Arcadia

Here's the scenario. You are building a house or remodeling your house. Material costs are up. Labor costs are up. You ask yourself, where can I save a buck? Before answering this question, you must be careful, especially if your home is located in an area where other quality homes are built, whether on the lake, off the lake, or in higher valued developments such as golf course developments, etc. Growing up in construction and with a plethora of new construction and remodels under my belt, let me share with you some of the easy things that your future buyers will recognize when they are looking for quality.
1. One of the first things buyers of higher end homes will look for is to determine if the owner used hollow core doors. It's an immediate sign that the seller was looking for ways to save money (where else then did they cut back that I can't see???)
2. The second most obvious is the counter tops. Did the sellers spend for a quality granite, quartz, or other hard surface, or was formica used?
3. The third item that might stick out is the cabinetry. Do the drawers have dovetail construction with hardwoods? Did they use "soft close" drawers? Are there pull outs for the pots and pans?
4. Flooring is an easy one also. Was laminate used, or is it engineered or hardwoods? Does the carpet convey a quality feel and plushness? Is there a nice thick pad underneath the carpet?
5. Though there are many other items to look at, cheap vs quality lighting and plumbing fixtures are probably the next major focus.

There is nothing wrong with with using lower cost materials, especially when trying to keep a project within budget, especially when trying to build more house for less money. Just be aware that most buyers looking to spend in excess of $300k for off lake homes and $500+ for East Lake chain homes, and $1M+ for West and Big Spirit will expect the very best materials and finishes.

Established in 2005, renovated in 2016, Pub19 Bar & Grill is your premier destination for great food and drink, and a superb dining experience. With an expansive menu and beautiful facilities, we’re certain you’ll enjoy your meal and your time spent with us. Indoor and outdoor seating is available!

New to Spirit Lake is Lisa's Bakery. We have heard wonderful reviews of her caramel and cinnamon rolls and has a variety of other bakery goods. Set up for convenience, Lisa’s Bakery also offers a variety of take and bake meals for the busy working family or a nice break for the stay at home mom who wants a healthy satisfying meal for her family without having to be in the kitchen for hours. This place is all about convenience with a new fun twist on getting home cooked meals from Lisa's table to yours.

A local non-profit with the mission of Transforming Lives, Strengthening Families and Enhancing our Community. Offering Parenting Classes, Professional Counseling, Maternity Home for young women facing unplanned pregnancies and support for moms on infant loss. 712-338-3333

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.

Grace Lutheran Church
801 Hill Ave
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Services
Saturday at 4 p.m. (informal)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (familial)
Wednesday at 6 p.m. (interactive)

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.

What do you get when you combine four great businesses? Allure & Co. Studio 1328, Boat House Apparel, Lake Life, and House of Fleur are all of the amazing businesses in the chic space in downtown Spirit Lake. This beautiful space is also a great place to hold intimate events, birthday parties, and more. The women that make up Allure & Co. have an amazing insight to style, fashion, photography, and interior design. Be sure to check out one of the newest businesses on Hill Ave!

New Testament Baptist Church
2105 Gary Ave
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Services
Sunday at 11 a.m and 6 p.m.
Wednesday at 7 p.m.

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3301 Lakeshore Drive

Okoboji, IA 51355

WEBSITE

For a little History of The Inn dating back to the 1890's CLICK HERE

The Inn at Okoboji offers so much to do and so much history. Located on 500 feet of West Okoboji Lake lakeshore, the views are amazing. The Inn is a hotel/resort, with a dining and a full service facility designed for meetings, gatherings, events and weddings.

Also, The Inn has a 9 hole executive golf course and is partnered with other local golf courses in the Iowa Great Lakes Area. They also have in door and out door pools with a hot tub, docks, and an on-site boat lift

If you are looking for a family friendly place to watch the fireworks on the 4th of July while avoiding the congestion of the Amusement Park area, this is your spot. You don't have to be a guest of the hotel, but the 500 feet of lakeshore provide ample seating for hundreds of people to have a good time. They offer live music and offer hot dogs and hamburgers, so come enjoy the day and stay for the fireworks.

