Spirit Lake lies south of Big Spirit Lake and along part of the west shore of East Okoboji Lake. Big Spirit Lake and East Okoboji Lake thus provide two distinct points of reference: the location south of one and the stretch of shoreline along the other. The city also has trails and historical landmarks. As you plan your stay, consider whether outdoor activities, local history or an event should be the focus.

Trail Systems for Outdoor Activities

The ten-mile trail system runs through Spirit Lake and is used for hiking and biking. Its length provides a tangible measure of the active side of a stay. You can decide whether hiking, biking or both will be part of your plans. Kiwanis Park also has a trail system. This gives you two distinct options for outdoor activity: a trail system running through Spirit Lake and trails in a park. If you’re mainly interested in hiking or biking, the trail system offers a concrete starting point; Kiwanis Park adds a park-focused trail option.

Historic Buildings

The Dickinson County Museum is housed in a 140-year-old depot. The depot shapes the museum’s historical setting: attention is drawn both to the institution and to the building it occupies. Spirit Lake’s original Carnegie Library was dedicated in 1912 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The dedication year and the register listing offer different historical points of reference. The museum highlights the age of the depot building, while the library is distinguished by its specific dedication year and listing. Together, they bring two different architectural aspects of local history into focus.

Plan Your Trip Around Events

The Dickinson County Museum lists a gathering to discuss Dickinson County history on Wednesdays at 10 a.m.; holiday exceptions may apply. If you’d like to plan around this event, check before your visit to confirm it takes place on your travel date. The city’s historical account describes Spirit Lake Days as an annual event held in July. If you’re planning your trip around the festival, check the dates for the relevant year.

Plan Your Stay

The event information differs for planning purposes: the museum gathering is tied to a day of the week and a time, while Spirit Lake Days takes place in July. If you’re planning around either event, confirm the specific date before setting your travel dates. This can be a practical starting point when looking for hotels in Spirit Lake: the reason for your trip first determines the period for which you’ll search for accommodation.

Discover more destinations: Arnolds Park, Okoboji.

Return to the main travel overview: Dickinson County.