The best deals on hotels near Gaylord a Nelson Education Center in Clear Lake, WI.
Access unmatched hotel rates and frequent flash deals on rooms.
Save up to 70% when booking as a group. Select 9+ rooms to get started.
Top 24 Hotels Near Gaylord a Nelson Education Center
135 8th Ave Clear Lake, WI 54005
Northwoods Best Inn -Turtle Lake
For a trip to the area, Northwoods Best Inn -Turtle Lake acts as a convenient base, placing Gaylord a Nelson Education Center within driving reach for visitors.
Guests at Northwoods Best Inn -Turtle Lake may encounter basic front desk help, self-serve coffee, and parking close to the lobby for predictable arrivals. Accommodations often include hardwood accents, compact seating, and rainfall showers, giving guests a modern yet modest overnight setting. Facilities may provide modest seating zones, vending areas, and guest laundries that support both comfort and practicality in travel.
A visit may provide Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, vending areas, and guest laundry, reinforcing simple travel support for all visitors.
Amerivu Inn & Suites New Richmond
Gaylord a Nelson Education Center is within driving reach from Amerivu Inn & Suites New Richmond, a setup that ensures the trip there is always low-stress.
Amerivu Inn & Suites New Richmond often greets guests with artisanal décor, relaxed check-in, and complimentary lobby coffee or tea service. Guest rooms may present eclectic interiors, premium bedding, and curated minibars that reinforce boutique individuality and style. Amenities may highlight locally inspired dining, art-forward lounges, and intimate bars for a polished and boutique-driven stay.
A visit may offer complimentary Wi-Fi, bike storage, laundry service, and pet allowances, creating boutique practicality for all guests.
AmericInn by Wyndham New Richmond
This convenient role as a base makes AmericInn by Wyndham New Richmond a central hub for those visiting Gaylord a Nelson Education Center from out of town.
A visible concierge or host point at Wyndham properties that feature one gives clarity on dining, transport, and timing right after check-in. All guest rooms provide high-speed Wi-Fi, streaming TV, and ergonomic desk arrangements, supporting both leisure streaming and remote work needs. Shared workspaces include communal desks, whiteboard walls, and quiet zones, supporting collaborative work without crowding guest rooms.
High-speed Wi-Fi, Rewards perks, grab-and-go markets, meeting rooms with AV, EV charging, and luggage storage help guests stay organized.
Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper New Richmond
This convenient base helps Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper New Richmond guests become more connected to the Clear Lake area while keeping Gaylord a Nelson Education Center accessible.
Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper New Richmond typically provides quick desk service, modest lobby space, and complimentary parking that sustain easy travel routines. Rooms may highlight premium linens, curated décor, and climate control, creating a comfortable balance of style and rest for visitors. Shared spaces typically include breakfast rooms, vending access, and laundry spaces that reinforce consistent convenience each day.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending access, and laundry support, helping create reliable balance during overnight stays.
Best Western Plus New Richmond Inn & Suites
The easy regional drive from Best Western Plus New Richmond Inn & Suites to Gaylord a Nelson Education Center in Clear Lake guarantees the commute is truly efficient.
With bell carts staged at the entry, Best Western keeps lanes clear so luggage moves fast and companions advance together in an orderly rhythm. All suites can secure privacy with a door or divider, allowing staggered sleep while others stream quietly or review tomorrow’s details nearby. Indoor pools at select hotels include loungers and towel service, offering low-effort recovery that fits around evening arrivals or early starts.
Between pet-relief guidance, breakfast, Wi-Fi, and late-night pantry markets, essentials remain reachable as plans stretch into odd hours.
Holiday Inn Express St. Croix Valley by IHG
For a trip to the area, Holiday Inn Express St. Croix Valley by IHG's location as a sensible base is a foundational aspect of its appeal.
Holiday Inn Express lobbies incorporate modern finishes and symmetry, delivering consistent first impressions at every location. Each guest room presents plush bedding, blackout shades, and quiet HVAC systems, ensuring reliable rest throughout the stay. Breakfast setups offering hot dishes, cereals, and fruit deliver clarity for day-start routines across all types of traveling parties.
