Aug. 31, 2023

This paid piece is sponsored by The Ramkota Companies.

There’s never a bad time of year to visit the Okoboji lakes area in northwest Iowa, but this season has brought plenty of new reasons for a road trip.

“It’s been a really good summer, very busy,” said Laura Garms, general manager of the Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center.

Located at 1405 U.S. Highway 71 in Okoboji, the resort is part of Sioux Falls-based The Ramkota Companies and a popular stop for leisure and business travelers alike.

“Okoboji is popular with many in the Sioux Falls area, but for others who discover it, it’s kind of like a little hidden gem,” Garms said. “It pops out of nowhere when you come up to it, and it’s just a little oasis with a lot of fun restaurants, the lake experience and the outdoor feel. People tend to really relax and have a good time here.”

This season brought new reasons for a trip to the lake, including many new additions to Arnolds Park Amusement Park. The entertainment complex on West Okoboji Lake, minutes from Arrowwood, finished a six-year restoration of its 93-year-old Legend Roller Coaster as well as its new Preservation Plaza Stage, offering live shows.

There’s also a new beer garden and several new or improved rides, including The Round Up, an intense spinning ride, and the crowd favorites The Scrambler and The Octopus.

“Arnolds Park really offers a unique amusement park experience, so that always brings people to the lake,” Garms said. “Visitors really enjoy free concerts or renting a boat to spend time on the lake.”

At Arrowwood, the adjacent Brooks Golf is a definite bonus. The 27-hole course offers three layouts for all ages and abilities, and also features a driving range.

“Many of our guests take advantage of a discounted golf package because the resort is within walking distance,” Garms said.

Other resort amenities include an indoor water playland, fitness center, outdoor pool and croquet court and the on-site Salon of Okoboji and Elegance Boutique.

“Guests enjoy how you can do a little shopping, get your hair cut on-site and enjoy a continental breakfast,” Garms said.

It’s also a pet-friendly hotel, “and we get a lot of people who bring their dog with them,” she added. “It’s definitely an option.”

Arrowwood offers 100 recently updated rooms, plus the popular Minervas restaurant.

For groups, “we work closely with event planners on all their needs to help customize everyone’s experience and what they’re looking for,” said Garms, who has a background in wedding operations.

“We can even do an outdoor wedding ceremony with a reception inside and offer a range of options for your venue size. We also are close to an airport, which is helpful for some people, and even for a Sioux Falls couple, it’s a nice way to change things up with a different setting for your wedding.”

Corporate events are a great fit too. The event area offers more than 30,000 square feet with nine spaces, from a 16-person boardroom to a ballroom seating more than 500.

“Corporate business is definitely strong,” Garms said. “If you’re looking for a business meeting, employee appreciation event or team-building spot, there’s a lot to like here – plus you also can take advantage of adjacent golf.”

She moved to the area five years ago and said she has found a great career fit with The Ramkota Companies.

“I just knew the property itself, not as much about Ramkota, but I knew Arrowwood was in my wheelhouse, so I waited for an open position,” Garms said. “But it’s been really good becoming part of Ramkota. They take very good care of their employees, and I appreciate that.”

To learn more about Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center, click here.