Storm Lake

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Storm Lake's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Storm Lake
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing stroll along the Storm Lake waterfront. Grab breakfast at a local café nearby to fuel up for the day.

afternoon
:

Visit the Buena Vista County Historical Museum to learn about the area's rich history. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant offering delicious regional dishes.

evening
:

End your day by watching the sunset over the lake, capturing beautiful photos. Dine at a lakeside restaurant for a relaxing evening meal.

day 2
Active Adventure
morning
:

Set out to explore the area's natural beauty at the Storm Lake State Park. Have a hearty breakfast packed with protein to energize your hike.

afternoon
:

Enjoy an afternoon of birdwatching and nature photography in the park. Look for picnic spots to enjoy a packed lunch amidst the scenery.

evening
:

Return to the town for a cozy dinner at an eatery known for its farm-to-table options. Relax with a book at a local café to cap off the day.

day 3
Food Fiesta
morning
:

Savor a great breakfast at a popular diner, known for its delicious options. Try something local like a breakfast burrito.

afternoon
:

Join a food tour of Storm Lake, sampling different local specialties along the way. Take a break for a light lunch at a trendy café.

evening
:

Visit a restaurant for a fine dinner, followed by dessert from a local bakery. Experience live music at a nearby venue to complete your culinary journey.

day 4
Fishing Fun
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel or a nearby eatery. Gather your fishing gear for a day on Storm Lake.

afternoon
:

Spend the day fishing at your chosen spots around the lake. Enjoy a packed lunch by the water while you wait for a catch.

evening
:

Return from fishing and prepare a delicious dinner with your catches at a family-friendly venue. Share tales of the day with fellow anglers over dessert.

day 5
Shopping Spree
morning
:

Begin your day with a calming breakfast at a local spot. Then head out to explore the unique shops in Storm Lake.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a quaint café while perusing local art galleries. Consider picking up a souvenir or unique crafts from the shops.

evening
:

Spend some time at a cozy pub for dinner, where you can chat about your shopping finds. Unwind with a nightcap or dessert before heading back to your lodging.

day 6
Arts and Culture
morning
:

Start with breakfast at home or a nearby café. Plan a trip to the local zoo or family park for a fun-filled morning.

afternoon
:

Picnic lunch in the park, followed by games and activities. Enjoy everything from swings to nature trails with your loved ones.

evening
:

End your family day with a casual dining experience at a pizzeria. Share stories and enjoy some quality ice cream to cap off the night.

day 7
Stargazing Night
morning
:

Start with a hearty breakfast to prepare for a day of exploration. Consider a visit to a telescope observatory or astronomy center.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon hiking to nearby hills or fields ideal for stargazing spots. Take a packed lunch to enjoy while you plan your evening.

evening
:

Gather your family and friends for an evening under the stars with telescopes. Enjoy hot beverages and snacks while stargazing and learning about constellations.

day 8
Lake Cruise
morning
:

After breakfast, take a leisurely walk along the lake to soak in the sights. Prepare for a relaxing cruise on Storm Lake's waters.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch on board or at a lakeside picnic area. Spend the day floating, swimming, and soaking up the sun.

evening
:

Finish your cruise with a sunset experience on the water. Head to a nearby restaurant for dinner to discuss the day's highlights.

Discover Storm Lake

Read more in our Storm Lake 2024 Travel Guide.

Storm Lake Travel Guide