Updated April 8, 2026

What’s New at the Lake This Summer

Planning a trip to Clear Lake this season? There’s plenty that’s new since your last visit. From new places to eat and shop to to new owners, updated spaces and outdoor experiences, here’s what to check out while you’re in town.

A New Front Door for Visitors

Clear Lake Chamber & Welcome Center

Construction is wrapping up on the Clear Lake Chamber & Welcome Center at 205 Main Avenue, now a modern space designed to better serve travelers, tour groups, and first-time visitors. The new facility will feature expanded visitor resources, business information, and a welcoming first impression for guests arriving in town. We look forward to opening the doors in late May 2026.

New Places to Eat, Drink & Hang Out

Lake View Pub

Located across from City Park and adjoining Pretzelmaker, Lake View Pub brings a lively new hangout to downtown. Expect food, drinks, a fun bar atmosphere, outdoor seating, live music, and fun events like puzzle nights.

Reserve 173° Bar & Grill

The Juarez brothers of Gyro Place have taken over restaurant operations at 173° Craft Distillery, launching Reserve 173° Bar & Grill. The new concept features craft cocktails along with a lineup of fun events including Sing Along Brunch (2nd and 4th Saturdays), BINGO nights, jazz evenings, and more.

Rumorz Bar & Grill

Rumorz Bar & Grill is now under new ownership, with Luke bringing fresh energy to this longtime Clear Lake spot. Stop in for daily specials, live music, and a lively atmosphere featuring an outdoor patio, dance floor, and Iowa Lottery machines. Whether you’re meeting friends for a drink or staying for the music, Rumorz is keeping the good times rolling at the lake.

Surf Market

The Surf Market, located in the Surf District at 608 Buddy Holly Place, is a Saturday morning favorite. Open 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., the bakery offers freshly roasted coffee and an impressive selection of baked goods and specialty foods, as well as unique kitchen items and décor. Pre-orders can be placed ahead by the Monday prior to Saturday pickup, or stop by to see what’s fresh each week!

Lakehouse Market

From the team behind CharcuteMe comes Lakehouse Market, a relaxed stop along your lake lap. The concept is a laid-back, lake-friendly shop where visitors can grab charcuterie and artisan cheese boards, shareable appetizers, and easy grab-and-go items. Wine and beer will be available to enjoy on site or take with you, along with DIY charcuterie supplies and lake essentials like ice and grocery staples. Opening date, late spring 2026.

Lakeside Inn & The Landing Kitchen + Bar

Lakeside Inn and The Landing Kitchen + Bar have been under new, local ownership for a year and are still bringing fresh energy to the lakefront! In addition to the updated rooms, new food and beverage menus they launched last season, they’re putting the finishing touches on a year ’round, indoor bar opening in Room 104. Whether you’re staying for the weekend or stopping in for dinner, expect a refreshed vibe.

Surf Ballroom Music Experience Center & The Palms Rooftop Cabana

The Surf Ballroom Music Experience Center, which opened in fall 2025, offers an immersive dive into the music history that made Clear Lake famous. Visitors can explore stories of rock legends and the legacy of the Surf Ballroom. Use code: CHAMBER for $5 off your tour!
Upstairs, the Palms Rooftop Cabana opens seasonally and offers a relaxed rooftop atmosphere overlooking the Surf District.

Rivara

Something new is taking shape next to the Surf Ballroom. Rivara’s sign is officially up, and while details are still under wraps, it’s already adding to the energy in the Surf District. Stay tuned—we’ll be sharing more as this new spot gets closer to opening.

New Shops, Products & Local Finds

Georgette

The bridal closet pop-up Georgette has officially found a permanent home. The boutique offers reduced-price luxury designer wedding gown samples by appointment at 9 Plaza Drive, Suite 3.

Lakeshore Glow

Located on Main Avenue, Lakeshore Glow features body care products, clothing, jewelry, accessories, and spray tans.

Paws at the Lake

Your four-legged lake companion is covered too. Paws at the Lake now offers specialty pet bakery cakes along with the other delicious treats your furry friend loves.

Lakeside Blooms

Lakeside Blooms is popping up with trees, bushes, annuals, perennials, seasonal planters, and unique gifts perfect for sprucing up your home or lake place.

The Summer House

A recent addition to the Chamber, The Summer House is a seasonal boutique offering curated gifts, home goods, and skincare inspired by simple, relaxed living. The shop features thoughtfully selected items that capture the easygoing spirit of Clear Lake, perfect for treating yourself or finding a unique gift.

Outdoor Fun & Family Activities

Storywalk® Along the Trail

Clear Lake families love the Storywalk® at the Outlet Recreation Complex. Every two months, the library team installs a brand-new story along the walking trail, combining reading and outdoor activity in a fun way for kids and families.

New Playground at the Outdoor Recreation Complex

Families have another reason to explore the Outdoor Recreation Complex! An awesome new playground is ready for fun, adding even more space for kids to play while parents relax or catch a game nearby.

State Park Updates

McIntosh Woods State Park

Even while campground renovations are underway, McIntosh Woods State Park remains open to visitors. Guests can still enjoy:

  • Boat ramp access
  • Fish cleaning station
  • Picnic areas
  • The park’s yurts
  • Trails and shoreline access

Fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, birdwatching, and sunset views over Clear Lake are all still on the menu.

Clear Lake State Park Renovations

Clear Lake State Park is also undergoing improvements.

Key updates include:

  • Both modern shower buildings are closed for renovation until May 16, 2026
  • Port-a-potties and a vault toilet near sites 10 and 11 remain available
  • The south half of the campground is closed through June 30, 2026
  • The Clear Lake Lodge will be closed May 1 through September 30, 2026 for repairs
  • The pit latrine near sites 10 and 11 remains open

Plan Your Visit

Clear Lake continues to evolve with new places to eat, shop, and explore alongside the lake traditions visitors love. Whether you’re here for a day, a weekend, or the whole summer, there’s always something new waiting around the next corner.

Come see what’s new at the lake this season.