As you ride into town, the first landmark you see is the imposing giant red sign on top of the Doherty Hotel. Established in 1924 by Senator A.J. Doherty, the Doherty Hotel is a beautiful historic building steeped in interesting stories that have taken place behind its walls.  

The 1938 murder of oil promoter, Carl Jack Livingston, who was shot and killed by Isaiah Leebove in the Tap Room of the hotel made the hotel famous. The Leprechaun Lounge displays a mural painted in the 1930’s by a painter that was homeless and could not afford to pay for a room. It is said that he painted the mural of a leprechaun village with the wee folk making their ale and celebrating their brews success. This he traded to the ownership for his room and board. 

The Doherty was also a northern hide-out for the infamous Purple Gang of Detroit. They were a ruthless group of gangsters and rum runners that were rumored to have used the hotel and the bakery to hide out from the law when they needed to lay low.

The local bakery Cops and Doughnut’s once known as Clare’s Bakery dates back to 1896. When the store faced closing and ending over a hundred years of service to the community, the Clare Police Department (all 9 members) banned together and thus began Cops and Doughnuts, now an internationally recognized business.

With great accomodations and great confections, there must also be great food.  The White House Restaurant in downtown Clare across from the Doherty is one of our favorite places to stop for a quick bite when in the area. Established in 1935, this little diner, open 24-7, excels in fast food without the fast-food taste. From the world famous hamburgers that can’t be topped to omelets that are second to none, this little restaurant is THE place to eat in Clare.

Nothing washes the White House burger down like a pint on tap at Bob’s Lounge. Bob’s lounge is a quaint little lounge with a fun atmosphere and great décor.  They are known for their chicken and easily found by the giant rooster that marks their place in town.

Clare also features the Ideal Theater. This 1930’s style theater is a step back in time for the movie lover with its authentic concession stand and original décor. No movie is complete without popcorn and the popcorn at the Ideal is a one of a kind experience.

Just outside of town visit Jays Sporting Goods. Jays is one of Michigan’s largest outfitters with supplies for any level outdoor enthusiast. With over 40 years in the business, Jays is THE premier sporting goods stop and they really know their way around the outdoors.

Our final stop while in Clare as the Clare County Livestock Auction.  Livestock has been sold through this historic building since the early twenties and auctions are held every Monday, serving the agricultural needs of Northern Michigan. CCLA is one of the last of twelve full scale stockyards in the state selling livestock that ranges from finish cattle to dairy cows, goats and sheep and even your occasional emu. This facility is rich in heritage and takes us back in time for a look at one of Michigan’s oldest industries.