Clarinda Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to try, and where to stay in Clarinda, Iowa. Learn about the local culture, customs, safety, and transportation options in this comprehensive Clarinda travel guide.


Introduction to Clarinda

Clarinda is a charming city located in Southwest Iowa, in the Midwest region of the United States of America. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and culture seekers. The city has a population of around 5,000 and is known for its rolling hills, scenic views, and friendly locals. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, things to do, food to try, and where to stay in Clarinda.

List of Places to Visit in Clarinda

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Glenn Miller Birthplace Home & Museum: This museum celebrates the life and achievements of Glenn Miller, one of the most famous musicians of the Swing Era. It is located in the house where he was born and features exhibits, memorabilia, and live performances.
  • Nodaway Valley Historical Museum: This museum showcases the history of Clarinda and the surrounding area. It has a vast collection of artifacts and displays that tell the story of the city’s past.
  • Raymond R. Wertzberger Civic Center: This cultural center hosts a variety of events, including concerts, plays, and art exhibitions. It is an excellent place to experience the local arts and culture scene.

Natural Attractions of Clarinda: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake of Three Fires State Park: This 85-acre park offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming. The lake provides scenic views of the surrounding hills and is a popular spot for picnics and family outings.
  • West Nodaway River: This river is an excellent destination for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. It has a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, channel catfish, and bluegill.
  • Nelson Park: This park is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. It features walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Clarinda

  • Wabash Trace Nature Trail: This 63-mile trail offers visitors a chance to explore Iowa’s beautiful countryside. It is perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
  • Clarinda Community Trail: This trail is a three-mile paved path that runs through Clarinda. It is ideal for walking, jogging, and biking.

Best Things to Do in Clarinda: Activities and Tours

  • Clarinda Carnegie Art Museum: This museum is a must-visit for art lovers. It has an extensive collection of artworks by regional and national artists and hosts temporary exhibitions.
  • Clarinda Lanes: This bowling alley is a popular spot for families and friends to enjoy a night out. It has a snack bar, arcade, and billiards table.
  • Micro-Grants Walking Tour: Take a self-guided walking tour around Clarinda and discover its unique architecture and historic landmarks.
  • Winery Tours: Clarinda is surrounded by several wineries that offer tours and tastings. Visitors can enjoy locally made wines and appreciate the picturesque landscape.

Week-Long Itinerary for Clarinda

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Glenn Miller Birthplace Home & Museum, have lunch at Arby’s, and spend the afternoon at West Nodaway River.
Day 2 Hike the Wabash Trace Nature Trail and have dinner at Classic Café.
Day 3 Explore the Nodaway Valley Historical Museum and have lunch at Subway. Spend the afternoon at Lake of Three Fires State Park.
Day 4 Visit the Raymond R. Wertzberger Civic Center and have lunch at Dodici’s Shop. Spend the afternoon at Nelson Park.
Day 5 Take a winery tour and have lunch at J’s Steakhouse.
Day 6 Bowling at Clarinda Lanes, have lunch at Happy Garden, and take the Micro-Grants Walking Tour.
Day 7 Visit Clarinda Carnegie Art Museum, have lunch at The Garden Café, and relax at your hotel.

Food and Drink Scene of Clarinda

Must-Try Dishes

  • Loose Meat Sandwich: This dish is a staple of Midwest cuisine and is made of ground beef served on a bun with pickles and onions.
  • Maid-Rite Sandwich: Another favorite local dish, Maid-Rite sandwiches are made of loose meat served on a soft bun with mustard and ketchup.
  • Tenderloin Sandwich: This sandwich is made of a breaded and deep-fried pork tenderloin served on a bun with pickles and onions.

Local Beverages

  • Keg Creek Brewing Company: This brewery produces a range of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and porters. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in the taproom.
  • Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum: This museum celebrates the life and legacy of President Herbert Hoover and has a gift shop that sells souvenir mugs and shot glasses.

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

  • Super 8 by Wyndham Clarinda: This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi and cable TV.
  • Carefree Inn & Suites: This hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers guests a range of amenities, including an indoor pool and free breakfast.
  • Starlite Motel: This family-owned and operated motel has been serving guests for over 50 years. It offers clean and comfortable rooms with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

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

  • Glenn Miller CDs and records: Visitors can purchase CDs and vinyl records of Glenn Miller’s music at the Glenn Miller Birthplace Home & Museum gift shop.
  • Maid-Rite seasoning packets: Visitors can take home the unique flavors of the Midwest by purchasing Maid-Rite seasoning packets at local grocery stores.

Local Culture and Customs of Clarinda

Clarinda is a friendly and welcoming city where locals take pride in their heritage and community. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and etiquette, including using “please” and “thank you” and holding doors open for others. Clarinda is also known for its strong work ethic and sense of community, and visitors should be mindful of these values.

Best Time to Visit Clarinda

The best time to visit Clarinda is during the summer months, from June to August. This is when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, visitors can also enjoy Clarinda’s charm during the fall and spring seasons when the weather is mild, and the foliage is beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Clarinda

Do:

  • Visit the Glenn Miller Birthplace Home & Museum and learn about the life of the famous musician.
  • Try the local cuisine, including Maid-Rite sandwiches and loose meat sandwiches.
  • Explore the great outdoors and go hiking, biking, and fishing.

Don’t:

  • Be rude or disrespectful to locals.
  • Litter or damage natural attractions.
  • Ignore safety precautions when participating in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Clarinda

Clarinda is generally a safe city, with low crime rates and friendly locals. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take common-sense precautions when out and about, such as locking car doors and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

Health in Clarinda

Clarinda has a range of healthcare facilities, including Clarinda Regional Health Center and Clarinda Medical Associates. Visitors should have health insurance and a basic understanding of the American healthcare system in case of emergencies.

Getting to Clarinda: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Clarinda

  • Des Moines International Airport (DSM): This airport is approximately 125 miles from Clarinda and offers flights to domestic and international destinations.
  • Kansas City International Airport (MCI): This airport is approximately 90 miles from Clarinda and offers flights to domestic and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Clarinda

  • Jefferson Lines: This bus company offers daily routes to and from Clarinda to various destinations in the Midwest and beyond.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Visitors can rent a car from major car rental companies at Des Moines International Airport or Kansas City International Airport and drive to Clarinda.
  • Private transportation: Visitors can arrange for private transportation through local taxi companies or ride-sharing services.

How to Get Around in Clarinda

The best way to explore Clarinda is by car or bike. Visitors can rent a car from a major car rental company at the airports or use a ride-sharing service to get around the city. The Clarinda Community Trail is an excellent option for biking and walking, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Where to Go Next from Clarinda: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Omaha, Nebraska: This city is approximately 110 miles from Clarinda and is known for its cultural attractions, including the Henry Doorly Zoo and the Joslyn Art Museum.
  • Council Bluffs, Iowa: This city is approximately 75 miles from Clarinda and is home to the Western Historic Trails Center and the Union Pacific Railroad Museum.
  • Kansas City, Missouri: This city is approximately 120 miles from Clarinda and is known for its jazz music, barbecue, and cultural attractions, such as the National World War I Museum and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

Conclusion

Clarinda is a hidden gem in the Midwest, offering visitors a chance to experience local culture, history, and outdoor adventures. We hope this comprehensive travel guide helps you plan your next trip to Clarinda and make the most of your stay in this charming city.