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No matter their background or station, Eau Claire, Wisconsin locals appreciate a high quality of life thanks to the city’s lively community, standout industries, affordable cost of living, and outdoor recreation activities. Plus, it’s known for being both safe and family-friendly, with top-notch schools and plenty of fun events for all ages.
Eau Claire is truly an outstanding place to call home, and there’s no shortage of things to do around town all year long.
Lower Crime Rate Than The National Average
Of Residents Call The City Family-Friendly
Lower Home Sale Price Than The National Average
Average Commute Time Within The City
More Purchasing Power Than Chicago Residents
Growth of Tourism's Impact Over 2023
Source: Best Places (2023), Think Eau Claire (2018), ESRI Community Analytics (2023), Tax Foundation (2023), Tourism Economics (2024)
Get a firsthand look at everything Eau Claire, Wisconsin and the surrounding area have to offer by viewing these videos produced by our partners.
Videos by Volume One for Think Eau Claire
Videos by Momentum West Wisconsin
Spring in Eau Claire is like a breath of fresh air. As the snow melts, the city comes alive with a renewed energy. Locals and visitors alike enjoy strolling through the lush parks, picnicking by the riverside, and exploring the scenic trails. The warmer weather also brings out community spirit, with outdoor festivals, farmers’ markets, and a variety of annual events returning for more family fun. It’s a season of growth, joy, and plenty of adventure.
Summer in Eau Claire is a sun-soaked adventure. Everywhere you go, the city is teeming with excitement as everyone heads outside to make the most of the few warm, sunny days we Wisconsinites get during the summer months. The only tough part is knowing where to start when building your summer bucket list.
Opportunities to get outdoors abound: kayaking on the Chippewa River, sun-bathing at Half Moon Beach, hiking the many scenic riverside trails, attending a baseball game at Carson Park, walking along the nation’s largest sculpture tour, or playing sand volleyball or kubb in the park. The sound of live music from local bands can be heard around town most evenings; meanwhile, the city’s four massive music festivals bring thousands of fans to town on the weekends. Farmers’ markets are in full swing too, offering fresh produce and homemade goodies three times a week, and everywhere you look there’s a cozy outdoor patio where you can cool off with a cold beer, wine, or hand-crafted cocktail.
Eau Clairians take a collective breath after a jam-packed summer when it’s time to settle back into the routine of school. The return of crisp September air means everyone’s pulling out their flannels and boots again and, on Sundays, donning Packers gear as they cheer them on from a chair at their favorite local watering hole. The community also tries to stretch summer out a little longer by hosting street festivals and homecoming parades before effortlessly shifting into exploring pumpkin patches, taking hayrides through the countryside, and picking apples at area orchards. Bright reds, yellows, and oranges can be seen everywhere too, as nature puts on one last show before the first blanket of snow covers the ground before Thanksgiving.
Although temperatures do sink below zero in Eau Claire, winter transforms the city into a picturesque snowy wonderland. When the first flakes fall, everyone gears up for a season filled with frosty fun. Families bundle up for ice skating at Pinehurst Park, while adventurers hit the slopes for some skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts. Area parks also become the perfect backdrop for snowball fights, building snowmen, and even the occasional snowshoeing expedition.
Inside, locals find warmth and cheer with plenty of indoor activities. Coffee shops serve up hot cocoa and baked goods, perfect for warming up after a day in the snow. Community organizations puts on winter festivals, craft fairs, and holiday markets where local artisans showcase their unique creations. And evenings are spent by the fire, listening to live jazz and other tunes. By embracing winter sports and savoring cozy indoor comforts, residents make the winter season a time of joy, togetherness, and delightful wintry experiences.