The Great River Road is one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the entire United States, stretching the length of the mighty Mississippi. The Iowa segment is easily one of the best road trips you can take in the Hawkeye State, spanning all the way from Keokuk to New Albin. There are so many cities and small towns along the way that you’ll want to stop in every one, and they all have unique draws – but one that might not get as much attention as it deserves is Clinton. Located roughly in the middle of the Iowa segment of the Great River Road, it’s a popular spot with tourists – and there are many great things to do in Clinton, Iowa! From a unique brewery, to museums and theaters in unusual locations, to an iconic restaurant made for summer, there’s no better place to take a break from the road and make a day trip of it!

The Great River Road is a fantastic way to see Iowa's beauty - and to explore its most charming towns.
Farragutful/Wikipedia
One of those towns is Clinton, located about midway along Iowa's section of the road, and it's a must-visit place filled with top-tier attractions.
Farragutful/Wikipedia
The Sawmill Museum is a great tribute to the area's lumbering history and is a popular attraction with kids.
Sawmill Museum, 2231 Grant St, Clinton, IA 52732, USA
Visit Clinton Iowa/Google Local
Step inside and explore old log cabins, and take a look at some authentic logging equipment!
Sawmill Museum, 2231 Grant St, Clinton, IA 52732, USA
Wes Salmon/Google Local
This majestic old church used to be Bethel Church, but it has been restored and transformed into...
Farragutful/Wikipedia
Great Revivalist Brewery, a unique place for craft brews and pizzas in one of the most unique environments in all of Iowa.
Great Revivalist Brewery, 238 4th Ave S, Clinton, IA 52732, USA
Jon Uzel/Google Local
During summer, there's no better place for lunch or dinner in Clinton than the Candlelight Inn for al fresco dining!
Thomas Santomarinio/Google Local
The chicken tenders, broiled fish, and hefty sandwiches are all popular options here.
Candlelight Inn Restaurant - Clinton Iowa, 511 Riverview Dr, Clinton, IA 52732, USA
Janise Wood/Google Local
To wrap up your day in Clinton, why not hop on board... at the Clinton Area Showboat Theater?
Joseph Kennedy/Google Local
This boat might be docked, but it's home to some of Iowa's most entertaining music and plays performed nightly!
Clinton Area Showboat Theater, 303 Riverview Dr, Clinton, IA 52732, USA
Ron P/Google Local

What are your favorite things to do in Clinton, Iowa? Have you adventured on the Great River Road? Let us know in the comments section! You can find out more about the Great River Road on the official website, and check out the official websites of the Sawmill Museum, Great Revivalist Brew Lab, Clinton Area Showboat Theater, and Candlelight Inn Restaurant for more information. You can stay the night in the Hampton Inn Clinton, or continue your adventure with a stop in Iowa’s island city.

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