Things to Do in Okoboji Especially on Holidays!
Welcome to Okoboji!
Okoboji, Iowa, known for its beautiful scenery of the lakes and its recreational activities, such as jet skiing, boating, and fishing. Where the crystal clear waters make these lands in such demand for tourists and locals alike! Ideal for people looking for their next home or just visiting the area.
A Little Okoboji History
Photo credit: City of Okoboji
A brief history of Okoboji is that the land and the lakes region were primarily for hunting, and temporary camps were set up when travellers were passing through.
The first settlers started coming to the lakes area in 1856. At that time, it was just called “Spirit Lake”. A big sign that some people planned to stay came in 1859, when a small flour mill was built between Spirit Lake and East Okoboji. That was the beginning of more permanent living in the area.
The Sioux Tribe, who were some of the early settlers called Spirit Lake “Minne Waukon,” which means “Spirit Water.” The French named it “Lac d’Esprit,” which means the same thing—Spirit Lake. East Okoboji was known by the Sioux as “Okoboozhy,” which means “reeds and rushes” and West Okoboji was once called “Minnetonka,” meaning “big water.” But that name was already taken by a lake in Minnesota, so it was changed to West Okoboji.
It was suggested that the west lake be named “Lake Harriot” and the east be “Rice Lake.” But in the end, the local people chose to keep the names we use today: West Okoboji and East Okoboji.
1. Enjoy Lake Okoboji
Photo credit: Midwest Living
West Lake Okoboji the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes region is the most popular place in the area. It’s one of only three blue water lakes in the world, and the water is super clear and clean. You can swim, go boating, jet ski, paddleboard, or fish or if you just want to relax, bring a towel and sit on the dock to enjoy the sunshine, you certainly can.
2. Visit Arnolds Park Amusement Park
Photo credit: Vacation Okoboji
You cannot leave Okoboji without visiting Arnolds Park. It may be an old amusement park, but it is still a lot of fun. Operating since 1889, or over 130 years. Yes, you read that right!
Enjoy the wooden roller coaster rides, bumper cars, and the Ferris wheel that will show you a great view of the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes region. If rides are not for you, then you can still enjoy the park with carnival games, food stands, and live music especially during summer.
3. Go Fishing or Ice Fishing
Fishing is big in Okoboji no matter the season. In the summer, people fish from boats or docks and try to catch walleye, bass, bluegill, and northern pike. In the winter, the lake freezes, and people go ice fishing. They make holes in the ice and sit in little shelters to stay warm while they fish. It’s a fun tradition in the cold months.
4. Explore Local Art & Culture
Photo Credit: Pearson Lake Arts Center
There’s more than just water fun in Okoboji. The Pearson Lakes Art Center has cool art shows, music events, and programs for kids and families. In the summer, the Okoboji Summer Theatre puts on plays with college students and actors. If you love music, check out the Iowa Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame Museum. It’s full of stories and items from famous musicians in Iowa.
5. Celebrate the 4th of July
Photo credit: Vacation Okoboji
There are a lot of places you could celebrate the 4th of July, but what if you are looking for something new? Something where you can enjoy the fireworks and enjoy the scene of the night where vibrant colours of fireworks reflect the waters at night? Okoboji is the best place for this! You can enjoy this by being at Arnold’s Park during the peak hours of the day together with your family or friends.
6. Enjoy The Lake Affect Music Festival
Photo credit: Vacation Okoboji
Every year there is a music festival held on the waters of West Lake Okoboji. This is a great way not only to enjoy the water activities that Okoboji is famous for, but you also get to listen to good music by Damon Dotson (founder of Lake Affect).
This event not only gathers people of Okoboji but people of different states as well. If you are looking for a fun, dynamic, and energetic getaway, Okoboji has it as well!
7. Explore the Trails of Okoboji
Photo credit: IA publication
Okoboji isn’t only just fishing and water activities but they have great trails as well. You can enjoy 60 miles worth of breath taking trails around their lakes: Spirit, West, Upper, and Lower Gar. There is also a complete 14-mile bike trail that you can enjoy beside the waters.
One of these trails goes through Arnold Park where you can stop for some ice cream, take pictures, and just enjoy the scene with a cool morning breeze. What a relaxing way of enjoying Okoboji for your next trip!
8. Dine
Photo credit: Parks Marina
A trip isn’t complete without a full belly and wonderful memories. And what way to experience that? Eat delicious food. Okoboji has great places to eat where you can definitely enjoy the lake view. One of the most notable restaurants would be Okoboji Store where it is packed with people especially during Saturdays and Sundays.
Other places as well, such as the Barefoot Bar of Parks Marina, are also good places to try.
Why Choose Okoboji?
Okoboji isn’t just a fun place to visit—it’s a great place to live, too. Here’s why:
- Peaceful living with a view. The lake is your backyard.
- A true sense of community. Friendly neighbors, local shops, and welcoming smiles.
- Seasonal fun all year long. From sunny boating days to cozy winter nights, there's always something happening.
- Smart real estate choice. Whether you want a second home or a full-time lake house, Okoboji offers great value compared to bigger cities.
Many visitors fall in love with the lifestyle—and never leave.
Thinking of Staying a Little Longer?
Many people come to Okoboji for vacation—but fall in love with the lifestyle. Between the lake views, fun events, and peaceful community, it’s no surprise some decide to stay. Whether you're looking for a vacation home or a forever home, Okoboji has something special for everyone.
Looking to explore homes in Okoboji? Start your search with Bojihomes.com—your local guide to real estate in the Iowa Great Lakes.
Final Tip:
Bring sunscreen, your camera, and a big smile—Okoboji is waiting!
