ARNOLDS PARK, IA - Since this is my last trip of the summer, I figured it has to have everything. It has to be close-by, it has to be a lot of fun, and of course, it has to be affordable. I think I've nailed all three.
For many families, Lake Okoboji is a summer-must. But even if it's your first time here, it quickly turns into a family favorite.
New visitors Jodi and Justin Ninmann said the best part is "time with our kids! It's important to make good memories that they can remember when they're older."
The water is the center of fun around here, but when the wind picks up, and the temps cool down, there's just one place to spend the day - Historic Arnold's Park.
"There's a lot of option for families to do here," noted Paul Plumb, Sales Manager for the park.
The prices are reasonable and the rides are great for kids of all ages.
The Ninmann's said their kids loved the ferris wheel, but they're looking forward to the roller coaster. Of course, everyone always wants to ride the roller coaster. But this one is something special.
Plumb explained, "last year we celebrated our 80th year on the roller coaster. It's one of the oldest roller coasters in the U.S."
From the screams I heard, old age isn't slowing this coaster down. Since I'm always up for an adventure, I donned a ride wristband of my own and climbed onboard "The Legend".
Looking around, I wondered if this was such a great idea. I'm pretty sure I'm the oldest person on the coaster. But I figured, these kids probably know the most about having fun. Their best tip: put your hands up.
Ready or not... this ride was on. I may have forgotten how long it's been since I rode the rails. We twist... turn... just about everything except go upside down. Forty seconds later, and I was up to speed on this classic coaster.
After that ride, I decided to it easy. I figured, I'll play a few games, maybe get a snack, and hit up the ferris wheel. Little do I know, there's something life-changing about to happen on this lake-side ride. Nebraska native Cody Pick was about to propose to his girlfriend of four years.
Pick explained, "we came here for our first vacation together, and we actually came to Arnold's Park, and I just thought it'd be a very special place to propose to her, looking over the lake on the ferris wheel."
I think it's safe to say... she's saying yes.
His new fiance Marissa Wilmoth said excitedly, "I was shocked! I couldn't believe it. I was speechless. I'm still shaking!"
It's just one more example of the amazing memories created every day at Okoboji's Historic Arnold's Park.
After all the fun I had, I think I might have to make this my new favorite tradition. It's been a great way to end a fantastic summer. My trips are over, but your family still has a month to go before school starts. So get out there and find a favorite spot of your own, and have a great Destination Vacation.
