Photo: Children's Museum of Eau Claire
Attractions
Carson Park
One of Eau Claire's most-loved locations is Carson Park because of the variety of activities to do here! Catch an Eau Claire Express baseball game, take a train ride on the Chippewa Valley Railroad, let the kids run on the epic playground, or get a history lesson at the Chippewa Valley Museum. Click here to see all the adventures that can be found at Carson Park in Eau Claire!
Children's Museum of Eau Claire
The new Children's Museum of Eau Claire is a must-do when visiting Eau Claire with kids. Located right in downtown Eau Claire, kids can explore two floors of exhibits & play areas, and even learn about the local businesses and operations of Eau Claire! Check out this state-of-the-art facility on your next visit to Eau Claire.
Chippewa Valley Museum
Learn about the upcoming of the Chippewa Valley and logging history in Wisconsin at the Chippewa Valley Museum in Carson Park. Walk through the decades to learn about the technical, social, and economical innovation of the region, and experience the life of a lumberjack at the Wisconsin Logging Museum. Don't forget to snap a photo with the iconic Paul Bunyan & Babe the Blue Ox during your visit!
Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market
Experience one of the locals' favorite Eau Claire weekly events at the Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market in Phoenix Park. Shop for locally grown produce and flowers, and find many vendors offering local meats, eggs, honey, bread, and more. Spend a summer Saturday morning strolling through the farmers market supporting local vendors!
Micon Cinemas
Micon Cinemas offers moviegoers a red-carpet experience from handcrafted food to locally brewed beverages that can be enjoyed in the VIP lounge or in the comfort of their reclining theatre seats. For your next date night in Eau Claire, catch a new movie downtown at Micon Cinemas!
Mr. Kitty's Cat Cafe
Coffee and cats... The purr-fect duo! Mr. Kitty's Cat Cafe partners with the Eau Claire County Humane Association to bring a cat lounge to downtown Eau Claire for cat lovers to relax, drink coffee, and hang out with cats! All cats are available for adoption at Mr. Kitty's Cat Cafe; meet your new companion and bring them to their fur-ever homes!
Pablo Center at the Confluence
Located in the heart of downtown Eau Claire, the Pablo Center at the Confluence brings creativity, educational opportunities, elegant events, and world-renowned artists to the Chippewa Valley. See Broadway performances, big-name musicians, and many more talents at the Pablo Center! Click here to see acts coming to Eau Claire.
Photo: The Informalist
Restaurants
3rd & Vine
Get your craft beer and cheese fix at 3rd & Vine, a charcuterie shop and taproom in downtown Eau Claire! Indulge in aged cheese flavors from all over the world, and sample six rotating tap beers. If you're feeling extra cheesy, check out how to become a Cheese Club member at 3rd & Vine!
Amber Inn
One of the oldest businesses in Eau Claire is home to some of the best burgers in town! Check out Amber Inn Bar & Grill for dive bar vibes, Midwestern charm, and incredible lunch & dinner options!
California Tacos
Located on Water Street, this taco-truck-turned-store-front serves delicious and authentic Mexican food. California Tacos keeps their menu small so they can focus on creating some of Eau Claire's favorite tacos, burritos, and more Mexican goodness!
Cast Iron Pizza
Put pizza to the test at Cast Iron Pizza, located in the heart of downtown Eau Claire! Choose from 12 or 16-inch cast iron sizes, and build your own pizza flavors with locally sourced ingredients. Cast Iron Pizza also offers a delicious salad bar, making it the perfect lunch spot downtown.
Court'n House
If you're looking for burgers, bloodies, or even a Friday fish fry, look no further, because Court'n House has some of the best! The Eau Claire locals claim that Court'n House serves the best burgers in town. Check out this crowd-favorite bar and grill located just off the Grand Avenue bridge.
The District
One of Eau Claire's favorite spots to grab dinner downtown is the District. This bar and grill is conveniently located within walking distance of the Lismore Hotel, and it is right across the street from the Pablo Center at the Confluence. Stop for a bite to eat before your show at the Pablo Center, and be sure to stroll through the beautiful Haymarket Plaza after your meal!
