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Area Insights

Ruthven Meat Locker

Ruthven Meat Locker in Ruthven

Ruthven 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!

Underwater Solutions

Underwater Solutions in Milford

Located 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.

Snooks Of Okoboji

Snooks Of Okoboji in Okoboji

Snook’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.

Lisa's Bake Shop

Lisa's Bake Shop in Spirit Lake

Located in Spirit Lake Lisa's Bake Shop offers a large selection of bakery items along with to-go deli items. If you are looking for something specific you certainly can call ahead and order a personalized cake or cheesecake or just stop in a grab some of their famous cinnamon rolls and caramel rolls. If you cant decide what to have for lunch or dinner stop in and check out their large selection of take and bake meals and soups. You will not be disappointed!

Pas And Toale Dentists

Pas And Toale Dentists in Milford

At Pas and Toale Dental we have designed our office to give you and your family a great dental experience that is gentle, enjoyable and timely. We have the expertise to solve any dental challenge that you may have and allow you to get back to living life to the fullest! You’ll quickly notice that our dentists, hygienists and staff are dedicated to bringing you friendly service using a compassionate touch. Give us a call at (712) 338- 2449 to schedule an appointment today!

The Coffee Shop & Cafe

The Coffee Shop & Cafe in Milford

This 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!

H-LP State Football Runner-Ups 2016

H-LP State Football Runner-Ups 2016 in Lake Park

A big Congrats to the Harris Lake Park football team on a fantastic historical season. The wolves dominated the competition all year long, punching their ticket to the UNI Dome for the 8 Man Football Playoffs. In the Semi-Final game the Wolves were able to continue the undefeated streak and beat Fremont Mills 35 to 21, giving them the opportunity to compete for the 8 Man Football State Championship. The Wolves battled hard against Don Bosco, Gilbertville, but unfortunately came up a little short and lost a hard fought game 21-48. Awesome Job on a GREAT season Wolves, it was very fun to see how much the community came together to support you guys. CONGRATS!

"Turn-Over" Thermocline

Referred to locally as the lake turning over the thermocline is a feature of lakes with deep water. The water on the top of the lake changes temperature much more variably during the year. On West Lake, it can reach as much as 75 degrees in July while the water below, greater than 35 or 40 feet deep is relatively stable around 45 degrees. In the fall and early winter, the top strata of the lake will cool to below 45 degrees, and then because it becomes denser, it will "sink" below the lower strata, thus, displacing it and making the lake "turn-over". In the deepest part of West Lake (near the 136ft mark), no light is availble, and hence little life is known whether fish or plant. Typically questions are raised as to why the surface water gets dirty for a short period of time in the fall, this this is the standard answer.

Spencer Golf & Country Club

Spencer Golf & Country Club in Spencer

Spencer 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.

Salon M Spa

Salon M Spa in Spencer

Salon M Spa is an Aveda concept salon in Spencer. Located in the Southpark Mall, this upscale salon is sure to exceed your expectations. Salon M Spa's services include hair cuts, colors, highlights, updo's, and even extensions. They also offer waxing, manicures, pedicures, and spray tanning. As an Aveda salon, their mission is to be environmental leaders, by creating environmentally friendly products, and be environmentally conscious in the beauty world. Another cool thing about this salon, is that they are 99.9% paperless, which means you'll be handed an iPad, instead of a book or magazine. You can even bring your own ear buds to watch Netflix while you're getting your services done.

Euphoria Salon

Euphoria Salon in Okoboji

Heather Carson, the owner of Euphoria Salon does an amazing job. You will be blown away with not only the services they offer but the salon it's self. She did an amazing job making you feel like your in a big city salon right here in Okoboji.

The Boonedocks

The Boonedocks in Arnolds Park

The Boonedocks is your one-stop-shop! They have it all. Full selection of beer, wine, grocery items, and of course gasoline. Located right in Arnolds Park!

Allure & Co

Allure & Co in Spirit Lake

What do you get when you combine four great businesses? Allure & Co. Studio 1328, Boat House Apparel, Lake Life, and House of Fleur are all of the amazing businesses in the chic space in downtown Spirit Lake. This beautiful space is also a great place to hold intimate events, birthday parties, and more. The women that make up Allure & Co. have an amazing insight to style, fashion, photography, and interior design. Be sure to check out one of the newest businesses on Hill Ave!

BonBon Frozen Yogurt

BonBon Frozen Yogurt in Arnolds Park

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.

Jimmy John's

Jimmy John's in Spirit Lake

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!

Harvey's Five Star Roofing And Gutters

Harvey's Five Star Roofing And Gutters in Spirit Lake

Whether 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!

Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry

Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry in Spirit Lake

We understand the importance of good dental hygiene and oral care and are committed to providing you the best care in a fun, pleasant environment. Using the latest technology, our experienced staff works together as a team to give you exceptional quality treatment from the time you walk in for your initial visit.

