Clear Lake, Iowa: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you thinking about a Midwest getaway and wondering what to do in Clear Lake, Iowa? This charming town by the lake has lots to offer. It has attractions and activities for all kinds of interests. From water adventures to exploring music history, there's something for everyone.

Clear Lake is famous for its 3,684-acre natural lake. It's perfect for fishing, sailing, or just swimming. After enjoying the lake, check out the town's food scene, beautiful gardens, or the Surf Ballroom's history.

So, what are you waiting for? Get your bags ready for the best of Clear Lake. Let's explore the hidden spots that make this place a must-see.

Key Takeaways

• Clear Lake, Iowa offers a diverse array of top attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.
• The town's stunning 3,684-acre natural lake provides a prime destination for water sports, fishing, sailing, and more.
• Visitors can explore the town's rich music history, discover its beautiful public gardens, and indulge in the local culinary scene.
• Clear Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a Midwestern getaway with a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration.
• The town's vibrant community and well-preserved natural beauty make it a truly unique and enjoyable vacation spot.

Water Activities Around Clear Lake

Clear Lake, Iowa, is famous for its wide range of water activities. It's perfect for everyone, from serious anglers to those just looking for a cool swim. This beautiful spot in the Midwest has lots to offer for outdoor fun.

Fishing

Clear Lake is a top spot for fishing, with a 3,684-acre lake full of fish like walleye and bass. Thanks to a $9 million dredging project, the water is now better for fish and fishing. Visitors can fish from public spots and get help from local guides to improve their fishing trips.

Swimming

Clear Lake has great spots for swimming and water fun. You can swim at public beaches like the Clear Lake City Beach and the Clear Lake State Park Beach. For swimming all year, the Clear Lake Aquatic Center has a pool with slides and diving boards. The Boyer Pool offers a heated indoor pool for swimmers.

Sailing

Clear Lake is a top spot for sailing in the Midwest, with its big size and steady winds. The Clear Lake Yacht Club, started in 1935, supports both fun and competitive sailing. The club has fleets for different ages and hosts regattas all summer. They also teach sailing and racing skills.

Boating & Watersports

Clear Lake is great for boating and watersports too. You can powerboat, waterski, or wakeboard here. Rent boats at local marinas and launch them at public spots. Clear Lake State Park is a key place for boating, with a boat ramp and docks.

Explore Central Gardens of North Iowa

Just blocks from downtown Clear Lake, Iowa, is the magical Central Gardens of North Iowa. This free public garden covers nearly 3 acres. It's a place where you can enjoy themed gardens, water features, and even meet chickens in the Happy Hen House.

This garden is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. It offers a peaceful escape from daily life. As you walk through, you'll find over 20 themed areas, each with its own charm. You'll see the Bee Happy Discovery Garden and hear the soothing sounds of water.

The Central Gardens of North Iowa is alive with events all year. You can enjoy live music, line dancing, and more. These activities celebrate the garden's natural beauty.

Looking for a peaceful spot, a fun family outing, or a nature connection? The Central Gardens of North Iowa is perfect. With its beautiful landscapes and free entry, it's a top spot in Clear Lake.

Relive Music History at the Surf Ballroom

The Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa, is a key spot in music history. It was where Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson played their last show before a tragic event in 1959. This event is known as the "Winter Dance Party" tragedy.

Museum and Tour

At the Surf Ballroom, you can dive into its history with the museum. The museum shows a short film about the night before the tragedy. It also has artifacts and memorabilia from the stars. Plus, you can take a tour to learn more about the venue's design and the famous green room.

Live Music Concerts

The Surf Ballroom still hosts live music concerts and events. It has a wide range of acts all year, from tribute bands to modern artists. This keeps its status as a top music spot in Clear Lake. Going to a concert here lets you feel the venue's musical history and make new memories.

"The Surf Ballroom is a living testament to the power of music and its ability to bring people together, even in the face of tragedy."

If you love music, history, or unique cultural spots, the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake is a must-see. It lets you experience the rock 'n' roll days and pay tribute to the artists who performed there.

Dine at Local Favorites

Clear Lake, Iowa, is known for its vibrant food scene. It has many local places to eat that show off the town's unique tastes. You can find everything from authentic Mexican food to homemade soups and desserts.

The Other Place is a local gem with 11 locations in Iowa and Kansas. It's famous for its made-from-scratch menu and daily lunch specials. If you love Mexican food, Avion Azul at the Mason City Municipal Airport is a must-visit. They serve authentic dishes like tableside guacamole and specialty margaritas.

For a laid-back dining spot, head to Starboard Market. It's loved for its homemade soups, salads, and desserts. Open from spring to early fall, it also hosts special events to celebrate local flavors.

Looking for a hearty American meal, a spicy Mexican feast, or a cozy spot to eat? Clear Lake's local dining scene has it all.

Take a Lady of the Lake Cruise

One of the best ways to see Clear Lake is by taking a cruise on the Lady of the Lake. This 90-minute cruise gives you a unique view of the 14-mile-long lake. The captain shares stories about the town and its history.

Guests can enjoy the beautiful views from the open-air top deck. You can also buy snacks, drinks, and cocktails from the onboard cash bar. The Lady of the Lake Cruise runs in the summer, offering a relaxing way to see Clear Lake from the water.

