Located in the west central part of the state, Eau Claire Wisconsin is set at the confluence of two rivers, the Eau Claire and Chippewa. It's about 100 miles east of Minneapolis in Minnesota, and a little more than 200 miles northwest of Milwaukee. Even though it is inland and away from Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, the city offers a variety of river sports and is near several beautiful smaller lakes, thus its name which means "clear water" in French. Like many other regions in the state, it was the French fur traders who were the first Europeans to explore this region. You'll find many things to do in Eau Claire and a variety of Eau Claire hotels and motels to serve you.

There are abundant Eau Claire attractions and outdoor recreational activities in this beautiful area. There is golfing at eight different golf courses for all skill levels, and hiking and biking available throughout the year. The city has more than two miles of trails, and it connects to twenty miles of the famous Chippewa River Trail that follows the scenic course of the river. This is also a perfect region for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling during the winter.

Things to do in Eau Claire include an Olympic-size swimming pool right in town and there are several parks including Carson Park that is almost completely surrounded by Half Moon Lake. For a taste of history, you'll find Paul Bunyan Camp, a recreation of a nineteenth-century logging camp in Carson Park. There's also a historic baseball park here where the popular Minor League team plays during the summer. This is where legendary Hank Aaron got his first hit.

Wisconsin Map

For entertainment, one of the Eau Claire attractions is the Regional Arts Center, with national touring groups, performances and concerts for special Eau Claire events during the summer. Country Jam occurs in July, and brings thousands of visitors enjoying Wisconsin vacations. You can also tour the Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company in nearby Chippewa Falls, which has been brewing beer since 1867. Other things to do in Eau Claire include visiting the Children's Museum, which has exhibits that provide fun for the entire family. And, during the summer, enjoy the weekly concerts and farmers market.

Two historic houses offer things to do in Eau Claire that you will find rewarding. The Schlegelmilch House Museum is a wonderfully preserved example of a nineteenth-century well-to-do family home. More history is found at the Cook Rutledge Mansion, which is today a museum. Tours are available and the property can also be rented for Eau Claire events held both indoors and outdoors. Because Eau Claire Wisconsin has a branch of the state university, there are many dining venues, shops, and other businesses that cater to students, faculty, and visiting family members.

Of course, there is plenty of camping and fishing available in Eau Claire Wisconsin that give you even more ways to enjoy the region's natural beauty. You'll find opportunities for this on the rivers and around the lakes. There are local shops and guides that promote vacation packages for both hunting and fishing. Licenses are easy to obtain in town, and a large number of boat landings are free. The opening dates of the two seasons are important Eau Claire events for both locals and visitors. Fishing is even one of the Eau Claire attractions during the winter, as the lakes provide excellent ice fishing.