One of the area's best! The Outrigger serves fine food with an elegant, charming atmosphere. The menu has a variety of food options, but the Outrigger is well-known for their steak and seafood. Weekend specials are offered as well as prime rib on Friday and Saturday nights. A great neighborhood bar and restaurant!

Where muscles burn, skin sweats and community happens!
The District is a boutique fitness studio offering classes including indoor cycling, TRX® and more. The District strives to create community while encouraging and motivating all levels of fitness. Whether you're looking to PR your next race or just coming to workout with your friend, consider The District in your daily routine.

If you're visiting the lakes area, and want to be pampered, Boji Toes gives the best pedicures in town! Also offering manicures, from traditional to shellac, as well as waxing, they really take pampering to the next level. I also know that they love to get male clients, and will even offer them a beer! Talk about great service!

Ranch Okoboji has something for everyone. The ever popular mini golf course in Okoboji is a fun Wizard of Oz theme. They also have Tyotee's Mining, which is a fun little adventure for kids to mine gemstones, arrowheads, and fossils! For the adults, they have a margarita bar, with tons of flavors, all made with their own secret recipe! Once you're done with whichever adventure you choose at the Ranch, don't forget to shop at their little boutique area, with home decor, outdoor decor, and their extensive collection of flags!

Separated from the rest of the Iowa Great Lakes, Big Spirit has a lot to offer. Big Spirit is actually located in Iowa and in Minnesota. This quiet setting offers a number of different lake views as well as access to fantastic fishing. While your are there, stop at the Spirit Lake Fish Hatchery. Every year they use gillnetting to catch and release walleye, muskie and pike using each fish to help breed a new batch of fish for the year. Often times the DNR catches very large fish and put them on display in one of their many fish tanks. The DNR professionals harvest fish eggs and release them after they hatch. Stop by and see the in the Spring, you will not be disappointed.

Hibachi 88 is a great place to enjoy Chinese food and sushi! They have a large dinner menu and also have a separate lunch menu. If you don't feel like going out or cooking at home call for take out there is something for everyone. If you are a sushi fan make sure to try the Boston roll it is one of my favorites!

Boji Tan is a great tanning salon located in Spirit Lake. They offer different types of beds that are four different levels. This local business is very clean and the staff is always friendly and provides you with great service. At Boji Tan they don't only offer tanning but you are able to purchase AdvoCare products also. If you are going on a trip and want to get a base tan before you leave or if you just want to warm up on those cold summer days make sure to stop at Boji Tan!

For Okoboji's superfood Big Acai Bowl Okoboji, located in the Central Emporium is a perfect spot for a healthy breakfast or a snack. Acai (pronounced ah-sah-hee) is a berry extract from acai palm tree found in the rainforests of Central and South America. The acai berries have a slightly sweet favor often compared too blueberries paired with very dark chocolate. This is a must stop for a healthy treat for the whole family that has many health benefits including healthy fats, fiber, magnesium, calcium with very low natural sugar. This natural food is a must try!

Melanders-downtown Milford
922 Okoboji Ave
Milford, IA 51351

New and used kitchen appliances, great selection, wide variety of the top brands. Local, helpful service.

The Iowa Rock 'n' Roll Music Association is a state-wide nonprofit dedicated to preserving the legacy of rock 'n' roll and the history of music in the state of Iowa. The museum opened in 2003. The museum allows visitors to discover the history of music within the state of Iowa. They also have the Iowa Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame. All the inductees for the year are announced in January. Over labor day weekend in Arnolds Park there is a celebration with a ceremony introducing the inductees and also a concert.

If you have any eyecare needs, check out Optique, located on Hwy 9/71 in Spirit Lake, next to Hey Good Cookies where Mr Movies used to be. Optique has recently moved into this location to expand and become more visible. Their office is freshly remodeled creating a very friendly, comfortable and professional atmosphere with eyewear selections that are very current with the styles and trends of today. Optique offers the services of an Optometrist and an Optrician, the staff at Optique is very knowledgeable, thorough and willing to educate you on your eyecare and eyewear needs

The Pioneer Theatre is one of the area's best-kept secrets. As the owners point out on their website, The Pioneer Theatre is an "historic downtown movie theater with modern recliner seating and family-friendly prices." Checkout the website at milfordpoineertheatre.com for movies and showtimes. You may also buy your tickets and reserve your seats online! Located in Downtown Milford, Iowa--just another great reason to come to Milford!

