthusiasts.

This attraction offers free tours to the public to explore diverse fish species, and educational workshops explaining the fishing and hatchery processes.

What’s more, Spirit Lake Fish Hatchery allows visitors to explore the processes practically by providing them with the necessary equipment for thrilling fish-hatching experiences

Address: 122 252nd Avenue, Spirit Lake, IA 51360, United States.

13. Gull Point State Park

Exploring the diverse outdoor recreational activities designed for visitors and locals at Gull Point State Park, a fun hub, is among the amusing things to do in Okoboji, Iowa.

Established in 1933, the beehive prides itself in stunning views of the West Okoboji Lake, a sandy beach, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles, a campground, picnic areas, a 1.5-mile self-guided hiking and biking trail, and playgrounds to keep the young ones entertained.

Gull Point State Park also has open-air recreational activities ranging from boating, hiking, and biking to fishing and cross-country skiing, something to cater to everyone’s preferences.

Address: 1500 Harpen Street, Milford, IA 51351, United States.

14. Okoboji Winter Games

Get soaked in the conglomeration of fun and thrilling things to do in Okoboji, IA,  in the winter when you participate in the Okoboji Winter Games, an annual celebration carried out on the frozen waters of West Okoboji Lake.

As a tradition that attracts a swarm of tourists from around the world, the games feature festivals and activities including sports varieties like broomball, flag football, softball, bag tournaments, and human football.

The January-last-weekend-held event also gives room for family-oriented activities  ranging from chill-cook-off and chocolate classics to kite festivals and live music performances by local musicians all through the weekend

Allow your family to mingle with other families, welcome the winter spirit, and create unforgettable experiences in a social atmosphere at the Okoboji Winter Games.

Address: West Okoboji Lake; Arnolds Park, IA.

15. Iowa Great Lakes Mall

Though not a regular shopping mall as anyone would expect,  Iowa Great Lakes Mall presents shopping enthusiasts with a special shopping experience and a whole lot of things to do in Okoboji, IA.

Being a more private space with selected products, the commercial hub features a wide range of shop offerings including clothing and accessories for all ages, homeware and decor items, souvenirs and locally-produced crafts, and other unique offerings.

To add excitement to your stay in Okoboji,  Iowa Great Lakes Mall gives visitors a leisurely shopping experience devoid of the hustle and bustle of a large mall.

Address: 1539 18th Street, Spirit Lake, IA 51360, United States.

16. Okoboji Summer Theatre

At night, visiting the Okoboji Summer Theater is one of the most entertaining things to do in Okoboji, Iowa.

Nestled in the Iowa Great Lakes, the Okoboji Summer Theater offers a plethora of quality full-season shows like classic plays, musicals, and contemporary performances. The theater also allows both experienced and inexperienced artists to participate in hosted shows to gain valuable experience.

Additionally, the Okoboji Summer Theater’s Boji Bantam Children’s Theatre provides pleasing and educational theatre experiences aimed at nurturing and promoting innovation and young talents.

Address: 2001 U. S. Hwy 71, Okoboji, IA 51355, United States.

17. Pikes Point State Park

Discover many entertaining activities to do in Okoboji, Iowa when you explore the Pikes Point State Park, a beehive for open-air recreational activities for tourists and locals alike.

Pikes Point State Park features an ideal sandy beach for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the summer weather, picnic tables for relaxation and family gatherings, and stunning views of West Okoboji Lake.

The beehive also supports such activities as boating and fishing due to its proximity to the West Okoboji Lake, making it a great spot  for special outdoor experiences.

Address: 15973 213th Avenue, Spirit Lake, IA 51360, United States.

18. Bridges Bay Resort

Are you seeking a wonderful choice for your Okoboji vacation? Bridges Bay Resort, a family-friendly resort located in East Okoboji Lake, provides you with the best relaxing things to do in Okoboji, IA.