Dooley's Pub
Dooley's Pub is always down for a good time on Water Street. This pub serves a wide range of menu items, but it's the place to go for an Irish dinner and Guinness beer. Check out their sports games watch parties, weekly competitions & giveaways, and party atmosphere at Dooley's!
Guac n' Roll
Indulge in authentic tacos, burrito bowls, tortas, and more delicious Mexican dishes at Guac n' Roll. This former food truck is one of the newest additions to Barstow Street's dining scene, and their dishes will not disappoint. Check out their taco Tuesday deals for a tasty lunch option!
Houligan's Steak & Seafood Pub
Find a supper club dining experience in downtown Eau Claire at Houligan's Steak & Seafood Pub. Houligan's is known for their aged and hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, and sweet desserts!
The Fremont
Good food at a good price... What more could you ask for?! Fill up on burgers, sandwiches, appetizers, and cocktails at The Fremont. Plus, this restaurant is family-friendly, and kids eat free on Mondays!
The Informalist
Experience the Informalist in downtown Eau Claire for a classy, unique dining spot at the Lismore Hotel. They're known for their pizzas, weekend brunch, and vegan & gluten-free options. Check out more reasons to explore the Informalist here!
The Livery
The Livery serves a classic, American menu filled with burgers, sandwiches, soups, salads, and more! This "Cowtown Saloon" brings a historic flare to downtown Eau Claire and is always a great option for lunch or dinner!
Madden Ramen
There's a new Asian cuisine restaurant in town– try to "ramen calm!" Madden Ramen brings authentic ramen, poke, curry, rice bowls, and more to downtown Eau Claire, and just to make it better, they're located right along the Eau Claire River with stunning views of the confluence.
Mogie's Pub
Tempt your taste buds with a delicious pub menu at Mogie's on Water Street! Order from a wide range of chicken wings, cheese curds, salads, burgers, wraps, sandwiches, and more. Our personal favorite is the Spuds O'Plenty– see our taste test reactions here!
Mona Lisa's
When you're looking to step it up a notch for an impressive and delicious date night, try out Mona Lisa's on Water Street. Mona Lisa's is a contemporary Italian and Mediterranean restaurant serving pasta, seafood, steak, salad, pizza, and more, as well as a large beer and wine selection.
Ninja Japanese House
Get your Asian food fix at Ninja Japanese House in downtown Eau Claire on Barstow Street! Order delicious Chinese and Japanese food like sushi rolls, Hibachi grill plates, rice & noodle bowls, and much more.
The Plus
The Plus is located in the heart of downtown Eau Claire, and they're known for their hand-rolled pizza and live music. Check out events happening at The Plus like karaoke and open mic nights, comedy shows, and more live entertainment!
Reboot Social
One of the most popular places in Eau Claire for food and play is Reboot Social. This arcade bar has a delicious and unique menu with appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and even funky cocktails. Build up your appetite while playing Reboot's pinball machines, Nintendo games, duckpin bowling, billiards, and many vintage arcade games!
Stella Blues
Check out Stella Blues in downtown Eau Claire for some of the best Cajun food in town. Their menu focuses on seafood, steaks, pasta, and sandwiches, and they also offer a wide selection of martinis, mojitos, and margaritas.
Thai Orchid
For more authentic Asian food, check out Thai Orchid for fresh, home-style Thai food. Their dishes consist of traditional, fusion, vegetarian & vegan options. Thai Orchid is conveniently located across from the Children's Museum of Eau Claire and Phoenix Park, the perfect walking distance for lunch after visiting these attractions!
Wigwam Tavern
The Wigwam Tavern was established in 1939, making it one of Eau Claire's oldest and most well-known businesses. Find classic, American food on the menu like burgers, sandwiches, and wraps, and check out the Depot for an outdoor drinking experience in Eau Claire.
Photo: Grand Avenue Cafe
Coffee Shops
Acoustic Cafe
If you're looking for a groovy spot downtown to grab coffee and lunch with a friend, post up at Acoustic Cafe on Barstow Street. Find a casual, work-friendly environment at this cafe, and be sure to try their hoagie's made with Acoustic Cafe's secret sauce!
