Queen II Excursion Boat Arnolds Park Iowa - Image 1
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Queen II Excursion Boat Arnolds Park Iowa

4.7
·61 reviews·Arnolds Park, United States

Cruise the serene waters of Lake Okoboji aboard the Queen II, enjoying scenic views and local history.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Friday afternoons

Relaxing end to the week

CrowdMedium
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Queen II Excursion Boat Arnolds Park Iowa - Image 1

Queen II Excursion Boat Arnolds Park Iowa

Best Time

Friday afternoons

Relaxing end to the week

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Cruise the serene waters of Lake Okoboji aboard the Queen II, enjoying scenic views and local history.

4.7
(61 reviews)

"A very relaxing trip on the Queen II on the lake at Okoboji, on a Friday afternoon in early August."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance

Secure your spot, especially for popular evening or weekend tours. Senior discounts are available!

🌅 Chase the Sunset

Evening cruises offer stunning sunset views over Lake Okoboji. Don't miss this romantic experience!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Lake Tour

Scenic Lake Tour

Lake Okoboji

Cruise the beautiful waters of Lake Okoboji, admiring extravagant lake houses and learning local history.

Sunset Cruise

Sunset Cruise

Lake Okoboji

Experience a breathtaking Okoboji sunset from the water, a truly magical and romantic setting.

Brunch on the Water

Brunch on the Water

Lake Okoboji

Enjoy a delightful brunch experience aboard the Queen II, complete with drinks and good company.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Lake Okoboji Cruise

Secure your spot on the Queen II for a scenic tour of Lake Okoboji. Advance booking is recommended, especially for evening or weekend cruises, to ensure availability. Consider the weather when choosing your deck.

Embrace the Lake Life Vibe

The Queen II offers a relaxing escape, perfect for soaking in the beauty of Lake Okoboji and its stunning homes. It's a great way to experience the local charm, especially during the week when crowds might be thinner.

Best Times

When
Friday afternoons
Why
Relaxing end to the week
Crowd
Medium
When
Evening cruises
Why
Magical sunset views
Crowd
High
When
Midweek
Why
Quieter, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dinner in the Sky 🎡 #fyp #arnoldspark #lakeokoboji #arnoldsparkamusementpark #dinnerinthesky #okoboji #iowa
@arnoldsparkamusementpark
12.5K likes • 139K views

🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance

Secure your spot, especially for popular evening or weekend tours. Senior discounts are available! Reddit

🌅 Chase the Sunset

Evening cruises offer stunning sunset views over Lake Okoboji. Don't miss this romantic experience! Instagram+1

The ride that started it all! #fyp #arnoldspark #amusementpark #arnoldsparkamusementpark #History #lakeokoboji #okoboji
@arnoldsparkamusementpark
1.4K likes • 10.7K views
A pirate and mermaid walk into a boat...We returned to the scene of the crime! Dry run tonight @ the park for opening day tomorrow! We married here end of last season on 2 weeks notice-and they said it wouldn’t last! Side note: I cut my own bangs on the way out the door. Again. Sorry @cherielp . . wElCoMe tO oZ: lAkE eDiTiOn. 📸 @theamazingtechnicolorfarmhouse #theamazingtechnicolorlakehouse...
thewonderfulwhimsical0z
210 likes • 0 views

🥂 Enjoy Onboard Drinks

The Queen II offers a selection of drinks, including cocktails, beer, wine, sodas, and water. InstagramReddit

🎦 Learn Lake History

The hour-long cruise provides interesting historical facts about the lake and surrounding areas. Reddit

What a night! Beautiful evening to set sail on the QUEEN! 👑 celebrating Sarah and Brian….tonight’s gonna be a good night! @arnolds_park @piratejacksokoboji #okoboji #sunset #Queen
flipgirl12
66 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance

Secure your spot, especially for popular evening or weekend tours. Senior discounts are available! Reddit

🌅 Chase the Sunset

Evening cruises offer stunning sunset views over Lake Okoboji. Don't miss this romantic experience! Instagram+1

🥂 Enjoy Onboard Drinks

The Queen II offers a selection of drinks, including cocktails, beer, wine, sodas, and water. InstagramReddit

🎦 Learn Lake History

The hour-long cruise provides interesting historical facts about the lake and surrounding areas. Reddit

☀️ Upper Deck Views

Opt for the open-air upper deck for unobstructed views and fresh lake breezes. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(61 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Queen II for its relaxing and scenic tours of Lake Okoboji, highlighting the beautiful lake houses and interesting historical commentary. Many enjoy the sunset cruises and the onboard bar service, finding it a pleasant way to spend an hour. Some note that onboard concessions can be a bit pricey.

