Clinton, Iowa Travel Guide: Unexpected Adventures Along the Mississippi River
When you think of a weekend getaway in Iowa, Clinton might not be the first destination that comes to mind, but it definitely deserves a spot on your list!
Located along the Mississippi River in eastern Iowa, Clinton is full of unexpected places to explore. We're talking wineries overlooking the river, scenic hiking trails, historic castles, seasonal festivals, unique restaurants, and even a chance to go troll hunting!
Chris and I spent a weekend exploring the area, and I was surprised by just how much there was to see and do. From discovering hidden gems around town to taking in some incredible Mississippi River views, Clinton offers a little bit of everything without the crowds of a major tourist destination.
Whether you're planning a couples getaway, a family road trip, or just looking for somewhere new to explore in the Midwest, here's what to add to your Clinton, Iowa itinerary!
Go Troll Hunting!
One of the most unique things we did during our weekend in Clinton was go TROLL HUNTING! And yes, we managed to find all four installations!
These larger-than-life wooden sculptures were created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, who is known worldwide for creating incredible works of art using recycled materials. His trolls can be found all over the world, often hidden in forests, parks, and unexpected places to encourage people to get out and explore.
Clinton's trolls, known as The Tree Thieves, also tie into the city's history as the former Lumber Capital of the World! Local volunteers helped bring these sculptures to life, making this a pretty special community project.
What I loved most was how the hunt takes you all around Clinton. Some trolls are tucked inside historic buildings, others are surrounded by nature, and there's even a secret fourth installation hidden in the woods! Each of the three trolls has a clue that helps you discover the final location.
We visited them all, and it's such a fun experience for couples, families, or anyone who loves a little adventure. Trust me, they're worth the hunt!
Where to find the trolls:
Helmut: Sawmill Museum — 2231 Grant Street
Marvin: Bickelhaupt Arboretum — 340 S. 14th Street
Warren: Historic Train Depot — 60 4th Avenue South
Enchanted Branches: Hidden somewhere in Eagle Point Park!
You can also check out Thomas Dambo's Troll Map to help plan your hunt.
Festivals & Events in Clinton, Iowa – There's Always Something Happening!
One thing we quickly learned during our weekend in Clinton is that there's always something going on! From seasonal festivals and family-friendly activities to live music and community celebrations, there's plenty happening throughout the year.
We happened to be in town for TWO different events!
Fall Fest at Eagle Point Park 🍂
📍 3923 N 3rd Street, Clinton, IA
Our first stop was Fall Fest at Eagle Point Park, a fun celebration for families! There were activities like hayrides, s'mores, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fall weather. The park itself is beautiful, with wooded walking trails, scenic overlooks, and gorgeous Mississippi River views. Even if you aren't visiting during a festival, it's worth exploring!
Eagle Point Park
Riverview Bacon & Brew Fest 🥓🍻
📍 251 Ball Park Drive, Clinton, IA
Our second event was the Riverview Bacon & Brew Fest, and what's not to love about bacon and beer?! Held along the Mississippi River, this festival featured samples from local and regional breweries, food vendors serving bacon-inspired creations, live music, games, and fun competitions. It's a great excuse to spend an afternoon outside while supporting local businesses and enjoying the community atmosphere!
And these are just TWO of the events happening around Clinton! Throughout the year, you'll find everything from downtown music festivals and wine walks to holiday celebrations like the Symphony of Lights at Eagle Point Park.
My recommendation? Before planning your trip, check the Visit Clinton website for upcoming festivals and events. You might find something fun to plan your entire weekend around!
7 Hills South Brewery: A Historic Church Turned Brewery
📍238 4th Avenue South, Clinton, IA
Have you ever had dinner inside a 125-year-old church? Because that's exactly what we did in Clinton, Iowa!
7 Hills South is located inside a beautifully restored church originally built in 1898. The building was once home to St. John's Episcopal Church and later Bethel AME Church before being transformed into Great Revivalist Brewery in 2023. In 2025, 7 Hills Brewing Company took over, giving the space another chapter in its history!
What makes this place so special is how much of the original character has been preserved. From the gorgeous stained-glass windows and historic mosaic to the repurposed church pews, there's something interesting to look at everywhere you turn.
Of course, we came hungry! We started with their Corn Hub dip, which was absolutely delicious, and ordered a beer flight so we could sample a little bit of everything. For our meals, we tried the bacon smashburger and the Hot Honey Bee-Avola pizza, which was AMAZINGGG! Seriously, if you're visiting, get the pizza!
I absolutely love when historic buildings are given a second life instead of being torn down, and 7 Hills South is a perfect example. Between the history, unique atmosphere, craft beer, and delicious food, this is definitely a spot worth visiting during your Clinton getaway!
Eagle Point Park – Castles, Trails & Mississippi River Views
📍 3923 N 3rd Street, Clinton, IA
If there's one outdoor spot you shouldn't miss in Clinton, Iowa, it's Eagle Point Park! This beautiful park overlooks the Mississippi River and has so much more to explore than your typical city park.