Its almost here!!! Walleye Weekend marks the beginning of another great summer here in the Okoboji Area. Anglers from all over come to try and catch the prize fish. Our local DNR tag and release specific Walleyes while they are gillnetting in the Spring. Whether you are fishing from shore or by boat, you cannot go wrong. It is a great time to get the season started and check out the local restaurants. Maybe you will catch the big one. For more information about Walleye Weekend you can go to http://okobojichamber.com/events-calendar/iowa-great-lakes-walleye-weekend/

Jimmy John's slices our all-natural meats and fresh veggies in-house every day. Our fresh-baked bread is made right here where you can see it, and our house-made tuna salad is fresh every day. The flavor of a ripe tomato, crisp shredded lettuce, combined with fresh-baked bread, fresh-sliced meat and real Hellmann's mayo - that's when the magic happens. Made with love every single day since 1983. That's Jimmy Fresh!

Lake Park is one of the few cities around the Iowa Great Lakes that has an outdoor public swimming pool. It offers some great rates for annual memberships. 2016 family membership was $100 and an individual membership was only $65. They also offer swimming lessons, starting as early as infants and toddlers. Specific evenings also offer classes for adults. The pool's normal hours of operation in the summer are 1PM to 8PM.

Healthy Living Program Center Spirit Lake
802 Lake Street
Spirit Lake, IA 51360
One of the many convenient locations offered by the Bedell Family YMCA is conveniently located in downtown Spirit Lake on the corner of Hill Ave and Lake Street.

Offered at this Center are exercise equipment, cardio machines, free weights for ages 14 and up. Personal Training is also offered.



Hours open are

Monday - Thursday 5 am to 11 pm

Friday 5 am to 9 pm

Saturday 6 am to 9 pm

Sunday closed

Mary's Gift Shoppe will tickle your senses with the unique blend of home decor and gifts. Our year-round shoppe offers great decorative accessories for the home plus beautiful clothing, jewelry and handbags to accessorize you, also custom floral design and embroidery work, bridal registry, and a wide selection of kitchen gadgets that make cooking and entertaining easy. One stop and you'll be hooked! Fun and friendly! Conveniently located off of Highway 71 South and 30th Street in Spirit Lake, Iowa.

Located in the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes Area, Tom's Plumbing and Heating has been offering you local Plumbing/ HVAC services for MANY years.

Call Tom's Plumbing for your Plumbing / HVAC needs, whether you are doing new construction, a current homeowner needing service, a business owner or whatever your needs may be.

The Ritzer family has owned and operated Tom's Plumbing for MANY years and provide great experience and knowledge of the industry.

Located at

172 Hwy 71 N

Arnolds Park, IA 51331

or call them at 712-332-2426

Check out Emmetsburg for your St. Patrick's Day celebration! You may just be surprised what a great location this is for some fun. It was even featured among the 10 most surprising places to celebrate St. Patty's!. See for yourself below!

The Okoboji Tile Shop

Ben Zenor, a local tile installer established The Okoboji Tile Store in 2012. Ben has been doing tile work for years. He is experienced with new construction, remodel and has done work on custom showers, backsplashes and floors.

The Okoboji Tile Shop also sells tiles, as well as cabinets, countertops and bamboo wood flooring.

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!

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Athletic Republic Spirit
1380 Lake St
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Located behind Central Bank in Spirit Lake, just one block off of Hwy 9 and 71.

24 hour health club with free weights, machine weights, cardio machines, as well as kettle balls, battle ropes and more.

Athletic Republic and Levi Markwardt have developed a great reputation throughout the Iowa Great Lakes area for Adult personal training and Performance training for athletes.

Call for more info at 712-336-4040

Tweeter's Bar & Grill a great casual restaurant in Okoboji, no matter what you're craving. Their extensive menu makes it easy for large groups to gather, and appeal to all tastes. Tweeter's offers catering, daily specials, and nightly features. Since they're open year round, Tweeter's is a favorite among locals, and tourists alike.

