For decades, Iowans have flocked to Lake Okoboji for vacation. While a lot of us love just relaxing on the water, there’s a wonderful, world-famous attraction hiding in plain sight right on the beach. If you’ve somehow never visited Arnold’s Park Amusement Park, you are in for a real treat!

In 1889, a man named Wesley Arnold constructed a wooden waterslide on the south shore of West Lake Okoboji. This waterslide was the first attraction at what would become Arnold's Park Amusement Park.
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For generations, Arnold's Park Amusement Park has stood on the beach at Lake Okoboji
Flickr / Sam Klein
Today, the park is one of the best in the Midwest, and it draws travelers from around America to enjoy its beachfront and lakeside appeal.
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The enormous wooden coaster, named the Legend, is one of the oldest in the world!
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Those who prefer to stay on the ground can enjoy a host of rides and amusements like bumper cars and a mirror maze fun house.
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Thrill-seekers will love the tilt-a-whirl, roll-o-plane and rock-o-plane.
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There's plenty of fine fair food to be had here, too! Stop by Benit's Confections or the Fun House Diner for a feast.
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Funnel cake, sno-cones, donuts, chicken tenders and more await you - just be sure to ride before you stuff your face!
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There's more to Arnold's Park Amusement Park than just rides. At the beach, you can enjoy Lake Okoboji in all its glory.
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Take a ride on the historic Queen II riverboat and explore the lake while learning about its history!
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If you love live music, attend one of the beachfront concerts hosted in the park!
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History buffs will love visiting the maritime and funhouse museums, where you can learn about one of America's oldest amusement parks.
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Truly, there's no better place to spend a few days off than at Arnold's Park Amusement Park! It's Iowa's best beachfront attraction.
Flickr / Mary Fairchild

You can find Arnold’s Park Amusement Park at 37 Lake St, Arnolds Park, IA 51331. Find their operating hours on their calendar, here!

Learn more about what you can do in Iowa’s best resort town, Arnold’s Park, right here.

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