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Photo: Decumanus at en.wikipedia, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
Fishing.
The Iowa Great Lakes, often referred to as Okoboji, is a group of natural lakes in northwestern Iowa in the United States. There are seven lakes in the region totaling 12,687 acres (5,134 ha) with the three principal lakes of the group being Big Spirit Lake, West Okoboji Lake, and East Okoboji Lake. They are the largest natural lakes in the state of Iowa. The largest, Spirit Lake, is 5,684 acres (2,300 ha). The lake area extends to the north into Jackson County, Minnesota. The headwaters of Little Sioux River flow past the west side of the lake area.
© OpenStreetMap contributors
In Arnolds Park
About 30 rides, including a carousel and one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in the United States. Get a Nutty Bar while you're there. It's ice cream on a stick, coated in chocolate and rolled in chopped peanuts.
A fatal encounter between Wahpekute Dakota Indians and settlers is at the forefront of this site, one of the locations etched in the history of the "Spirit Lake Massacre." Abbie Gardner was a 13-year old killed in the skirmish. Also learn about the Dakota leader Inkpadutah. Built in 1856 and listed on National Register of Historic Places.
The highest natural point in Iowa.
The largest man-made grotto, or artificial cave, in the world, this site was built by a Catholic priest over a span of 40 years as a place for prayer and reflection. On the National Register of Historical Places.
Watch the artisan–owner make wooden kaleidoscopes. For $45, you can choose your own materials for a customized egg-shaped kaleidoscope that is cut and assembled while you watch. Tour groups welcome, but it's a good idea to contact the shop to let him know when to expect you.