Eau Claire County Travel Guide

Introduction

Eau Claire County is a beautiful destination located in the northwest of Wisconsin, USA. The county is home to a diverse range of attractions, including natural wonders, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, Eau Claire County has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, and much more.

Top Attractions

1. Carson Park

Carson Park is a popular attraction in Eau Claire County, known for its beautiful scenery and recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, and picnicking in the park. The park also houses the Chippewa Valley Museum, which showcases the county’s rich history.

2. Irvine Park

Irvine Park is a 300-acre park that features a zoo, a petting zoo, hiking trails, and picnic areas. The park is home to a diverse range of animals, including bears, tigers, and monkeys. Visitors can also enjoy the park’s beautiful scenery and take a stroll through the butterfly house.

3. Leinie Lodge

Leinie Lodge is a popular brewery that offers tours and beer tastings. Visitors can learn about the brewing process and sample a variety of beers, including seasonal and limited edition brews. The brewery also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase Leinenkugel’s merchandise.

Hidden Gems

1. Red Cedar State Trail

The Red Cedar State Trail is a hidden gem in Eau Claire County, offering scenic views and outdoor recreational activities. The trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and picnicking along the trail.

2. Crystal Cave

Crystal Cave is a unique attraction in Eau Claire County, featuring underground caves and formations. Visitors can take a guided tour through the cave and learn about its history and geology. The tour also includes a visit to the cave’s gift shop, where visitors can purchase crystals and other souvenirs.

3. The Goat Coffee House

The Goat Coffee House is a cozy and unique coffee shop in Eau Claire County. The shop offers a variety of coffee and tea drinks, as well as pastries and sandwiches. Visitors can also enjoy the shop’s cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.

Food Scene

1. The Informalist

The Informalist is a popular restaurant in Eau Claire County, known for its farm-to-table cuisine and creative cocktails. The restaurant offers a diverse range of dishes, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Visitors can also enjoy the restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff.

2. The Classic Garage

The Classic Garage is a unique restaurant in Eau Claire County, featuring classic cars and burgers. The restaurant’s menu includes a variety of burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Visitors can also enjoy the restaurant’s vintage atmosphere and classic cars on display.

3. Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse

Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse is a popular restaurant in Eau Claire County, known for its steak and Italian cuisine. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including pasta, seafood, and salads. Visitors can also enjoy the restaurant’s elegant atmosphere and attentive staff.

Budget-Friendly Tips

1. Free Outdoor Activities

Eau Claire County offers a variety of free outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking and exploring the county’s parks and natural wonders.

2. Happy Hour Specials

Many restaurants and bars in Eau Claire County offer happy hour specials, including discounted drinks and appetizers. Visitors can take advantage of these specials to save money on dining and drinks.

3. Hotel Deals

Many hotels in Eau Claire County offer deals and packages, including discounts on room rates and free breakfast. Visitors can check hotel websites and travel websites to find the best deals.

Outdoor Adventures

1. Chippewa River Water Trail

The Chippewa River Water Trail is a popular outdoor adventure in Eau Claire County, offering kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The trail is 94 miles long and features beautiful scenery and wildlife.

2. Hoffman Hills State Recreation Area

Hoffman Hills State Recreation Area is a popular hiking destination in Eau Claire County, featuring scenic trails and a variety of wildlife. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking and birdwatching in the park.

3. Tower Ridge Recreation Area

Tower Ridge Recreation Area is a popular outdoor destination in Eau Claire County, offering skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in the winter. The park also features hiking and biking trails, as well as picnic areas and a playground.

Family-Friendly Activities

1. Children’s Museum of Eau Claire

The Children’s Museum of Eau Claire is a popular attraction for families, featuring interactive exhibits and activities for children. The museum also offers classes and workshops for children of all ages.

2. Action City

Action City is a popular indoor amusement park in Eau Claire County, offering go-karts, laser tag, and arcade games. The park also features a trampoline park and a ninja warrior course.

3. Eau Claire Express Baseball

The Eau Claire Express is a minor league baseball team that offers family-friendly entertainment during the summer months. Visitors can enjoy a baseball game and family-friendly activities, including fireworks and giveaways.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

1. The Oxbow Hotel

The Oxbow Hotel is a unique hotel in Eau Claire County, featuring a rooftop bar and live music events. The hotel also offers a variety of arts and cultural events, including film screenings and art exhibitions.

2. The Local Store

The Local Store is a unique shop in Eau Claire County, featuring locally-made products and gifts. Visitors can purchase a variety of items, including artwork, clothing, and food products.

3. The Brewing Projekt

The Brewing Projekt is a popular brewery in Eau Claire County, known for its creative and experimental beers. The brewery also hosts a variety of events, including live music and food truck rallies.

Natural Wonders

1. Big Falls County Park

Big Falls County Park is a beautiful natural wonder in Eau Claire County, featuring a waterfall and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking and fishing in the park.

2. Lake Eau Claire

Lake Eau Claire is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming in Eau Claire County. The lake also features scenic hiking trails and picnic areas.

3. Brunet Island State Park

Brunet Island State Park is a beautiful natural wonder in Eau Claire County, featuring scenic hiking trails and a variety of wildlife. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, fishing, and camping in the park.

Vibrant Nightlife

1. The Lismore Hotel

The Lismore Hotel is a popular destination for nightlife in Eau Claire County, featuring a rooftop bar and live music events. The hotel also offers a variety of dining options and a fitness center.

2. The Plus

The Plus is a popular restaurant and bar in Eau Claire County, featuring live music and comedy events. The restaurant’s menu includes a variety of dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.

3. The Fire House

The Fire House is a popular bar in Eau Claire County, featuring a variety of drinks and live music events. The bar also offers a cozy and laid-back atmosphere.

Local Markets

1. Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market

The Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market is a popular destination for local produce and handmade goods. The market is open on Saturdays during the summer months and features a variety of vendors.

2. Eau Claire Market

Eau Claire Market is a popular indoor market in Eau Claire County, featuring a variety of vendors and shops. Visitors can purchase a variety of items, including clothing, jewelry, and home decor.

3. The Local Store

The Local Store is a unique shop in Eau Claire County, featuring locally-made products and gifts. Visitors can purchase a variety of items, including artwork, clothing, and food products.