FEEL THE PAST
Clinton sits along the Mississippi River in eastern Iowa, where a mighty river, towering bluffs, bustling rail lines, and the sawmill industry helped shape a city that helped build the West—and today helps feed the world. That legacy still runs strong.
Clinton’s story is rooted in the lumber industry, and the Sawmill Museum brings that legacy to life in a way that resonates with visitors of all ages. Through hands-on exhibits and engaging storytelling, guests experience the full journey of the Upper Mississippi River lumber era. Exhibits take groups from northern forests to the bustling sawmills of Clinton and the railroads taking lumber west. For group tours, live sawing demonstrations can be arranged, while guided tours immerse visitors in the sweeping narrative.
Just across the Mississippi River, the Dutch community of Fulton, Illinois, offers a one-of-a-kind cultural experience centered around its authentic working windmill. Pairing the Fulton Windmill with Clinton’s Sawmill Museum creates a memorable “millin’ around” itinerary—perfect for a full morning of history and hands-on learning.
When the wind is right, the windmill comes to life, grinding flour just as it would in the Netherlands. Inside the adjacent De Immigrant Windmill Cultural Center, visitors can explore detailed windmill models from around the world alongside exhibits that celebrate Dutch heritage and traditions. Tours are often led by local residents of Dutch heritage, making an authentic connection to the culture of one of the region’s highest-rated group tour stops.
GET CULTURED
Clinton is home to striking public art like the large-scale murals of Paint it Back, where entire walls become world-class canvases. New in 2026 is the whimsical addition of the Thomas Dambo trolls. Visitors can experience three larger-than-life troll installations located at The Sawmill Museum, Bickelhaupt Arboretum, and in downtown Clinton. Each site is easily accessible, making it simple for groups to explore, interact, and capture memorable photos with these imaginative and life-like sculptures. Paint it Back also offers guided tours, providing deeper insight into the artists, stories, and creative energy shaping Clinton’s growing arts scene.
Recently renovated with an updated event and education center, Bickelhaupt Arboretum offers a serene and engaging experience for group tours. The arboretum features an impressive collection of unique plantings, including extensive dwarf conifers and rare shrubs that make it a standout destination for garden enthusiasts. Guided tours led by knowledgeable naturalists bring the landscape to life, highlighting the diversity of Iowa’s native ecosystems alongside trees and plant species from around the world.
PLAY A WHILE
After a day of history and eats, unwind at Wild Rose Casino, one of the state’s leading casinos. Live table games, slots, sports betting, and great food make a great ending note to any tour of Clinton. If schedules allow, group tours also can take in a Clinton LumberKings game, featuring live Prospect League baseball in a historic 1930s stadium, or enjoy a performance by the Clinton Area Showboat Theatre, which houses professional live theater set aboard a historic riverboat.
Visit Clinton
563-242-5702
growclinton.com
Lead Image:
7 Hills Brewing Co.
Photo courtesy of Visit Clinton
