Planning our trip to Okoboji meant finding a place to stay for three nights. And not wanting to stay at a well-known hotel chain, as always, we opted to support local. Therefore, when I found
Planning our trip to Okoboji meant finding a place to stay for three nights. And not wanting to stay at a well-known hotel chain, as always, we opted to support local. Therefore, when I found Vintage Block Inn and Suites, I knew this was the place.
Location, location, location!
Located half a block from the East Lake Okoboji boat access, this quaint Inn is relatively close to many attractions. In fact, looking at the map of the Okoboji area I initially thought we would have to drive half an hour to restaurants and museums, but we were pleasantly surprised. The commute to surrounding businesses was no more than ten minutes, if that.
First Impressions
When we first arrived, it was as if we were driving into a lakehouse cul-de-sac. Pieces of driftwood were strategically placed throughout the property, giving it a rustic feel. And true to its name, it felt very vintage with the layout of the rooms. Reminiscing on roadside hotels from the 1970s, every room is accessible from the sidewalk. Direct access to fresh air reinforced the cabin-like feel of this nostalgic getaway, and I actually prefer this, since we are not being led down a dreary hallway lined with musty smells and loud wallpaper.
In fact, upon entering our room we were greeted by beautifully large painted flowers on the adjacent wall and an actual working antique-looking telephone! Outside each room are wood tables with checker-boards etched on the surface, along with a mason jar full game chips so you can enjoy a morning or afternoon unplugging from your device and play a board game.
It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood
Inviting you to leave your electronics behind are more outdoor activities within the center courtyard. Including cornhole boards, there is a community pool, and even fire pits where you can socialize with your neighbors beneath a canopy of outdoor patio lighting.
We saw many parents with children here, and this secluded oasis, with a secure environment hidden away from high traffic zones, meant kids of all ages could safely and freely run around. This would be a perfect vacation spot to bring your kids, especially after a long day of sightseeing, where they can unwind, sit by the fire, swim in the pool, and even ride along on one of the many Surrey bicycles.
Planning our return
When we plan our return, we will definitely be staying here again. Not only are we supporting a local business, but we will also be giving back to the community, since many of the employees are young, friendly and bright college kids working over their Summer break.
Finally, check out their facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/vintageblockinn) and their website (https://vintageblockinnandsuites.com/). Like most people, I love when businesses promote other local establishments, and that is exactly what Vintage Block Inn and Suites does here. When you make your way to their website, check out the Attractions tab, and you’ll find a list of local restaurants and shops to visit. This will, undoubtedly, be our guide to next year’s visit, this way we won’t miss out on all the fun.
712-332-8040
1107 Sanborn Ave
Okoboji, Iowa 51355
