This is a neat Studio that specializes in the stunning local photos of David Thoreson. It is…read morelocated in Arnolds Park, across the street from the Central Emporium. David is also an Adventure Sailor, writer and educator. David recently completed a sailing trip in the Arctic that focused on the issue of climate change. See www.bluewaterstudios.com

The last of 2 reviews for the Pearson Lakes Art Center (PLAC) was 10 years ago? This place is a…read morereal treasure, and this place has always been on my "must go" list when I'm visiting the Iowa Great Lakes. It's located right next to the Okoboji Summer Theatre, with its impressive building sitting on a nice piece of land with a pretty northern view. Gayle and I are members, even though we live way out here in Genoa Nevada. Gayle and I fell in love with the Iowa Art shown here years ago, and as we've contacted some of the artists (particularly Hank Hall and Daniel Ruf), we've grown to deeply appreciate the imagination, professional skill, and great friendships coming from their work. PLAC is a well-regarded anchor for these regional artistic endeavors, via their gift shop, annual auction, and specific exhibits. On the main floor, PLAC has a nice gift shop and a couple nice galleries. The front one changes themes fairly frequently, while the one in the back has featured Russian impressionism for at least the last few years. There's another gallery downstairs and a hallway that features the work of local artists. If I lived in the area more regularly, PLAC offers classes, children's programs, and a fairly impressive live entertainment calendar.

My sister is an artist, so I knew we had to head out and check this one. Very lovely permanent…read morecollection...as well as lovely local artist collections. It was a beautiful building, had friendly staff, and was free when we went!! (Thursdays!) Great way to add a bit of culture to a stay at the lake.

Gayle and I happily returned to A Piece of Work this summer. The place looks a little more filled…read moreout and there were plenty of new items that caught my attention. I ended up with a really nice forged metal frame, another piece of Bogenrief glass, and a handsome money clip piece from Bladesmith. There were also a few bonuses this year. We were here for the 1st Friday Art Walk and then a week later the place was happy busy during Spirit Lake Days. I also got to meet Perry Polson (handsome wood pieces) and Dan Ruf (photography) and chat about their work. Of course the biggest plus abut A Piece of Work is finding so much great art at a fraction of California prices.

Don't forget the dessert !!!!!! Great location along with…read moreoutdoor seating . Check their calendar! Live music Excellent wine list Local art work / photography with some great stories!

It was late afternoon, and after a scheduled meet-up with an old High School friend went South,…read moreGayle suggested we hop in the car and enjoy a beer together at West O. I had already made my annual pilgrimage to West O the day before, and suggested something more to her liking - Wine. Since my last visit the Wine Bar and Art Gallery, the space has expanded into David Thoreson's Blue Water Studio. David actually owns the entire building and if you look behind the door in what I call the "Livingroom" addition, you'll see that his work space is alive and well. There's also an upstairs, but I have no idea what David has going on up there. As this is the 25th Anniversary of Blue Water Studios and the Wine Bar, all the art work on the walls is David Thoreson's, and what a stunning collection it is! Gayle and I hung out, enjoyed a couple glasses of wine, and wished we were here during the weekend to hear their live music offerings (played outside on the patio). Gayle and I were impressed with the wine selection, generous pours, and at a reasonable price, in addition to the comfortable space to enjoy them. And as much as I love West O, this was the right place for us to hang out and spend some time together.

When I visit a resort area, there's a certain schlock factor that I come to expect within the more…read moretouristy portions. Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco is a prime example and to a point where I simply won't go unless an out-of-town guest really insists. The Iowa Great Lakes isn't San Francisco, but for this Iowa Boy, it's a World Away that is close enough. As such, you'll find me here every Summer with my Family in tow enjoying another Blue Water adventure. As for shopping, I start with my favourite galleries - Bogenrief Glass in Spencer and Art on 16th and A Piece of Work in Spirit Lake. Arnold's Park and the more touristy shopping at the Central Emporium and the Queens Court come later and are covered quickly. World's Away is a notable exception to the model. It's clothing, art, and antiques makes this store a classy island within this sometimes schlocky sea.

This was a really cool find in Arnolds Park! It's a museum full of old currency (money) from the…read morelate 1800s and on. It features lots of old money from different Iowa towns and cities of course, but has currency and change from every state as well. The museum curator (who is from Wisconsin) is also incredibly knowledgeable and helpful as well. He was very friendly and honestly, made the museum experience for us an unforgettable one. Definitely check this out! And it's for the low, low price of FREE to experience as well, though a donation would be nice of course.

Money, Money, Money - Must Be Funny - In the Rich Man's World…read more... The Higgins Museum is a quirky place that I didn't expect to find in the middle of the Iowa Great Lakes Region. It's been on my list for a few years now, and during one of my Gayle-permitted "wandering" times, I decided to stop in and look around. And since my grandfather's bank failed during the Great Depression, this was another personal historical journey that I sometimes like to take. What's inside is the chance to view and enjoy the largest collection of National Bank Note issues on permanent exhibit anywhere in the country. The Higgins Museum opened in 1978, with its stated purpose being the acquisition, preservation and display of the National Bank Notes. There's also a few cool historical displays including a money making machine, a bank teller window and vault, and a bullet safe. Many people regard these notes as America's commemorative paper money. The Landing of Columbus, the embarkation of the Pilgrims, the signing of the Declaration of Independence and other great events of our history are illustrated on the notes of the first charter period. All of the notes honor the towns (including one for Estherville), the banks, and many thousands of individuals who played key roles in the development of our country and its resources.

This is such a cute little museum, honestly I didn't read about the stuff, I should have, but I…read morewas there to ride the slide. It's amazing the fun amusement park stuff that they've kept over the years. The slide was so fun. I could have done that all day. I was a giggling mess by the time I made it down. Climbing the stairs was killer, but worth it. the had free admission during winter games. I'm so glad I stopped in to check it out.

My Son specifically asked to come here during our Summer 2013 visit to Arnold's Park. The Museum is…read morepretty cool as various Iowa Bands are featured, and there are neat mock ups of former recording studios and the old Fox Lake Ballroom in Sherburn. I also have a friend whose Husband a member of Sticks and Stones, who were inducted in the Iowa Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011. Then there are the fond memories of Head East and the Rumbles... Admission is $1 each and well worth the time to wander though this fun and educational slice of Iowa music history. The Kids Are Alright!