Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Clive is a charming and vibrant suburb of Des Moines that offers a surprising blend of modern convenience and Midwestern hospitality. Often serving as the perfect gateway to the greater capital region, Clive presents itself as an ideal base for travelers seeking comfort, accessibility, and a taste of central Iowa's attractions. With a manageable scale that invites exploration, the city boasts a welcoming atmosphere complemented by a range of accommodations, including a selection of 10 hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets, averaging a comfortable $85 per night. While a recommended stay of one day is perfect for a focused visit, Clive's proximity to premier destinations like the interactive Living History Farms, the sprawling Jordan Creek Town Center, and the serene trails of Raccoon River Park makes it a strategic and relaxing home base. Whether you're passing through on a road trip or planning a short urban escape, Clive provides a quiet, friendly, and well-connected introduction to the delights of the Des Moines metropolitan area.
Clive, Iowa, is a city born from the railroad, with its history tracing back to the late 19th century when it was established as a water stop for steam locomotives. This heritage of connection and transit still defines it today as a key suburban hub within the Des Moines-West Des Moines metropolitan area. The city is famously known for its extensive and award-winning Greenbelt park and trail system, weaving through communities and offering over 60 miles of paths for biking, walking, and enjoying nature. Culturally, Clive embodies a family-friendly, active lifestyle with a strong sense of community, hosting popular annual events like the Clive Festival and the Fourth of July celebration. While it doesn't have distinct historic districts in the traditional sense, its identity is shaped by its commercial corridors like University Avenue and its serene residential neighborhoods. It's famous for providing a high quality of life, excellent parks and recreational facilities like the Clive Aquatic Center, and its role as a retail and dining destination, anchored by its proximity to the massive Jordan Creek Town Center.
The best time to visit Clive is during the late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October). These seasons offer mild, pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and vibrant foliage in the fall, making them ideal for exploring the extensive trail system and outdoor parks. Summer (July-August) is the peak season, with warm to hot weather perfect for the Clive Aquatic Center and nearby Adventureland Park, but it can be humid with occasional thunderstorms. This period also sees numerous local festivals. Winter (December-February) is the off-peak season, characterized by cold temperatures and snow, which is great for travelers seeking lower hotel rates and indoor attractions like the Des Moines Art Center, though outdoor activities are limited. Major events include the Clive Festival in summer, the Fourth of July parade and fireworks, and various farmers' markets from spring through fall.
Clive experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, while summers are warm to hot and often humid. Spring and fall are transitional with mild temperatures and variable precipitation.
Cold with regular snowfall. Expect freezing temperatures and occasional winter storms. Ideal for indoor cultural activities.
Unpredictable and transitional. Starts chilly and wet, evolving into mild and pleasant by May. Perfect for early trail walks.
Warm to hot and humid. Afternoon thunderstorms are common. Peak season for outdoor festivals, pools, and amusement parks.
Crisp, cool, and colorful. September is often ideal, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage.
Best for: indoor activities
Best for: indoor activities
Best for: sightseeing
Best for: sightseeing
Best for: outdoor activities
Best for: outdoor activities
Best for: outdoor activities
Best for: outdoor activities
Best for: outdoor activities
Best for: sightseeing
Best for: sightseeing
Best for: indoor activities
Getting around Clive and the greater Des Moines area is most conveniently done by car. Public transportation is provided by Des Moines Area Regional Transit (DART), with bus routes connecting Clive to downtown Des Moines and other suburbs, though service frequency is moderate; a single ride costs about $1.75. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available and practical for point-to-point travel. For local exploration within Clive's parks and greenbelts, walking and biking are highly recommended thanks to the city's exceptional trail network. The Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is approximately a 15-20 minute drive from Clive; airport transfers are best handled via ride-share, taxi (approx $25-$35), or rental car. Renting a car is the most flexible option for visitors planning multiple day trips or exploring the wider region.
Interactive outdoor museum depicting historical farming and pioneer life.
Large shopping center with numerous stores, restaurants, and entertainment.
Art museum featuring modern and contemporary works in a unique setting.
A park with trails, a beach, and recreational facilities.
Urban park with a lake and trails.
Amusement park with rides
Public pool and recreation
Family-friendly theme park with rides, shows, and a water park.
Iowa's capital city, offering museums, a botanical garden, and the State Capitol.
The commercial and transportation heart of Clive, lined with hotels, restaurants, and retail shops. Highly convenient for visitors.
Residential areas adjacent to the extensive trail system, offering serene settings, parks, and easy access to outdoor recreation.
A newer development area featuring modern homes, quieter streets, and proximity to the border with Waukee.
Primarily commercial and light industrial, with some residential pockets. Offers easy highway access for travelers.
A well-established residential neighborhood centered around Campbell Park, known for its community feel and family homes.
Features beautiful homes with access to the Raccoon River Park and its lake, trails, and recreational facilities.
Clive's local cuisine reflects its Iowan roots, emphasizing hearty, farm-fresh comfort food. Signature dishes include the breaded pork tenderloin sandwich, a pounded-thin, crispy fried cutlet often served larger than the bun, and sweet corn, especially in late summer. The dining culture is casual and family-oriented, with a growing trend of modern American bistros and ethnic eateries alongside classic steakhouses and pubs. Must-try foods include Iowa chops (thick bone-in pork chops), Maid-Rite loose meat sandwiches, and any dessert featuring Maytag Blue Cheese. Popular food areas are concentrated along University Avenue and near the Jordan Creek Town Center, which hosts a wide variety of chain and local restaurants. Price ranges are affordable, with a hearty meal at a mid-range restaurant costing $15-$30 per person. Etiquette is unpretentious; tipping 15-20% is standard, and reservations are usually only needed for finer dining establishments.
Explore the Iowa State Capitol, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, East Village boutiques, and the Des Moines Art Center.
An interactive, open-air museum depicting 300 years of Iowa's agricultural history with costumed interpreters.
A family-friendly amusement and water park with roller coasters, rides, and seasonal events.
Famous for its covered bridges, the John Wayne birthplace, and scenic rural landscapes.
Visit the beautiful campus, Reiman Gardens, and enjoy the vibrant college-town dining and culture.
A charming Dutch community known for its annual Tulip Time festival, windmills, and bakeries.
Clive is generally a very safe city with a low crime rate. Standard urban precautions apply: lock car doors, don't leave valuables in sight, and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night in parking lots. Common scams are rare but be cautious of unsolicited offers. There are no specific high-crime areas to avoid, but as with any suburb, it's wise to exercise normal caution. For emergencies, dial 911. For non-emergency police assistance, the Clive Police Department can be contacted. Health recommendations include having standard travel insurance; tick prevention is advised when hiking in wooded park areas during warmer months. The tap water is safe to drink.
Clive is an affordable destination. A budget traveler can manage on $60-$80 per day, staying at budget hotel chains or motels (from $70/night), eating fast-casual or grocery meals ($15-$25/day), using public transit or walking, and enjoying free activities like the Greenbelt trails. A mid-range traveler should budget $100-$150 per day, covering a standard hotel room (averaging $85/night), meals at sit-down restaurants ($30-$45/day), occasional ride-shares or a rental car, and paid attractions like Living History Farms ($15-$20). A luxury budget of $200+ per day allows for upscale hotels, fine dining, private tours, and convenience. Money-saving tips: visit in the off-season (winter) for lower hotel rates, utilize the extensive free park system, look for hotel packages that include breakfast, and dine at lunch for lower prix-fixe menus at many restaurants.