Bridges Bay Resort offers a wide range of accommodation options to serve your needs and preferences including simple hotel rooms, condominiums for families, and rustic cabins for a more standard lakeside experience.

To enliven your trip to Okoboji, the resort complex also features the Boji Splash indoor waterpark, Wild Child Arcades, Skyryder zip lines, and multiple onsite restaurants giving a variety of dining preferences from casual eats to waterfront dining experiences

Address: 630 Linden Drive, Arnolds Park, IA 51331, United States.

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Are you exploring other attractions in Iowa? Why not check out some fun things to do in Decorah, IA, and fun things to do in Le Claire, IA?

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19. Kurio Kastle

Located in Spirit Lake, Iowa, about 10 minutes from Okoboji, engaging in an exhilarating exploration of the Kurio Kastle, is one of the fun and educational things to do near Okoboji, Iowa.

The art hub provides a family-oriented environment to allow art enthusiasts to express their creativity in the form of allowing them to paint their pottery with supplied items such as paints, brushes, glazes, and stencils. The staff also assists in firing processes, transforming the works into beautiful pieces.

 As a walk-in-friendly hub, Kurio Kastle allows you to drop by at any time to explore its world of arts and sculptures, giving you an inspiring and thrilling atmosphere to relax and appreciate the works of art.

Address: 709 16th Street, Spirit Lake, IA 51360, United States.

20.  Kettleson Hogsback Wildlife Management Area

One of the memorable things to do in Okoboji, IA, is to embark on an adventure to Kettleton Hogsback Wildlife Management Area, a scenic green haven worth the while for exploration if you’re interested in wildlife and outdoor activities.

Spanning over 2,000 acres of land, the Kettleton Hogsback Wildlife Management Area features over 270 species of birds, deer, foxes, turtles, butterflies, and other animals that regard this region as a home.

The attraction also features oak forests, marshes, glacial ridges, prairies, and many more lakes that attract a spectrum of wildlife breeds.

With a visit to this area, you can explore the beauty of the environment on the 2.5-mile hiking and biking trails, go cross-country skiing during the winter, or go on hunting and fishing expeditions to infuse excitement into your visit.

Address: 125th Street, Spirit Lake, IA 51360, United States.

21. Spirit Lake

Get immersed in the variety of fun and memorable things to do in Okoboji, IA, during summer when you visit Spirit Lake Island.  Situated in Dickinson County, Spirit Lake is the largest natural lake in the Great Lake region.

Spanning roughly 4 miles and covering approximately 5,684 acres, this attraction is a popular destination for outdoor recreational activities, especially during summer.

This attraction offers thrilling activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports. Also explore the variety of parks around with lake with beaches, campgrounds, boat launches, restaurants, shops, and lodging options.

Spirit Lake transforms into a wonderland during the winter months and offers fun activities such as ice fishing, walleye, snowmobiling, and winter games for game enthusiasts.

Get summertime fun and peaceful relaxation on the shore or winter sporting adventures as Spirit Lake in the Okoboji region has something to offer throughout the year.

Address: Okoboji, IA, United States.

22. Gilbert Park

Are you seeking a choice of place to have a wonderful vacation in Okoboji, IA? Take a tour of Gilbert Park located on the shores of East Lake Okoboji in Spirit Lake, IA.

Established in 1874, Gilbert Park spans 5 acres offering ample green space for kids to play and boasting 500 feet of shoreline giving a perfect picture view of the lake.

This attraction offers playground equipment, a basketball court, a shelter house, walking trails, 2 floating docks, park benches, picnic tables, grills, and handicap-accessible restrooms, A well-equipped playground to keep kids entertained with swings, climbing structures, and slides.

The park is home to a variety of fun activities for families, kids, and anyone seeking for peaceful relaxation.

Address: 601 Hill Avenue, Spirit Lake, IA

23. Superior 71 Drive-in Theatre

One of the memorable things to do near Okoboji, IA, at night is to experience a thrilling time with family and friends at the Superior 71 Drive-In Theatre.