ECDC (Eau Claire Downtown Coffee)
When staying at the Lismore Hotel, you'll be right in touch with one of downtown's best coffee and breakfast spots. ECDC not only offers delicious, seasonal coffee drinks but also smoothies, teas, grab-and-go breakfast options, brunch sandwiches, desserts, and more.
Grand Avenue Cafe
For the coziest small-town cafe vibes, you need to check out Grand Avenue Cafe! It's located exactly where it sounds– on West Grand Avenue close to the Chippewa River. Head to Grand Avenue Cafe for your morning coffee and tasty home-cooked breakfast!
The Goat Coffee House
The Goat Coffee House is a long-time favorite coffee shop on Water Street, and it's the perfect place to get some studying or work done. Check them out for your morning cup of joe, smoothies, and breakfast options!
Phoenix Coffee
Get your morning coffee along the Eau Claire River at Phoenix Coffee! Get your order to-go, and walk down the facility to shop at Planette Kids & Eau Claire Vintage, and head back to the coffee shop in the evening to get a beer at Bloomer Brewing Company - Andante Taproom.
Racy D'Lenes & The Nucleus
Another wildly popular restaurant on Water Street is The Nucleus & Racy D'Lenes; the locals voted them as the best breakfast spot in town! While you grab a coffee at Racy's, place an order for crepes, breakfast skillets & sandwiches, and more delicious plates at the Nucelus.
SHIFT Cyclery & Coffee Bar
Shift doubles as a spot to order a delicious coffee and pastry as well as a shop to check out bikes! This coffee shop is located on Barstow Street in downtown Eau Claire, and it is the perfect place to fuel up for a day out on the trails.
Photo: DIVE
Bars & Breweries
Bloomer Brewing Company - Andante Taproom
The Bloomer Brewing Company has expanded their business to the downtown Eau Claire scene and serves a variety of tap beers right along the Eau Claire River. This taproom serves delicious food with their beers, and it even shares a space with Phoenix Coffee!
The Brewing Projekt
If funky, unique beer flavors are your idea of a good time, then it's an absolute must that you experience the Brewing Projekt in Eau Claire. Order seasonal, one-of-a-kind beer flights or glasses, and enjoy an evening playing board games or looking over the Chippewa River on the balcony!
The Depot
The Depot is the place to be in the summertime in Eau Claire! This downtown tiki bar is always popping with bean bags, kubb, Hammerschlagen, and giant Jenga all summer long.
Dive
When staying at the Lismore Hotel in downtown Eau Claire, you're in good hands being on the same property as the Informalist, ECDC, and also the Dive bar. Don't let the name fool you; this isn't anything close to a "dive bar." Dive gets its name from the space's original use– it was the hotel's pool!
The Fire House
For a guaranteed good time in downtown Eau Claire, get a huge selection of tap beers at the Fire House. Tune in for a party at the Fire House throughout the week with fun music, live entertainment, and other exciting events!
Lazy Monk Brewing Company
Lazy Monk is another crowd-favorite brewery in downtown Eau Claire, but this one is known for its cozy, German-style setting. This beer hall is located right along the Chippewa River State Trail and overlooks the beautiful Chippewa River!
The Mousetrap Tavern
Find live music, good food, and drink specials & happy hour at the Mousetrap! This bar is located on Barstow Street in downtown Eau Claire and is always a great place to start out a night on the town!
The Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen
Pour your own glass at the Midwest's largest self-pour taproom at The Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen! Choose from over 72 beverage options including domestic beers, craft beers, seltzers, ciders, kombucha, and more. Plus, there's a tasty menu to munch on while you enjoy views of the Chippewa River!
Photo: Ramone's Ice Cream Parlor
Ice Cream
Ramone's Ice Cream Parlor
Ramone's is a vintage ice cream parlor serving hand-dipped cones, fresh-baked waffle cones, sundaes, shakes, malts, and, of course, delicious ice cream flavors all year round! Snap a photo outside on the patio in front of the "Cascade" mural for the perfect ice cream backdrop.
