There are several things to do in Clinton, Iowa. The city is located in Clinton County and has a population of approximately 24,469 as of 2020. The town was named for DeWitt Clinton, the sixth governor of New York. There are several places to eat and drink in the city, as well as several historic sites.
Main Street Clinton
Downtown Clinton is home to a public art project called Milling Around. Designed by Heidi Lippman, the piece draws on local history. Throughout the ages, millstones have been used in Sampson County to grind corn, nuts, and grains. The piece is located near the town’s downtown business district, and can be viewed during certain weekends.
In addition to historic buildings, downtown Clinton is home to numerous shops and restaurants. Many of the stores are affordable and sell a variety of quality items. Visitors are also encouraged to stop for lunch at one of the unique downtown eateries. These downtown businesses and establishments are a vital part of the community. Whether you’re looking for a great gift or a unique local experience, you’ll be glad you stopped by!
Musgrove Mill State Historic Site
The Battle of Musgrove Mill was fought on August 19, 1780 near the Enoree River in Spartanburg County near the border with Union County. Today, the site is a state historic site that honors this historic event. Visitors can learn about the war that shook the South Carolina Lowcountry.
The Musgrove family owned this property during the Revolutionary War, so the site has a significant connection to this period. A masonry bridge connected Musgrove’s gristmill to the north side of the Enoree River. There is also a waterfall here, Horseshoe Falls, that you can wade into for a refreshing dip. The site also has an education center and walking trails.
If you’d like to learn more about the American Revolution, the Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site in Clinton is the place for you. It’s the site of one of the most important battles in the war. It was fought between the American Patriot militia and the British Loyalists on August 19, 1780. Although the Patriots lost the battle, it helped boost patriot morale in the backcountry. The state park is nearly 360 acres of land, and the hours of operation vary depending on the season. Admission to the site is free if you have a state park pass.
Besides the Battle of Musgrove Mill, the site also boasts a TRACK Trail that offers excellent views of wildlife and birdwatching opportunities. The trail meanders alongside the Enoree River, passes Horseshoe Falls and climbs through a forest of large trees. Admission to the site is just $3 for adults, $1 for seniors and children ages six through fifteen. Admission to the museum is free for children 5 and under.
The American Revolution began after the British captured Charleston in the spring of 1780. While the British gained control of South Carolina, Patriot guerillas attacked Loyalist outposts in the backcountry. On August 19, 1780, 200 mounted Patriots reached the site of the Musgrove Mill. As a critical source of local grain, the mill was a key target for both sides. The Patriot force included Georgians under Colonel Elijah Clarke, South Carolinians under Colonel James Williams, and Tennessee Over Mountain Men under Colonel Isaac Shelby.
On that day, Capt. Inman led his men in a battle at Musgrove’s Mill. He was subsequently killed and buried in an unmarked grave.
Chamard Vineyards
You can savor the delicious French cuisine at Chamard Vineyards in Clinton. The restaurant is cozy and serves farm-to-table French fare. A charming café is also on site, serving delicious, farm-to-table French fare. A lovely stroll through the vineyards is also worth the trip.
The vineyards feature over 20 acres of grapes, beautiful gardens, and a winery. The winery is a licensed farm winery, and visitors can explore the vineyards’ history through an archive. The winery’s winemaking process combines traditional care with modern equipment. The winery offers a tasting room and bistro for visitors.
Winemakers at Chamard’s Vineyards practice sustainable farming to ensure the highest quality grapes. This requires a high level of commitment, as the entire process can take up to two years. Additionally, the vineyards are being affected by a new pest called Spotted Wing Drosophila, which requires increased insecticide applications. Chamard’s owners have partnered with researchers from the University of Connecticut to develop a trapping program for the pest.
Located near the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound, Chamard Vineyards is a beautiful winery in Clinton, Connecticut. The facility, which was completed in 1988, is situated on twenty acres of vines. The climate here benefits from its two-mile northern location and the moderate Long Island Sound. The facility is spacious and lofty, with a rustic feel. It has a beautiful lawn and patio that incorporates outdoor space.
Chamard Vineyards is a beautiful venue for a wedding. The vineyard’s grounds and wine are the perfect backdrop for an intimate celebration. The venue provides countless photo opportunities. A wedding in the vineyard can be as formal or casual as the couple wants it to be. The couple’s beautiful ceremony and reception are guaranteed to be memorable.
Indian River Kayak & Marina
If you want to explore the scenic beauty of the Indian River, you can try kayaking, paddleboarding, or canoeing. Indian River Kayak & Marina is also New England’s largest dealer of Perception, Wilderness System, and Dagger kayaks. Their inventory also includes high-performance Stellar kayaks.
If you’re looking for a place to rent a kayak, Indian River Kayak & Marina in Clinton is an excellent choice. The marina is located one-quarter mile up the Indian River from the Clinton Harbor. The Indian River is a tidal waterway that flows into the Long Island Sound. Beginner kayakers will love the calm waters and scenic vistas offered by the river.
This Clinton kayak rental company hosts novices and advanced kayakers. It offers four-hour nautical treks with a variety of kayak types. Guests can choose from recreational, convertible, and tandem kayaks to fit their needs. They can also picnic and shower off after their adventure. The marina also offers group discounts for groups of 10 or more.
In addition to kayak rentals, Indian River Kayak & Marina also offers paddle boards and SUP rentals. It also offers boat slips for small to mid-sized boats. There is a limited number of available slips. The marina also has a retail center where customers can buy kayaks and paddle boards. The inventory varies from Stellar and Perception kayaks to fishing kayaks.
