Are you ready to explore a hidden gem in the Midwest? Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is known as the “Indie Capital of the Midwest.” It offers a mix of outdoor fun, arts, culture, and music that will amaze you. You can see the largest sculpture tour in the US or play Kubb, a Swedish lawn game. This city has something for everyone.
Key Takeaways
- Eau Claire is a thriving hub for outdoor activities, arts, and music in the Midwest.
- The city is home to the largest sculpture tour in the US, showcasing the work of local and national artists.
- Visitors can enjoy popular activities like paddling on the Chippewa River and experiencing the lively music scene.
- Eau Claire hosts the US National Kubb Championship, offering a unique cultural experience.
- The city is just a quick 90-minute drive from the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area, making it an accessible weekend getaway.
Welcome to Eau Claire: The Indie Capital of the Midwest
Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is 2 hours east of the Twin Cities and 3 hours northwest of Madison. It’s known as the “Indie Capital of the Midwest.” This lively city is a center for arts, music, and culture. It offers a special Midwestern getaway experience.
Location and Getting There
Eau Claire is easy to get to by car or air. It’s just 90 miles east of Minneapolis, a 2-hour drive. The city also has a regional airport for air travelers.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Eau Claire depends on what you like to do. Summer is great for outdoor festivals and events. Winter is best for snow sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Eau Claire is memorable any time of year.
Brief History
Eau Claire’s history started with the lumber industry. It helped shape the city early on. Now, Eau Claire focuses on arts, music, and culture. It’s known as the “Indie Capital of the Midwest.”
“Eau Claire is referred to as the ‘Indie Capital of the Midwest.'”
Eau Claire offers outdoor fun, a lively arts and music scene, and a rich history. It’s a top spot for a true Midwest getaway. Explore the city’s indie spirit and enjoy its charm.
Where to Stay in Eau Claire
Eau Claire, Wisconsin, has many places to stay. You can find boutique hotels and chain options. These places offer comfortable stays for those exploring the area.
The Oxbow Hotel stands out, owned by Justin Vernon. It has record players in each room and a restaurant, The Lakely. They serve farm-to-table food.
The Lismore Hotel, a Doubletree property, is modern and in downtown Eau Claire. It has stylish rooms and great amenities. The Metropolis Resort and Conference Center is great for families. It has an indoor water park and outdoor mini-golf.
| Hotel | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Oxbow Hotel | Boutique hotel with record players, on-site restaurant |
| Lismore Hotel | Modern rooms and amenities in downtown Eau Claire |
| Metropolis Resort and Conference Center | Indoor water park and outdoor mini-golf for families |
Eau Claire offers unique stays, like the Oxbow Hotel. You can also find modern hotels and family-friendly resorts. These Wisconsin accommodations make your visit to Eau Claire hotels and downtown lodging memorable.
Outdoor Adventures and Recreation
Eau Claire is a gem along the Chippewa River, offering many outdoor activities. It has beautiful waterways and trails for nature lovers. The city is a perfect spot for those who enjoy the outdoors.
Chippewa River Activities
The Chippewa River Water Trail is a 4.2-mile path for peaceful water activities. Tubing, canoeing, and kayaking let you see the river’s beauty up close. It’s a great way to relax and enjoy nature.
Hiking and Biking Trails
Eau Claire has lots of trails for hiking and biking. Northwest Community Park has beautiful trails for hikers. The Chippewa River State Trail is almost 40 miles long, perfect for walking and cycling.
Parks and Natural Areas
- Tower Ridge County Park has two 18-hole disc golf courses for fun.
- Phoenix Park and Mount Simon are great spots to see the city from above.
Eau Claire loves its outdoors and keeps its trails beautiful. Visitors can enjoy the Chippewa River‘s calm and explore nature’s wonders.
| Outdoor Activity | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Tubing, Canoeing, Kayaking | Chippewa River Water Trail | A 4.2-mile route for water-based adventures |
| Hiking | Northwest Community Park | Scenic trails for hikers |
| Biking | Chippewa River State Trail | Nearly 40 miles of paved paths for cycling |
| Disc Golf | Tower Ridge County Park | Two 18-hole disc golf courses |
Arts and Culture Scene
Eau Claire, in Wisconsin’s heart, is known for its lively Eau Claire art and Wisconsin culture. The city’s love for the arts is seen in its over 150 sculptures on the Eau Claire Sculpture Tour. Walking downtown, you’ll see amazing murals that turn the streets into an outdoor gallery. These murals tell stories of the city’s history and legends.
Eau Claire also has many galleries, performance centers, and creative spots. The Local Store is a place where you can find local products and Wisconsin-themed items. It shows the area’s strong entrepreneurial spirit. Whether you love art or just enjoy culture, Eau Claire has lots to see and do.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Eau Claire Sculpture Tour | A free, year-round public art installation featuring over 150 sculptures, with new pieces added annually. |
| Downtown Murals | Vibrant, creative murals adorning the walls of buildings in Eau Claire’s downtown area, forming an open-air art gallery. |
| The Local Store | A retail destination showcasing locally made products and Wisconsin-inspired items, celebrating the region’s artisanal community. |
Eau Claire’s arts scene goes beyond just sculptures and murals. The city has many galleries, performance centers, and creative spaces. These places offer something for everyone, whether you’re into sculptures, murals, or local products. Eau Claire’s arts and culture scene is a treasure for both visitors and locals.