Iowa Rock 'n' Roll Music Association

Iowa Rock 'n' Roll Music Association in Arnolds Park

The Iowa Rock 'n' Roll Music Association is a state-wide nonprofit dedicated to preserving the legacy of rock 'n' roll and the history of music in the state of Iowa. The museum opened in 2003. The museum allows visitors to discover the history of music within the state of Iowa. They also have the Iowa Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame. All the inductees for the year are announced in January. Over labor day weekend in Arnolds Park there is a celebration with a ceremony introducing the inductees and also a concert.

Lisa's Bakery

Lisa's Bakery in Spirit Lake

New to Spirit Lake is Lisa's Bakery. We have heard wonderful reviews of her caramel and cinnamon rolls and has a variety of other bakery goods. Set up for convenience, Lisa’s Bakery also offers a variety of take and bake meals for the busy working family or a nice break for the stay at home mom who wants a healthy satisfying meal for her family without having to be in the kitchen for hours. This place is all about convenience with a new fun twist on getting home cooked meals from Lisa's table to yours.

Getting's Garden

Getting's Garden in Sanborn

Getting's Garden is a strawberry farm where you can pick delicious Iowa berries. You can also purchase already picked berries at our Market. Stop and get a fresh strawberry shake or slushy.This is a great family outing, so bring your kids along!!!

Pirate Jack's Bar

Pirate Jack's Bar in Arnolds Park

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.

Okoboji Mattress Co.

Okoboji Mattress Co. in Spirit Lake

Okoboji Mattress Co. is a Sleep Specialty Store located .7 miles west of the junction of 9 and 71 in Spirit Lake, IA. We are a locally owned Sleep Boutique featuring Serta and Simmons Mattresses and bases. Stop by try Malouf Z Pillows before you buy! A great selection of Serta, and Simmons Beautyrest Mattresses, Adjustable Bases, Malouf Sheets, Mattress Protectors, and Comforters, Malouf Z pillows, and more! New Sleep Lift Recliners from Mega Motion and Ultimate Power Recliner!

Winther Stave & Co

Winther Stave & Co in Spencer

At 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.

The West Lake "Tie Up"

The West Lake

For 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.

Bracco

Bracco in Arnolds Park

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.

Spirit Lake Silver & Gold

Spirit Lake Silver & Gold in Spirit Lake

As the only jeweler in the lakes area, you're sure to find everything you need at this established jewelry store. With over 30 years of experience, they have an eye for creating amazing pieces of jewelry. Whether it be an ever special engagement ring, or a beautiful necklace, they have every style imaginable, that is sure to take your breath away.

Little Swan Lake Winery Bed And Breakfast

Little Swan Lake Winery Bed And Breakfast in Estherville

Little 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!

Bombazi Salon

Bombazi Salon in Arnolds Park

Bombazi, 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.

Nektar

Nektar in Arnolds Park

Nectar is a fun, seasonal coffee shop, serving from a cute camper within walking distance to Arnolds Park Amusement Park! Nectar offers fresh-pressed juices, espresso drinks, REAL fruit smoothies, and baked treats - making Summer in Boji even better!

Carpet One

Carpet One in Spirit Lake

The beautiful Carpet One showroom in Spirit Lake features a huge selection of all the latest flooring, window coverings and more. They have certified flooring pros can get your project rolling with a free, no-obligation pre-measure - just call (712) 336-5559 today or visit their website at www.carpetoneiowa.com

Family, Fishing, Fun

Family, Fishing, Fun in Lake Minnewashta

If you are looking for a place to catch a bunch of fish in a short period of time, the dock in Minnewashta right off of Sawmill Park in Arnolds Park is the place. Fish with a worm or throw a crank bait, you can't go wrong. This spot located in the center of the lakes area allows you to bring your children to play on the nice equipment, or have a family gathering at the recently remodeled shelter. These waters are well known for perch, bluegill, pike, crappie, walleye, yellows, and smallmouth and largemouth bass. With two different places to launch a boat, Minnewashta is a great place for some family fun.

Beach Street Boutique

Beach Street Boutique in Arnolds Park

Arnolds Park Boutique offering beautiful clothing that is reasonably priced, and unique. They have a variety of sizes - beautiful clothes and accessories!

Snappers Turtle Bay Cafe

Snappers Turtle Bay Cafe in Okoboji

Come to Snappers Turtle Bay Cafe and enjoy the relaxing laid back island atmosphere that you can only find along the waters of Turtle Bay. Open to the public for lunch and dinner, Snappers menu is unique to Okoboji which offers quality food and service that is sure to please visiting patrons.

Burger & Company

Burger & Company in Spirit Lake

Gourmet 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!

The District

The District in Spirit Lake

Where 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.

Bridges Bay Resort

Bridges Bay Resort in Arnolds Park

Choose from a variety of luxurious condominiums and hotel-style guest rooms. Bridges Bay Resort features the area's only indoor waterpark 'Boji Splash, featuring the Cantina which serves a variety of delicious food and beverages. Bring the boat in the summer and enjoy being right on the water or get away for the weekend in the winter months and let the kids enjoy the indoor waterpark!

