Clive, IA

• About Clive
• Geography
• Climate and Weather
• Landmarks and Attractions
• Transport
• Sport and Sports Legends
• Museums
• Healthcare and Medical Institutions
• Universities and Educational Institutions
• Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Clive is a suburban city in Iowa, part of the Des Moines metropolitan area, known for its extensive Greenbelt Park and trail system.

About Clive

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

Clive is a city in Dallas and Polk counties in the U.S. state of Iowa. Its full official name is the City of Clive. It is not a state capital, but it is an integral part of the Des Moines–West Des Moines Metropolitan Statistical Area, functioning as a primarily residential suburb. The city is situated at the axis of the western Des Moines suburbs, bordered by Urbandale, Waukee, and West Des Moines . The region is the political, economic, and cultural hub of the state of Iowa.

Historical Names and Nicknames

• Clive: The city's name is believed to have been given in honor of Robert Clive (Clive of India), the British military officer who established British control in India. While the exact origin is unconfirmed, this is the most widely accepted explanation .
• "Distinct by Nature": This is the official motto of the city, prominently featured on its website and marketing materials. It reflects the community's high quality of life, extensive parks and trail system, and recognized Public Art Program .

Founding Date and Age

The area that is now Clive was first settled in 1882 when the Union Land Company began platting the land along the Walnut Creek and the railroad. However, it remained an unincorporated town for over seven decades. Clive was officially incorporated as a city on August 18, 1956. As of 2026, the city is 69 years old .

Geographic Location and Coordinates

• Geographic Coordinates: 41°36′53″N 93°47′53″W (41.61472, -93.79806) .
• Location: Clive is located in the heart of Iowa, with the majority in Polk County and a smaller portion extending into Dallas County. It lies along the Walnut Creek, a tributary of the Raccoon River . The city is situated on the rolling plains of central Iowa.
• Elevation: The center of Clive sits at an elevation of 271 meters (889 feet) above sea level .
• Type of City: Clive is a suburban city and a classic "bedroom community" within a larger metropolitan area.

City Type and Economic Specialization

Clive is predominantly a residential suburb and a regional hub for recreation. While many residents commute to jobs in nearby Des Moines and West Des Moines, the local economy is supported by retail and services concentrated along major thoroughfares like 86th Street, Hickman Road, and University Avenue. Its primary specialization is as a recreational center for the western suburbs, anchored by its renowned Greenbelt Park and trail system, which is a major draw for outdoor activities .

Population and Demographics

According to the 2020 Census, the population of Clive is 18,601, ranking it as the 25th most populous city in Iowa. It is classified as a small city. Clive has experienced rapid growth since its incorporation, evolving from a coal-mining town of 752 people in 1960 to the affluent suburb it is today. The population density is approximately 939 people per square kilometer . It is characterized by a well-educated and above-average income demographic.

"City's Calling Card" (In Short)

Clive is a family-oriented suburban community known for being "Distinct by Nature." Its calling card is the Clive Greenbelt Trail, a scenic 11.3-mile paved path that winds through the city along Walnut Creek, connecting numerous parks, neighborhoods, and public facilities. People come here to enjoy the outdoors, explore the public art, and experience the high quality of life in a safe, welcoming Iowa suburb.

Geography

Water Features (Creeks and Rivers)

While not a large river city, Clive's geography is defined by its small watercourses.

• Walnut Creek: This is the primary stream running through the heart of Clive. The city's signature Greenbelt Park and Trail meander along its banks for much of its length, making it the central natural feature of the community .
• Raccoon River: Clive is part of the Middle Raccoon River watershed. The city's drinking water supply is drawn from the Raccoon River, which is monitored to ensure water quality .

Parks and Trails

The city is renowned for its interconnected park and trail system.

• Clive Greenbelt Trail: This is the crown jewel of the city's park system. It is an 11.3-mile (18.2 km) paved urban recreational trail that runs primarily along the north bank of Walnut Creek, connecting Clive to the trail systems of neighboring Waukee, West Des Moines, Urbandale, and Windsor Heights. It is a very busy trail used for walking, running, biking, and rollerblading, and provides access to many parks, the library, and the aquatic center. It also links to the larger 56-mile Raccoon River Valley Trail, which is part of the American Discovery Trail .
• Walnut Creek Regional Park: Located in the area, this park features hiking trails, a dog park, and opportunities for fishing, further cementing Clive's reputation for outdoor recreation .
• Greenbelt Park: This is the central parkland through which the Greenbelt Trail runs, serving as a natural corridor and green space for the community .

