One of the most scenic drives in Iowa, especially when the fall colors are popping, is from Okoboji, IA, just over the border in Southwest Minnesota, to Round Lake Winery. This family-owned estate spans over 100 acres, with the vineyards nicely situated along the pretty shores of Round Lake. It’s a picturesque setting during the fall, which beautifully complements the winery’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
At Round Lake Winery, the focus is on producing a diverse selection of wines that capture the region’s unique character. The vineyard grows various cold-weather grapes specially selected to thrive in Minnesota’s climate, resulting in wines that are distinctive and expressive of the local terroir. Visitors can enjoy samples in the elegant tasting room, where the knowledgeable staff guides guests through the offerings, from crisp whites and robust reds to refreshing rosés and dessert wines.
The Oakwood Inn, located in Spirit Lake, is just a half-hour scenic drive to the vineyard and tasting room, making it one of the best things to do near Okoboji this fall. The Bistro at the winery is a lovely place for lunch or dinner with seasonal menus and ingredients. Before you head out, we’ll treat you to a lovely breakfast at our Inn, and we also have two new chargers on-site at our Inn for those driving their electric vehicles on these scenic drives in Iowa. Book your room today!
Wine Tasting at Round Lake Winery this Fall
There are so many fantastic things to do in the Iowa Great Lakes region, and one of our favorites is wine tasting at Round Lake Winery. Pair a flight and tour of the vineyard with a beautiful meal at the on-site Bistro, and you’ll have the perfect afternoon on your hands.
Here’s everything you need to know about Round Lake Winery & Vineyards:
- Planting at Round Lake Winery started in the spring of 2007. Today, they cultivate over 19,000 vines across four vineyards divided into seven blocks. The first block featured three cold-weather varieties: La Crescent, Frontenac Gris, and Marquette. These original vines remain among our most successful, consistently producing some of the finest and most award-winning wines.
- The rich black soils at Round Lake Vineyards, combined with sand and gravel, provide excellent drainage and impart a distinct mineral character to the wines. Additionally, the well water, rich in iron and minerals, contributes to the unique flavors found in the vineyard’s wines.
- Round Lake Vineyards offers a variety of tasting options, allowing visitors to sample a selection of their wines either by the glass or through curated tasting flights. Guests can enjoy their tastings in the elegant indoor tasting room or on the scenic outdoor patio overlooking the vineyards and lake.
- If you choose a flight, it’s only $10 for four two-ounce pours of their delicate whites and rich reds. If you buy two or more bottles to take with you, they’ll waive the tasting fee!
- The menu at the Bistro at Round Lake Winery features a selection of dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients designed to complement their wines. The offerings include a variety of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and entrees, with seasonal options that showcase the flavors of the region.
- The vineyard also hosts private events, weddings, and special occasions, providing a picturesque backdrop for memorable gatherings. Our lodging property would be an ideal space for groups to stay as well.
Stay at one of the Best Boutique Hotels in Okoboji
The Oakwood Inn stands out as one of the best adults-only hotels in Okoboji for a fall getaway. Offering a quiet retreat in the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes region, our boutique inn provides a peaceful, luxurious environment perfect for couples or solo travelers looking to escape the city for a few days. Surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and mature oak trees, you’ll love strolling our property, even better in the crisp autumn air and vibrant fall colors on the horizon. Pets are always welcome; contact us for more information!
Each elegantly appointed room is designed with comfort and relaxation in mind, featuring modern amenities, plush bedding, and private balconies or patios that overlook the stunning grounds. Guests can start their day with a gourmet breakfast, prepared fresh daily, and then spend their time exploring the natural beauty of the area, whether it’s taking a leisurely walk along the nearby trails, a peaceful afternoon by the lake, or a scenic drive to Round Lake Winery. We have modern amenities as well, including our new EV charging stations.
The Oakwood Inn also offers convenient access to the best that Okoboji offers, from charming local shops and restaurants to outdoor activities like boating, golfing, and hiking, all of which are especially enjoyable in the crisp fall weather. With its exclusive adults-only policy, we can promise a quiet, intimate atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a romantic getaway or a restful retreat this autumn. Check out our upcoming availability and reserve your room today!