Eau Claire, Wisconsin: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Eau Claire is known as the indie capital of the Midwest. It has many attractions that show its vibrant culture and natural beauty. You can explore the city’s sculpture tour, Phoenix Park, and the lively downtown area.
Sculpture Tour Highlights
The sculpture tour in Eau Claire is a must-see. It features over 150 amazing artworks across the city. This collection is the second-largest in the nation, showcasing artists from all over.
Take a self-guided tour to see these sculptures. Each one offers a unique view and adds to the Eau Claire experience.
Phoenix Park Attractions
Phoenix Park is at the Eau Claire and Chippewa Rivers’ confluence. It’s a beautiful spot with stunning views and a picturesque footbridge. It’s perfect for water activities too.
Walk through the park and enjoy the calm. It’s a great way to see the Chippewa Valley’s natural beauty.
Downtown Activities
Eau Claire’s downtown is full of life. You can shop at local stores, eat at various restaurants, and enjoy the culture. Visit a farmers market, watch a show, or just explore.
It’s a place where you can feel the Midwest indie vibe. Every corner of the city has something special.
Eau Claire has something for everyone. From the sculpture tour to Phoenix Park and downtown, it’s full of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, culture, or just a fun day out, Eau Claire has it all.
Food and Drink Experiences
Eau Claire’s culinary scene is vibrant and full of flavors. It celebrates the Midwest’s rich heritage. The city has everything from local cheese shops to craft breweries, pleasing all tastes.
Begin at Eau Claire Cheese & Deli for Wisconsin cheeses and tasty sandwiches. For authentic Thai food, try Thai Orchid. It’s known for bold, fragrant dishes. The Informalist offers farm-to-table dining with local produce.
Eau Claire’s craft beverage scene is thriving. Check out Lazy Monk Brewing and The Brewing Projekt for a wide range of craft beers. Infinity Beverages offers unique wine and spirits.
For a taste of Wisconsin, try the fish fries at The Livery or Court’n House Bar & Grill. These places serve classic Midwest dishes that will please your taste buds.
In Eau Claire, you can find local cheeses, international flavors, and craft beers. It’s a great way to explore the Midwest’s vibrant cuisine.
Music and Entertainment Venues
Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is known for its lively music scene. It has many live music spots and performance centers. This makes it a top indie capital in the area.
Live Music Spots
The Lakely is a top spot for live music in Eau Claire. It features local and regional artists in a cozy setting. You can enjoy indie rock to bluegrass here.
The Plus is another great place. It’s known for comedy nights, open mic events, and live band karaoke. It’s a place where both new and well-known talents shine.
Performance Centers
The Pablo Center in downtown Eau Claire is perfect for concerts. It hosts a wide range of shows, from big tours to local theater. The venue’s top-notch facilities and sound make every show special.
Special Events and Festivals
- The Blue Ox Music Festival is a must-see event. It’s a three-day festival with top Americana, bluegrass, and folk artists. It’s a great place to enjoy live music.
- Country Jam USA is another big festival in Eau Claire. It’s a three-day country music event with many artists. It also offers a fun camping experience with over 1,000 campsites.
Eau Claire’s entertainment scene is always buzzing with events and festivals. Whether you love Eau Claire’s music scene, Wisconsin entertainment, or Midwest festivals, there’s something for everyone.
Shopping and Local Markets
Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is a great place for unique shopping. Downtown Eau Claire is full of independent shops, galleries, and specialty stores. They offer a wide range of Wisconsin-made products and handcrafted items.
Begin your shopping journey at The Local Store. It’s a place where you can find everything made in Wisconsin. From gourmet foods and craft drinks to clothes and home decor, it’s all here. If you love local art, don’t miss Tangled Up in Hue. It features the work of regional artists and artisans, including beautiful handcrafted jewelry.
Music lovers should check out Revival Records. It has a huge selection of vinyl records for both casual and serious collectors. And, The Local Store also rents e-bikes. This lets you see the city’s nice neighborhoods in a fun way.
A walk through the Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market is a must. It’s where locals sell fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade items. It’s a great way to see the best of Eau Claire’s farming and creative scenes.
Want to help the planet? Visit the Eau Claire Refillery. It lets you refill your containers with eco-friendly products. This shop shows Eau Claire’s dedication to living green.
Looking for Wisconsin souvenirs or unique items? Eau Claire’s downtown and local markets have lots to offer. They’re sure to make your visit special.
Conclusion
Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is a lively city with a mix of outdoor fun, arts, culture, and tasty food. You can check out the sculpture tour, paddle on the Chippewa River, or enjoy live music. The city also has great local dishes to try.
The city’s indie vibe, friendly people, and stunning nature make it perfect for a memorable trip. It’s a great place for anyone looking for adventure or just to relax.
Eau Claire is also known for its spooky stories. Places like the Stones Throw building and Kjer Theatre have ghostly tales. You can also visit Banbury Place and Fire Station No. 10 for more paranormal experiences.
For a ghostly adventure, try the Asylum Hill site, the haunted Schlegelmilch House, or the Sheeley House in Chippewa Falls. These spots offer a glimpse into Eau Claire’s ghostly past.
Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is ideal for anyone wanting outdoor fun, cultural experiences, or a spooky visit. Dive into the city’s lively indie scene, natural beauty, and history for a trip you’ll never forget.
