College Life on the Lake
Buena Vista University sits along the shores of Storm Lake, Iowa, giving you the best of a close-knit college campus and a welcoming community right outside your door.
From lakeside trails and beaches to local restaurants, shops, recreation, and community events, there's plenty to explore when you're ready to step beyond campus.
Get Outside in Storm Lake
With the lake just steps from campus, outdoor recreation is part of everyday life at BVU. Explore public beaches, city parks, and trails for running, walking, biking, relaxing by the water, or spending time with friends.
Looking for something different? Golf courses, mini golf, and King's Pointe Waterpark Resort are all just minutes from campus.
Discover Student Favorites Around Storm Lake
From coffee before class to dinner with friends, Storm Lake offers plenty of places to eat, shop, and have fun just minutes from BVU.
King's Pointe Waterpark Resort
Enjoy an indoor and outdoor waterpark, lakeside recreation, dining, and more right along Storm Lake.
Historic Downtown Storm Lake
Explore locally owned shops, coffee spots, restaurants, entertainment, and community events in a walkable downtown near campus.
La Juanita
A longtime local favorite for authentic Mexican food, generous portions, and late-night eats.
Storm Lake Bakery
Start your morning with fresh pastries, breads, and locally loved donut holes from this downtown Storm Lake favorite.
Smokin' Hereford BBQ
Dig into smoked meats, burgers, and barbecue at a popular local dining destination.
Storm Lake Candy Co.
Satisfy your sweet tooth with handcrafted chocolates, candy, and treats from this locally owned downtown Storm Lake favorite.
Find Your New Favorite
Storm Lake's diverse dining scene gives you plenty to explore, from coffee shops and casual student favorites to international cuisine, barbecue, breakfast, and more.
Puff's Restaurant
A casual local spot for breakfast, lunch, and classic comfort food.
Coffee Tree
A local coffee shop for your favorite drink, a quick bite, or time with friends.
Lakeshore Cafe
Enjoy a casual local spot serving American favorites like sandwiches, burgers, and steaks.
Veso
Grab coffee, fresh crêpes, and more at this cozy local favorite near campus.
Regatta Grille
Enjoy another local dining option with breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus scenic views of the lake.
Grand Central Coffee Station
Grab coffee, food, and catch up with friends.
Shopping & Entertainment
There's More Beyond Campus
Explore locally owned shops and businesses throughout Storm Lake, catch a movie, grab coffee downtown, or find what you need at nearby retailers.
With campus, downtown, the lake, restaurants, and recreation all close together, it's easy to make Storm Lake feel like home.
Experience the Diversity of Storm Lake
Storm Lake is known for its rich cultural diversity, with people and traditions from around the world shaping the community.
You'll experience that diversity through local restaurants, businesses, celebrations, community organizations, and the people you'll meet throughout your time at BVU.
Lakeside College Experience.
Storm Lake offers the welcoming feel of a close-knit Iowa community with plenty of ways to explore, connect, and make your college experience your own. And with BVU's campus right along the lake, it all starts just outside your residence hall.