Melvin

 Melvin

This affordable small town has 206 residents and the estimated median house value is $42,000. 

Area Insights

Playful Cupcaketions

Playful Cupcaketions in Spirit Lake

Playful Cupcaketions does an incredible job making cakes, cupcakes, cake pops, and cookies. She really goes above and beyond to make your custom cake creations come to life. We've used her multiple times for our son's birthday, and cake smash cakes, and they've never been short of amazing. We've tasted her delicious cakes at weddings as well, and they're always as beautiful as they taste. We trust Playful Cupcaketions with all of our cake needs.

The Hair Team

The Hair Team in Spirit Lake

Looking for the best full service Salon in Spirit Lake, then check out The Hair Team located on Lake Street in downtown. Amber and Tammi are the best Duo in town. Looking for the best updo for your wedding party look no further. They have a very enticing wedding package with a complimentary breakfast for you and your bridesmaids to make your day as smooth as possible.

First Lutheran Church- Three Cross Roads

First Lutheran Church- Three Cross Roads in Milford

First Lutheran Church
Three Cross Road- West Okoboji
1525 Three Cross Road
Milford, IA 51351

Services
Winter
Saturday at 5:30 p.m.
Sunday at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Summer
Saturday at 5:30 p.m.
Sunday at 8:30 a.m.- OUTDOOR WORSHIP
and at 9:30 a.m.

The West Lake "Tie Up"

The West Lake

For most leisure boaters in the Iowa Great Lakes, there are 2 main hot spots to go throw an anchor, sit back, and just relax. Sometimes this will result in numerous boats tying up to one another (you may not even know your neighbor), and sometimes it results in a little more privacy where you can chill just by yourself. Every weekend, boaters make the trek across the deepest parts of West Lake to either Gull Point (North AND South side) and Miller's Bay. Thought there are many other great areas to throw an anchor, relax, and swim, these are the two hot spots. If you aren't sure where to go on a Saturday afternoon or wonder where your friends might be, these two spots would be a good start.

Carpet One

Carpet One in Spirit Lake

The beautiful Carpet One showroom in Spirit Lake features a huge selection of all the latest flooring, window coverings and more. They have certified flooring pros can get your project rolling with a free, no-obligation pre-measure - just call (712) 336-5559 today or visit their website at www.carpetoneiowa.com

H-LP State Football Runner-Ups 2016

H-LP State Football Runner-Ups 2016 in Lake Park

A big Congrats to the Harris Lake Park football team on a fantastic historical season. The wolves dominated the competition all year long, punching their ticket to the UNI Dome for the 8 Man Football Playoffs. In the Semi-Final game the Wolves were able to continue the undefeated streak and beat Fremont Mills 35 to 21, giving them the opportunity to compete for the 8 Man Football State Championship. The Wolves battled hard against Don Bosco, Gilbertville, but unfortunately came up a little short and lost a hard fought game 21-48. Awesome Job on a GREAT season Wolves, it was very fun to see how much the community came together to support you guys. CONGRATS!

Mill Creek Restaurant & Lounge

Mill Creek Restaurant & Lounge in Milford

Mill Creek is located on the NE corner of Okoboji Ave (Hwy 71) and 9th Street in Milford. Dine in or carry out. There's something for everybody--daily and nightly specials, too! The staff is friendly and the atmosphere relaxing. Great burgers, sandwiches, pizza and appetizers. A couple of my faves are the Fried Pickle Chips and the Kentucky Bourbon Sandwich. Hours are Monday-Saturday, 11 AM - 11 PM (grill open til 10 PM) and Sunday from 5 PM - 9 PM. Have a party in the events room with family and friends. Games for the kids, too!

Saint Joseph Catholic Church

Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Milford

Saint Joseph Catholic Church
1305 Okoboji Ave
Milford, IA 51351
Office: 712-338-2274

Mass Schedule

Winter
Saturday at 4:30 PM
Sunday at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.
Summer
Saturday at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Sunday at 7 a.m., 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Taco House

One of a kind Authentic Mexican Cuisine right here in West Okoboji! A local favorite and rated five stars by visitors young and old. Be sure to put this as a favorite on your list of places to not miss when you are vacationing in the Lakes area. Close to Terrace Park so if you are feeling up for a small walk you may walk from Terrace Park to the Taco House.

Arnolds Perk Coffee House

Arnolds Perk Coffee House in Arnolds Park

You can't come to the Lakes Area, and not go to Arnolds Perk. This whimiscal little coffee shops is always very busy in the summers, and rightfully so; their coffee is amazing! They also have breakfast, lunch, and their ever famous cupcakes, along with their coffee drinks. Located just across the street from the Arnolds Park amusement park, its the perfect place to stop at on your vacation in the mornings!

