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Need a relaxed northern Utah getaway or family-friendly stop? Head to Clearfield! Nestled between the Great Salt Lake and the Wasatch Mountains, Clearfield offers outdoor adventures, local parks, and easy access to regional attractions. Whether you’re into hiking, history, or a day at the lake, Clearfield serves as a welcoming base for northern Utah exploration.
Clearfield, UT Highlights:
- For Families: Play at Steed Park – Enjoy playgrounds, picnic areas, duck ponds, and spacious grassy fields.
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hike along the Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve – Walk elevated boardwalks and view wetlands teeming with birds and wildlife.
- For Kids: Splash at Clearfield Aquatic and Fitness Center – Indoor pools, slides, and water play areas perfect for year-round fun.
- For an Adventure: Explore Antelope Island State Park – Hike, bike, or spot bison and antelope on this scenic Great Salt Lake island.
- For Shoppers: Browse Layton Hills Mall – Shop big-name stores, grab a bite, or catch a movie just minutes away.
Best Time to Visit Clearfield, UT
The best time to visit Clearfield is from late spring to early fall (May–October), when mild weather invites outdoor activities, hiking, and lake visits. Winter draws skiers to nearby slopes, but Clearfield itself remains a quieter, snow-dusted town.
How to Get to Clearfield, UT
- If you are traveling by car: Located off I-15, Clearfield is about 30 minutes north of Salt Lake City and 15 minutes south of Ogden.
- By Train: UTA’s FrontRunner commuter rail stops at Clearfield Station, connecting to Salt Lake City and Provo.
- By Air: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is the nearest major airport, about 35 minutes away by car or FrontRunner train.
Where to Stay in Clearfield, UT
- Hilton Garden Inn Ogden – Modern hotel with a pool and dining, located nearby in Ogden.
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Salt Lake City - Layton – Comfortable and affordable, just a short drive from Clearfield.
- Comfort Inn Layton - Salt Lake City – Convenient stay with free breakfast and a great location near shopping and dining.
Where to Eat in Clearfield, UT
1. Dig Into Bold Flavors at Manuel’s El Burrito
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What is Manuel's El Burrito?
- Manuel's El Burrito is an upscale, family-owned Mexican restaurant in Clearfield, Utah, known for its authentic recipes and welcoming atmosphere.
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When was Manuel's El Burrito established?
- The restaurant was originally founded in 1976 as a small take-out spot serving food from crock pots.
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How did the restaurant grow over time?
- As its popularity increased, Manuel’s El Burrito relocated multiple times before settling at its current location.
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What is the ambiance like at Manuel’s El Burrito?
- The restaurant features:
- Warm, inviting colors on the walls
- Elegant furniture
- Discreet Mexican art for an authentic feel
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What is on the menu?
- The menu includes a wide variety of classic Mexican dishes. The best way to experience a little bit of everything is to try their lunch and dinner buffet.
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Does Manuel’s El Burrito have a bar?
- Yes! The cantina has a full bar and serves:
- Pitchers of margaritas
- Mexican beer
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Where is Manuel’s El Burrito located?
2. If You’re Craving Comfort in a Bowl, Slurp Up Haru Ramen
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What is Haru Ramen?
- Haru Ramen is a popular ramen noodle shop in Clearfield, Utah, known for its delicious ramen bowls and appetizers.
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What is the dining experience like at Haru Ramen?
- The restaurant offers a spacious and pleasant dining room with a choice of:
- Private, comfortable booths for a more intimate setting
- Large round family tables for group dining
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What kind of food does Haru Ramen serve?
- While the menu is not extensive, it includes a variety of ramen dishes as well as a large selection of appetizers.
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What appetizers are available?
- Popular appetizers include:
- Wonton wrap stuffed with sweet cream cheese
- Pork Gyoza
- Crispy chicken wings in sweet spicy soy sauce, sprinkled with sesame seeds
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What is the most popular ramen dish?
- The Miso Ramen is the most popular choice, featuring:
- Pork broth with miso
- Pork chashu
- Bean sprouts
- Onsen tamago (soft-cooked egg)
- Green onions
- Naruto Maki (fish cake)
- Nori (seaweed)
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What are the portion sizes like?
