Area Attractions

A City of diverse heritage and ethnicity, Clinton sits geographically on the banks of the Mississippi River.

 

From the north overlook above the bluffs at Eagle Point Park, visitors can view the widest point of the "Mighty Miss." The river provides recreation, educational opportunities and quality of life to visitors and area residents.

 

 

Use this District Key, along with the color-coded bullets and our area maps to easily find your way!

Bickelhaupt Arboretum
340 S. 14th Street, Clinton.  This nationally-recognized fourteen-acre outdoor museum of select-labeled trees, shrubs, ground covers, perennials and annuals, features one of the top garden conifer collections in the country, numbering more than 600 cultivars.  Other collections include native prairie grasses, flowering trees, shrub roses, wildflowers, ornamental shrubs, as well as Stout Medal daylily collections, Monarch Watch butterfly station, American Hosta Society National Display Garden, bird haven and herb garden.  A library, meeting sites, water features and museum display of native animals and birds are also on site.  Open to the public year round from dawn to dusk.  Free weekend tours, 2 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, April-October.  Free conducted tours by appointment.  Contact: (563) 242-4771.  Visit us at www.bick-arb.org.

• Blue Heron Eco-Cruises
The Clinton County Conservation Board offers Blue Heron Eco Cruises, based at Rock Creek Marina and Campground located just south of Camanche on Highway 67. The Blue Heron offers public cruises on Thursday evenings, May thru October and private group cruises by appointment. The boat serves tourists, outdoor groups, youth and schools by providing naturalist-led eco-cruises on the Mississippi River. The cruises last approximately 1.5 hours. This is a beautiful educational tour of the Mississippi River ecosystem. Call (563) 847-7202 or email at conservation@clintoncounty-ia.gov for
booking information. Website: www.clintoncounty-ia.gov

• Camanche Depot & Museum
102 - 12th Ave., Camanche.  Glimpse a bit of history aboard this fully-restored 1951 Milwaukee/Soo Line caboose and railroad depot.  The depot was built in 1899.
1307 So. Washington Blvd., Camanche.  The Museum houses collections from Camanche's past, including a veteran's list of past and present military personnel.  A brick walkway surrounds the flagpole in honor of Camanche citizens.  The Clinton County/ Gateway Genealogical Library is located in the Museum building, where you can learn how to research your family history.  Collections include cemetery records, county histories, funeral home records, Old Age Assistance, tax records and several family histories.  The Depot and the Museum are open by appointment.  Contact: (563) 259-1285, (563) 259-1280 or (563) 259-1175.

Clinton Sawmill Museum

2231 Grant Street, Clinton

Exploring Trees Inside and Out is the title of the exhibit that is on display at the Sawmill Museum through April 30, 2012.  Created by the Arbor Day Foundation, this exhibit has been traveling since January of 2008, and has hosted over 950,000 children, family members and educators.  This exhibit helps children discover nature through multiple perspectives and will inspire them to get outdoors, explore the wonders and develop connections with the natural world.  This interactive exhibit provides an innovative visual-spatial experience designed for whole body, open-ended participation to raise the awareness and understanding of trees.  The Sawmill Museum provides a cultural and historical focus for Clinton and the surrounding region, and serves as a hub for community events and attractions year-round.  The Museum will have space for traveling exhibits, permanent exhibits, a learning center and outdoor events and festivals.  For more information, or for prices on groups, events and parties, call 563-242-0343 or e-mail director@thesawmillmuseum.org.

Clinton Area Showboat Theatre
311 Riverview Drive, Clinton (P.O. Box 764, Clinton).  Come join us in the Lillian Russell Theatre aboard a restored old river paddle wheeler on the beautiful riverfront in Clinton.  We have professional summer repertory theatre from June through mid-August, with great musicals and hilarious comedies.  Our troupe of talented, young mid-west actors, Broadway professionals and some seasoned, skillful, local actors provide a summer of theatre magic aboard the Showboat!  There is also Theatre for Children on Saturdays during the summer.  We have special group rates and meet-the-cast receptions.  Call (563) 242-6760, and our answering service (until the Box Office opens in May) will ensure you get a return call. E-mail: boxoffice@ clintonshowboat.org   Internet: www.clintonshowboat.org

Clinton LumberKings Baseball
537 Ball Park Drive, P.O. Box 1295, Clinton.  Alliant Energy Field is home to the Clinton LumberKings, a professional Class A, Midwest League affiliate of the Seattle Mariners.  Enjoy family fun and entertainment!  Home games are from April through September.  Contact (563) 242-0727.  E-mail: lumberkings@lumberkings.com  
Internet: www.lumberkings.com.