Winther Stave & Co

Winther Stave & Co in Milford

At Winther, Stave & Co., LLP we use a team approach. You have a team of accounting professionals at your disposal, not just one person. With specialists in many different areas, we can draw on that breadth of knowledge and experience to help with services ranging from taxes, to payroll, to wealth preservation.

TALLGRASS VILLAGE

TALLGRASS VILLAGE in Spirit Lake

4150 Sunner Dr
Spirit Lake, IA

Looking for a rental, here are some options. Located next door the YMCA in Spirit Lake, IA, right on the bike trail system.

Tallgrass offers a variety of different rental options including: Lofts (1 to 3 Bedroom & Efficiency style) and Townhomes (3 and 4 bedroom). Other features- Laundry, 9 foot ceilings, handicap units, On-site manager and more.

The Higgins Museum

The Higgins Museum in Okoboji

The Higgins Museum
of National Bank Notes
1507 Sanborn Ave
Okoboji, IA 51355

Looking for a unique experience, here is one for you. A museum of "National Bank Notes,” not just any museum, but one that offers the largest collection of these Bank Notes in the country. If you are interested in coins and different paper money, come check this out.

Memorial Park Milford

Memorial Park Milford in Milford

Memorial Park Milford
Located on the Northern side of Milford, Memorial Park offers not only playground equipment for the kids but several softball/baseball fields. The fields not only house Little league/School baseball and softball games but also a very popular Slow Pitch Softball league on Sundays during the summer months.

Ferguson's

Ferguson's in Spirit Lake

Ferguson's is arguable the most popular place to buy flowers, trees and more in the lakes area. They're a family owned business, providing flowers, trees, plants, supplies, and furniture. They also have a small gift shop inside, as well as a floral shop, with freshly cut flowers. They have amazing customer service, and are there to help with all questions regarding planting and gardening. Ferguson's seems to go above and beyond, offering to bring anything you buy from them to your front door!

Ries Eyecare

Ries Eyecare in Milford

Ries Eyecare
2213 Okoboji Ave
Milford, IA 51351
Another eyecare option in the Iowa Great Lakes area is conveniently located in Milford on Hwy 71 next door to Ingwersen Chiropractic and Healthy Living Program Center.

Services provided:
Exams- Comprehensive, Contact Lens, Medical for Glaucoma, etc, Foreign Body Removal, Red Eye and Emergencies and Post- operative Care

Midwest Modern Furniture

Midwest Modern Furniture in Spirit Lake

Talk about a fun place to shop--this is one of the best! The owners and staff (including Britt, the furniture dog) are so personable and welcoming that you'll find yourself hanging out in their store because it's so much like home (or what you'd like your home to be)! They have great furniture, rugs, lighting to fit any budget. They also sell vintage pieces which don't last long in the store! And plants, yes, they even have plants! Plan to spend some time when you come here because there's so much to see! Located at 3520 Hwy 71 South, Spirit Lake or go to midwestmodernfurniture.com.

The Three Sons

The Three Sons in Milford

The Three Sons is your go to University of Okoboji shop!! They offer everything you need for the family from name brand items to your local Okoboji gear. The Three Sons has been a family owned and operated business since the summer of 1960. You will feel like family while you are shopping here. If you are on the boat in the summer don't forget you can also shop their inventory on the Arnolds Park Boardwalk! University of Okoboji gear is one of our favorite ways to represent Lake Okoboji on a vacation!

Arrowood Resort

Arrowood Resort in Okoboji

Arrowood is a year-round conference center and hotel with over 100 guest rooms, whirlpool suites and a "Great Room" for hosting group events and hospitality suites. Formerly known as Village East, the resort offers an outdoor pool, deck, playground, volleyball and croquet courts and a heated indoor pool area. Hotel goers can also enjoy an on-site salon, Minervas Bar and Eatery and lit parking. Located on Brooks National Golf Course, Arrowwood Resort offers some of the finest lodging around. Years ago, Brooks Golf Course clubhouse was actually housed on the rear side of Arrowood, but since then, the course has been converted to 27 holes with a a new separate clubhouse. Also, the Racquet Club was a part of the facility, offering workout facilities, racquet ball, and tennis. However, with the addition of the YMCA, the racquet club was unsustainable and converted into retail.