"Very chill, relaxing boat ride. Gives you a nice scenic tour along Lake Okoboji. It’s fun to look out the window and imagine living in all of the extravagant lake houses that you’ll never get to own. Very nice, would recommend giving it a go. 😊🙌"

Barb W

"Had a very relaxing trip on the Queen II on the lake at Okoboji, on a Friday afternoon in early August. Bought a bag of popcorn and a bottle of water on the boat. That was $6. The ticket for the boat was a couple dollars off for being a senior. That was appreciated. Normally it's $19.95.

The chairs you sit in move around...they aren't bolted down, but the ride is smooth enough that they don't move. It is when you sit down that they can move a bit.

The lake is beautiful, and the homes you see all around them are amazing. Some of them landscaped around their boat docks with stone, bricks, fencing, flowers, trees, seating areas, etc. Wouldn't it be nice to live in one of those!

They give you a lot of information on the tour about the areas you are seeing, and the history. It was extremely interesting. I believe the tour was an hour long."

Lori Munhall

"The Queen II was a fun evening activity for our group of 15 while spending the week on Lake Okoboji.

We got tickets in advance for the 7pm tour of the lake.
The boat has an enclosed lower deck and an open air upper deck with lots of seating in both spaces.
They sell snacks (chips, popcorn) and drinks (sodas, water, beer, wine, and cocktails).

The hour long cruise is a fun way to learn about the lake’s history."

Matt & Kiersten

What People Like

Relaxing scenic tours
Beautiful lake house views
Sunset cruises

What People Dislike

Onboard concession prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Queen II is located at Arnolds Park Amusement Park in Okoboji, Iowa. Parking is available at the amusement park. Many visitors arrive by car, and it's a popular destination within the Okoboji area. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available at Arnolds Park Amusement Park, where the Queen II is docked. It's convenient for boarding the boat. TikTok

Depending on your accommodation, it may be possible to walk to the Queen II, especially if you are staying at a resort or hotel within Arnolds Park or close to the amusement park area. Reddit

Arnolds Park is accessible by car via local highways. If you're coming from a nearby town, driving is the most common and convenient method. TikTok

Public transportation options directly to Arnolds Park are limited. It's primarily a destination reached by private vehicle. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Standard tickets are around $19.95, but discounts are often available for seniors. It's always a good idea to check for current pricing and potential deals. Reddit

Yes, it's highly recommended to buy tickets in advance online, especially for popular times like evening cruises or weekend tours, to guarantee your spot. Instagram

Yes, senior discounts are typically offered. It's best to inquire about specific pricing for children and other age groups when booking. Reddit

The scenic tour on the Queen II typically lasts for one hour, providing ample time to enjoy the lake and learn about its history. Reddit

Policies can vary, but typically if a cruise is canceled due to weather, you may be offered a reschedule or a refund. It's advisable to check the specific cancellation policy when booking. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Queen II features both an enclosed lower deck and an open-air upper deck with plenty of seating. The chairs on the lower deck are not bolted down but are stable enough for the smooth ride. Reddit

You'll get beautiful views of Lake Okoboji, including extravagant lake houses, scenic shorelines, and the surrounding natural beauty. Reddit

The ride on the Queen II is generally smooth, making it a relaxing experience for most passengers. Reddit

Absolutely! The Queen II is a fantastic spot for photography, especially during sunset cruises. Capture the stunning lake views and memorable moments. Instagram+1

Yes, the Queen II has been a venue for weddings and other private events, offering a unique and memorable setting on the water. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, snacks like popcorn and chips, as well as a variety of drinks including sodas, water, beer, wine, and cocktails, are available for purchase on board. InstagramReddit

Prices for snacks and drinks can add up. For example, a bag of popcorn and a bottle of water might cost around $6. Reddit