• Clinton Symphony Orchestra
P.O. Box 116, Clinton. The Clinton Symphony is a full, professional symphony orchestra that performs classical concerts throughout the
season and an annual pops concert on the riverfront. Guest soloists from near and distant parts of the country are featured regularly. Enjoy the big-city excitement of live symphonic music right here where we live. Details of upcoming performances are available at www.clintonsymphony.org. Contact: (815) 625-0922 or
email execdirector@clintonsymphony.org.

Curtis Mansion
420 5th Avenue South, Clinton.  This restored Victorian home of Lumber Baron George M. Curtis is a fine example of period architecture with its original Tiffany glass windows, delicately carved banisters, ornate wood trim and massive fireplaces.  Rich in the history of the area, this mansion makes an elegant backdrop for special events.  It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tours are available by special appointment or during the summer months from 1:30-3:30 p.m. on Wednesdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day.  Other times by appointment.  Admission Fee.  Contact: (563) 242-8556.

Eagle Point Park
3923 North 3rd Street., Clinton.  Picnic, hike or cross-country ski around this 200-acre park of spectacular bluffs along the river in Clinton.  A 1937 Stone Tower provides a spectacular view of the Mississippi River and surrounding area.  Children’s playgrounds are situated throughout the Park.  The North end overlook provides a panoramic view of the widest part of the entire Mississippi River.  The park is a facility of the City of Clinton.  Contact: (563) 243-1260.

Eagle Point  Park Lodge
Located at Eagle Point Park, 3923 North 3rd Street, Clinton.  Eagle Point Park Lodge sits high above the bluffs of the Mississippi River.  The Lodge is rustic in nature and was built in 1937.  The Lodge is adorned by glass-screened fireplaces and provides a cozy ambience for any event.  The vista span of the Lodge highlights the sparkling waters of the Mighty Mississippi River and overlooks Lock and Dam 13.  A turn of the head north reveals the widest point of the Mississippi River. The annual migration of eagles highlights a spectacular view from the glass windows that are a part of the charm of this facility. The heated and air conditioned Lodge is available year-round as a rental facility.  Contact: (563) 243-1260.

Felix Adler Children’s Discovery Center
332 8th Avenue South, Clinton. 
“Discover the Wonder of a Child's World!” 
The Children's Discovery Center is a member of the Association of Children's Museums (ACM), offering interactive exhibits, educational displays, special events, and weekly programs.  Displays include Brio train engine, Kapla blocks, ambulance, grocery store, hospital, and much more!  The Center honors the memory of Clinton native Frank Adler (“Funny Felix, King of Clowns”), who was a famous clown with Ringling Brothers Circus.  The facility has a gift shop and two special events rooms available.  It is an exceptional field trip destination and unique tourist attraction!   Center hours are: Wednesday through Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Sunday 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. 
Contact: (563) 243-3600 or e-mail: discoverycenter@qwestoffice.net
View www.adlerdiscoverycenter.org.

• Fulton Windmill
10th Avenue and 1st Street, Fulton.  Fulton’s authentic Dutch Windmill, “De Immigrant,” was prefabricated in the Netherlands and erected by Dutch Craftsmen.  The windmill sits on the flood control dike right in the heart of the city and houses Fulton’s Welcome Center and gift shop.  Open June-September daily and weekends in May and October..  Contact: Heather Bennett, (815) 589-4545 or (815) 589-2616; or visit us at www.cityoffulton.us

• Gateway Contemporary Ballet
P.O. Box 1183, Clinton. Clinton's resident dance company, Gateway Contemporary Ballet celebrated their 25th Anniversary in 2010.  Since the beginning, they have brought the delight of classical and modern dance to the area,   whether it's a full-length ballet in spring, free riverfront concerts in summer or a showcase of guest artists in the fall.  The GCB also performs with other artistic organizations and for various clubs, festivals and benefits, helping to uphold Iowa's reputation as one of the most culturally aware places in the United States. 
Contact: (563) 242-1002. Internet: www.gatewayballet.org.

