Clearwater MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Clearwater, Minnesota.
1. Warner Lake Park
SCENIC NATURAL RECREATION AREA
Warner Lake Park is a beloved outdoor destination in Clearwater offering beautiful natural scenery and recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful day by the lake with picnic areas, walking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The park provides a perfect getaway for families looking to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor activities throughout the seasons.
2. Clearwater Lake
PRISTINE WATERS FOR RECREATION
Clearwater Lake stands as the crown jewel of water activities in the region, offering pristine waters and scenic surroundings perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is known for its clear, calm waters, making it an ideal spot for families and water enthusiasts alike with opportunities to catch bass, northern pike, and walleye. Nearby picnic areas and walking trails complement the lake, creating the perfect spot for a full day of outdoor fun and relaxation.
3. Clear Waters Outfitting
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE EQUIPMENT RENTAL
Clear Waters Outfitting provides adventure seekers with equipment and guided experiences to explore the natural beauty of Clearwater. Visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, and other outdoor gear to navigate the Mississippi River and surrounding waterways. This local outfitter serves as a gateway to memorable outdoor adventures for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.
4. Eldorado Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY COMMUNITY SPACE
Eldorado Park offers a welcoming community space for Clearwater residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor recreation. The park features playground equipment, open green spaces, and facilities for community gatherings and events. Families particularly appreciate this well-maintained park for its safe environment and variety of activities for children of all ages.
5. Lion's Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATIONAL SPACE
Lion's Park provides a charming riverside retreat in Clearwater where visitors can relax and enjoy scenic views of the Mississippi River. The park offers playground equipment, picnic facilities, and open spaces for games and gatherings. Its convenient location makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to experience Clearwater's natural beauty.
6. Flinstones Bar
LOCAL WATERING HOLE
Flinstones Bar serves as a beloved local establishment where visitors can experience authentic small-town Minnesota hospitality. The bar offers cold drinks, casual dining options, and a friendly atmosphere where locals and tourists alike gather. Visitors appreciate the unpretentious charm and opportunity to mingle with Clearwater residents while enjoying refreshments after a day of outdoor activities.
7. Hoglund Wildlife Management Area
NATURAL HABITAT CONSERVATION
Hoglund Wildlife Management Area preserves essential natural habitats and provides opportunities for wildlife observation and nature photography. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the area's diverse ecosystems while potentially spotting native Minnesota wildlife in their natural environment. The management area offers a more rugged, less developed natural experience compared to traditional parks, appealing to those seeking authentic wilderness connections.
8. Clearwater Days
ANNUAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
Clearwater Days is an annual community celebration that showcases the best of Clearwater's local culture and spirit with a weekend filled with family-friendly activities. The festival features a parade, fireworks, live music, food vendors, craft stalls, and games for all ages to enjoy. Additional highlights include a classic car show and a 5K race, making it the perfect way to experience the charm and community spirit of small-town Minnesota.
9. Mississippi River Access
ICONIC AMERICAN WATERWAY
The Mississippi River access points in Clearwater offer visitors the chance to connect with one of America's most iconic waterways. Water enthusiasts can enjoy fishing, boating, or simply taking in the majestic views of this historic river that has shaped the region's development. The riverside areas provide excellent opportunities for photography, wildlife viewing, and reflecting on the natural and cultural significance of the Mississippi.
10. Crossfire Airsoft MN
TACTICAL GAMING EXPERIENCE
Crossfire Airsoft MN delivers an adrenaline-pumping tactical gaming experience for visitors seeking active entertainment. Players can engage in realistic combat scenarios using airsoft replicas across specially designed indoor and outdoor fields. The facility provides all necessary equipment and safety instruction, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced airsoft enthusiasts looking for competitive team-building activities.
11. Quarry Park and Nature Preserve
HISTORIC QUARRIES AND TRAILS
Quarry Park and Nature Preserve features 20 former granite quarries transformed into a unique recreational area just a short drive from Clearwater. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear quarry pools during summer months or explore over 20 miles of hiking trails winding through diverse natural habitats. The park's combination of industrial history and natural beauty makes it one of central Minnesota's most distinctive outdoor destinations, complete with rock climbing opportunities and scientific significance.
12. Lake Maria State Park
PRISTINE WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
Lake Maria State Park preserves a beautiful remnant of the Big Woods ecosystem that once covered much of central Minnesota. Visitors can explore more than 14 miles of hiking trails through rolling hills, forests, and wetlands while potentially spotting diverse wildlife including deer, coyotes, and numerous bird species. The park offers year-round recreational opportunities including hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and rustic cabin rentals for an immersive nature experience.
13. Albertville Premium Outlets
DESIGNER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Albertville Premium Outlets offers an extensive shopping experience with over 100 designer and name-brand outlet stores just a short drive from Clearwater. Shoppers can find significant discounts on clothing, accessories, home goods, and more from popular brands and designers. The outdoor mall layout provides a pleasant shopping environment with regular special events and promotions throughout the year.
14. Munsinger Clemens Gardens
HISTORIC RIVERSIDE FLOWER GARDENS
Munsinger Clemens Gardens showcase two distinct but adjacent garden experiences along the Mississippi River, combining natural beauty with horticultural artistry. Munsinger Gardens offers informal English-style landscapes under towering pine trees, while Clemens Gardens features formal Victorian designs with elaborate fountains and thousands of flowers. Visitors can enjoy free admission to these meticulously maintained gardens that provide spectacular seasonal displays from spring tulips to summer roses and fall foliage.
15. Powder Ridge
FOUR-SEASON OUTDOOR RECREATION
Powder Ridge offers year-round outdoor adventure opportunities within a short drive from Clearwater, transforming from a winter ski resort to a summer recreation area as seasons change. Winter visitors can enjoy downhill skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing across numerous runs with varying difficulty levels. During warmer months, the facility hosts mountain biking, outdoor concerts, and special events, making it a versatile recreational destination throughout the year.