Iowa is brimming with amazing towns just waiting to be discovered. Tucked away in north-central Iowa is a charming little lake town that may be overlooked, but it’s definitely worth discovering. Clear Lake is easily one of the most underrated cities in the state, and a true hidden gem. Here’s why you need to visit.

This charming lake town has a population of 7,777, making it small enough to comfortably get around, and big enough to have plenty of sights to see.
Flickr/photolibrarian
First, pay a visit to Clear Lake State Park and take in the sights.
Facebook/Clear Lake, Iowa
Whether you want to take a stroll around the lake or just explore the hiking trails, there’s so much natural beauty to take in.
If the weather is nice, there’s a great beach where you can swim.
Flickr/Tim Fuller
You can also take part in water recreation, like fishing and water skiing. There’s also a beautiful campsite if you want to spend the weekend.
Another fun lake activity is taking a lake cruise on Lady of the Lake.
Facebook/Lady of the Lake
They offer public cruises so you can enjoy being on the water and taking in the scenery. To learn more about cruises, call 641-357-2243.
Once you’ve visited the lake, head downtown for some shopping and sightseeing.
Wikipedia/Dsmspence
You can explore the charming shops downtown, or just stroll around town and just take in the local flavor.

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Stop for lunch at Starboard Market.
Google Maps
Facebook/Starboard Market
This amazing restaurant offers delectable sandwiches, soups, salads and baked goods to die for. 310 Main Ave., Clear Lake, IA.
Once you've refueled, pay a visit to the Central Gardens of North Iowa.
Facebook/Central Gardens of North Iowa
Here, you can wander around the grounds, soak in the beauty and enjoy the calm, reflective atmosphere. 800 Second Ave. North, Clear Lake, IA.
No trip to Clear Lake would be complete without a visit to the monument where the music died, a piece of rock & roll history.
Flickr/photolibrarian
After Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson performed at the Surf Ballroom, their plane crashed, killing all of the passengers onboard.
Wikipedia/Dennis Fernkes
You can visit the field where the crash occurred, as well as the Surf Ballroom where the legendary performance was held.
Flickr/Jasperdo
Located at 460 North Shore Dr., Clear Lake, IA.

Have you visited Clear Lake? What did you think? For more of Iowa’s amazing towns, Here Are 10 Of The Most Charming Small Towns In Iowa.

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