• Heritage Canyon
515 North 4th Street, Fulton. The mood of an earlier day settles upon visitors to Heritage Canyon, on the banks of the great Mississippi River. Reproductions and restored buildings from the 1800's re-create the past. The buildings sit in an old limestone quarry that was purchased in 1967 by Harold and Thelma Wierenga and carefully converted to preserve the integrity of the natural surroundings. All buildings are authentically furnished and tours are self-guided. Visit the canyon during Dutch Days, the first weekend of May. Also, enjoy the canyon during the Fall Festival on the second Saturday and Sunday in October, and Christmas in the Canyon the Saturday after the first Friday in December. The canyon is open daily, April to mid-December, weather permitting. Hours are 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.  There is a $2.00 donation for adults and $1.00 for students.  Contact Heritage Canyon, (815) 589-4545 or visit us at www.cityoffulton.us.

Historical Society Museum
601 S. 1st Street, P.O. Box 2435, Clinton. Here, the story of early settlers of this Mississippi River area and the booming lumber business is told. Permanent collection includes old photographs of the area, memorabilia, period furniture, authentic 1924 kitchen, and the 'Resolute,' one of only three manually-powered fire engines on display in the world. Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.; Sunday, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Other times by appointment.  Handicapped accessible.  Contact: (563) 242-1201.

• Lock & Dam 13
4999 Lock Road, Fulton. Open year round. River closed to navigation annually from mid-December- First of March. Thousands of visitors come to view the barges and boats locking through on the widest pool in the Upper Mississippi River Basin. This lock & dam, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is an excellent location to view bald eagles during the winter months ( Nov. - Mar.).  Public lock & dam tours are held Sundays at 1 pm. between Memorial Day and Labor Day Weekends.  Special group tours may be arranged by calling the park rangers.  The Corps of Engineers also offers several recreation areas within a short drive of Clinton.  These areas offer diverse opportunities for recreational activities including: boating, fishing and hunting, picnicking, sightseeing, hiking and camping.  For recreation and tour information, contact: Thomson Park Rangers, P.O. Box 398, 823 Main Street, Thomson, (815) 259-3628.

E-mail: mvrodmn13@usace.army. mil.  Internet: www.missriver.org.   For Lock & Dam information, contact: Lockmaster, Lock & Dam 13, 4999 Lock Rd., Fulton, (815) 589-3313.

Lyons Farmers Market
Open-Air/Seasonal, May-October. Wed. 4-6 p.m.; Sat. 8 a.m.-noon. Roosevelt & Main Avenue, Clinton. Shop for your favorite “straight from the garden” goodies, from delicious sweet corn and ripe, red tomatoes to fresh green beans and “new” potatoes. From sweet, mouth-watering melon to crisp, juicy apples from the tree. You’ll also find appetizing, freshly-baked goodies like pies and coffee cakes. For more information, call Ken Shelly Jr., (563) 577-2216.

• Martin House Museum
707 10th Ave., Fulton.  The Fulton Historical Society is located in this Civil War Era home donated to the City by Mr. & Mrs. Leonard Martin.  The museum houses several antiques, a genealogy research room and Fulton memorabilia.  Open Sundays 2-4 p.m.  Contact: Fulton Chamber of Commerce: (815) 589-4545. www.cityoffulton.us

• Mississippi River Eco Tourism Center
Expected opening in February 2012 at Rock Creek Marina & Campground in Camanche IA. This state-of-the-art eco tourism center will educate and entertain tourists, as well as continue to provide an excellent place for schools, clubs and retreats to explore the great Mississippi heritage. The centerpiece of this center will be a 9,000 gallon aquarium that measures 20 feet long, 6 feet high and 10 feet wide.  The aquarium will be stocked with Mississippi River fish species, along with large wetlands display, highlighting reptiles, amphibians, waterfowl and other species that call the backwaters and sloughs of the Mississippi home.  The Eco Center will also be home to a large collection of replicas of Iowa state record fish species, including the largest large-mouth bass to the biggest flathead catfish and fish species in between.  These replicas will give visitors a vivid impression of just how large our aquatic friends can grow.  It will be the only place in Iowa that you can see such a vast collection!  E-mail: info@missecocenter.org.  Website: www.missecocenter.org.

