The Vision
A Destination Designed to Build People
The Okoboji Glacier is being developed as a year-round destination where hospitality, tourism, recreation, events, food, lodging, and entertainment also serve as a training platform for young people.
The Big Idea
More Than a Destination
The Okoboji Glacier is being developed as a year-round destination where hospitality, tourism, recreation, events, food, lodging, and entertainment also serve as a training platform for young people.
It is not just a resort, sports facility, hotel, restaurant, or entertainment venue. It is a live hospitality and tourism learning environment designed to strengthen Okoboji's visitor economy and build the next generation of service, leadership, and tourism talent.
The Region
Why Okoboji
The Iowa Great Lakes region has a deep hospitality heritage and a growing need for year-round talent and activity.
Hospitality Is the Region's Identity
The Iowa Great Lakes — including Spirit Lake, Okoboji, Arnolds Park, Milford, and surrounding communities — with seven lakes and major attractions serving as the primary visitor draw.
Tourism Drives Regional Activity
Tourism is the economic engine of the region, creating jobs, supporting businesses, and bringing families together year-round.
Stronger Year-Round Capacity Needed
The area needs stronger year-round workforce capacity to sustain and grow the visitor economy beyond peak summer periods.
Opportunity at Home
A destination-based academy gives students a reason to see opportunity at home — building careers without leaving the community.
Strategic Location
Site Advantage
The planned Milford gateway location sits near U.S. Highway 71 and Iowa Highway 86, connecting the project to Okoboji, Arnolds Park, Spirit Lake, and broader regional feeder markets.
Milford Gateway Location
Southern gateway entrance into the Iowa Great Lakes destination area, positioned at the northwest quadrant of U.S. Highway 71 and Iowa Highway 86.