Things To Do
in Clive

Clive, located in Iowa, is a charming suburb of Des Moines known for its family-friendly atmosphere and vibrant community. The city boasts numerous parks, recreational facilities, and a variety of shopping and dining options. With a population that values outdoor activities and community events, Clive offers a welcoming environment for visitors.

Its proximity to Des Moines allows easy access to a larger urban experience while maintaining a small-town feel.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Clive
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Clive Greenbelt Trail for a refreshing walk or bike ride along the scenic route. Stop by a local café for breakfast, enjoying some fresh pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Visit the Clive Aquatic Center for some fun in the sun or head to the local shops at the Clive Town Centre. Grab lunch at a nearby deli, sampling local sandwiches.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a popular restaurant in Clive, followed by a stroll through the parks to admire the evening sky.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Des Moines
morning
:

Take a short drive to Des Moines and begin your day at the Des Moines Art Center, exploring its impressive collection. Enjoy brunch at a nearby eatery featuring farm-to-table options.

afternoon
:

Visit the Science Center of Iowa for interactive exhibits or spend time at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, soaking in the beauty of nature.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with dinner at a renowned steakhouse in Des Moines, followed by a visit to a local brewery for a taste of Iowa craft beer.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🚌Public transport fare$2-$3
🏨Hotel (mid-range)$100-$150
🎟️Movie ticket$10-$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of parks and activities.
  • Close proximity to Des Moines for additional entertainment options.
  • Affordable living and dining compared to larger metropolitan areas.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Fewer dining options than urban areas.
  • Traffic can become congested during rush hours due to its proximity to Des Moines.

Places to Visit in Clive

Visit one of these nice places.

Clive Greenbelt Trail

A beautiful trail that winds through parks and natural areas, perfect for capturing scenic landscapes and wildlife.

Des Moines Riverwalk

Located nearby, the Riverwalk offers stunning views of the city skyline, especially at sunset.

Walnut Creek

A picturesque spot for nature photography, featuring lush greenery and tranquil waters.

Culinary Guide

Food in Clive

Clive offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects the heart of Iowa's farm-to-table culture, making it a perfect destination for food lovers.

Clive Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

A staple in Iowa, this sandwich features a breaded and fried pork tenderloin served on a bun, often topped with pickles and onions.

Must-Try!

Sweet Corn

Freshly harvested sweet corn is a must-try, often served grilled or boiled during the summer months.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Clive Farmers Market

Held weekly, this market features local produce, artisanal goods, and often live music, creating a vibrant community atmosphere.

Climate Guide

Weather

Clive experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with average temperatures reaching the mid-80s°F (around 29°C). Winters can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, particularly in January. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, making them popular times for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly smile and a simple 'hello' or 'how are you?' is common when meeting someone.

Respect for Personal Space

Iowans value personal space and may prefer a bit of distance during conversations.

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated, especially for social gatherings and business meetings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Clive is generally a safe community with low crime rates, but standard precautions should be taken, such as locking cars and being aware of your surroundings, especially in less populated areas. Emergency services are accessible, and it's advisable to have the local police number handy for any incidents.

Tipping in Clive

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip service staff, typically 15-20% of the total bill in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, but cash may be preferred at local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm and humid, perfect for enjoying outdoor concerts and farmers markets, but be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage make this a beautiful time for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold weather with snow, suitable for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Clive at Night

Clive's nightlife is relatively subdued compared to larger cities, with a focus on cozy bars, family-friendly restaurants, and occasional live music events. Nearby Des Moines offers a more vibrant nightlife scene with clubs, cocktail lounges, and entertainment venues, making it a short drive away for those seeking more excitement.

Hiking in Clive

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gray's Lake Park Trail

A scenic 2-mile loop around Gray's Lake, offering beautiful views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Saylorville Lake Trail

A longer trail that runs along the Saylorville Lake, perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying water activities.

Airports

How to reach Clive by plane.

Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

Located approximately 10 miles from Clive, DSM is the primary airport serving the area, offering domestic flights and some international services.

Getting Around

Walkability

Clive is considered quite walkable with many sidewalks, parks, and trails. The community encourages walking and biking, and essential amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, and parks are generally accessible within a short distance. However, having a car can be beneficial for reaching areas outside the main commercial zones.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Clive has a large population of families who appreciate the area's parks, schools, and community events.

Young Professionals

With its proximity to Des Moines, Clive attracts young professionals looking for a suburban lifestyle while maintaining access to urban job markets.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

High school and college football are particularly popular, with local teams drawing significant community support.

Basketball

Youth and adult leagues thrive in the area, and professional basketball games can be enjoyed in nearby Des Moines.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Clive can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly when commuting to and from Des Moines. Public transportation options are available, but many residents rely on personal vehicles for convenience. The city is also bike-friendly, with several bike lanes and paths.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Clive.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Clive offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus ahead of time.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries cater to gluten-free diets, though confirming options with the staff is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Clive is good, with several clinics and hospitals available nearby. The UnityPoint Health - Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines provides comprehensive services, and there are various urgent care facilities in the area. Residents and visitors can expect quality care and a variety of specialists.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide