Trip on a Tankful: Clinton has history, shopping and a stunning view of the Mississippi River
Where can you find outdoor adventure, historical sites, live music and unique shopping experiences, all with a riverfront view? Look no further than Clinton, located in the middle of the Iowa stretch of the Mississippi River.
Lesley Webster, Director of the Convention & Visitors Bureau in Clinton, said “Clinton is a town built on river, railways and lumber, a delightful taste of Americana with a strong dose of the great outdoors.”
Take the 4.8-mile hike or biking trek from Riverview Park to Eagle Point Park, and don’t miss out on the climb up the Stone Lookout Tower, built by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in 1937. From the top of the tower, enjoy a panoramic view of the mighty Mississippi. At the North End overlook in the park, you can experience a view of the widest part of the entire Mississippi River. The Lodge, also built in 1937, overlooks Lock and Dam 13, where you can see barges and boats locking through the river.
Learn about the history of Clinton at the Sawmill Museum. “All age groups love their time at the Sawmill Museum, where the stories of Clinton’s lumber history come to life,” said Webster. “From the Mississippi River-themed water table for little ones, to the in-house live milling sessions, to the animatronic lumber barons, there is something for everyone.” The museum, located at 2231 Grant St., is open 1-6 p.m. Monday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $6 for adults and $5 for kids ages 4-12. Find out more at thesawmillmuseum.org.
Find plenty of shopping options in Clinton, too. “Three different downtown areas bring you all the shopping you can imagine, from antiques and consignment to high-end retail,” said Webster. She calls Muddy Goat Organic Soap Co. Bath & Body Bar (517 S. 3rd St.) “one of our best-kept secrets. Handcrafted artisan soap, candles and more are made with all-natural and organic ingredients, plus they have a full wine bar and spa offerings.”
For a truly unique outing, stop by The Bicycle Station & Jensen’s Oil (218 Main Ave.). “This fun, off-the-radar stop has bicycles, bike repair, accessories and equipment in a charming retro-themed spot,” said Webster.
Love live music? For much of the year, you can find live music nearly every night of the week. Weekly Music on the Avenue features a car show, street vendors and a street party every Thursday night. Wide River Winery (1776 E. Deer Creek Road) offers the river view, live music and tasty wine. A $7 souvenir wine glass includes up to five complimentary samples. The winery is open 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Monday.
Website: clintoniowatourism.com
Distance from Downtown Des Moines: 199 miles
Kids: The Felix Adler Children’s Discovery Center (332 8th Ave. South) was opened in 1993 as a tribute to the famous clown and Clinton native. Kids will have a blast in the 17,000-square-foot building that houses more than 20 permanent and traveling exhibits, from the KAPLA Block Corner to the giant BRIO train engine. The center is open 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 12:30-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $4 for ages 2-64 and $3 for ages 65 and older.
Dogs: Bring your furry family members along for the trip. Prairie Pastures Dog Park (4101 N. 3rd St.) is a nationally recognized dog park with more than 8 acres of canine fun. Located on the site of an old zoo, the park features unusual terrains and structures, as well as a swimming pond. The park is open daily from 8 a.m.-dusk and costs $3 for the first dog and $1 for each additional dog.
Where to Eat: Try the famous Chicken George — or opt for the fresh cod or salmon — at the Candlelight Inn (511 Riverview Drive) while looking out over the Mississippi. Webster promises “spectacular views from both inside and out.” Love dessert? “Indulge your sweet tooth at Sweetheart Bakery (245 Main Ave.) with a cookie piled high with frosting or find a new flavor of bon bon alongside your favorite classic candies at Grandma’s Goody Jar (401 N. 2nd St.),” Webster suggested.
Where to Stay: Along with many hotel chains, Clinton also offers alternatives like Wild Rose Casino & Resort (777 Wild Rose Drive) and Fisher’s House Bed & Breakfast (407 5th Ave. South), located in a remodeled 1880s Queen Anne Victorian home.
