Who wouldn't be super excited to attend a wedding in the Iowa Great Lakes region? If you are getting married in the city of Okoboji, we are sure your guests will appreciate the natural surroundings, stunning scenery and lively entertainment scene.
As a wedding videographer covering the Iowa area and beyond, I'm always happy to be spending a few days there. Sometimes I even sneak an extra day after my work is done. Here is a guide on what's to see and do in Okoboji, which you are welcome to share with your wedding guests.
As a bit of a foodie, let's start with the food and drink. Here are some great places to meet up for a meal and few beverages before or after the wedding day.
Arnold's Perk Coffee House just sounds charming. Wait until you see the bright yellow exterior. Wait until you taste the iced lattes, frappes and smoothies. I'm a regular when I'm in town.
Another charmer is Betsy's Diner, with neon signs just the start of the retro vibes. Buttermilk pancakes, Irish eggs Benedict and the Elvis omelet are all served up with the warmest hospitality you could wish for your wedding guests.
Dry Dock Lounge is the perfect meetup place with beautiful waterfront views and great food. Book in advance for groups or a table by the water because this place is popular.
There is plenty of quality accommodation options in Okoboji. Try to give your guests recommendations for accommodation in a range of budgets and for places not too far from your wedding venue. Renting a lakeside cabin is great for a small group and there are also many affordable stays including:
Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center
Vintage Block Inn and Suites
Okoboji Inn and Suites
Crescent Beach Family Resort
Bridges Bay Resort
There is plenty to explore around Okoboji, beginning with the scenic lakes. You can go boating, swimming, fishing, sailing and there's a range of other water sports. Lakeside, you have the Arnolds Park Amusement Park, which offers many hours of fun and excitement. When you ride the old wooden rollercoaster, you get amazing views of the water for a few moments before it descends on its scary path. There is also golfing, hiking trails, parks for picnics, shopping, art galleries and museums to enjoy.
With wedding groups, there is a wide demographic to keep happy. You don't need to worry about your guests being entertained during their time in Okoboji because there is something for everyone, including the kids, solo travelers, couples and family groups. If they are looking for culture, thrills, entertainment or relaxation, it is all waiting in Okoboji. Congratulations on choosing an epic wedding destination!
I'm looking forward to documenting your wedding video in beautiful Okoboji and am really grateful to be going back to the Iowa Great Lakes for work. If you need any info about Okoboji, feel free to ask me and I'm always happy to share any local info.