Business centers, reliable Wi-Fi, and breakfast service align with pools and fitness, supporting productivity and balance together.
St. Croix Suites - St. Croix Falls
The simple regional drive from St. Croix Suites - St. Croix Falls to Gaylord a Nelson Education Center in Clear Lake makes the connection between the two uncomplicated and fast.
Arrivals at St. Croix Suites - St. Croix Falls may feature vending access, efficient reception, and accessible parking to reinforce guest convenience. Each guest room typically provides ergonomic seating, compact desks, and Wi-Fi, supporting productivity alongside guest comfort. Facilities may highlight compact lobbies, vending machines, and breakfast corners that provide guests with clarity during their visits.
A stay often includes Wi-Fi, laundry rooms, breakfast counters, and parking, maintaining straightforward guest routines on the road.
AmericInn by Wyndham Baldwin
For travelers with a wide-ranging itinerary, AmericInn by Wyndham Baldwin is a practical base, keeping Gaylord a Nelson Education Center an easy regional drive away.
Wyndham’s lobby layouts reserve space for luggage staging near the desk, preventing clutter and keeping pathways open during busy periods. Guest rooms, helping travelers rest deeply and wake ready for the day, include memory-foam mattresses, blackout drapes, and bedside USB ports. Fitness centers feature treadmills, free weights, and stretching areas, making it simple for travelers to keep exercise routines on the road.
Breakfast buffets, lobby cafés, Grubhub delivery access, fitness centers, outdoor pools, and valet parking ensure mornings and evenings run smoothly.
Cobblestone Inn & Suites - Barron
Gaylord a Nelson Education Center is a simple commute from Cobblestone Inn & Suites - Barron, a feature that allows for easy travel to other local points.
At Cobblestone Inn & Suites - Barron, arrivals may include eclectic design details, warm greetings, and complimentary refreshments for guests. Accommodations typically highlight stylish décor, artisanal details, and spa-style bathrooms for a boutique-oriented guest retreat. Shared spaces typically showcase curated interiors, artisanal coffee service, and cozy lounges that reflect boutique orientation.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, yoga mats, laundry access, and boutique breakfast, reinforcing daily balance in boutique hospitality.
Baymont by Wyndham Baldwin
From Baymont by Wyndham Baldwin, the easy regional drive to Gaylord a Nelson Education Center is a core principle of accessibility straightforward that defines the beginning of the stay.
Where a small market is present, Baymont organizes coolers, microwavables, and utensils near seating for efficient one-stop grabs. Guest rooms route blackout shades and solid doors to limit corridor light and sound, supporting focused sleep across varied schedules. Breakfast seating blends two-tops, booths, and counters to absorb peaks, helping lines move and trays return predictably for guests.
Free Wi-Fi, desks, and printer access pair with a meeting room and seating, keeping labels, slides, and sign-ins on schedule.
River Valley Inn & Suites
This useful location renders River Valley Inn & Suites a convenient base with Gaylord a Nelson Education Center within driving reach.
River Valley Inn & Suites often highlights practical desk service, nearby parking stalls, and compact lobby areas for smooth and direct arrivals. Guest rooms often feature plush bedding, climate control, and streaming access, allowing guests to rest while enjoying entertainment. Public areas often showcase vending access, modest seating, and laundry rooms that maintain functional routines for budget travelers.
Accommodations may present Wi-Fi, vending machines, compact breakfast spaces, and laundry facilities, supporting consistent daily ease.
AmericInn by Wyndham Menomonie
The hotel's spot as a convenient base gives AmericInn by Wyndham Menomonie guests a easy option for their regional commute.
Guests charge devices quickly in many Wyndham lobbies with outlets near seating, then pull up confirmations or send updates with ease. Each guest room pairs a work desk and ergonomic chair with high-speed Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV, enabling focused productivity. Lobby seating includes sofas, small tables, and charging stations, creating regrouping points where teams coordinate plans before heading out.
Mobile check-in, streaming TVs, on-site dry cleaning, 24-hour front desk, shuttle service, and accessible parking reduce friction on arrival.