The Lady of the Lake also hosts private events and has a dockside night with live music and drink specials every Wednesday in the summer.

"The Lady of the Lake cruise was the highlight of our trip to Clear Lake. We loved seeing the town from the water and learning about the history and local landmarks from the knowledgeable captain."

If you're looking for a sightseeing adventure or a relaxing Clear Lake boat tour, the Lady of the Lake cruise is perfect. Don't miss this chance to see the lake from a unique view and make lasting memories of your Clear Lake sightseeing and Clear Lake water activities.

Visit the Buddy Holly Memorial Crash Site

Just outside of Clear Lake, Iowa, you can visit the Buddy Holly Memorial Crash Site. This spot marks where the singer's plane crashed in 1959, taking his life and others with him. Visitors can see oversized Buddy Holly-style glasses and walk a quarter-mile to the crash site and memorial.

This place is a somber tribute to the famous musicians who died there. It's a way to remember the impact they had on music. The crash was likely caused by bad weather and pilot error.

The memorial is at 22728 Gull Avenue in Clear Lake, Iowa. It's a short drive from Mason City airport and Clear Lake. You'll need to walk a quarter-mile on uneven ground to see where the plane crashed.

For more on Clear Lake's music history, check out the Surf Ballroom & Museum. They offer tours and a deluxe option. Three Sisters Park has a sculpture that honors the musicians who died in the crash.

"American Pie," Don McLean's tribute to the tragic incident, spent four weeks as the country's number one hit.

The Buddy Holly Memorial Crash Site is a reminder of talent lost in 1959. It's a key stop for those exploring Clear Lake's musical past.

Sample Local Brews at 173 Degree Craft Distillery

When you're in Clear Lake, Iowa, don't miss out on the 173 Degree Craft Distillery. It's a special place with top-notch spirits. The name comes from ethanol's boiling point. The owners are trained chemists who make their spirits with a scientific touch.

Take a tour of the distillery to see how they make their famous cocktails. Try the Molecular Martini, a drink that looks as good as it tastes. It's a highlight of their expertise.

The distillery has a cool interior with murals and a peaceful rooftop patio. It's the ideal spot to enjoy Clear Lake local drinks and Clear Lake craft cocktails. These are what the distillery is famous for.

"The attention to detail and passion for their craft is evident in every sip of the 173 Degree Craft Distillery spirits. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Clear Lake's local drinking scene."

If you love fine spirits or just want a unique experience, 173 Degree Craft Distillery is a must-see. It will amaze you with its flavors and make you appreciate Clear Lake distillery even more.

Outdoor Adventures at Clear Lake State Park

Clear Lake State Park sits by the beautiful Clear Lake. It has 50 acres of green space, perfect for those who love nature and outdoor activities. It's a great place for anyone who enjoys being outdoors.

The park boasts a 900-foot sandy beach that's ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the Clear Lake views. Fishing is also popular here, with fish like walleye, bass, and crappie in the lake.

For those who want to stay active, Clear Lake State Park has many hiking trails. These trails take you through different landscapes, offering beautiful views of the lake and woods.

The campground at the park is a big hit, with 186 sites for RVs and tents. It's a great place to stay while enjoying your Clear Lake outdoor recreation activities.

Close to the town of Clear Lake, the park is near other attractions and activities. It's the perfect spot for a full Clear Lake experience.

"Clear Lake State Park is a true gem in the heart of Iowa, offering endless opportunities for outdoor fun and exploration."

Indulge in Sweet Treats at Starboard Market

In the heart of downtown Clear Lake, Iowa, the Starboard Market is famous for its homemade desserts. It's open a few hours each day, offering a variety of treats made from scratch. These treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.

The Starboard Market is known for its amazing sea salted caramel bars and triple chocolate hot mess caramel fudge. People love these desserts for their quality and taste. They're a great way to end a day in Clear Lake.

The bakery doesn't just stop at those treats. You'll find gourmet donuts, vintage candies, and many cookies, pastries, and pies. Whether you want something classic or unique, the Starboard Market has it all.

Clear Lake is known as the Sweet Treat capital of North Iowa. It has places like Charlie's Soda Fountain, Fizz Co. Sips & Sweets, and Cookies, etc. But the Starboard Market is a special spot. It offers a unique experience that shows off Clear Lake's love for making amazing sweets.

If you're looking for a sweet treat, make sure to visit the Starboard Market in Clear Lake, Iowa. Your taste buds will be grateful!

Conclusion

Clear Lake, Iowa, is a hidden gem in the Midwest. It's full of activities and attractions for everyone. You can enjoy fishing, sailing, and boating on the water. Or, dive into the town's musical history at the famous Surf Ballroom.

The town is surrounded by beautiful nature and offers great food. It's perfect for a relaxing getaway. Clear Lake has something for everyone, whether you want to relax by the lake or explore the local culture.

Clear Lake is a top spot for those who love lakes, music, or small-town life. It has a lively community and lots of things to see and do. The town's beauty and attractions make it a memorable place to visit.

There's more to see outside the town too. Places like Effigy Mounds National Monument and Homestead National Monument of America are nearby. You can also explore the Sheyenne National Grassland and Superior National Forest.

Clear Lake and its areas host many events and volunteer activities. They welcome visitors with open arms. This makes Clear Lake a top choice for those exploring the Midwest.