Arnolds Park, IA

Arnolds Park is a Dickinson County city at the center of Iowa's Great Lakes region. The 2020 census counted 1,110 residents. Five lakes—West and East Lake Okoboji, Lake Minnewashta, and Upper and Lower Gar Lakes—frame the community, and Highway 71 runs through its commercial spine. The park that shares the city's name began with a 60-foot waterslide in 1889 and grew into a historic amusement park on West Lake Okoboji, with The Legend roller coaster, the Ferris wheel, summer concerts, and other rides. The Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum sits in the park complex with antique wooden boats, a recovered West Okoboji boat, and artifacts from the lakes' excursion and amusement era.

ATTRRoblin, Frank F. -- Photographer / Public domain

Nearby landmarks include the Iowa Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame, Central Emporium, and the Abbie Gardner Sharp Cabin and Monument. The Spine Trail and Lake Loop give the lake district a walking and biking connection beyond the midway. Arnolds Park puts lake tourism, amusement history, museums, and seasonal music in one compact waterfront setting.