An Iowa summer is the perfect time to go exploring, and there are no shortages of unique dining destinations around the state. But if you want to get the most out of these warm, long days, why not visit some of the restaurants that are ONLY open during this time of year? Some are in popular summer vacation towns, others have outdoor seating, and others know their treats are mostly wanted during the warmer months. But whatever the reason, the clock is ticking – so enjoy these restaurants before the fall hits and time runs out for this year!
- PM Park (Clear Lake)
PM Park/Facebook This century-old lakeside institution opens up around May every year, and is known for its rustic picnic-style outdoor seating!
The menu features old diner and picnic favorites - including a massive pork tenderloin sandwich that can stand up to the state’s best.
Cris B/TripAdvisoe
- Dari Barn (Grinnell)
Dari Barn LLC/Facebook A seasonal ice cream and lunch counter, the small-town favorite opens for the season every spring and greets you with its cow mascots.
The light lunch menu has a popular selection of sandwiches and salads, which are just enough to whet your appetite for…
Dari Barn LLC/Facebook
A wide menu of desserts and ice creams, each more indulgent than the last. Can’t choose between soft-serve flavors? Why not try a swirl?
Dari Barn LLC/Facebook
- Maxwell’s Beach Cafe (Arnolds Park)
Maxwell’s Beach Cafe/Facebook This old-school lakeside restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating and is an incredible place to watch the summer sunset.
Unlike most beachside restaurants, this is a fine-dining location - featuring some of the state’s best seafood and pasta dishes.
Maxwell’s Beach Cafe/Facebook
- Barefoot Bar at Okoboji (Okoboji)
The Barefoot Bar at Okoboji/Facebook Less a restaurant than a never-ending party, this bar and grill opens every spring and is packed with music-loving beach-goers.
The small but delicious menu features old boardwalk favorites - including a plate of nachos that will rival your childhood favorites.
The Barefoot Bar at Okoboji/Facebook
Have you been to any of these seasonal restaurants this or any other summer? Let us know your favorite summer dining spots in the comments section! If you’re looking for another one-of-a-kind summer adventure, check out this floating restaurant.
PM Park/Facebook
This century-old lakeside institution opens up around May every year, and is known for its rustic picnic-style outdoor seating!
Cris B/TripAdvisoe
Dari Barn LLC/Facebook
A seasonal ice cream and lunch counter, the small-town favorite opens for the season every spring and greets you with its cow mascots.
Maxwell’s Beach Cafe/Facebook
This old-school lakeside restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating and is an incredible place to watch the summer sunset.
The Barefoot Bar at Okoboji/Facebook
Less a restaurant than a never-ending party, this bar and grill opens every spring and is packed with music-loving beach-goers.
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Address: PM Park, 15297 Raney Dr, Clear Lake, IA 50428, USAAddress: Maxwell’s Beach Cafe, Cafe, 37 Lake Street, Arnolds Park, IA 51331, USAAddress: Dari Barn, 1810 6th Ave, Grinnell, IA 50112, USAAddress: The Barefoot Bar at Okoboji, 24457 Stake Out Road, Okoboji, IA 51355, USA