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Clive has a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. It experiences warm, often humid summers and cold, dry winters. The city enjoys a fair amount of sunshine throughout the year .

Average Temperatures by Month

Temperatures vary widely between summer and winter. The warmest month is July, and the coldest is January .

Precipitation and Humidity

Clive receives an average annual rainfall of approximately 844 mm (33 inches). Snowfall is common in winter, with an annual average of about 89 mm (3 inches) of snow accumulation, though this can vary significantly. Humidity levels are generally moderate, with an annual average around 81% .

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Clive for outdoor activities is from late spring to early fall.

• Spring (April-May): Temperatures are mild and pleasant, with nature coming to life along the Greenbelt Trail.
• Summer (June-August): This is the peak season for enjoying the Clive Aquatic Center, the many parks, and community events. Weather is warm to hot, with average highs in the mid-to-upper 20s°C (low-to-mid 80s°F) .
• Fall (September-October): The weather is crisp and cool, offering beautiful foliage along the trails, making it ideal for hiking and biking.
• Winter (November-March): Winters are cold, with average highs often near or below freezing. This time of year is suitable for indoor activities.

Landmarks and Attractions

[Clive Greenbelt Trail]

This is the city's most significant attraction and a beloved community asset.

• Full Name: Clive Greenbelt Trail
• Length: 11.3 miles (18.2 km).
• Description: This paved, multi-use trail meanders through the city, primarily following the course of Walnut Creek. It serves as the spine of Clive's park system, linking neighborhoods to schools, parks, the Clive Aquatic Center, the library, and City Hall. It is a very busy recreational trail for walking, jogging, biking, and inline skating .
• Why It's Famous: It provides a scenic, car-free route through the suburbs and connects to a vast regional network, including the Raccoon River Valley Trail, one of the longest rail trails in the U.S. It perfectly embodies the city's motto, "Distinct by Nature," and is a central part of life in Clive .
• Points of Interest Along the Trail: Users can access the Campbell Recreation Area, Wildwood Park, and Lions Park, among others. The trail also passes by the Clive Aquatic Center and the Clive Library .

[Historic Depot and Swanson House]

This complex serves as a tangible link to Clive's past as a coal mining and railroad town.

• Full Name: Clive Railroad Depot and Swanson House
• Location: 10490 Maddox Parkway, Clive.
• Description: The railroad depot dates back to 1882, the year the town was platted, and served as a shipping point for coal along the St. Louis – Des Moines Northern Railway. It has been carefully restored. The neighboring Swanson House, built in 1911, is a preserved early 20th-century farmhouse .
• Current Use: The Swanson House now serves as the headquarters for the Clive Historical Society, preserving and sharing the history of the community. The depot is also part of the historical site .

[Clive Aquatic Center]

A modern public facility that is a hub of summer activity for families.

• Full Name: Clive Aquatic Center
• Location: 1801 114th Street, Clive, adjacent to the Clive Greenbelt Trail.
• Description: This family-friendly water park features a large leisure pool with play structures, a lap pool, water slides, and a sprayground. It is a popular destination for residents and visitors during the warm summer months, offering a place to cool off and have fun .

Transport

Major Highways

Clive is strategically located at the intersection of several major transportation corridors, making it highly accessible.

• Interstate 80/Interstate 35: These major coast-to-coast and NAFTA corridors run concurrently (I-35 and I-80) through the eastern edge of Clive, connecting the city to Des Moines, Omaha, and points east and west .
• Interstate 235: This interstate highway begins in Clive, leading directly into the heart of downtown Des Moines .
• U.S. Highway 6: Also known as Hickman Road, this highway forms much of the northern boundary of Clive with Urbandale and is a major commercial thoroughfare .

Public Transportation

Public transit in Clive is provided by the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART).