Econo Lodge Menomonie
The hotel's location is a practical hub, with Gaylord a Nelson Education Center within driving reach, making trip logistics straightforward.
Econo places a staffed front desk just inside the entrance with clear sightlines and seating clusters to ease arrival and regrouping. Every guest room places a large desk, premium linens, a coffee station and free Wi-Fi so mornings and meetings align with minimal friction. Breakfast areas provide hot items, cereal choices and grab-and-go options with seating and outlets to keep early departures efficient and fed.
From complimentary Wi-Fi and a hot breakfast to meeting spaces, pool access, laundry and EV charging at some locations, stays feel uncomplicated.
Hampton Inn & Suites Menomonie-UW Stout
In the Clear Lake region, Hampton Inn & Suites Menomonie-UW Stout's role as a convenient base lets guests move with a sense of freedom.
Weekday breakfast bags at Hampton Inn highlight consistent courtesy, ensuring morning options remain quick and dependable for guests. All guest rooms include blackout curtains, plush linens, and quiet climate systems, producing restful environments for consistent sleep. Fitness studios with rowing machines, free weights, and cardio options let travelers maintain routines, sustaining energy through trips.
Complimentary breakfast, EV charging, fitness centers, outdoor pools, and business centers create seamless balance for modern travelers.
Best Western Plus Menomonie Inn & Suites
From Best Western Plus Menomonie Inn & Suites, Gaylord a Nelson Education Center is an easy regional drive away, offering a reliable anchor for trips focused on the event.
Best Western groups sofa clusters, ledges, and café tables near outlets, forming quick huddle points while plans, messages, and rides settle. Guest rooms, with pillow variety, breathable linens, and steady climate, help muscles recover so wake-ups feel steadier across consecutive nights. The lobby frames sofa clusters, café tables, and charging, creating easy meetups while directions, rides, and messages are confirmed.
With Wi-Fi, business centers, meeting rooms, and EV stations where available, teams coordinate work and travel while momentum stays intact.
Super 8 by Wyndham Menomonie WI
The hotel's spot as a convenient base gives Super 8 by Wyndham Menomonie WI guests a easy way to manage their regional travel.
Markets and vending setups at Super 8 help travelers handle quick needs on arrival, reinforcing the brand’s focus on convenience. Suites come with sofa beds, larger layouts, and lounge seating, giving families dependable flexibility and comfort across stays. Pools furnished with loungers, towels, and umbrellas create versatile spaces where recreation and relaxation balance seamlessly.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and business corners align with pools and parking, covering both professional and leisure routines.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Rice Lake
As a practical base, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Rice Lake is a central aspect that enhances the freedom of the guest.
At select locations, Microtel offers express checkout and streamlined key returns, turning morning departures into quick, simple steps. Every guest room offers Wi-Fi and a compact work surface, allowing quick map checks and messages before evening plans resume. Game rooms at a few locations add arcade machines or table games, creating light entertainment that bridges time between activities.
For longer stays, free Wi-Fi, laundry, a compact business corner, and breakfast anchor routines while schedules stay flexible overall.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hudson I-94 by IHG
The benefit of using Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hudson I-94 by IHG as a practical base turns it into a great hub before the main experience begins.
Markets beside reception at Holiday Inn Express supply drinks, snacks, and travel items, reducing stress for newly arrived guests. All guest rooms feature in-room coffee makers, outlets, and comfortable seating, creating functional convenience during visits. Fitness facilities stocked with ellipticals, treadmills, and weights enable travelers to keep wellness routines intact during trips.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and pet accommodations pair with laundry and pools, giving extended-stay travelers consistent support.
AmericInn by Wyndham Rice Lake
In the Clear Lake region, AmericInn by Wyndham Rice Lake is situated as a sensible base, which ensures a simple commute.
At Wyndham, bar or lounge adjacency to the lobby provides a social hub, letting companions relax while a primary traveler handles details. Suites feature a sitting area, mini-fridge, and microwave, giving families space to regroup and maintain routines on the road. Breakfast areas offer hot buffets, grab-and-go pastries, and coffee stations, ensuring mornings start smoothly and schedules stay on track.
