Things To Do

The Wedding Website of Hannah Schmitz and Dominick Florer

We're so excited to spend time with you at one of our favorite places - Okoboji, Iowa. For those of you who are not familiar with Okoboji, welcome. We call this little slice of heaven the Iowa Great Lakes. This area is known for its summer resort vibe with its many lakes, bars, and boats. My family (Hannah speaking) has been coming to this area since I was a kid, and I remember it being one of my favorite places on Earth. Granted, earth in my eyes was largely Iowa, but even once the planet got a little bit bigger, Okoboji has still remained one of my favorite places - and that's saying something.... I've since been to the corn palace in South Dakota and it's pretty cool! All that to say, this is why we have chosen to get married here. We want to share this experience with the ones we love. With that being said, here is what we recommend doing during your stay.

Arnolds Park Amusement Park

37 Lake Street, Arnolds Park, IA 51331

This area is the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes. There is an old timey amusement park here, mini golf course, gift shops, restaurants, beach, and concert area. If you make one stop in Okoboji, stop here. This area is what it's all about. Bonus: Don't miss the farmers market here. It happens every Saturday in the summer from 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM.

Central Emporium

144 Lakeshore Drive, Arnolds Park, IA 51331

If it's a rainy day, or if you're just looking to get a little shopping done, stop here. The Emporium is a 3 story, somewhat nostalgic-looking, building filled with shops and a couple restaurants. The shops have everything you might need from an old-fashioned candy store to classic Okoboji apparel, to some really cute clothes (I'm talking to you gentlemen)! Give it a whirl.

The Barefoot Bar at Okoboji

24457 Stake Out Road, Okoboji, IA 51355

Barefoot Bar is a classic, and I mean CLASSIC, Okoboji destination. When you arrive, you'll ask yourself, "Is this a boat dealership?". Then you'll scurry a little further in and ask yourself, "Is this a gift shop?" Until finally, you open up those foggy, double glass doors to find an abundance of tiki huts located right on the lake. Is this Hawaii!? No. It's Barfoot Bar. It's substantially more underwhelming than Hawaii, and yet... it has a charm that keeps people coming back. Check it out for yourself. This will all make sense.

Spice & Lemon Café

140 Broadway Street, Arnolds Park, IA 51331

If you’re looking for a spot to grab coffee or pastries, this place is great. It is close to Arnold’s Park and the emporium, so you can get coffee and walk around to the shops and amusement park.

O'Farrell Sisters Restaurant

1109 Lake Shore Drive, Okoboji, IA 51355

If you’re looking for a nostalgic breakfast spot with eggs, bacon, coffee, and giant cinnamon rolls, look no further!

The Ritz

394 U.S. Highway 71 South, Arnolds Park, IA 51331

The Ritz is located on the lake and has burgers, wraps, pizzas, and a Bloody Mary bar. Come here if you’re looking for a laid-back dining experience.

For all the days along the way

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