This twin-screen drive-in theatre located in Spirit Lake, which is a couple minutes’ drive from Okoboji is a popular location for a unique outdoor movie experience.

With a family-friendly atmosphere, Superior 71 Drive-In Theatre offers a 90-foot screen providing an exciting cinematic experience for movie lovers. Also, you get to enjoy two movies for a price of one on their dual feature showing two movies playing at the same time on different screens.

The entertainment center also provides a snack bar offering yummy foods, popcorn, burgers, hot dogs, candies, drinks, and a Tune-in radio to tune in to the movie’s audio track directly from your car.

Address: 482 300th Avenue, Spirit Lake, IA 51360, United States.

24. Abbie Gardner Cabin

One among the many fun and free things to do near Okoboji for history enthusiasts is visiting Abbie Gardener Cabin.

The Abbie Gardner Cabin and Museum is a historical site in Arnolds Park, Iowa that educates visitors on the story of the Spirit Lake Massacre of 1857 and Abbie Gardner, a young girl who was taken captive by the Dakota people during the conflict.

This attraction is a popular tourist destination and is operational from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Visitors can tour the cabin and learn about the Spirit Lake Massacre and Abbie Gardner’s story. There is also a monument near the cabin that commemorates the victims of the massacre.

Address: 74 Monument Drive, Arnolds Park, IA 51331, United States.

25. Arnolds Park Public Library

One of the fun and educative things to do in Okoboji, IA, as a book lover is to explore the Arnold Park Public Library,  a collection that offers a wide range of services and resources.

Nestled in the heart of Okoboji, this attraction boasts a large collection of books, audiobooks, E-books, digital resources, magazines, and newspapers thus, catering to diverse interests, age groups, and reading levels.

What’s more, Arnolds Park Public Library also provides services such as summer reading programs, children’s programs, story time, free Wi-Fi, painting nights, and friendly and knowledgeable staff to guide you in the exploration of the library.

Address: 156 Okoboji Grove Road N, Arnolds Park, IA 51331, United States.

26. Treasure village flea market

One of the popular destinations for fun shopping and bargain hunters is the Treasure Village Flea Market. Established in 1973, this Flea market situated within Treasure Village, Okoboji, is a haven for families seeking fun and unique things to do in Okoboji, IA.

Explore an extensive selection of items from over 60 vendors and find a wide variety of merchandise, including antiques and collectibles, arts and crafts, Jewelry, collectibles toys, and clothing.

For a seasoned collector seeking a rare find or a casual browser hoping to stumble upon a hidden gem, Treasure Village Flea Market offers something for everyone.

What’s more,  to fuel up while you shop or grab a refreshing treat after scoring some treasures, there are stands available on-site, offering food and drinks for purchase.

Address: 2023 IA-86, Milford, IA 51351, United States.

27 escape room okoboji

Looking for fun things to do in Okoboji, IA, with family and friends? Then, head to Escape Room Okoboji,  a team-building escape room attraction. 

Nestled in Arnold Park, IA, the escape room provides a variety of rooms to facilitate group cooperation, problem-solving, and communication through the importance of teamwork, leaving players with a sense of excitement, and intriguing memorable moments.

Escape Room Okoboji provides a heart-pounding adventure that tests your mental agility and teamwork skills. With different escape rooms to choose from and a focus on fun, it’s the perfect destination for a memorable experience in Arnolds Park.

Address:  589 U. S. Hwy 71, Arnolds Park, IA 51331, United States.

28. Preservation plaza

One among the unique and memorable things to do in Okoboji, IA, is visiting Preservation Plaza, a beautiful fun venue located in Arnold Park on the shores of West Lake Okoboji.

This attraction features a stunning 6,400-square-foot amphitheater stage designed to resemble the lake waves and wooden boat hulls. The stage offers a one-of-a-kind concert setting with the backdrop of the lake’s blue waters.