One of the coolest features is the historic Stone Tower, which looks like something straight out of a castle! It's a great spot to take photos and enjoy the surrounding scenery. The park also offers incredible views of the Mississippi River, especially during the fall when the trees are changing colors.
And remember the Thomas Dambo troll hunt? The secret fourth installation, Enchanted Branches, is hidden right here in the park! We had so much fun searching for it.
Eagle Point Park is also a great stop for families, with playgrounds, walking paths, disc golf, picnic areas, and plenty of open space for kids to explore. Whether you're visiting for a festival, hunting for trolls, or just looking for a scenic place to stretch your legs, this park is absolutely worth adding to your Clinton itinerary!
Candlelight Inn – Famous Chicken George & Mississippi River Views
📍 511 Riverview Drive, Clinton, IA
If there's one thing you HAVE to order at Candlelight Inn in Clinton, Iowa, it's their famous Chicken George! This signature chicken dish dates back to the early 1970s, when a cook named George created it. It became so popular through word of mouth that it eventually earned a permanent spot on the menu!
But can we talk about the ONION RINGS?! If you're an onion ring lover, you absolutely need to order these. Chris and I agreed they were the best onion rings we've ever had! Seriously, don't skip them!
We sat in the bar area during our visit, but there's also a spacious dining room with plenty of seating. On nicer days, they have a huge outdoor patio overlooking the Mississippi River, making it an even better spot to grab a meal and enjoy the views.
Between the famous chicken, those unforgettable onion rings, and the beautiful riverfront setting, Candlelight Inn is definitely a stop worth making during your Clinton getaway!
Wide River Winery – Wine With a Mississippi River View
📍 1776 E Deer Creek Rd, Clinton, IA
Wine tasting with a view? YES PLEASE! 🍷 During our weekend in Clinton, we stopped at Wide River Winery, a beautiful family-owned winery tucked away on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River.
We sampled a dry red and a dry white, and both were amazing! We ended up purchasing a bottle of Jury Duty to take home. One fun fact? The winery was founded by attorney Dorothy O'Brien in 2005, which explains the clever legal-themed wine names!
There's seating both indoors and outside, but if the weather is nice, I HIGHLY recommend grabbing a spot on the patio. The views of the Mississippi River are absolutely beautiful, and it's the perfect place to slow down and enjoy a glass of wine.
They also offer vineyard tours, wine tastings, and seasonal live music. Whether you're visiting with friends or planning a romantic weekend getaway, this is definitely a stop worth adding to your Clinton itinerary!
392Caffe – Coffee, Smoothies & Breakfast in Downtown Clinton
📍216 S 2nd St, Clinton, IA 52732
Every good weekend getaway needs a cute coffee shop, and 392Caffe was the perfect morning stop during our time in Clinton!
This locally founded coffee shop has been around since 2011 and offers everything from specialty coffee and seasonal lattes to fresh smoothies, breakfast sandwiches, and pastries.
We ordered a seasonal latte, breakfast goodies, and a customizable smoothie where you can choose your own fruits, greens, and juice base. I love having options beyond coffee!
But my FAVORITE thing we tried? The chocolate chip protein ball. Seriously, I'll be thinking about that little thing for a while! 😂
The atmosphere is just as inviting as the menu. It's the kind of cozy coffee shop where you could bring your laptop and get some work done, meet up with friends, or simply enjoy a slow morning.
Definitely a great stop to add to your Clinton itinerary!
Fisher House Bed & Breakfast – A Historic Victorian Stay in Clinton, Iowa
📍 407 5th Ave S, Clinton, IA
If you love historic homes full of character, Fisher House Bed & Breakfast is such a charming place to stay during your Clinton getaway!
Built in the early 1880s, this beautiful Queen Anne Victorian home has quite the story! Owners Dan and Peggy Fisher purchased the property in 2007, and after Dan retired from the U.S. Air Force in 2010, they spent more than FOUR years restoring it. They carefully preserved its historic character while adding modern comforts, eventually opening the bed and breakfast in 2014.
One of my favorite details? The four guest rooms are named after former owners of the home! Each room has its own private bathroom, and there's a shared kitchen area upstairs along with beautiful common spaces downstairs.
What really makes this stay special is the personal experience. On weekends, Dan and Peggy prepare a homemade breakfast and sit down to enjoy it with their guests. We loved getting to experience that welcoming, homey atmosphere!
And when the weather is nice, the outdoor patio is the perfect place to relax after exploring Clinton. Between the incredible restoration, fascinating history, and thoughtful hospitality, Fisher House is a wonderful alternative to a traditional hotel!
Is Clinton, Iowa Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! One of my favorite things about traveling through the Midwest is discovering destinations that don't always get the attention they deserve, and Clinton is a great example.
Between the Mississippi River views, outdoor adventures, historic landmarks, local restaurants, and unique attractions, there's plenty to fill an entire weekend. And depending on when you visit, you might even catch one of the community's festivals or seasonal events!
If you're someone who enjoys getting off the beaten path and discovering places you might otherwise drive right past, Clinton is worth adding to your list.
Sometimes the best adventures are found in places you least expect!
Follow along with Through Bec's Specs for more Midwest road trips, scenic stays, and destinations worth traveling for.
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