Tweeter's

Tweeter's in Okoboji

Tweeter's Bar & Grill a great casual restaurant in Okoboji, no matter what you're craving. Their extensive menu makes it easy for large groups to gather, and appeal to all tastes. Tweeter's offers catering, daily specials, and nightly features. Since they're open year round, Tweeter's is a favorite among locals, and tourists alike.

Boat House Apparel

Boat House Apparel in Spirit Lake

Boat 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.

The Ritz

The Ritz in Arnolds Park

Best 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.

Lake Park Public Pool

Lake Park Public Pool in Lake Park

Lake 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.

"The Bridge"

"The Bridge" has been referred to by the Wharf Bridge, the Kentucky Fried Chicken Bridge, the bridge connecting East and West, among other names. In the good old days, this was actually a draw bridge converted to the current permanent structure. In the 90's when the 3 lane was installed, there was talk about removing the bridge and making some drastic changes. All in all, the base of the bridge remained, and the upper structure was improved. I remember as a kid jumping off the bridge, and fishing on and under the bridge. In fact, an unforgettable memory I have is when I was fishing with my cousin and I casted out trying to reach the opposite corner of the bridge with my lure. In mid air, a pigeon flew and the timing was so great that my line wrapped around the pigeon, and the pigeon went into the water. I reeled it up and had caught a pigeon. My cousin then decided to hold this pigeon inside the front of his coat. We went to show people at Okoboji Boats what we had caught. When we got there, he opened his jacket, and the pigeon had pooped all over his white shirt.

Smack Shack

Smack Shack in Okoboji

Get your taste buds ready for some smashing good sandwiches! The Smack Shack offers some amazing gourmet sandwiches. Every menu item is brilliantly created by chef Jeremy Neppl. I love the smack burger myself, as well as the spicy fried chicken thigh sandwich. I really don't think you can go wrong ordering here, they even have PB&J options for the kiddos. Make sure to stop by and try the Smack Shack located next to the Okoboji Commons.

Okoboji Commons

Okoboji Commons in Okoboji

Check out Okoboji's newest urban metro hotel, the Okoboji Commons. Featuring 71 guest rooms, a meeting room that can hold up to 125 people. Conveniently located next to the bike trail, Brooks Golf Course, Okoboji Summer Theatre, and many Okoboji attractions. The hotel grounds are immaculate featuring gas fire pits, a gazebo, a large deck overlooking East Lake, a sand beach with hammocks, fire pits and a new dock to tie up your boat. Check out Okoboji Commons next time you are vacationing in Okoboji, you will not be disappointed!

Hill Avenue Dental

Hill Avenue Dental in Spirit Lake

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.

Table 316

Table 316 in Arnolds Park

16 cent beers, need I say more? Make sure you're here at exactly 3:16 pm, and you'll get your fill of 16 cent beers for a whole hour! Then, they go up $1 every hour after that. Table 316 also has great steak, and appetizer deals at 3:16 pm as well. We bring all of our friends here to have a good time, and grab beers before going out on the lake for the rest of the afternoon.

Silver Lake

Silver Lake in Lake Park

Silver Lake in Lake Park is a 1,000 acre lake with an average depth of about 6.5ft and a maximum depth of about 10ft. Silver Lake offers some of the best walleye fishing in the IGL's, especially in the spring and fall. The shoreline been developed with some beautiful homes, especially in South Shore Estates and West Bay Estates. Silver Lake is a wonderful spot so escape the hustle and bustle of other area lakes. It is a great lake to learn various water sports, as you won't encounter near the boat traffic. Do yourself a favor, and check out all that Silver Lake has to offer.

Spencer Hospital

Spencer Hospital in Spencer

Spencer Hospital delivers the highest quality healthcare in its area.They are compassionate about their patients, while providing high-tech, and professional care to each of their patients. They have a specialized cancer center, diagnostic imaging, surgery center, and a brand new OB unit. Spencer Hospital's amazing doctors provide personalized care, and treat each patient with compassion, and care.

Jimmy John's

Jimmy John's in Spencer

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!

Jonathan Blake Interiors

Jonathan Blake Interiors in Okoboji

I have had the privilege to get know Kristi Leigh over the last few years and her eye for design is second to none. JB Interiors founded in 2002, offers specialized interior design for both residential and commercial clients. Her office located in the heart of Okoboji displays a small fraction of her talent and ideas. Showcasing unique furniture, wall decor, rugs, lighting, and many interior design accessories. Kristi takes the overwhelming and challenging aspect of interior design and creates a space exactly as you have envisioned. Take a moment out of your day to stop by the studio, or check out her design and the new Okoboji Commons Hotel.

 

Get In Touch

Local Expert Updates

Janie Eick


Cell: 712.339.0574

Brooke Jones


Cell: 641.420.2172

Kymm Jones


Cell: 712.320.6737

Greg Sheeler


Cell: 712.330.1573

Aaron Jones


Cell: 712.336.4967

Liz Sandy


Cell: 712.330.1386

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