• Service: DART operates several bus routes that serve Clive, connecting residents to the greater Des Moines metro area, including West Des Moines, Urbandale, and downtown Des Moines .
• Key Routes: Key local routes include Route 72 (West Des Moines Loop) and Route 74 (NW Urbandale), both running along University Avenue. For commuters, Express Routes 92 and 93 provide peak-hour service to downtown Des Moines from Park & Ride lots in Clive .
• Information: For trip planning and schedules, residents can visit ridedart.com .

Nearest Airport

The primary airport serving Clive and the entire Des Moines region is:

• Name: Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
• Distance: The airport is located approximately 22.4 km (14 miles) southeast of Clive .
• Description: It is the largest passenger airport in Iowa, offering non-stop flights to numerous major destinations across the United States.

Sport and Sports Legends

While the city of Clive itself is primarily a residential suburb, it is home to a premier sports facility and is located just minutes from the major professional and collegiate sporting action in downtown Des Moines.

Premier Golf Destination

Clive hosts one of the most prestigious golf venues in the state. The Des Moines Golf and Country Club is a private club that has gained national recognition. It made history by hosting both the 2017 Solheim Cup and the 2017 U.S. Senior Open concurrently, marking the first time two major championships were played at the same venue in back-to-back weeks . This course is a significant point of pride for the local sports community.

Professional Sports in Nearby Des Moines

For residents and visitors of Clive, the heart of professional sports beats just a short drive away in downtown Des Moines at the Iowa Events Center. The center's Wells Fargo Arena, a world-class venue with a capacity of over 17,000, is home to several professional teams .

• Iowa Wild: The primary hockey affiliate of the Minnesota Wild, competing in the American Hockey League (AHL) .
• Iowa Wolves: An NBA G League team affiliated with the Minnesota Timberwolves .
• Iowa Barnstormers: A professional indoor football team playing in the Indoor Football League (IFL), known for their passionate fan base .

Wells Fargo Arena also hosts major events like NCAA championship tournaments, high school state wrestling championships (a hugely popular event in Iowa), and world-famous music concerts .

Notable Athletes from Clive

Clive has produced talent that has reached the highest levels of the music and sports world. The most famous native son is Mick Thomson, the guitarist for the Grammy Award-winning heavy metal band Slipknot . In the world of sports media, Chris Broussard, a well-known sports commentator and analyst for networks like ESPN and Fox Sports, also hails from Clive .

Museums

While Clive itself does not have large public museums, its location in the Des Moines metro area puts a wealth of cultural and historical institutions within a 15-20 minute drive. The city of Des Moines offers several world-class museums that are easily accessible.

Art Museums in Nearby Des Moines

Art enthusiasts will find the Des Moines Art Center and its adjacent Pappajohn Sculpture Park to be major draws. The museum itself houses a distinguished collection of contemporary art, featuring works by Edward Hopper, Jasper Johns, and Andy Warhol . The 4.4-acre sculpture park, funded by John and Mary Pappajohn, is a must-see, featuring over 30 large-scale sculptures. A particular highlight is Jaume Plensa's 27-foot-tall "Nomade," a hollow human form made of white steel letters .

History Museums

For a deep dive into regional history, the Living History Farms in nearby Urbandale offers an interactive experience. This 500-acre outdoor museum educates visitors about Midwestern rural life through recreated historical farms and a frontier town from the 1700s, 1850s, and 1900s, complete with historical interpreters in period attire . Additionally, the magnificent Iowa State Capitol building in Des Moines, completed in 1886, functions as a historical landmark. Visitors can tour its ornate interior, which features 29 types of marble, 12 types of wood native to Iowa, and a 23-karat gold-covered dome . The building also houses historical artifacts, including a model of the USS Iowa battleship .

Local Historical Sites in Clive

For those interested in Clive's own history, the Clive Historical Society operates out of the historic Swanson House. Built in 1911, this house serves as the headquarters for the society. Adjacent to it is the restored railroad depot, which dates back to 1882, when Clive was a coal mining town and a shipping point along the railway . These sites offer a glimpse into the city's past.

Specialized and Science Museums

The Science Center of Iowa in Des Moines is a fantastic, hands-on attraction for families, featuring an Imax theater and interactive exhibits on topics from physics to paleontology . Another unique gem is the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, a 7-acre site with a domed conservatory that serves as a tropical oasis year-round, housing palm trees, cacti, and seasonal gardens .