Free Wi-Fi, express check-out, conference spaces with catering, pool access, pet-friendly rooms, and EV chargers support mixed itineraries.
Northwoods Best Inn - Chetek
Reaching Gaylord a Nelson Education Center from Northwoods Best Inn - Chetek is an easy regional drive, a trait that weaves convenience into the fabric of the stay.
At Northwoods Best Inn - Chetek, arrivals may include modest furnishings, complimentary parking, and vending services for daily guest accessibility. Accommodations may include tasteful interiors, hardwood floors, and rainfall showers, reinforcing comfort in a practical guest setting. Shared spaces may present vending machines, compact breakfast rooms, and modest lobbies that support clear and practical travel ease.
A visit may highlight Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending access, and parking, reinforcing clear and functional travel routines daily.
Water Street Inn
In the Clear Lake area, Water Street Inn serves as a convenient base, which renders travel easy.
Water Street Inn often greets arrivals with eclectic interiors, boutique check-in desks, and staff offering warm personalized service. Rooms may include curated furnishings, premium linens, and boutique bathrooms that create a polished and personalized impression. Facilities may provide farm-to-table restaurants, eclectic décor, and cocktail lounges that emphasize boutique-style experiences.
A stay often features complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, self-serve markets, and family dining, sustaining boutique convenience.
Cobblestone Inn & Suites at UW Stout Downtown Menomonie
The value of being a practical base makes Cobblestone Inn & Suites at UW Stout Downtown Menomonie a practical choice before the easy drive to Gaylord a Nelson Education Center.
Guests at Cobblestone Inn & Suites at UW Stout Downtown Menomonie may encounter a simple desk, quick parking options, and vending access arranged for reliable budget arrivals. Rooms may provide compact seating, curated décor, and in-room coffee, helping travelers maintain comfort and routine while away. Facilities often feature breakfast counters, vending areas, and guest laundries that provide daily convenience for overnight visitors.
Guests may enjoy Wi-Fi, guest laundry, breakfast areas, and vending corners, sustaining reliable convenience throughout budget-friendly stays.
Lora
Gaylord a Nelson Education Center is a simple commute from Lora, a setup that ensures the commute itself is a pleasant one.
At Lora, arrivals may highlight locally inspired décor, artisanal coffee, and relaxed seating that set a boutique-style tone. Guest rooms often feature artisanal décor, plush bedding, and curated minibars that contribute to a boutique-focused guest stay. Amenities often present artisanal cafés, curated lounges, and stylish bars that highlight boutique creativity and sophistication.
A stay may highlight complimentary Wi-Fi, boutique breakfast, laundry access, and bike rentals, helping guests balance travel routines.
Hampton Inn & Suites Hudson
In the Clear Lake region, Hampton Inn & Suites Hudson is situated as a sensible base, a spot that gives value to the guest experience.
Lobby coffee stations at Hampton Inn provide dependable access to refreshments, keeping travelers comfortable during transitions. Guest rooms provide ergonomic desks, Wi-Fi, and task lighting, giving business travelers supportive setups to maintain focus on tasks. Lobby lounges with coffee, sofa clusters, and curated décor foster welcoming atmospheres, giving arrivals relaxed connection points.
Pet-friendly policies, complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, Pavilion Pantry counters, and indoor pools cover essential needs with ease.
Book as a group & pay separately.
Lowest Group Rate Guaranteed.
