stay and explore at the shore
EAT
PLAY
STAY
Welcome to Clear Lake, Iowa
Clear Lake, Iowa, is a beautiful small town situated on a natural spring-fed lake in northern Iowa midway between Des Moines and Minneapolis. As a major stop on I-35, you’ll find a large selection of quality restaurants and accommodations, as well as a marina, state parks, and historic attractions. See firsthand what it means to live the lake life – from relaxing on the beach and water skiing to year-round fishing and sailing. Whether you are here for a weekend or looking to make Clear Lake your home, you are sure to enjoy all that our town has to offer.
What to Eat
While our town may be small, there’s no shortage of delicious food to enjoy. Delight in a signature sandwich from the award-winning Starboard Market. Partake in authentic Italian pasta or hand-stretched, made-to-order pizza while enjoying a view of the lake at Ge-Jo’s By the Lake. Experience genuine Irish hospitality, crowd-pleasing food or an ice-cold beer at Bennigan’s. Kick off any day of fun with a homemade, gourmet donut from South Shore Donut Co. With so many wonderful options, there’s a flavor to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
What to Do
There’s always somewhere to go, something to do or somewhere to see in Clear Lake. Take a moment to remember rock ‘n’ roll legends at the Surf Ballroom. Play a round with friends on our beautiful golf courses. Enjoy a ride on the Lady of the Lake. Go hunting, fishing or sport shooting. Shop the local small businesses. Cruise around the lake in your boat, and so much more. Clear Lake offers a little something for everyone.
Where to Stay
No matter what type of trip brings you to Clear Lake, there’s a wonderful place for you and your family to stay. You’ll find nature-centered campgrounds with modern amenities, charming bed and breakfasts, comfortable hotels, and a variety of available vacation rentals to choose from. You’ll enjoy your stay that much more knowing you have a wonderful place to rest at the end of each day.
Featured Events
In Clear Lake, there are all kinds of events to enjoy throughout the year. Check out Color the Wind, which is known as the Midwest’s largest and most colorful winter kite festival. Celebrate the 4th of July with our large festival, parade, craft show, and fireworks display. Enjoy everything Clear Lake’s Main Avenue during Thursdays on Main in the summer or at the annual fall Harvest Festival. Immerse yourself in holiday traditions with Christmas by the Lake. There are also other fun things to do throughout the year, like 5K races, car shows, live music, and so much more.
Color the Wind
February 15, 2025
Earth Day
April 17 - 19, 2025
TRI Clear Lake
May 24, 2025
Thursdays on Main
Starting May 30, 2024
4th of July
July 3-7, 2024
Harvest Festival
October 5, 2024
Christmas by the Lake
December 7, 2024
Event Blog Posts
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Latest Blog Posts
Ready to TRI?
There’s Still Time to Train for TRI Clear Lake! Thinking about trying a triathlon but not sure where to start? TRI Clear Lake is just 10 weeks away, and there’s still plenty of time to get race-ready—even if you're new to the sport! TRI Clear Lake is a...
Clear Lake Events March 13-19, 2025
All events are free unless noted North Iowa Student Art Show Celebrate Student Art Month at the Clear Lake Arts Center! Join us for the North Iowa...
We’re Moving! A Temporary Home While We Build for the Future
Big things are happening at the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce! As we begin construction on our brand-new Welcome Center and Chamber office, we’re packing up and moving—but don’t worry, we’re not going far! Soon, you’ll find us one block east at 306 Main Ave....
Clear Lake Events March 6-12, 2025
All events are free unless noted Exhibition: Constructs from the Printed Page by artist Andy Chenchar Join the Clear Lake Arts Center for the Hanson...
Spring Break Clear Lake, Iowa: Fun Activities and Adventures Await!
Spring is rolling in, even if the ice isn’t out just yet and a blizzard is in this week's forecast! The days are getting longer, and it’s the perfect time to plan a fun-filled Spring Break in Clear Lake. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little...