Think you know rural Iowa? Think again. On August 8, 2025, Clear Lake is proud to host an Evolution of the Heartland immersive tour, and we’re flipping the script on what it means to experience agriculture, entrepreneurship, and small-town innovation.
While Clear Lake is often seen as a lake-resort destination, agritourism runs deep here—woven between our music legacy, vibrant downtown, and fields that have shaped generations. This one-day, guided tour is your chance to meet the people, taste the flavors, and hear the stories that are redefining the rural American dream.
What is Evolution of the Heartland?
This statewide initiative invites curious travelers to ditch the interstate and take the road less traveled. Evolution of the Heartland tours spotlight communities where agriculture is more than tradition—it’s innovation in action. From family farms to cultural icons, you’ll meet passionate entrepreneurs who are growing more than crops—they’re growing community.
And this year, Clear Lake is on the map.
Clear Lake Immersive Tour Stops – August 8, 2025
Here’s a preview of the stops that make our Clear Lake tour a perfect blend of heritage, heart, and hustle.
The Surf Ballroom & Memorial Crash Site
Music and farmland come together at this iconic venue. Walk through history at the Surf Ballroom—site of the final performance by Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and the Big Bopper. Then, journey to the nearby crash site where cornfields meet culture. Hear firsthand from the farmer who stewards this historic land and serves on the board of the Surf Ballroom’s new Music Experience Center.
Mossycup Farms
This is Iowa agriculture, reimagined. Mossycup Farms is where science meets soil. Owners Jesse and Laura fuse chemical engineering and heritage farming to produce pasture-raised pork and poultry, organic lard-based goods, and wholesome food designed with health in mind. You’ll experience their story, their land, and maybe even a sample or two.
Central Gardens of North Iowa
A peaceful, blooming haven in the center of town. These free public gardens offer 20+ themed spaces perfect for exploring or unwinding. During the tour, guests will enjoy tastings from Healthy Harvest of North Iowa and local favorite 173° Craft Distillery, known for small-batch spirits with serious flavor.
Lake Time Brewery
Finish your day where the locals kick back. Tour Lake Time Brewery’s production facility and learn how this microbrewery keeps Clear Lake refreshed with handcrafted beers and small-town charm.
Register Here
Ready to see Clear Lake through a whole new lens?
Register for the Clear Lake Evolution of the Heartland Tour for $99
Come experience where the prairie meets progress, where lake life and ag life thrive together, and where the next chapter of the heartland is being written—right here in Clear Lake.