Healthcare and Medical Institutions

Clive is home to specialized healthcare facilities that serve the region, and it is in close proximity to the major medical centers in the Des Moines metro area.

Specialized Hospitals in Clive

Clive hosts two facilities focused on specific areas of patient care:

• MercyOne Clive Rehabilitation Hospital: Located at 1401 Campus Drive, this facility is dedicated to rehabilitation services. It is evaluated for its quality of care in helping patients recover and return home after serious illnesses or injuries .
• Clive Behavioral Health: Situated at 1450 NW 114th Street, this hospital provides psychiatric care and behavioral health services to patients in the region .

Major Medical Centers Nearby

For comprehensive, full-service medical care, residents of Clive have easy access to the top-ranked hospitals in nearby Des Moines and West Des Moines. These include the extensive MercyOne and UnityPoint Health systems, which offer a full spectrum of services from primary care to advanced surgical procedures and emergency medicine.

Universities and Educational Institutions

As a primarily residential suburb, Clive is served by the school districts of its neighboring cities and is within commuting distance of several of Iowa's most reputable universities and colleges.

Local School Districts and Academies

Youth in Clive attend schools within the boundaries of highly-regarded public districts. Much of Clive is served by the West Des Moines Community School District, with children in the area attending Clive Learning Academy for elementary education . Parts of the city in Dallas County fall within the Waukee School District. Crossroads Park Elementary is another public school option serving the community .

Nearby Colleges and Universities

Clive's location in the Des Moines metropolitan area places it near several respected higher education institutions.

• Drake University (Des Moines): A private university known for its law school, pharmacy school, and nationally-recognized journalism school. It is also home to the Drake Bulldogs, who compete in the NCAA Division I Missouri Valley Conference.
• Des Moines University: A graduate and professional school renowned for its programs in osteopathic medicine, podiatry, physical therapy, and health sciences.
• Grand View University (Des Moines): A private, liberal arts university affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
• Iowa State University (Ames): Located about 40 minutes north of Clive, this is Iowa's land-grant university and a major research institution, famous for its engineering, agriculture, and veterinary medicine programs. It is a significant draw for students from the Clive area.
• Central College (Pella): A private, liberal arts college about 40 minutes southeast of Clive. It is mentioned here as it is a popular choice for students from Clive, such as men's soccer player Jack Hillis, who chose the college for its size and soccer program .

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Clive's dining scene reflects its nature as a modern American suburb, offering a variety of chain restaurants and local eateries. For a taste of authentic regional cuisine, one must look to the broader Des Moines area and the state of Iowa.

The Iconic Iowa State Fair Food Experience

While not specific to Clive, the quintessential culinary experience for the region is undoubtedly the Iowa State Fair, held annually in Des Moines just a few miles away. The fair is legendary for its creative and indulgent fair foods. It is the place to try iconic dishes like pork chops on a stick, and countless deep-fried concoctions (from Twinkies to butter). This is the premier event for experiencing Iowa's food culture at its most festive .

Local Favorites and Farm-to-Table

The Downtown Des Moines Farmers' Market, held weekly from May through October, is a massive gathering where Iowan farmers and artisan food vendors sell fresh produce, meats, eggs, and artisanal products . This market is the best place to sample farm-to-table delicacies and understand the state's agricultural roots.

Iowa is also known for its tenderloin sandwich—a breaded and fried pork tenderloin that is famously much larger than the bun it's served on. This is a staple found in diners and pubs throughout the state, including those in the Des Moines metro area.

Dining in Clive

Within Clive itself, the dining options are typical of a suburban community. Along major thoroughfares like 86th Street and University Avenue, one can find a wide array of chain restaurants and local spots offering everything from American fare to Mexican and Asian cuisine . For a broader selection of farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and wine bars, residents and visitors typically venture into the nearby Historic East Village or Court Avenue districts in downtown Des Moines .

Grocery and Everyday Items

For daily needs, Clive has all the standard American amenities. As noted in one local profile, a popular spot for a quick, healthy bite is Big Acai, which serves acai bowls—a favorite among the younger crowd .

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