Whether for a bachelorette trip or a weekend getaway with the girls, Okoboji is the perfect Midwest destination to unwind and have fun.
If there is one thing Morgan Wallen and I have in common, it's our immense love for our hometown. And if you know me, you know that I could go on and on about summers in Okoboji. Inspired by that passion, I figured I'd turn it into something useful for the gals planning a trip to the best place in Iowa. After receiving numerous texts seeking bachelorette party or girls weekend recommendations, I realized consolidating everything in one place would make it easier for everyone!
Where to Stay
Fillenwarth Beach Resort: This Okoboji staple has been around for over a century and is in a prime location. Lake access, pools, courts, boat rentals and tours are all exciting features Fillenwarth has to offer. This establishment is ideal if you have a large group or just a couple of girlfriends.
The Inn Hotel: If you want to go all-out with a luxurious girls weekend, The Inn is definitely the place for you. Glamorous, upscale and drenched in art deco design, this hotel will transport you back to the Roaring Twenties as soon as you step foot into the lobby. Located in the middle of Arnolds Park, you are within walking distance of the lake, nightlife and the best activities the area offers.
Bridges Bay: Just across the bridge from all the action is lakefront lodging with several pools and tasty restaurants just steps away. Bridges Bay Resort offers several different types of lodging, making it perfect for groups of all sizes.
Bites & Sips
Maxwell's Beach Cafe: I may be slightly biased after working here for nine summers, but Maxwell's can't be beat. This fine-dining restaurant prides itself on carefully crafted dishes, sophisticated spirits, a noteworthy wine list and an unbeatable location with a beautiful view of West Lake. Do yourself a favor and get your name down on the reservation book for your next girls weekend.
The Okoboji Store: For a casual environment where you can sip on a frosty cold beverage, chat with the girls over delicious bites and enjoy live music in the sun, The Store is the place to be.
The Common Tasting Room: If you're looking for a little aperitivo action, The Common Tasting Room offers one-of-a-kind cocktails, small plates and a charming atmosphere.
Wine Bar & Art Gallery: This is a local favorite for pre- or post-dinner drinks. The low-key, relaxed environment and daily deals are just as enticing as the drink menu and wall-to-wall art displays.
Nektar: For breakfast or brunch that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and ready for the day ahead, fill your stomach with fresh goodness from Nektar. I highly recommend any of the smoothie bowls or toast (plus, everything is exceptionally photogenic)!
O'Farrell Sisters: You won't find foofy, overpriced espresso drinks on this menu. O'Farrell Sisters is your classic old-fashioned diner where you can feast on delicious breakfast food and enjoy a good ole cup of joe. My only tip is to get there extra early--it's a popular spot!
Things to Do
Rent a boat: Did you even visit Okoboji if you didn't go boating? Whether you want a chill day of lounging and floating or come with a group big enough to fill a party barge, there are plenty of options to choose from. Parks Marina has boats ranging from pontoons to large barges avalible to rent.
Break a sweat: The Studio Yoga and Barre offers several classes if you want to get active with the girls. Set in the beautifully aesthetic loft above Allure in downtown Spirit Lake, you will surely have a great time, no matter your skill level. My favorite class is barre with Alma!
Shopping!! Duh!: An essential girls weekend activity is shopping, of course! Queen's Court has some of my favorite shops, like Boat House Apparel, Books n' Things and Topside. If you are down in this area on a Saturday morning, you'll find the street lined with local vendors selling all sorts of one-of-a-kind products at the farmers market.
Schedule a pamper session: What's better than a relaxing facial or a summery manicure and pedicure to kick off a girls trip to the Iowa Great Lakes? Call ahead to Faust and schedule your self-care soirée with your girlfriends.
Activate your green thumb: Reconnect with nature while expressing your personal style through creating a unique summer planter or potting adorable house plants at Ferguson's Garden Center.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Free concerts in Arnolds Park: Every weekend, huge crowds gather to enjoy live music on the lake. While there are a few paid concerts, most of the music is free of charge! This is a must-do before hitting the bars for a night out.
Bars on West Broadway Street: If you're looking for a little bar-hop action, this is the street to do it! With places like Captain's, Nautical, Portside and Murphy's, your itinerary will be set for the night. Each place usually has live music or a DJ, and Captains and Portside have fun rooftop bars.
All in all, there are endless ways to make your girls trip unforgettable in this midwest paradise with some of your favorite people. There are countless other things I could have added to this list, but I hope this gives you a good place to start. Cheers!
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