Gaylord a Nelson Education Center Local Area Guide
Welcome to the Gaylord A. Nelson Education Center, a unique venue nestled in the heart of Wisconsin's natural beauty. This guide is designed for attendees, educators, and participants planning a visit to the center for workshops, educational programs, or nature-focused events. We’ll provide essential information to help you navigate your stay, from understanding the local surroundings to making the most of your time at the Center and nearby Clear Lake. Plan your arrival, find local amenities, and discover how to maximize your experience in this tranquil setting.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Gaylord a Nelson Education Center (Clear Lake, WI)
The Gaylord A. Nelson Education Center is situated in the scenic rural landscape just outside the small town of Clear Lake, Wisconsin. Its location emphasizes a connection with the natural environment, specifically near the Cedar Creek watershed, offering a peaceful escape. Access to the Center primarily involves driving, as it is not located within a dense urban area. The nearest major access route is Wisconsin Highway 64, which connects to broader state highways like U.S. Route 10 and U.S. Route 12 for travel to larger cities such as Eau Claire or Minneapolis/St. Paul. Clear Lake itself is a compact community, meaning that while the Center offers a serene setting, most services and amenities are concentrated in the town center or require a short drive. Parking is ample and directly available at the Education Center, designed to accommodate groups attending programs. For those arriving from further afield, the Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is the closest major airport, located approximately 70-80 miles southwest. Driving times from MSP can vary significantly based on traffic, typically ranging from 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes. Planning your arrival involves accounting for rural road conditions, especially in adverse weather, and aiming to arrive at least 15-20 minutes before scheduled program start times to allow for parking and locating your specific meeting space within the Center.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Gaylord a Nelson Education Center
Accommodations for visitors to the Gaylord A. Nelson Education Center are primarily found in the nearby town of Clear Lake or in slightly larger, more amenity-rich towns within a 20-30 minute drive, such as Baldwin or St. Croix Falls. Clear Lake offers limited lodging options, which may include small inns or private rentals, often best discovered through local listings. For more conventional hotel stays, visitors typically look to communities like Baldwin, which provides several chain hotel options, or St. Croix Falls, known for its charming bed and breakfasts and motels, particularly popular during local festival seasons. While the Education Center is surrounded by nature and not within a traditional hotel district, its rural siting means that immediate proximity lodging is scarce. The most practical approach for booking is to secure accommodations in these nearby towns and plan for a short, scenic drive to the Center each day. Demand for lodging can increase during specific community events or when the Center hosts larger, multi-day workshops, so booking in advance is highly recommended. Utilizing map filters for hotels within a 20-mile radius of Clear Lake, WI, will help identify available options and confirm driving distances.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is approximately 1.5 hours away by car.
- Arrive 20 minutes early to navigate parking and find your specific program location within the Center.
- Explore the town of Clear Lake for casual cafes and local shops during breaks.
- Visit the nearby St. Croix Falls or Taylors Falls for indoor attractions or dining if weather is poor.
- The Clear Lake town square offers a central point for regrouping or casual lunch before returning to the Center.
Event Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Plan your arrival for at least 20 minutes before your scheduled program begins. Upon entering the Gaylord A. Nelson Education Center grounds, follow signage to the main parking area, which is conveniently located near the entrance. Registration or check-in typically occurs at a designated desk within the main lobby, where you will receive any necessary materials or directions. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the Center's layout, locating restrooms and common areas before heading to your specific learning space. If your program involves outdoor activities, ensure you have appropriate attire ready.
Mid-Day Regroup
Breaks during the day are scheduled to allow for refreshment and informal networking or reflection. The Center often provides access to a communal area or kitchen facilities for participants to store and enjoy packed lunches, or information on nearby options for purchasing food. This is an ideal time to step outside for a brief walk on the Center's grounds, appreciating the natural surroundings. It’s also a good opportunity to consult with instructors or fellow attendees regarding program content. Ensure you are mindful of the time to return promptly for afternoon sessions.
Wrap-Up & Departure
As your program concludes, take a few minutes to gather your belongings and any handouts or materials. Many participants find it beneficial to spend a few extra moments reflecting on the day's learnings, perhaps with a short walk around the Center's exterior paths. If you drove, proceed to the parking lot when you are ready to depart. Be aware that the main road access from the Center can experience light traffic as multiple groups depart simultaneously, so allow for a relaxed exit. Consider a stop in Clear Lake for dinner or a brief break before your drive back to your accommodation.
