Clear Lake is the Sweet Treat Capital of North Iowa
From classic sodas to decadent desserts, explore the best spots to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Classic Treats & Modern Twists
Begin your sweet journey at Charlie’s Soda Fountain, where soda shop classics meet inventive flavors. Next, head over to Fizz Co. Sips & Sweets, a vibrant spot for refreshing beverages and fun candies that will please anyone with a sweet tooth.
Ice Cream & Cookie Lovers
For ice cream fans, Cookies, etc. is a must-visit. Enjoy a wide variety of treats, from hand-scooped ice cream to soft serve, along with freshly baked cookies that make for the perfect pairing.
Baked Goods & Coffee Delights
If a hot cup of coffee and a flaky pastry are more your style, you’ll find exactly what you need at Cabin Coffee Co., Livonia’s Coffee Bar, and Scooter’s, where you can enjoy a roast or grab a baked good to go. Or, stop by Clear Lake Nutrition for a protein shake that’ll keep you feeling great while you satisfy your sweet tooth. Don’t miss Pretzelmaker, either—grab a serving of cinnamon sugar pretzel bites with creamy frosting for a fun, indulgent treat.
Decadent Desserts
Looking for something extra? Starboard Market offers an ever-changing lineup of decadent desserts that make a mid-afternoon pick-me-up feel completely justified. Then pop over to Lillie Mae Chocolates, where the magic happens right in the candy shop. Handcrafted truffles, buttery caramels, chocolate-dipped everything, and fresh-made fudge are created in-house, so you can literally smell the sweet situation as you walk in. Bonus: their popcorn tasting bar lets you sample sweet, salty, and totally unexpected flavors before you commit. Spring break calories don’t count.
More Sweet Surprises
For candy lovers, Larson’s Mercantile is a must-see, with an amazing selection of sweets, including vintage candies that bring back fond memories. Don’t forget to check out Ralphene’s & Legacy Antiques, where you’ll find melt-in-your-mouth caramels—a perfect treat to take home.
Sweet Treats at Every Corner
Clear Lake truly lives up to its reputation as the Sweet Treat Capital of North Iowa. Whether you’re in the mood for gourmet donuts, ice cream, or something a little healthier, there’s no shortage of delicious options here.
Sweet Treats Edition: Bucket List Bites
Indulge with me in the sweetest bites Clear Lake has to offer! After the success of last year’s Bucket List Bites, I’m excited to share this exclusive Sweet Treats Edition, featuring 10 of my favorite desserts and treats that I love to recommend to visitors and friends. These are the must-try sweet spots in town! – Libbey Hohn, Tourism Director
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Cinna-Roll-Nut, South Shore Donut Co.
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Chocolate-Chocolate Chip Cookie, Cookies, etc.
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Key Lime Pie Bar, Starboard Market
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Carrot Cake, Ge-Jo's by the Lake
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Mud Sundae, Charlie's Soda Fountain
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Shady Beach, Fizz Co.
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Toasted Banana Nut Iced Latte, Livonia's Coffee Bar
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Baklava, The Boulevard
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Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites with Cream Cheese Frosting, Pretzelmaker
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Cherry Dilly Bar Protein Shake, Clear Lake Nutrition