- The ramen bowls are large, offering generous portions.
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How is the service at Haru Ramen?
- The restaurant is known for its exceptional service, ensuring a great dining experience.
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Where is Haru Ramen located?
3. Fuel Your Day with Homestyle Goodness at Chris’ Cafe
© Chris' Café
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What is Chris' Cafe?
- Chris' Cafe is a cozy breakfast and lunch spot in downtown Clearfield, Utah, known for its comfort food and classic car-themed décor.
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Who owns Chris' Cafe?
- The cafe was opened by a food and car enthusiast, which is reflected in both its menu and decor.
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What is unique about the cafe's decor?
- The interior features a beautifully restored yellow classic car, adding a unique touch to the dining atmosphere.
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What type of food does Chris' Cafe serve?
- The menu consists of classic comfort food available for both breakfast and lunch at any time of the day.
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What breakfast options are available?
- Popular breakfast dishes include:
- Omelets
- Breakfast burritos
- Chicken fried steak with eggs
- Biscuits and gravy
- Pancakes
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What drinks are available?
- Guests can enjoy a variety of beverages, including:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Hot chocolate
- Sodas
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Where is Chris' Cafe located?
4. Sip, Relax, and Recharge at Grounds for Coffee
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What is Grounds for Coffee?
- Grounds for Coffee is a cooperative of locally owned coffee shops in Utah, focused on providing high-quality coffee while supporting the local economy.
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Where is the Clearfield location of Grounds for Coffee?
- The Clearfield shop is located in the Lakeside Square shopping mall, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
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What is the ambiance like?
- The coffee shop is a warm and comfortable space, featuring:
- A sofa for relaxation
- A computer for customer use
- A candy machine for a sweet treat
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What drinks are available?
- The menu includes a variety of popular coffee beverages, such as:
- Espresso drinks
- Java
- Locally ground coffee
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Does Grounds for Coffee offer food options?
- Yes! The shop offers a light menu that includes:
- Fresh deli sandwiches
- Entrees
- Sides
- Desserts
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Are there vegan options available?
- Yes! The shop serves vegan-friendly sandwiches, which include:
- Two types of vegan bread
- Vegan deli slices and cheese
- Vegan condiments
- Fresh vegetables
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Where is Grounds for Coffee in Clearfield located?
If you are interested in local events:
- Clearfield Aquatic Center Summer Splash (June–August) – Seasonal outdoor water fun and family events.
- Fourth of July Celebration (July) – Fireworks, parades, and community festivities in the heart of Clearfield.
- Clearfield Fall Festival (October) – Autumn fun with hayrides, pumpkins, and family-friendly activities.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Clearfield, Utah:
- Antelope Island State Park (25–30 min) – Hike, bike, or watch wildlife on this iconic island in the Great Salt Lake.
- Hill Aerospace Museum (10–15 min) – Explore fascinating military aviation exhibits near Hill Air Force Base.
- Ogden Historic 25th Street (20–25 min) – Stroll through historic shops, restaurants, and galleries in Ogden’s lively downtown.
- Farmington Station Park (20–25 min) – Outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex with beautiful mountain views.
- Snowbasin Resort (30 min) – Head to the mountains for hiking in summer or skiing and snowboarding in winter.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What is Clearfield, Utah known for?
- Clearfield is a small city in Davis County, Utah, known for its proximity to the Great Salt Lake and the majestic Wasatch Range.
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What are some key attractions in Clearfield?
- The city offers a mix of natural and historical attractions, including:
- Hill Aerospace Museum – Part of the United States Air Force Heritage Program, located at Hill Air Force Base.
- Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve – A protected area safeguarding Utah’s Great Salt Lake, the largest natural saltwater lake in North America.
- Loy Blake Park – A large urban park featuring a kids' playground, athletic fields, and open green spaces.
- Fernwood Recreation Site – A scenic protected area overlooking the city, offering trails that lead to a popular picnic site.
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