I had heard about the Central Emporium from a handful of coworkers who regularly make Summer trips up to Okoboji. They all said “You have to go here!”. Not knowing what to expect, I originally
I had heard about the Central Emporium from a handful of coworkers who regularly make Summer trips up to Okoboji. They all said “You have to go here!”. Not knowing what to expect, I originally thought it was a single shop, so when we arrived at the parking lot, I was surprised by its massive size.
What is this place?
Walking in, I realized it was a multi-level indoor shopping mall with all locally owned businesses. Everything from candles, clothes, souvenirs and even homemade jams. The style of architecture reminded me of the indoor shops along St. George Street in St. Augustine, Florida. In fact, St. Augustine was where we took our honeymoon, so both my husband and I loved the design.
Throughout the years, the property has had several different owners, but a consensus has remained strong in the community, saving one of the last remaining ballrooms on the Iowa Great Lakes. Built in 1901, the Central Emporium was originally named the Central Pavilion, then after it was expanded in 1926, it was then known as the Central Ballroom Night Club. Hosting such acts as, Louie Armstrong, Count Basie and Glenn Miller, this quickly became a celebrated local gem that put Iowa on Hollywood’s radar.
Ballroom to Shopping Center
Years later in the early 1970s is when the Central Emporium got its name. Okoboji local, Bob Eves, bought the property from his father who was using it as boat storage, began remodeling it, and leasing out store-front space for local businesses. Bob knew a ballroom in today’s climate would not necessarily be successful, so he decided to turn it into a shopping center. This way year-round residents and seasonal tourists could enjoy this preserved piece of Midwest history.
Brad’s Bungalow
Strolling past boutiques and shops, looking through the windows, admiring the surplus of knick-knacks, trinkets and keepsakes, we spent about an hour window shopping. We found a shop where we could buy all our necessities and souvenirs, Brad’s Bungalow. It is listed as a men’s shopping store, but we found a shirt and sunglasses for me, a hat for my husband, and some much needed sunscreen. We also met the owner, Brad, working behind the cash register, then making his way around introducing himself to all the patrons in his shop. We will definitely be back to buy an Iowa Great Lakes map and maybe even a coffee mug. Also, you can find him on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/BradsBungalow/) where he posts monthly specials, and promotes local events.
Refuel before or after shopping
We also loved the convenient access to The Gardens, which is a waterfront bar and grill, hosting a variety of live bands and performances. We will look at The Gardens in our next blog post, but let me leave you here with an invite to the Central Emporium. You’ll get to experience a piece of history, meet local business owners and even grab a quick bite, or enjoy an afternoon lakeside with your friends drinking martinis and margaritas.
Plus, with the large parking lot, you’ll be able to leave your car for the day, venture out along Lake Shore Drive in Arnolds Park, and explore more shopping and sightseeing opportunities within the area. There is a lot to see and do in this small town, so don’t be surprised if you have to make a second and third trip. In fact, we already have next year planned.
Plan your visit
Finally, check out some of the stores on Okoboji’s vacation website (https://vacationokoboji.com/emporium/), virtiually explore the Central Emporium on the Parks Marina’s website (https://www.parksmarina.com/central-emporium/), and find daily specials on their Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/CentralEmporium/).
712-332-5293
144 Lake Shore Dr
Arnolds Park, IA 51331