Things to Do Near Gaylord a Nelson Education Center
Walkable
Gaylord A. Nelson Education Center Trails
The immediate surroundings of the Gaylord A. Nelson Education Center are its primary attraction, featuring meticulously maintained trails that wind through woodlands and along the creek. These paths are ideal for contemplative walks, nature observation, and understanding the local ecology that the Center is dedicated to preserving and teaching about. Interpretive signs are often placed along the routes, offering insights into the flora, fauna, and geological features of the Cedar Creek watershed. Whether for a short break between sessions or a dedicated exploration, these trails provide a peaceful and educational outdoor experience directly accessible from the Center's entrance. They are perfect for appreciating the quiet beauty of rural Wisconsin.
On siteCedar Creek
Flowing near the Education Center, Cedar Creek is a central part of the local natural landscape and a focus of environmental education. While direct access for recreational activities like swimming or boating may be limited due to conservation efforts and terrain, the creek's presence significantly enhances the ambiance of the Center's grounds. Visitors can observe its flow, identify aquatic plant life, and learn about its role in the regional ecosystem through educational programs. The banks of Cedar Creek offer picturesque spots for quiet reflection or informal group discussions, embodying the natural tranquility that the Gaylord A. Nelson Education Center aims to provide.
On site5–15 Minutes Away
Clear Lake Town Square
The Clear Lake Town Square serves as the modest civic heart of the surrounding rural community. It’s a convenient and easily accessible point for visitors to Gaylord A. Nelson Education Center to find essential services and a taste of local life. Here you can find small businesses, including cafes, a general store, and perhaps a post office. It’s an ideal spot to grab a quick snack, pick up any forgotten necessities, or simply stretch your legs during a longer break from the Center. The square offers a glimpse into the quiet rhythm of small-town Wisconsin living and a friendly atmosphere for a brief respite.
Clear Lake · 2.3 miState Wildlife Areas (e.g., Danish Island)
The region surrounding Clear Lake, WI, is dotted with various state wildlife areas and public lands, offering opportunities for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. Areas like Danish Island provide access to diverse habitats, including wetlands, forests, and open fields, supporting a rich array of wildlife. These locations are perfect for those who wish to extend their nature immersion beyond the Education Center’s immediate grounds. Visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife observation, and photography, experiencing the broader ecological landscape of this part of Wisconsin. Always check local regulations and trail conditions before visiting.
Hammond · 8.5 miBeyond the Event: For more extensive recreational and cultural activities, the larger towns of St. Croix Falls and Taylors Falls are within a 25-30 minute drive. These neighboring communities, situated on the St. Croix River, offer charming downtowns, state parks, and unique attractions that can enrich a visit. Consider planning an excursion to these areas for a broader perspective on the region's natural beauty and local heritage.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Gaylord a Nelson Education Center
Inside & Adjacent
Center Facilities
The Gaylord A. Nelson Education Center often provides on-site dining facilities or designated areas for participants to consume packed meals. Depending on the specific program or event, catered meals, light refreshments, or access to a kitchen space for personal food preparation may be available. It is advisable to check with the Center's administration or your program coordinator in advance regarding the extent of food services offered. This option is the most convenient for attendees, allowing them to maximize their time at the Center and minimize travel during breaks.
On siteClear Lake Area Cafes
Within the small town of Clear Lake, visitors can find local establishments offering casual dining options. These might include small cafes, diners, or taverns that serve typical American fare, such as sandwiches, burgers, and breakfast items. These spots provide a taste of local flavor and a relaxed atmosphere for a quick lunch or coffee break. While options are limited, they offer a convenient alternative to packed lunches and a chance to experience the community ambiance. Inquire locally for current operating hours and specific offerings.
Clear Lake · 2.3 miNearby Gathering Spots
Brewery & Eatery (e.g., Geiser's Bar & Grill)
For a more substantial meal or a casual evening gathering, options like Geiser's Bar & Grill in Clear Lake often serve as local hubs. These establishments typically offer a menu of pub-style food, including appetizers, main courses, and a selection of beverages, often including local brews. They are suitable for groups looking to unwind after a day of educational activities or for team dinners. The atmosphere is generally laid-back, making them a comfortable choice for relaxed socializing and enjoying hearty Wisconsin food.
