When winter settles over the Iowa Great Lakes, Okoboji transforms into a snowy playground filled with outdoor adventures, cozy indoor escapes, and festive annual traditions. Whether you’re a longtime local or planning a seasonal getaway, winter in Okoboji offers countless ways to embrace the cold and make memories with friends and family. To help you plan your perfect winter itinerary, we’ve gathered some of the best activities the area has to offer.
Snowmobiling Adventures
If you love exploring the outdoors, winter is an amazing time to hit the snowmobile trails. The Dickinson County Snowhawks maintain hundreds of miles of groomed routes throughout the county—many of which connect to neighboring areas and even into Minnesota. These well-kept trails welcome riders of every skill level, making it easy to load up your sled and set out across Okoboji’s serene winter landscapes.
Snowshoeing at Kenue Park
For a peaceful way to enjoy fresh snow, consider snowshoeing through Kenue Park. You can even borrow snowshoes from the Dickinson County Nature Center before heading out to explore the park’s 70 quiet acres. As you trek through the fields and wooded areas, keep an eye out for winter birds and other wildlife. It’s a simple, refreshing way to enjoy nature during the colder months.
Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is another favorite winter pastime in Okoboji. Local favorites include the groomed trails at Brooks Golf Club and the scenic Kettleson Hogsback Wildlife Management Area. These locations offer the perfect mix of tranquility and invigorating exercise as you glide across snowy landscapes.
Tubing Thrills at Horseshoe Bend
When conditions allow, the Horseshoe Bend Tubing Hill opens for weekend winter fun. Your admission includes a tube and full access to the hill—and the tow rope brings you back to the top so the fun never stops! When it’s open, Horseshoe Bend is hands-down one of the most exciting winter activities in Okoboji for all ages.
Ice Fishing on the Iowa Great Lakes
Ice fishing is a classic Okoboji winter tradition. Before heading out, be sure to stop by a local bait shop for gear, fresh bait, and the latest safety tips. If you want a more guided experience, local fishing guides can take care of the equipment and show you some of the best fishing spots around the chain of lakes. You can keep up to date on lake conditions by following Kabele’s on Facebook.
Ice Skating Indoors or Outside
When the lakes freeze over, the entire region becomes one giant skating rink. But if you prefer a controlled indoor environment, head to the Lakes Ice Arena. This popular spot is home to local hockey teams on weekdays, but it offers public skating every Friday through Sunday. Skate rentals are available, making it easy for anyone to join in.
And while you’re out exploring the frozen shoreline, don’t forget you can visit the local beaches to build your very own snow castle!
Stay Warm at Bridges Bay Indoor Waterpark
If your family is looking for a warm escape from the cold, the Bridges Bay Indoor Waterpark is the perfect stop. As the area’s only indoor waterpark, it features a lazy river, tube and body slides, lily pads, and a pirate ship for the kids. After playing in the water, challenge your group to arcade games and finish the day with delicious flatbread pizza at the Waterfront Grille & Event Center.
This spot is a top pick for families visiting Okoboji in the winter.
Explore the Dickinson County Nature Center
The Dickinson County Nature Center is a wonderful winter destination—especially for kids. Inside, little explorers can wander through interactive exhibits, learn about local habitats, and crawl through a larger-than-life honeycomb in the Pollinator Paradise. Best of all, admission is free, making it an excellent option for families wanting an educational and budget-friendly outing.
Creative & Cultural Winter Experiences
Pearson Lakes Art Center
Art lovers will appreciate the galleries and performances at the Pearson Lakes Art Center. Explore beautiful displays from local and regional artists, visit the outdoor gallery, or let the kids play and learn in the Art Smart Gallery.
Kurio Kastle
If hands-on creativity is more your style, stop by Kurio Kastle in Downtown Spirit Lake. This walk-in pottery studio is perfect for all ages and skill levels. They provide pottery, tools, glaze, and plenty of inspiration—just bring your imagination!
Indoor Recreational Fun
When you need a break from the cold, Okoboji has plenty of indoor entertainment options:
- Bedell Family YMCA – Rock climbing, swimming, basketball, and supervised childcare.
- Juniper Lanes – A newly renovated bowling alley with pizza, drinks, and cosmic bowling nights.
- Great Lakes Cinema 7 & Milford Pioneer Theater – Catch the latest movies with comfortable recliner seating and classic theater snacks.
Signature Winter Events in Okoboji
Santa’s Village in Downtown Spirit Lake – December 13
Celebrate the holiday season at Santa’s Village, a day filled with festive activities like face painting, letters to Santa, Christmas read-alouds, games, a hot cocoa bar, and an Elf Hunt. Santa will be available for photos at Allure & Co., and activities will be held throughout Downtown Spirit Lake and the Great Lakes Mall.
Heartland Light Display
Running from November 23 through January 3, the Heartland Light Display features over 178,000 twinkling lights. The lights glow from 5–10 p.m. nightly, and you’re welcome to drive through or park and stroll your way through the festive scenes.
University of Okoboji Winter Games
The region’s biggest winter tradition is the University of Okoboji Winter Games, held annually on the final full weekend of January. What started in 1981 as a small broomball tournament has grown into a massive celebration attracting over 40,000 visitors from more than 20 states and beyond.
From kites soaring over the frozen lake to broomball, softball, chili cook-offs, flag football, the Polar Plunge, fireworks, and dozens of other activities, it’s a weekend filled with energy, tradition, and community spirit. Mark your calendar for January 22–25, 2026!
Vintage Okoboji Ice Drags – February 1
A fascinating event for motorsport fans, the Vintage Okoboji Ice Drags take place on East Lake Okoboji near The Ritz in Arnolds Park. Racers from across the Midwest compete on a 500-foot track carved into the ice. Spectators can watch for free as vintage and antique snowmobiles reach speeds of over 100 mph.
Winter in Okoboji
Whether you’re searching for outdoor thrills, cozy indoor activities, or time-honored community events, Okoboji offers something special for everyone in the winter months. From ice skating and tubing hills to art studios and holiday celebrations, this season invites you to bundle up, explore, and enjoy the magic of winter in the Iowa Great Lakes.
If you’re considering making Okoboji your year-round or seasonal home, our team at Okoboji Realty would love to help you find the perfect place.
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