Things To Do
in Eau Claire
Eau Claire is a vibrant city located in western Wisconsin, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational activities. The city is home to the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, contributing to a youthful and energetic atmosphere. Residents and visitors can enjoy a variety of cultural events, music festivals, and local dining options.
Eau Claire offers a great mix of urban amenities and natural attractions, making it a desirable place to live or visit.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Phoenix Park. Enjoy a peaceful walk and take in the scenic views of the river.
Explore the Children's Museum of Eau Claire for interactive exhibits perfect for families. Grab lunch at a nearby local café to taste the local flavors.
Wind down with a delicious dinner at one of the restaurants along Water Street. Catch a live music show at The State Theatre to end your day on a high note.
Visit the Eau Claire Regional Arts Center to appreciate local art and exhibitions. Spend some time browsing their gift shop for unique souvenirs.
Head to the historic downtown area for a delightful lunch at a charming eatery. Afterward, explore shops and boutiques for unique finds.
Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant, then see if there are any events happening at the Pablo Center for the Arts. Many evenings feature performances ranging from theater to music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to national averages.
- Access to numerous outdoor recreational activities, including parks, rivers, and trails.
- Strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere.
- Rich cultural scene with local festivals, art galleries, and music events.
- Good educational institutions and K-12 schools.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Harsh winters with significant snowfall.
- Less diverse entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation options may be limited.
- Some areas may experience economic challenges.
Best Activities in Eau Claire
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy walking, biking or picnicking in this beautiful park with scenic trails and a riverfront view.
Explore the hiking and mountain biking trails, go birdwatching, or have a relaxing picnic in the park.
Experience outdoor activities such as walking, running, and enjoying the scenic views around Half Moon Lake.
Tours
Uncover the best of Eau Claire with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Eau Claire
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers beautiful views of the Eau Claire River, a large amphitheater and plenty of greenery for great photo opportunities.
Elevated area providing panoramic views of the city and the Chippewa River, making it an ideal spot for photography.
Scenic beach area with views of the river, perfect for capturing waterfront landscapes and sunset photos.
Food in Eau Claire
Eau Claire Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Wisconsin delicacy, cheese curds are bite-sized cheese morsels that are breaded and deep-fried to crispy perfection. The local cheese curds at the Oxbow Hotel's restaurant offer a deliciously gooey center.
Must-Try!
Found in various eateries, the traditional fish boil features Lake Superior whitefish, potatoes, and onions, all boiled in a flavorful broth, creating a communal dining experience not to be missed.
This hearty stew, often made in large batches for community events, features a rich and comforting blend of meats, vegetables, and seasonings. The VFW Club serves up a delectable version of this local favorite.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Eau Claire better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Phoenix Park, this market is brimming with fresh produce, artisanal goodies, and delectable street food. Visitors can relish in empanadas, wood-fired pizzas, and homemade tamales.
Every Friday at the Phoenix Park, food trucks gather to offer an array of cuisines, from Vietnamese banh mi to Mexican street tacos, providing an excellent opportunity to savor diverse street food delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Eau Claire, it's important to maintain a comfortable distance when interacting with others to respect their personal space.
Politeness and courteous behavior are valued in Eau Claire, so it's important to use 'please' and 'thank you' in your interactions.
Respect local customs and traditions, such as being punctual for appointments and showing appreciation for local art and music.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Eau Claire with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Eau Claire
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Eau Claire, United States. It is customary to tip service staff such as waiters, bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. The standard tipping rate is around 15-20% of the total bill, but it may vary based on the level of service provided.
In Eau Claire, United States, payment for goods and services is commonly done using credit/debit cards, cash, and digital payment methods such as mobile wallets and online transfers. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payments are increasingly popular. Cash is also widely accepted, but it's always good to have other payment options available.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Eau Claire.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Eau Claire, as the weather starts to warm up and the city comes to life with blooming flowers and outdoor events.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Eau Claire, with warm weather ideal for outdoor activities, festivals, and concerts.
Fall brings breathtaking foliage to Eau Claire, making it a perfect time for outdoor adventures and enjoying the beautiful autumn colors.
Winter in Eau Claire brings snow and cold temperatures, but it also offers opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.
Eau Claire at Night
Hiking in Eau Claire
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 20 miles northeast of Eau Claire, Brunet Island State Park offers several trails that wind through beautiful landscapes along the Chippewa River and includes scenic views, camping, and fishing opportunities.
This popular trail is a 26-mile long path that runs alongside the Chippewa River. The trail is great for hiking and biking, providing picturesque views of the river, wildlife, and lush vegetation.
Just a short drive from Eau Claire, Lowes Creek County Park features various hiking trails that meander through wooded areas and open fields. It offers a peaceful environment for outdoor enthusiasts.
Located in Eau Claire itself, Carson Park has several hiking trails that take you through wooded areas and around picturesque Lake Altoona. It's a great spot for a leisurely hike close to the city.
About 25 miles from Eau Claire, the Red Cedar State Trail provides a multitude of hiking trails that are also suitable for cross-country skiing in the winter. The trail runs through beautiful scenery along the Red Cedar River.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Eau Claire through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Eau Claire by plane.
The largest airport in the region, located approximately 90 miles west of Eau Claire, serving as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
One of the busiest airports in the world, located about 350 miles southeast of Eau Claire, offering extensive domestic and international flight options.
Located approximately 250 miles southeast of Eau Claire, this airport serves a variety of domestic and some international routes.
Located about 250 miles southwest of Eau Claire, this airport provides both domestic and limited international flights.
Situated around 180 miles northeast of Eau Claire, this airport offers a range of domestic flights and some service to Canada.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority racial demographic in Eau Claire, accounting for a significant percentage of the population.
A smaller demographic group that contributes to the cultural diversity of Eau Claire.
This group represents individuals of diverse backgrounds whose ancestry originates from Latin America.
Includes individuals with origins from various Asian countries, contributing to the multicultural landscape.
Individuals who identify with multiple racial backgrounds, reflecting the growing multicultural aspect of the community.
A smaller demographic group representing the indigenous peoples of North America.
Includes individuals with origins from the islands of the Pacific Ocean, though this group is quite small in Eau Claire.
The Soul of Eau Claire
Discover the essence of Eau Claire through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played in high schools and colleges in Eau Claire, with a strong local fan base.
Widely played at various levels including recreational leagues, high school, and college in Eau Claire.
A beloved winter sport in Eau Claire, featuring youth leagues and high school teams.
Gaining popularity among youth and is played in several leagues throughout the city.
A traditional summer sport with local teams and leagues for all ages.
A core part of high school athletics with multiple events and competitive opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Eau Claire.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Eau Claire is a vegetarian and vegan-friendly city, with many eateries offering plant-based options. From the fresh salads at The Lakely to the vegan pho at Egg Roll Plus, there are plentiful choices for those adhering to these dietary preferences.
For gluten-free dining, The Nucleus Cafe stands out with its extensive menu of gluten-free options, including sandwiches, pizzas, and baked goods, ensuring that individuals with gluten sensitivities can dine with ease.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Eau Claire with these cultural adventures.