Clear Lake · 2.3 miBaker's Pizza
Baker's Pizza is a popular local spot in Clear Lake, known for its classic pizza offerings. It serves as a straightforward and family-friendly dining option for those seeking a casual meal. Whether for lunch or dinner, pizza is often a crowd-pleasing choice for groups or families visiting the area. Its location in Clear Lake makes it a convenient stop for those traveling to or from the Gaylord A. Nelson Education Center, providing a simple yet satisfying dining experience.
Clear Lake · 2.3 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Lakeside Dining in St. Croix Falls
Venturing into the nearby towns of St. Croix Falls or Taylors Falls can open up a wider range of dining experiences, including restaurants with scenic views or more diverse menus. Some establishments in these river towns offer lakeside or riverfront dining, providing a more picturesque setting for a meal. Options might range from American cuisine to more contemporary dishes. These can be excellent choices for special group dinners or for those looking to explore beyond the immediate vicinity of Clear Lake for a more refined culinary experience.
St. Croix Falls · 17.0 miAmery Regional Eateries
The town of Amery, situated a short drive from Clear Lake, offers a selection of dining options that cater to various tastes. Visitors can find local diners, cafes, and possibly family-style restaurants, providing a range of choices for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. These spots offer a chance to sample regional specialties and enjoy the hospitality typical of Wisconsin communities. Exploring Amery’s dining scene can be a pleasant diversion for those seeking a slightly different atmosphere or culinary style during their visit.
Amery · 15.0 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic is generally light on local roads near the Education Center, but can slow slightly on Highway 64 during peak commute times.
- Clear Lake is a small community; check operating hours for local businesses, especially on Sundays or holidays.
- Cell service can be spotty in rural areas surrounding the Center; download any necessary maps or information beforehand.
- Wildlife encounters are common on trails and roads; drive cautiously, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Participatory programs often involve outdoor elements, so prepare for varying weather conditions with appropriate gear.
Weather & Seasons at Gaylord a Nelson Education Center
- Winter: Expect cold temperatures with average highs in the 20s°F and lows often below 10°F. Snowfall is common, blanketing the landscape and making trails crisp for walking or snowshoeing. Dress in multiple warm layers, including insulated outerwear, hats, and gloves. Outdoor sessions are possible but require careful timing and warm-up breaks.
- Spring & early summer: Temperatures gradually warm into the 50s and 60s°F, with a chance of lingering cold snaps or unseasonable warmth. Rain is frequent, supporting lush greenery. Layered clothing is key, with waterproof outer shells recommended for unpredictable showers. Mud can be present on trails, so sturdy, water-resistant footwear is advisable.
- Mid-summer: Summers are warm to hot, with average highs in the 70s and 80s°F, occasionally reaching into the 90s. Humidity can make it feel warmer. Lightweight, breathable clothing is best. Sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent are essential for outdoor comfort and protection. Stay hydrated, especially during active programs.
- Fall season: Autumn offers crisp, cool air with temperatures typically ranging from the 40s to 60s°F. The foliage often turns brilliant colors, providing beautiful scenery. It’s an ideal time for comfortable outdoor exploration. Pack layers, including a medium-weight jacket, and consider comfortable walking shoes for enjoying the seasonal transition.
- Rain & snow: Rain can occur in any season, often bringing cooler temperatures and requiring indoor adjustments for outdoor plans. Snowfall is common from late autumn through early spring, significantly altering the landscape and requiring warm winter gear for any outdoor activities. Always check forecasts before your visit to pack appropriately and adjust outdoor program expectations.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary focus: Environmental education and nature programs
- Neighborhood: Rural, adjacent to Cedar Creek
- Nearest airport: Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
- Parking: Ample on-site lot at the Education Center
- Walkable district: On-site trails and immediate grounds
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Clear Lake General Store
- Pharmacy: Limited in Clear Lake; larger options in Baldwin
- Urgent care: Basic services in nearby towns; regional hospitals in Eau Claire or Hudson
- Downtime: Nature trails, quiet reflection areas, visiting Clear Lake
- Pro tip: Check the Center's calendar for specific programs, as many activities are event-driven.