More so, this attraction stands out as one of the unique and beautiful outdoor venues for your event or a place to catch a free concert under the summer sky.

What’s more, enjoy summer weekends at Preservation Plaza as it comes alive with free concerts as part of the Live at the Lake concert series, relax on the lawn or enjoy the music from your boat on the lake.

Address:  Arnolds Park, IA 51331, United States.

29. the barefoot bar

Everyone needs a place to relax after work, therefore exploring the Barefoot Bar, a popular place for enjoying delicious food, reviving drinks, and a pleasant environment, is one of the fun and relaxing things to do in Okoboji, IA.

Situated in Parks Marina, East Okoboji Lake, IA, the Barefoot Bar creates an ideal atmosphere to chill after the day’s hustles and bustles. This popular seasonal hangout is known for its lively atmosphere, tiki-themed settings, and live music.

What’s more, the family-friendly attraction provides a relaxed and casual environment, live music, and tiki vibes, it’s an interesting destination for both locals and tourists.

Address:  24457 Stake Out Road, Okoboji, IA 51355, United States.

30 Barn Swallow Gift Shop

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A visit to the Barn Swallow Gift Shop is among the best and most delightful things to do in Okoboji for shoppers.

Known for its extensive selection and unique shopping experience, this attraction is Spread over three levels allowing a spacious layout that showcases a wide variety of products without feeling cramped.

The Barn Swallow Gift Shop boasts a vast selection of items, ensuring there’s something for everyone. This ranges from Okoboji-branded apparel like sweatshirts, hoodies, t-shirts, and other items including home decor, paintings, seasonal decorations, and jewelry to puzzles, greeting cards, purses, candles, and even children’s toys.

Also,  they have a large selection of adult and children’s books in the area, making it a treasure trove for bookworms.

Address: 1212 U. S. Hwy 71 N, Okoboji, IA 51355, United States.

31. Speier Park

Established in the late 1960s, Speier Park is one of the fun places to include in your bucket list of things to do in Okoboji, IA. This attraction offers a variety of amenities for people of all ages.

Recreationally, amenities provided include a playground with a variety of equipment, including slides, swings, monkey bars, and a tetherball court. This is a great place for kids to burn off energy and have some fun.

What’s more, this haven offers a large shelter house available for rent, which is perfect for picnics, family gatherings, or other events, a basketball court, tennis court, a pickleball court, restrooms, parking lots, and open green spaces.

Everything from athletic competition to family fun is guaranteed.

Address: 1709 Sanborn Avenue, Okoboji, IA 51355, United States.

32. Fillenwarth Beach Resort

For an ultimate summer vacation in Okoboji, IA, visit Fillenwarth Beach Resort, a family-owned lake-side resort situated on West Lake Okoboji in Arnolds Park, IA.

Established in 1918, Fillenwarth Beach Resort boasts a family-friendly atmosphere, offering amenities like daily maid service, complimentary amenities, and proximity to kid-friendly attractions in Arnolds Park.

Visitors have access to fun amenities which include, paddle boats, Kayaks, Canoes, Tennis courts, Shuffleboard courts, playgrounds, Horseshoe pits, Beach volleyball net, Grills, and picnic tables.

To make your trip to Okoboji more exciting, visit this attraction and explore a wide variety of fully furnished cottages, studios, and apartments.

Address: 87 Lakeshore Drive, Arnolds Park, IA 51331, United States.

Plan your trip to Okoboji, IA

Okoboji, IA, located in Dickinson County offers an intriguing blend of rich history and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing lakeside getaway, a fun-filled family vacation, or a taste of local culture, Okoboji has something for everyone.

With this comprehensive list of 32 things to do in Okoboji, Iowa, you’re sure to have a memorable visit.  Enjoy your time in Okoboji and create lasting memories in this captivating city.