Swimming, boating, and shore picnics are tops for CountryHome Food Editor Lisa Holderness when visiting Iowa’s Lake Okoboji in the northwest part of the state, but she also has some ritual stops around town worth sharing.

Sailing Regatta
Watch this serene early-morning tradition from the docks with a hot cup of coffee. Learn to sail yourself with lessons from the Okoboji Yacht Club, which also organizes the regattas. South Manhattan Beach, 712/337-0121;
www.o-y-c.org

Arnolds Park
Kids measure themselves annually, hoping for the rite of passage (at least 36 inches) on the Legend, a wooden roller coaster built in 1927. Arnolds Park is said to be the oldest amusement park west of the Mississippi River. Camp out for a cool evening on the Green Space, where weekend concerts are regularly performed. And no visit to Arnolds Park is complete without a stop at the Nutty Bar stand across the way in the Queens Court Shops. A Nutty Bar consists of a block of ice cream on a stick, dipped in chocolate and nuts. Other ice- cream treats available. Arnolds Park, Hwy. 71 and Lake St., 712/332-2183; www.arnoldspark.com; Nutty Bar, 37 Lake St., 712/332-2243

O'Farrell Sisters
For as long as Lisa can remember, the O’Farrell Sisters has been the place for fluffy buttermilk pancakes, homemade pies (never sold before 11 a.m!), and a jam-packed waiting room. 1109 Lakeshore Dr., 712/332-7901

Arnold's Perk
This old general store-turned-coffee shop is within walking distance of Arnolds Park, lots of area shops, and the lake. While adults appreciate the organically grown coffee, the frosted cinnamon rolls and fruit smoothies are hits with all ages. 140 W. Broadway; 712/332-6232

Queen II
At one time, large paddleboats were the main transportation to cottages and resorts around the lake. Today, a 90-minute spin on the regal Queen II comes with tasty concessions and a history lesson from the captain. Trips depart several times daily. 37 Lake St., 712/332-2183

Additional Favorites

Browse the annual flea markets at Vick’s Corner World on Memorial Day, the 4th of July, and Labor Day. Jct. Hwy. 9 & 86, 712/336-5602; www.vickscorner.com

Stay at The Wild Rose Inn for its classic furnishings, lush grounds, and a can’t-miss breakfast (great for reunions and weddings). 2315 170th St., 877/855-7673; www.wildroseresort.com

Cruise along the many miles of scenic bike trails in the area after a gear stop (and a cup of coffee) at the Okoboji Expedition Co. Ask about the annual family-friendly bike rides around Okoboji and Spirit Lakes while you’re there. 1021 Hwy. 71 S., 712/332-9001; www.expeditionco.com

Settle in at The Inn at Okoboji, a lakeside institution since 1896. Pack a picnic from the Stars and Stripes Café, rent a boat from the front desk, and spend a relaxing day afloat. 3301 Lakeshore Dr., 877/265-4386; www.bojifun.com 

The Barn Swallow shop is full of local flavor and features an array of gifts as unique and quirky as their charming home-style store. 1212 Hwy. 71 N., 712/332-7752

The Central Emporium, housed in an old shoreside building, hosts a multitude of souvenir and gift shops, as well as savory restaurants that offer great lake views. 144 Lake Shore Dr., 712/332-5293

Located next to the renowned Roof Gardens Ballroom, the Iowa RockNRoll Music Association Museum boasts a collection of Iowa rock memorabilia from The Everly Brothers, Brenda Lee, and more. 91 Lake St., 712/332-6540; www.iowarocknroll.com

Sail through the collection of nautical wares at the Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum. It highlights the history of the lakes region through photos and artifacts, including antique and classic wooden boats, an old boathouse, a replica of the former landmark store, period swimming suits, vintage amusement-park items, and a 1939 Chris-Craft boat that was raised after 50 years in the depths of West Okoboji Lake. 243 W. Broadway St., 712/332-5264