Merging the best of lake life and music history, Clear Lake offers a destination unlike any other. Whether you’re planning a friends’ weekend or family getaway, this two-day itinerary features the community’s best attractions and outdoor adventures with tips and tricks from locals. All you need to do is pack up the car and hit the road!
Day One: Embrace the Culture
Breakfast: Cabin Coffee Company
Once you’ve rolled into town, you’ll need a caffeinated beverage to prepare for the day’s adventures. Plan a pit stop at Cabin Coffee Company and choose a hand-crafted coffee or espresso drink paired with a freshly baked pastry or made-to-order sandwich.
Morning: Surf Ballroom and Museum
When you’re ready to start exploring, begin your adventure at the must-visit Surf Ballroom & Museum. This American cultural icon attracts visitors from across the country to admire the beautifully restored ballroom and dance floor along with music history, memorabilia and year-round concerts. It’s most known for being home to the final performance of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson before their plan crashed just outside of town.
Lunch: Starboard Market
After learning about the community’s music roots, refuel at Starboard Market. This quaint carry-out store has quite the reputation. Their homemade soups, salads, sandwiches and desserts have earned the eatery the #1 spot on TripAdvisor. Grab your meal to-go and enjoy a picnic at Three Stars Plaza.
Afternoon: Clear Lake Adventure Rentals
Spend the afternoon exploring the community by bike or water! Head to Clear Lake Adventure Rentals (formerly Movement Solutions) to find a rental that suits your needs. They offer standard adult and kid bikes along with duos and tandems, perfect for exploring Sister’s Prairie Trail or the Trolley Trail. Or rent kayaks (single and tandem) or paddle boards to enjoy an afternoon on the lake.
Evening: The Boulevard Bar & Grill
After an afternoon of outdoor exploration, satisfy your appetite at The Boulevard Bar & Grill, which serves upscale American cuisine and unique drinks. Sample local brews with amazing views of the lake at 173° Craft Distillery or Lake Time Brewery.
Stay: Lakeside Inn
Finally, check into a room at the community’s only hotel on the water, the Lakeside Inn. All rooms face the water and guests have unlimited use of the private dock.
For a more personalized stay, embrace the lake life at the Hidden JEM Lake House vacation rental.
Day Two: Live Like a Local
Breakfast: South Shore Donut Co.
Kickstart your day at the South Shore Donut Co. to enjoy its beachy atmosphere and creative concoctions. Their gourmet artisan donuts earned them recognition as 2019’s top donut shop in Iowa.
Morning: Clear Lake Fire Museum
Take in more unique history at the Clear Lake Fire Museum. Step inside the fire station-inspired building and relive the history of firefighting. If you’re an art enthusiast, stop by the Clear Lake Arts Center to admire its collection of cultural exhibitions from regional creators.
Lunch: PM Park
Grab a table at PM Park, a tiki-themed bar, and admire the water while also enjoying a piece of local history. This 104-year-old restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily from Mother’s Day weekend through Labor Day.
Afternoon: Lady of the Lake
If you haven’t had the chance to hit the water yet, climb aboard the Lady of the Lake for an authentic paddle wheel excursion. The 90-minute cruise features the best views of the water alongside scenic narration from the captain. Cruises are offered every day (except Wednesdays when they are open dockside with a cash bar, food and live music) Memorial Day through the end of September.
Dessert: Charlie's Soda Fountain
Before you leave, enjoy a sweet treat and charming nostalgia at Charlie’s Soda Fountain. Their menu is packed with craft sodas and ice cream treats like malts, sundaes and soft serve. They also serve a dairy-free Dole Whip.