Lake Park has a couple choices to choose from when deciding to camp on Silver Lake. Both campground are on the lake and offer daily, weekly, monthly or even seasonal rates. The one "in town" is a great spot located near the public pool, ball fields, the city park, public fishing dock, and the dam that flows out of Silver Lake. The camping season runs from April 15 to October 15 each year. Click the link to find more information as well as their camping rates.

I grew up watching Cheers, if you want that same vibe at the lake, hit The Ritz just south of the bridge. Let alone, Taylor and her staff are the salt of the earth kind of people, the food is amazing! You can tell that a lot of thought has gone into the presentation and you can taste the love in the recipes. Did I mention, they know how to mix a good cocktail as well…..Okoboji style for those who know what I mean! Cold beers, huge glasses of wine, fun kids desserts and the famous Ritz fish bowl. You gotta try it!

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.

Best pizza in town with an amazing view! Dock the boat and stop in the Ritz for a pizza and cold beverages. They offer live bands in the summer and during winter games! The Ritz offers a breakfast buffet and an amazing bloody mary bar on Sundays! Make sure to stop in when you are in town.

Calkins Park
Located behind Dyno’s convenient store on the Southend of Milford, just a half block East from Hwy 71 on 225th St, then stretching North a few blocks, this park offers a 9 hole disc golf course

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!

This new business to the lakes area is sure to be a hit! Arnold's Bark-ery makes healthy, fresh made snacks for all of the lucky dogs in the surrounding Okoboji area. They also provide natural, and holistic pet foods in their shop. A fun place to bring your dog to shop, as well as a place to get them groomed. What a fun addition to the area!

Minerva's is a fabulous dining experience, from the consistently great food to the diverse menu selections. It's a great place to dine in the lakes area year round. If you haven't been, you really should give it a try. The atmosphere is welcoming and the friendly staff is very attentive. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or meeting with friends, this is the place!

Old Soul Charm Photography has done a beautiful job taking timeless images of families, newborns, weddings, engagements and more. The owner, Heidi, is down to earth, and very personable, surely to put you at ease when you're getting your photos taken. She's amazing with kids, and manages to capture their personalities, even if they're not cooperating. She has a creative eye, and it really shows in her photography.

Great food, fantastic lake views, and amazing service. The Gardens has it all. Stop in and have a cold beverage on the deck and listen to some of the best live music in the area. Located in the Central Emporium in Arnolds Park the Gardens puts you in the middle of all the summer action. Make sure to stop in and enjoy one of the best bars in the area!

Okoboji View is a public 18-hole golf course with membership availability. It is a beautiful golf course with an emphasis on nature and offers many challenges with fast greens, beautiful water features, tree lined fairways and rolling hills.
The newly remodeled restaurant and bar - renamed Pub19 Bar & Grill in 2015 - is full service and you can enjoy drinks and dining on the large new deck overlooking the golf course.
Whether you need a golf lesson or a professional club-fitting, or if you need to schedule your corporate golf outing, wedding rehearsal dinner/reception or class reunion, or just want to enjoy playing at one of the best courses in Northwest Iowa - Okoboji View Golf Course, a family run facility, is for you.

Downtown Church
45 S Hwy 71
Arnolds Park, IA 51331
Next to Okoboji Middle School/Okoboji Bible Conference

Services:
Sunday evening at 5:30 p.m.
Small Groups- Tuesday/Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.

Bella Via Salon is made up of individual stylists, that are always learning more to make their clients look, and feel their best. This full service salon offers all hair needs, including hair cuts, coloring, highlights, blow outs, updo's and more. They also offer manicures, pedicures, massages, and make up applications. They also sell professional hair care, and body care products. We have never left Bella Via disappointed, and are always impressed with the skill of their staff!

As the only jeweler in the lakes area, you're sure to find everything you need at this established jewelry store. With over 30 years of experience, they have an eye for creating amazing pieces of jewelry. Whether it be an ever special engagement ring, or a beautiful necklace, they have every style imaginable, that is sure to take your breath away.

As the only frozen yogurt place in the Lakes Area, BonBon has made quite the name for itself! We wait for the day it opens, and try to go weekly throughout the summer. This self serve froyo shop is sure to put a smile on anyone's face, with the array of toppings, and flavors, that are changing from week to week! It satisfies your sweet tooth, while still being healthy, which is a major win win for me.