Is there anything better than digging into a big plate of nachos or a towering cheeseburger while you enjoy the breeze off one of Iowa's amazing lakes? I don't think so! After the winter we've endured, we all deserve a cold drink and a great meal on the patio. Take a look at the best lakefront restaurants in Iowa below.
1. The Landing, Clear Lake
Dining at the Landing is one way to enjoy the beautiful Clear Lake! This restaurant and beach bar is known for making tasty tacos, fresh seafood dishes, and enormous burgers.
Address: 1603 S Shore Dr., Clear Lake, IA
2. Bracco, Lake Okoboji
The pasta dishes are the star at Bracco, but they also serve up delicious, fresh salads, flavorful burritos and other amazing plates. The view of Lake Okoboji is one of the best views in Iowa.
Address: 317 240th Ave., Arnolds Park, IA
3. Maxwell's Beach Cafe, Lake Okoboji
Maxwell's is a tropical getaway in a landlocked state, and their steaks and seafood dishes are among the best you'll find anywhere! Enjoy the view along with some ahi tuna and feel like you've been whisked away to the caribbean.
Address: 37 Lake St., Arnolds Park, IA
4. PM Park, Clear Lake
The beach bar at PM Park is one of the best places to spend a warm summer night! Enjoy a cold brew and some snacks with a great view of Clear Lake from this campground and dining spot.
Address: 15297 Raney Dr, Clear Lake, IA 50428
5. Regatta Grill, Storm Lake
Kings Pointe is one of the state's best waterparks and a great resort where you can getaway for a weekend or even more! The Regatta Grill is a fantastic waterfront restaurant that's located right at the resort, and the fresh tacos, burgers and tenderloins served here are mouthwatering.Address: 1520 E Lakeshore Dr., Storm Lake, IA 50588
6. Dry Dock, Lake Okoboji
Dry Dock is another Okoboji landmark, and dining on the water here is a great way to celebrate the beginning of summer! Enjoy their tenderloins, wraps, sandwiches and salads while you relax on their casual waterfront porch.Address: N, 333 US-71, Arnolds Park, IA 51331
7. Barefoot Bar, Lake Okoboji
The Barefoot Bar is a great spot to sop tropical cocktails and slushy drinks alongside giant plates of nachos and bar snacks. Enjoy the sand beneath your toes and a cool breeze coming off the lake as you relax by the water.Address: 24457 Stake Out Rd, Okoboji, IA 51355
8. The Ritz, Lake Okoboji
The Ritz is a casual lakefront spot where the quesadillas and burgers are just the start of a long menu of delicious dishes. Try the pulled pork nachos if you want a true treat! The view across the lake is one of the best in Arnolds Park.Address: 394 U.S. Highway 71 South, Arnolds Park, IA 51331
There's nothing quite like finally dining outside after a long winter! Now that the weather is finally warming up, it's time to enjoy the best of Iowa's outdoors, from our lakes to our forests! For some of the best outdoor attractions around, check out This Epic Road Trip To Experience Iowa's Great Outdoors.
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