Prairie Pastures Dog Park
4101 No. 3rd Street, Clinton, inside the gates of Eagle Point Park, across from the south playground, Prairie Pastures Dog Park is Clinton's newest celebrity, having just been chosen the 8th best dog park in the nation by DOG FANCY Magazine. Run totally by volunteers, they converted 8 acres of the old petting zoo into a wonderful play area for dogs of all sizes to run off leash. It features  natural grasses and trails; a swim area for small dogs as well as a pond for more adventurous canines;  small dog yard; large dog yard; and a senior/ special needs yard for both dogs and humans to be away from the rambunctious play.  Memberships or day pass fees are required to use the park as no tax dollars subsidize it. Check out the web site at soaringeagle.20m.com or email dogparklady@live.com or phone (563) 249-4906 for more information. 

River Arts Center
(operated by the Clinton Art Association) 229 5th Avenue South, Box 132, Downtown Clinton.  New exhibits, in a variety of media, are hung every six weeks.  The gift shop contains unique gift items on consignment, created by artists from the Clinton area and from all over the United States.  During the year, classes and workshops, taught by local teachers and well-known artists, are held in painting, pottery, ceramics and drawing.  The River Arts Center houses the Best Cellar Theatre, which has year- round children and adult shows using local talent.  Call the River Arts Center for more information and/or dates for performances. Hours at the River Arts Center are Wednesday through Sunday, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Closed Mondays, Tuesdays and the first two weeks of January. They are also open to groups by appointment. Call (563) 243-3300 for more information.

• Rock Creek Marina
3942 - 291st Street, just off US Hwy 67, Camanche. Rock Creek Marina & Campground provides a variety of facilities and services for the outdoor enthusiast including camping, paddle boat, canoe, boat and cabin rental, marina & camp store. Located on the scenic and fertile backwaters of the Mississippi River, Rock Creek provides family fun and a great outdoor vacation experience for the most rugged of outdoorsman and the family on their first camping trip. For more information contact (563) 259-1876. email: conservation@clintoncountyiowa.com. Website: www.clintoncountyiowa.com/conservation/RockCreek

Smith Brothers General Store
1016 So. 4th St., Clinton.  This store truly has something for everyone!  If you don't see what you're looking for, just ask.  Walking into this General Store is like taking a step back in time.  You probably won't see everything in one trip here! (563) 242-0327.

Soaring Eagle Nature Center
3923 North 3rd Street, Clinton (Just south of Eagle Point Park). The Nature Barn is open for special Events throughout the year and during the school term for conservation education classes. Hiking trails, natural prairie, one-room schoolhouse, nature center and Prairie Pastures Dog Park are located at the center. Call (563) 847-7202 or email at conservation@clintoncounty- iowa.com for educational programs and (563) 242-9088 for other information.
Website: www.soaringeagle.20m.com

Wide River Winery
1776 Deer Creek Road, Clinton.  Located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River at its widest point. Enjoy award-winning wines in our remodeled tasting room or take a picnic outside on the deck and relax overlooking a wooded ravine.   Learn about the art and science of wine making with a winery tour.  Hike the bluff trail for striking views of the Mississippi River or stroll through 6.5 acres of vineyards.  Our friendly staff looks forward to your visit!  Open 11-5 weekdays and 11-6 weekends.  Please call (563) 519-9463 (WINE) or visit www.wideriverwinery.com for more information.

Wild Rose Casino & Resort
777 Wild Rose Dr., Clinton. The Wild Rose Casino & Resort is one of Iowa's newest facilities.  The 120,000 square-foot property houses approximately 575 slot machines and 14 table games.  The property also contains a 60 room hotel and two dining options at Coaches Corner Sports Bar & Grill and the Sawmill Buffet with daily specials and Sunday brunch.  Check out the Wild Rose Casino & Resort at www.wildroseresorts.com for Stay & Play specials, promotions and entertainment.  Over 21? Become a Wild Times member for free and receive discounts and complimentary offers based on your play. Contact 563-243-9000 or 800-457-9975. Website: www.wildroseresorts.com