Okoboji Skin Care

Okoboji Skin Care in Okoboji

Okoboji Skin Care
1008 Eastview Ave Suite #1
Okoboji, IA 51355

Okoboji Skin Care is a skincare clinic located in Okoboji that provides several different skincare and makeup lines. They also provide many services: face and body waxing, facials, laser hair removal, chemical peels, makeup applications and more.

Spirit Lake Fellowship Church Of The Open Bible

Spirit Lake Fellowship Church Of The Open Bible in Spirit Lake

Spirit Life Fellowship Church of the Open Bible
2504 Enterprise Ave
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Services
Sunday at 10:30 a.m.

Jimmy Johns

Jimmy Johns in Spirit Lake

Jimmy John’s Spirit Lake
1007 18th St
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Jimmy Johns offers a fresh and quick sandwich at affordable prices. If you are low on time, hit up one of the two locations in the Iowa Great Lakes Area.

Arnolds Park- in BooneDocks gas station
Spirit Lake(Opened in 2016)- on the corner of Hwy 9/71 and Keokuk Ave. Next door to Fareway Grocery Store.
Online Ordering and Delivery are options with Jimmy Johns. Visit the website or call for details.

Bedell Family YMCA

Bedell Family YMCA in Spirit Lake

The Bedell Family YMCA offers many programs to kids and adults alike. Children can get their first experiences with various sports, and continue their interests as they grow into specific programs. Adults also are offered many sports, health, and wellness programs at the Y, they even provide childcare while you attend your program, or work out. The Bedell Family YMCA is also the creator of Camp Foster, an amazing camp for kids in the summer.

Rolling Oaks Barn

Rolling Oaks Barn in Spirit Lake

The Rolling Oaks Barn is an authentic barn that has been restored. This century old barn is available for rent for all of your event needs. The upper level is the events area where the lower level is a full service bar and is open weekly and on the weekends.

Urban Alley

Urban Alley in Arnolds Park

Urban Alley
321 Hwy 71 S
Arnolds Park, IA 51331

Urban Alley, with a great location just a short block away from the entrance to the Amusement Park area, offers repurposed home décor, vintage goods, handmade rag rugs, soy candles and more.

Follow Urban Alley on Facebook to see what they have for sale.

Okoboji Expedition Co.

Okoboji Expedition Co. in Okoboji

Okoboji Expedition Co is a bicycle and outdoor sports store in Okoboji, Iowa. We are located on the eastern shore of West Okoboji Lake in the Iowa Great Lakes region. The Okoboji Expedition Company carries bicycles, kayaks, cycling apparel, cross country skis, and snowshoes along with all the needed accessories for all of the above. We also specialize in custom bike fittings and offer winter spinning classes.
We offer bicycle products from Specialized, Cervelo, Co-motion and Alchemy. We also stock Oru kayaks and paddle boards from SOL, Tubbs snowshoes, Atomic cross country skis and outdoor clothing from Mavic, Pearl Izumi and Louis Garneau. Stop in and see us… you’ll be glad you did.

The Studio Yoga & Barre

The Studio Yoga & Barre in Spencer

The Studio Yoga & Barre has two locations: Spencer or Spirit Lake @ Allure & Co. Come and experience a community of people seeking to live healthier lives through exercising the body and mind.
They offer a variety of yoga, barre, cycling and paddle-board classes for different levels of experience.
The Studio also offers yoga and exercise apparel, as well as oils and health supplements.

Nashlo Captains Getaway

Nashlo Captains Getaway in Arnolds Park

Captains Getaway in Arnolds Park is the spot for the best live music entertainment in Okoboji. Highlighting the talent rolling through the lakes is the Nashlo Series of talented up and coming performers along with artists we have all heard of. Captains Getaway in Arnolds Park is the spot to be in Okoboji for the best live music!

Fashion Formula

Fashion Formula in Spirit Lake

Open 7 days a week and all year round, Fashion Formula showcases clothing for any season in sizes S to 2X! From dressy to casual in brand names such as Karen Kane, Erin London, Ethyl, Multiples, Jess & Jane and many other brands; as well as shoes, handbags, and accessories to complete any outfit.

The Coffee Shop & Cafe

The Coffee Shop & Cafe in Milford

This establishment offers a variety of coffees, espressos and smoothies plus mouth-watering baked goods--not to mention the fabulous breakfast and lunch items--made to order! There are daily specials as well as homemade soups. Did I mention this all comes with an Italian flair? The staff is amazing and the atmosphere inviting. Located at the Gateway to the Iowa Great Lakes on Okoboji Ave (Hwy. 71) in Milford. Stop in, you won't be disappointed!

