Things To Do
in River Falls
River Falls is a charming city located in the state of Wisconsin, United States. Known for its beautiful natural surroundings, the city is situated along the Kinnickinnic River, offering residents and visitors plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities. With a mix of historic and modern architecture, River Falls has a quaint downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes.
The city also boasts a vibrant community, with a strong focus on education, as it is home to the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful hike at Hoffman Hills State Recreation Area. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of the observation tower.
Have a picnic lunch at Glen Park, where you can relax by the river. Take a leisurely walk along the trails and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Dinner at a local restaurant, savoring farm-to-table cuisine. Wrap up your day with a stroll through downtown to enjoy the charming atmosphere.
Rent a bike and explore the scenic trails along the Kinnickinnic River. The fresh air and beautiful landscapes will energize your day.
Stop for lunch at a riverside café. Afterward, try your hand at kayaking or canoeing on the river for some afternoon fun.
Head back to your accommodation to freshen up. Enjoy a night of live music at a local venue.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with access to parks and the Kinnickinnic River.
- Strong community feel with various local events and festivals.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Good educational opportunities with local schools and proximity to universities.
- Range of outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and biking.
- Limited job opportunities in certain fields compared to bigger cities.
- Harsh winters with significant snowfall and cold temperatures.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options available.
- Traffic and travel times can increase during peak tourist seasons.
- Access to healthcare facilities may be limited compared to urban areas.
Best Activities in River Falls
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore scenic trails that offer stunning views of the Kinnickinnic River, ideal for hiking enthusiasts of all levels.
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride on well-paved paths that meander through River Falls, providing beautiful views of nature.
Experience fishing in the Kinnickinnic River, known for its trout population, perfect for both novice and experienced anglers.
Rent a kayak or canoe to paddle along the tranquil waters of the river, offering a peaceful way to experience the outdoors.
Bring a picnic to one of the local parks, such as Glen Park, and enjoy the natural surroundings with family and friends.
Take a stroll through local nature areas to observe various wildlife, including birds and small mammals native to the region.
During the winter months, enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tubing at the nearby Whitetail Ridge Ski Area for family-friendly fun.
Tours
Uncover the best of River Falls with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in River Falls
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers beautiful views of the Kinnickinnic River and its surrounding nature, perfect for capturing serene and scenic photographs.
Provides stunning views of the Rush River and the picturesque countryside, ideal for capturing the natural beauty of the area.
Features scenic walking paths along the Kinnickinnic River, offering various photo opportunities of the tranquil waterway and surrounding landscapes.
Food in River Falls
River Falls Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Wisconsin delicacy, cheese curds are bite-sized nuggets of fresh cheese, often enjoyed breaded and deep-fried for a satisfying crunch. Locally sourced cheese curds can be found at specialty cheese shops and farmers' markets.
Must-Try!
A beloved regional dish, the walleye fish fry features tender, flaky walleye fillets coated in a seasoned batter and served with classic accompaniments like coleslaw, potato wedges, and tartar sauce. Many local restaurants and supper clubs offer this dish on their menus, and it is a staple at community events and gatherings.
Hotdish is a comforting casserole-style dish that often includes a hearty combination of ingredients such as ground meat, vegetables, and a creamy or cheesy binder, topped with a layer of tater tots or breadcrumbs. Many diners and family-owned eateries in River Falls serve their own versions of this homestyle favorite.
Unique Experiences
Get to know River Falls better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The River Falls Farmer's Market offers a vibrant array of locally grown produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats. Visitors can sample freshly baked pastries, handcrafted chocolates, and other delectable offerings from regional vendors.
A delightful culinary event, the Food Truck Rodeo brings together a rotating selection of mobile eateries serving a diverse range of cuisines. From gourmet burgers to global street food flavors, the food trucks in River Falls offer a dynamic and ever-changing dining experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In River Falls, it's common to greet others with a friendly smile and a simple 'hello' or 'hi'. A firm handshake is also a traditional way to greet someone, especially in more formal settings.
Residents take pride in their natural surroundings, so it's important to show respect for the environment. Follow local guidelines for outdoor activities, dispose of waste properly, and minimize your impact on nature.
Engaging in community events and activities is highly encouraged. Whether it's a local fair, farmers market, or sports event, participating demonstrates respect for the community and helps foster connections among residents.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of River Falls with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in River Falls
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in River Falls, like in many parts of the United States, typically involves giving a gratuity to service workers. The average tipping rate ranges from 15% to 20% of the total bill in restaurants. In bars, customers often tip $1 to $2 per drink. Tipping is also common for taxi drivers, hairdressers, and other service-oriented professions, with similar percentages applied.
Payment practices in River Falls are similar to those in other American cities. Cash is still widely accepted, but credit and debit cards have become the preferred method for many transactions. Mobile payment options, such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet, are also gaining popularity. Most businesses are expected to have electronic payment systems for greater convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into River Falls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for blooming flowers and mild weather.
Ideal for outdoor activities like swimming, kayaking, and hiking.
Great for fall foliage and pleasant temperatures.
Offers opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing.
River Falls at Night
Hiking in River Falls
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located just a short drive from River Falls, Kinnickinnic State Park offers beautiful trails along the banks of the Kinnickinnic River, with scenic views and a mix of wooded areas.
Approximately 20 miles from River Falls, Willow River State Park features stunning waterfalls and a variety of hiking trails that meander through forests and along the river.
This area, situated about 15 miles from River Falls, provides hiking trails with scenic overlooks, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and rivers.
A local favorite, this trail offers a moderate hiking experience with a mix of terrain, located within a few miles of River Falls.
A smaller park with nature trails and wildlife viewing opportunities, Cady Woods Park is perfect for a quick hike or a leisurely stroll.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into River Falls through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach River Falls by plane.
The largest airport in the Upper Midwest region of the United States, serving the Twin Cities of Minnesota.
One of the busiest airports in the world, located in Chicago, Illinois, offering extensive international and domestic flights.
A major airport serving the Chicago area, primarily with domestic flights and some international services.
The primary airport in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, providing both domestic and international flights.
Located in Rockford, Illinois, it's primarily a regional airport but has some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in River Falls, comprising a significant majority of the population.
A growing demographic group in River Falls, contributing to the cultural diversity of the community.
Includes individuals of various Asian descent, representing a smaller portion of the population.
A minority demographic group in River Falls, adding to the diversity of the area.
Individuals who identify as belonging to multiple racial groups, reflecting the increasing diversity.
A very small demographic group within River Falls, with historical ties to the region.
The Soul of River Falls
Discover the essence of River Falls through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular high school sport with a strong community following, showcasing local talent and fostering school spirit.
Widely played at both the high school and recreational levels, with community leagues encouraging youth participation.
Ice hockey has a strong presence in the community, with youth programs and local teams contributing to the sport.
An emerging sport among youth and adults, with various leagues and clubs promoting the game in River Falls.
Popular at the high school level, with the region's natural landscapes providing ideal training conditions.
A staple of high school athletics, featuring a variety of events that promotes fitness and competition among students.
A respected sport in local high schools, highlighting athletic skill and discipline among students.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting River Falls.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in River Falls offer creative and flavorful vegetarian and vegan menu items, accommodating the growing demand for plant-based dining. Diners can enjoy plant-powered dishes showcasing seasonal produce, plant-based proteins, and globally inspired flavors.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can explore a variety of gluten-free options at local restaurants and cafes. From gluten-free pizzas and pasta dishes to indulgent desserts, the culinary scene in River Falls strives to provide inclusive and delicious offerings for gluten-free diners.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of River Falls with these cultural adventures.
