When most people think of Okoboji, summer comes to mind, but it’s also an amazing place for romantic winter getaways. If you’re looking for a quiet and restful retreat, this area is the perfect place. With The Oakwood Inn as your home base, you’ll find the peaceful charm of the season paired with luxury accommodations designed just for adults.
Winter in Okoboji is cozy, inviting, and surprisingly full of things to do. Imagine snowy and peaceful walks on the Dickinson County trails, crisp afternoons spent shopping in local boutiques, and evenings by the fire with a glass of wine in hand. Romantic winter getaways are about slowing down, enjoying time together, and creating memories that last long after the season ends.
Our boutique hotel in Okoboji stands out as one of the best places to stay. We offer an adults-only atmosphere with bed and breakfast-style amenities. Each of our 13 guest rooms is beautifully appointed with en-suite bathrooms (some offering jetted double tubs in the room), and everything you need for a restful winter getaway. Join us for the upcoming holiday season and book your room today!

Romantic Winter Getaways in Iowa Start in Okoboji
One of the best parts about planning romantic winter getaways in Iowa is the opportunity to enjoy Okoboji without the crowds. Winter transforms the area into a quiet retreat where you and your partner can focus on each other.
- The trails are peaceful in the winter, with snow-covered trees and the quiet of nature all around. The Dickinson County Trail system is steps from our front door, so you can slip on your snowshoes or cross-country skis and head out to explore!
- The Pearson Lakes Art Center is a lovely year-round destination. Spend an afternoon wandering through galleries featuring regional and national artists. The art center also offers live performances, making it an ideal date night activity.
- After a day outdoors, settle into one of the best restaurants in Okoboji for a cozy dinner. From hearty comfort food to craft cocktails, dining in the winter feels intimate and special. We suggest The Outrigger or The Waterfront on East Lake Okoboji.
- The Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Music Association preserves and celebrates the history of rock music in Iowa through its museum, Hall of Fame, and educational programs. Visitors can explore exhibits on legendary musicians, memorabilia, and the state’s role in shaping rock ‘n roll culture.
- Head to the Okoboji Classic Car Museum for a great wintery-day adventure! Part historic museum and part showroom floor, even if you’re not a classic car collector, you’ll love checking out the exhibits and seeing these vintage and beautifully restored automobiles.
- At the Spirit Lake Manufacturing Facility, visitors can take guided tours to see how Indian Motorcycles are built from start to finish. The experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at assembly, engineering, and craftsmanship, providing motorcycle enthusiasts with a close-up view of this iconic brand in action.
- The Okoboji Winter Games are an annual tradition that visitors eagerly anticipate each year. There are plenty of fun activities that would fit perfectly into your romantic winter getaways in Iowa. From fun competitions and sporting events to the traditional “burning of the greens,” there’s something for everyone at this unique event put on by the University of Okoboji.
- Shopping in the Okoboji area is always a treat. In the winter, you can start your holiday shopping list early. Unique specialty shops feature apparel, home décor, garden art, and second-hand treasures at some fantastic antique stores. Feel free to ask your Innkeepers during your stay for a map of the best places to shop in the area.

The Holiday Magic Awaits at our Boutique Hotel in Okoboji
At the heart of romantic winter getaways in Iowa is where you choose to stay. Our boutique hotel in Okoboji is an adults-only property designed with couples in mind. Each luxurious guest room features thoughtful amenities, from fireplaces to whirlpool tubs, that invite relaxation and comfort. After a peaceful night’s rest, you’ll wake up to a gourmet breakfast prepared fresh each morning.
What sets our hotel apart is its location. Just minutes from the best things to do in Okoboji, yet tucked away from the busier areas, our Inn offers a quiet retreat. You’ll also enjoy the personal touches of our concierge services and the warm hospitality of innkeepers who love helping guests plan the perfect stay. It’s these details that turn romantic winter getaways into unforgettable experiences.
If you’re a holiday fan, we love to go all out for Christmas! The halls are decked with sparkling trees at every nook and twinkling lights that really set a festive mood. You’ll enjoy seasonal preparations and treats; it’s truly the most wonderful time of year at The Oakwood Inn. Start planning your romantic winter getaways in Iowa and book your room today!