Comfortec Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

Comfortec Heating, Cooling & Plumbing in Spirit Lake

Comfortec has trained and licensed technicians who can handle the job whether you have no heat or a loud noise coming from your equipment. We are a Carrier, Ruud and Lennox dealer giving us an advantage when it comes to working with different types of furnaces. We carry a wide variety of parts and can service any brand of furnace or AC. When it comes to needing someone to come handle your heating or cooling issue, we get there fast and get the job done right anywhere in our service region. Additionally, we provide emergency service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week because problems with your heating and cooling systems or plumbing rarely only occur during a normal workday.

Snooks Of Okoboji

Snooks Of Okoboji in Okoboji

Snook’s of Okoboji started primarily as a retail flooring store. After a transfer of ownership, the new owner, Bill Adams, has transformed our store into a one-stop home store. We now not only retail flooring, but also offer a wide selection of furniture, bedding, window treatments, decor and outdoor living. With the ability to purchase from the floor or order custom, we’ll make sure you get what you’re looking for to suit your space. Let our family help your’s.
Stop by today or shop online at snooksofokoboji.com.

Arnolds Park Greenspace Concert Calendar

Arnolds Park Greenspace Concert Calendar in Arnolds Park

With summer right around the corner that means one thing for the Greens Space at Arnolds Park. The 2024 Free Summer concert calendar has been released spanning the whole summer with exciting performers. Who are you excited to see?

Cross Winds Church

Cross Winds Church in Spirit Lake

CrossWinds Church
2805 Erie Ave
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Services
Sunday at 8:15 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Trailview Estates Condominiums

Trailview Estates Condominiums in Okoboji

This condo complex is well located for convenient living and very affordable. A good blend of owners and renters enjoy a care free lifestyle in the heart of the Lakes Area. With dining, shopping, golf and the trails just out your front door, you won’t find a handier place to live. Located just off Hwy 71, next to the Cinema 7

Woody's Pizza

Woody's Pizza in Estherville

Woodys Pizza is the oldest existing pizza restaurant in Northwest Iowa. In 1961, Woody and Mae Condon started their first restaurant in Estherville, with four tables, an eight seat counter and carry-out service. There was no alcohol served. It became a gathering place for the young people of Estherville.
In 1980 they sold their restaurant to their son, Anthony, he and his family operated Woody's for over 30 years. On Jan. 1, 2018, Dave and Tasha Welch of Estherville are the new owners.
Now, Dave & Tasha are thrilled to be taking the reins to continue not only bringing you great tasting pizza with the original famous recipe, but to bring you excellent service as a family-run business Estherville can be proud of.
Dine in or Call 712-362-5610 for Carry Out and Delivery!

The Waterfront

The Waterfront in Arnolds Park

This place is amazing! From the views, atmosphere, service and food you can't go wrong. The biggest beer and drink selection at the lakes. On Sundays you can enjoy one of the largest bloody mary bars in the area. Their menu consists of a variety of steaks, seafood, and flatbreads. The Waterfront is a great addition to the lakes area!

OYBA

OYBA in Milford

Okoboji Youth Basketball Association (OYBA)

The Okoboji School system and basketball program is really blessed to have such a great nucleus of coaches and a system in place designed to really build the children through team work and skill building. OYBA has put together a board and a mission that is really great for the kids and is designed to develop the kids to prepare them for High School Basketball.

Each winter, OYBA puts out teams ranging from 3rd grade up to 8th grade, both girls teams and boys teams.
I am one of the coaches for the 5th grade girls team, we have 24 kids out for basketball, for such a small class, those numbers are amazing.
We put together 3 traveling teams and each of our teams is signed up for 5 tournaments this winter season, the kids love it.

Whether you are new to town or have been here for a long time, if you have kids going to the Okoboji School system and want to play some ball, check out the website, call one of the board members or give me a call and I'll point you in the right direction.

Wild Child

Wild Child in Spirit Lake

Wild Child, which features stylish clothing, accessories and awesome toys for children and newborns, is all about quality clothing and toys. Wild Child is the "go to" store for people with all budgets, and offers styles that cannot be found anywhere else, and strives to offer unique apparel and toys that are fun, functional and educational.

Hidden Gem

Hidden Gem in Ayrshire

Beautiful views and living on the lake without all the other commotion. Silver Lake in Ayrshire is a great place to find tranquility with every day life. Boating, fishing and friendly neighbors is what you will find in this hidden gem.

