Clinton Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally diverse Clinton, Iowa with our ultimate travel guide. Discover its must-see attractions, local food and drink scene, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Clinton

Located in Eastern Iowa, Clinton is a charming city nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River. It is a culturally rich and diverse destination, offering a plethora of museums, outdoor activities, and scenic views. Clinton is also home to a vibrant food and drink scene, with numerous local eateries and craft breweries to explore.

In this travel guide, we will explore the best things to do and see in Clinton, as well as provide practical information on where to stay, how to get around, and what to expect during your visit.

List of Places to Visit in Clinton

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Clinton Area Showboat Theatre
  2. Bickelhaupt Arboretum
  3. George M. Curtis Mansion
  4. The Sawmill Museum
  5. Rastrelli’s Restaurant

Natural Attractions of Clinton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Eagle Point Park
  2. The Clinton Discovery Trail
  3. Maquoketa Caves State Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Clinton

  1. Grant Wood Trail
  2. Eagle Point Park Trail

Best Things to Do in Clinton: Activities and Tours

  1. Mississippi River Distilling Company
  2. Breweries of Clinton
  3. Clinton LumberKings Baseball

Week-Long Itinerary for Clinton

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Bickelhaupt Arboretum and Clinton Area Showboat Theater
Day 2 Tour of The Sawmill Museum and Eagle Point Park
Day 3 Hiking the Grant Wood Trail and enjoying the Mississippi River at Riverview Park
Day 4 Golfing at Eagle Point Golf Course and visiting the George M. Curtis Mansion
Day 5 Enjoy Maquoketa Caves State Park and brewery hopping in town
Day 6 Try the local cuisine and take a Mississippi River cruise
Day 7 Eat breakfast at Rastrelli’s Restaurant before leaving town

Food and Drink Scene of Clinton

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Garlic Burgundy Steak
  2. Mississippian Pizza

Local Beverages

  1. Big Swing Brewing Co.
  2. Bent River Brewing Company

Where to Stay in Clinton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Wild Rose Casino and Resort
  2. Hampton Inn Clinton
  3. Pleasant Creek Inn

What to Buy in Clinton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Clinton Art and Cultural Activities Pass
  2. Maquoketa Caves State Park T-Shirt
  3. Craft Beer from Bent River Brewing Company

Local Culture and Customs of Clinton

Clinton is a friendly and welcoming community, with a strong history of agriculture and industry. It is home to a diverse population, with a rich cultural and artistic heritage. Visitors should expect to experience the warm hospitality of the Midwest, with a distinct local flavor!

Best Time to Visit Clinton

The ideal time to visit Clinton is from May to October, when the weather is mild and the outdoor activities are at their peak. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking, golfing, river cruises, and many other activities during this time. However, if you are interested in winter sports or holiday festivals, consider visiting in December.

Do’s and Don’ts of Clinton

Do:

  1. Try the local cuisine, especially at Rastrelli’s Restaurant.
  2. Visit the local breweries and wineries for a taste of Iowa’s craft culture.
  3. Explore the Mississippi River on a boat tour or fishing excursion.

Don’t:

  1. Expect a fast-paced city life – Clinton is a small town with a laid-back atmosphere.
  2. Miss out on the opportunity to visit nearby cities like Dubuque or Iowa City.
  3. Forget to bring comfortable shoes and outdoor gear, as many of the attractions are outdoors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Clinton

Clinton is a safe and friendly destination, with low crime rates and a welcoming community. Visitors should take the usual safety precautions when traveling, such as locking car doors and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Clinton

Clinton has several medical facilities, including MercyOne Clinton Medical Center. Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage before travel.

Getting to Clinton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Clinton

  1. Quad City International Airport
  2. Eastern Iowa Airport

Bus Stations Near Clinton

  1. Burlington Trailways Bus Station
  2. Jefferson Lines Bus Station

Other Options

  1. Driving: Clinton is located off of US 30 and US 67.
  2. Train: Amtrak does not stop in Clinton, but nearby stations include Davenport and Galesburg.

How to Get Around in Clinton

Visitors can rent a car at the airport or take a taxi to get around. There is also a public bus system, the Clinton Area Transit System, which services the city and nearby towns.

Where to Go Next from Clinton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Dubuque, Iowa
  2. Iowa City, Iowa
  3. Galena, Illinois

Conclusion

Clinton, Iowa, is a hidden gem that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you seek outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, or simply a relaxing escape, Clinton has it all. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has inspired you to plan your next Midwestern adventure in Clinton.