Though there are plenty of great things to do in Okoboji this summer and fall to keep you busy and having fun, sometimes you want a day to kick back and relax. While you’re free to do exactly that at our Okoboji hotel, we’ll also love sending guests to Round Lake Vineyards, which is just across the border in Minnesota.
If you don’t feel like the short drive to Round Lake Vineyards or would prefer to cool off with a craft beer this summer, there are also several breweries in Okoboji, including the Okoboji Brewing Company itself, worth visiting. Of course, there are also several bars and tasting rooms in town, from which we’d be happy to make some recommendations.
All these great experiences and more are at your fingertips when you stay with us at The Oakwood Inn, The #1 hotel in the Iowa Great Lakes Region. Summertime crowds will soon be fading and heading back to their overscheduled lives, leaving behind a tranquil and beautiful fall paradise just waiting to be enjoyed.
Soon, the season of romantic getaways will be upon us. Have you made your reservation at the #1 Okoboji, Iowa hotel yet? Book a room with us today!
Wine Tasting at Round Lake Vineyards
Round Lake Vineyards is one of our favorite places to send guests who are looking for a quiet, romantic afternoon sipping wine. Round Lake Vineyards is located approximately 30 miles from our Okoboji hotel, just across the border in Minnesota. Though there is a winery worth visiting right here in Okoboji, we think a visit to Round Lake Vineyards is more than worth the time.
Round Lake Vineyards started growing their first grapes in 2007, and today they have more than 19,000 impressive vines growing throughout their four vineyards. The first focus of Round Lake Vineyards was on three varietals; three varieties: La Crescent, Frontenac Gris, and Marquette. Today, they grow a diverse range of grapes, including St. Pepin, Brianna, Petite Pearl, Sabrevois, King of the North, Petite Amie, Frontenac Blanc, Louise Swenson, and Itasca.
Round Lake Vineyards produces about 15 distinct wines from these grapes, all of which are reflective of their terroir and particular growing conditions. When you enjoy a tasting at Round Lake Vineyards, you’ll have the chance to sample four of these delicious wines for just $6. Or, of course, you can also purchase by the glass and the bottle if you already know what you like.
You can make an entire day of visiting Round Lake Vineyards by including dinner at their bistro in your plans. Round Lake Vineyards is open for tastings every day of the week, though hours can vary seasonally. Round Lake Vineyards also showcases regular live music concerts throughout the summer and early fall and will once again host their annual Grape Stomp on August 27, 2022.
Grab a Pint at Okoboji Brewing Company
Whether you’re a fan of the wines at Round Lake Vineyards or not, you may be looking for something a bit closer to our hotel to wet your whistle. If you are in the mood for a deliciously cold pint of beer this summer or fall, head to Okoboji Brewing Company. It’s only 0.5 miles away from our Okoboji hotel, which means you can easily walk there from here.
Okoboji Brewing Company is a locally owned brewery that has been in business since 2009, and it’s one of the leading breweries in the Iowa Great Lakes Region. They currently have 20 craft beers on tap, consisting of their brews and various guest brews. They don’t serve food in their taproom, but you can bring it in or order and enjoy it there in their vibrant, friendly space.
Okoboji Brewing Company will also be hosting its annual Oktoberfest celebration this fall. The event will take place on September 30 and will feature authentic German food from The Still Bar and Grill, live music, and plenty of great beer.
We love the beer (and proximity) at Okoboji Brewing Company, but it’s not the only brewing game in town. Other places to consider are West O Beer, which is rated as one of the best breweries in Iowa, and the Iowa Project Brewing Company.
Of course, whether sipping and swirling your way through flights at Round Lake Vineyards or celebrating beer culture at Okoboji Brewing Company, there’s no better place to stay than The Oakwood Inn, the best hotel in the Iowa Great Lakes Region. Our hotel is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and indulge in a bit of romance this fall. Book your room with us today!
