Independence, IA

My one and only vacation this summer was to a sleepy little town in Iowa called Independence for a friends wedding.  I knew I would have a wonderful time seeing old friends and spending a few days away from the stresses of everyday life but I had no idea I would fall so in love with this little town.  On our last day Theary and I asked the bride and groom to send us to their favorite restaurant before we had to leave town.  They sent us to Okobojis, the local golf club with a bar and grill.  As we walked up from the parking lot we knew we had stumbled across something special.  Coming from the patio was the sound of an acoustic guitar and the voice of a scruffy long haired musician; the kind that every girl loves.  We were initially seated inside but quickly moved outdoors to hear the music and enjoy the view.  We were seated right on the bank and could see nothing but river in both directions.  As we ate our meal and sipped on screwdrivers and bloody mary's we also waved at kyakers and canoers as they lazily made their way down the river.  I could have sat on that patio for hours, content with life. I was so obsessed with the atmosphere, the food could have been horrible and I wouldn't have minded.  It wasn't, the food was delicious, although I hardly remember what I ate.  The restaurant was a great recommendation, a great meal, great atmosphere in an amazing little town. 

Okoboji Grill 
1749 Golf Course Blvd.
Independence Iowa
319-334-6576