Typically, bringing outside food and beverages is not permitted. It's best to purchase items from the onboard concessions. Reddit

Arnolds Park Amusement Park offers various dining options, including Pirate Jack's Okoboji, which is mentioned in relation to the Queen II. Instagram

Yes, special brunch cruises are offered on the Queen II, often in collaboration with local businesses or for specific events. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Evening cruises, especially during sunset, offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. The golden hour light is stunning. Instagram+1

You can capture picturesque lake views, the unique architecture of the lake houses, the boat itself, and the surrounding natural scenery. Reddit

Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography. However, always be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography. TikTok

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both wide lake vistas and details of the houses. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is also great for sunset shots. Instagram

Yes, the Queen II is a picturesque vessel, and you can often get great shots of it from various points along the shoreline of Lake Okoboji, especially near Arnolds Park. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Queen II offers a gentle and engaging experience for families. The one-hour cruise provides a chance for kids to see the lake and learn a bit of history without getting bored. Reddit The open-air upper deck is great for them to move around a bit and enjoy the breeze. Reddit

Combine your Queen II cruise with a visit to Arnolds Park Amusement Park for a full day of family fun. The park has rides and attractions suitable for various ages, ensuring entertainment for everyone. TikTok Consider packing some snacks or purchasing them onboard, but be aware of the costs. Reddit

💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways

An evening cruise on the Queen II is perfect for a romantic outing. Watching the sunset over Lake Okoboji from the deck creates a magical and memorable atmosphere. Instagram+1 The gentle rocking of the boat and the beautiful scenery provide a serene backdrop for conversation and connection. Reddit

Consider booking a special brunch cruise for a delightful daytime romantic experience. Instagram The onboard bar also offers cocktails, adding a touch of indulgence to your outing. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While the Queen II cruise has a standard ticket price, look out for senior discounts to save a few dollars. Reddit Bringing your own water bottle and perhaps a small snack from outside (if permitted, check policy) could help manage onboard purchase costs, which can add up. Reddit

Visiting during the midweek can offer a more relaxed experience and potentially fewer crowds, which can enhance the overall value of your visit. Reddit Exploring the free aspects of Arnolds Park, like walking around or enjoying the beach area, can also be budget-friendly. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Arnolds Park and the Queen II

Arnolds Park Amusement Park, home to the Queen II, boasts a rich history dating back to 1889. It's one of the oldest amusement parks in the Midwest, founded by Wesley B. Arnold. The park's iconic 'Shoot to Shoot' waterslide, a 60-foot toboggan-style slide, was one of its earliest attractions, highlighting a spirit of innovation and fun from its inception. TikTok+1

The Queen II itself is a key part of the park's modern appeal, offering a more relaxed yet equally engaging experience. It provides scenic tours of Lake Okoboji, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty and the opulent lakeside residences. The boat has also become a popular venue for special events, including weddings, adding another layer to its significance in the community's memories. InstagramReddit

This blend of historical charm and contemporary enjoyment makes Arnolds Park and the Queen II a cherished destination. It's a place where generational traditions are built, and new memories are continuously created, reflecting the enduring appeal of lakeside recreation and amusement. TikTok

Experiencing Lake Okoboji: Beyond the Queen II

Lake Okoboji is a vibrant destination offering more than just boat tours. The surrounding area is dotted with numerous extravagant lake houses, showcasing impressive architecture and landscaping, which are a highlight for many visitors on the Queen II cruise. Reddit The lake itself is a hub for various water activities, from swimming and boating to fishing. TikTok

Arnolds Park Amusement Park provides a classic amusement park experience with rides, games, and live entertainment, especially during peak seasons like the 4th of July. TikTok Visitors can enjoy roller coasters, arcade games, and live music on the Preservation Plaza, creating a lively atmosphere. TikTok For those seeking a more laid-back experience, the park also offers beach access, allowing for relaxation by the water. TikTok

Whether you're looking for thrills at the amusement park, a peaceful cruise on the Queen II, or simply want to enjoy the beauty of the lake, Okoboji offers a diverse range of activities. The midweek vibe is noted as being more relaxed, making it an ideal time for a quieter visit. Reddit