Rabab's At The Lake

Rabab's At The Lake in Arnolds Park

Best food in town? We sure think so. Rabab has outdone herself here in the Central Emporium! This upscale, fine dining restaurant will not disappoint. She offers Mediterranean and American dishes. The food is the best part, but Rabab's also has arguably one of the best views, overlooking beautiful West Okoboji lake. Not only is her food extraordinary, she offers an extensive selection of fine wines and cocktails.

Katy Lynn Boutique

Katy Lynn Boutique in Arnolds Park

Katy Lynn Boutique is a fabulous women's clothing store offering a wide variety of clothing, shoes, jewelry and more. Excellent customer service with all hands-on-deck in helping you find that special outfit. You can also place clothing orders online. A fun clothing store that is sure to impress!

Los Lagos

Los Lagos in Spirit Lake

Calling all Mexican food lovers! Los Lagos has a wide variety of authentic Mexican food to choose from. Come in and sit down in the large, open dining room with a full-service bar. They offer happy hour drink and food specials that are sure to please!

Bridges Bay Resort

Bridges Bay Resort in East Lake Okoboji

Bridges Bay Resort is built on the land purchased a few years prior which used to be owned by the Nielsen family of Arnolds Park. This huge complex consists of a hotel, 3 condo buildings (a 4th is under construction), and over 100 vacation cabins. A popular part of the resort is the indoor waterpark that cabin and condo owners have access to, but also, so does the public for a fee. Braccos is a fantastic summertime restaurant and bar which is frequented by boat, by car, and by foot, especially from the owners of the condos and cabins. All of the units at Bridges Bay have an opportunity for a boat hoist, and it is an extremely popular destination for out of towners looking for a vacation spot in Okoboji. Because Bridges Bay is not within the city limits, many owners utilize property management companies to help them rent their units by the day, week, and month. I've personally sold and shown many condo and cabin units and would be delighted to help.

Arnolds's Bark-ery And Grooming

Arnolds's Bark-ery And Grooming in Arnolds Park

Arnold's Bark-ery and Grooming is a great place to take your fur babies for their "puppy spa day!' Not only do they offer grooming services but they have a great boutique full of yummy treats and accessories. You can even order certain treats for holidays!

Estherville Veterinary Clinic

Estherville Veterinary Clinic in Estherville

Estherville Veterinary Clinic is a locally owned vet clinic that provides first-class veterinary services to Estherville, IA and surrounding communities. From vaccination and flea and tick treatment to heart worm prevention and pain management, Estherville Veterinary Clinic can help. Your livestock medical needs will be served by on-farm visits with the mobile unit. Extensive in-house pharmacy, walk-ins are welcome, and after-hour emergency services. The clinic is located at 121 W. Central Avenue, Estherville, IA

West O Beer

West O Beer in Milford

If you haven't been to West O, you need to go. With their state of the art brewery, and access to some of the best water in the world, their beer is nothing short of amazing. Their tasting room has a cool, industrial feel, and perfect for tasting their many types of beers. CocO Stout has been an award winning beer for years, and definitely worth a try! West O has been voted "Best Iowa Beer" by the Des Moines Register readers in 2016.

Sunshine Foods

Sunshine Foods in Milford

Sunshine Foods, located on Highway 71, is Milford's only full service supermarket offering Fresh Produce - Butcher Fresh Meats - Deli - Kitchen

Shade Of The Tree Counseling Services

Shade Of The Tree Counseling Services in Spirit Lake

Substance Abuse Services Based on the 12 Step Model.
Employing the Recovery-Oriented Systems of Care.
Person-Centered Therapy
State Licensed

Consumers Lumber Company

Consumers Lumber Company in Spencer

Consumers Lumber Company is the only locally owned and operated building center in the area. They have been proudly serving the best builders and homeowners with the best materials and services since 1906.
They have locations in Spirit Lake and Spencer Iowa with a complete line of building materials and builder’s hardware. They also have full showrooms of millwork, stone, decking and cabinetry.
Dollars spent with Consumers Lumber stay in Dickinson and Clay counties. They support all the area schools and youth organizations along with several other community charities. Consumers Lumber Company is also very proud of the fact that their 15 employees have over 200 years of combined service to our company and that they all live, shop and play here.
They offer timely and accurate project bids and drawings to better serve the areas builders and homeowners. They also provide free and fast delivery to the four county area.

 

Get In Touch

Local Expert Updates

Greg Sheeler

Cell: 712.330.1573

Matt Lippon

Cell: 712.330.0604

Aaron Jones

Cell: 712.320.9442

Janie Eick

Cell: 712.339.0574

Kymm Jones

Cell: 712.320.6737

Brooke Jones

Cell: 641.420.2172

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