Olson's Ice Cream
Right in the heart of downtown Eau Claire, find a huge selection of homemade ice cream flavors at Olson's Ice Cream. Not only can you find ice cream treats to cool off with on a hot day, but you can also load up on flavored popcorn at Olson's!
Outdoor Recreation
Eau Claire E-Bike & Scooter Rentals
Tour the town in style with electric bike or scooter rentals from the Local Store in downtown Eau Claire! The e-bikes allow you to go the distance at a faster speed and require less activity as they go up to 65 miles on a single charge. Browse through the maps designed for riders at the Local Store before setting off on your adventure, and see Eau Claire on two wheels!
Eau Claire Sculpture Tour
Just about everywhere you look in downtown Eau Claire, you'll catch a glimpse of the largest Sculpture Tour in the nation! The Eau Claire Sculpture Tour holds over 150 sculptures & past years' People's Choice sculptures, and most of them can be found right in downtown Eau Claire. See sculptures in Haymarket Plaza overlooking the rivers, impressive pieces lined along Barstow Street, across the Chippewa River on West Grand Avenue, and in many other locations around Eau Claire.
Kayaking & Tubing
Spend a day on the water floating in the Chippewa River with tubes or kayaks! Phoenix Park is the perfect place to start your river adventure with easy access. Check out our recommend river floats in the Eau Claire area here!
Owen Park
Owen Park in Eau Claire is every hammocker's dream. This park is iconic due to its many trees that are spread perfectly for hammocking and is also home to one of the many playgrounds in Eau Claire. Check out the story walk along the trail, and dance the night away on Tuesdays at Tuesday Night Blues in Owen Park.
Phoenix Park
The ultimate hub of downtown Eau Claire is Phoenix Park as it is home to many of Eau Claire's most favorable events and views. Spend a Saturday morning in Phoenix Park at the Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market, and stroll along the trails by the Chippewa River. In the evenings, see the bridges come to life as they light up in rainbow colors each night. During the summers, come out to Phoenix Park for Food Truck Fridays, the Sounds Like Summer Concert Series, and many other events throughout the year!
Photo: Dotters Books
Shopping
Blue Ox Running
Get all the running gear you need right in downtown Eau Claire! Blue Ox Running is located on Barstow Street, and they offer running footwear, apparel, gear, group runs, and so much more!
Dotters Books
Eau Claire's shopping selection includes an adorable little bookstore downtown, Dotters Books. This is an independent, women-owned and operated bookstore that promotes diverse narratives and even local authors.
EC Vintage
It's a blast from the past! EC Vintage has gone storefront in downtown Eau Claire, and they curate a selection of some of the coolest, trendiest, and most unique vintage clothing items! Take your shopping spree to EC Vintage for one-of-a-kind clothing pieces in Eau Claire.
Hello Adorn
Shop for dainty, trendy jewelry pieces in downtown Eau Claire at Hello Adorn. While they sell handmade necklaces, earrings, rings, endless bracelets, and more stunning jewels, they also offer home goods, candles, apparel, plant accessories, and more wholesale items.
Hive + Hollow
Hive + Hollow is a flower and gift shop in downtown Eau Claire, and their goal is to create arrangements that reflect Western Wisconsin's quirky beauty and drastic seasons. Find stunning flower bouquets for any occasion and many other goods like books, candles, jewelry, kitchen products, and so much more!
The Local Store
Don't think about it too much... The Local Store is literally a local store filled with gifts and goodies created by local makers! Find trendy clothing items, class and dishware, art prints, soaps & lotions, games, books, candles, and many more stunning Eau Claire-themed goods at the Local Store!
Lot 3 Mercantile
Lot 3 Mercantile is new to town, and their little shop is filled with charming goods. Browse through high-quality cookware, home decor, clothing items, and so much more at Lot 3 Mercantile in downtown Eau Claire!
Planette Kids
Your kids will have the coolest fashion pieces when shopping at Planette Kids! Shop for environmentally friendly, eclectic clothing pieces for babies, toddlers, and kids.
Revival Records
Spin some vinyl at Revival Records, downtown Eau Claire's record shop. This music store carries all genres from decades ago to modern-day hits, and it's a total vibe when exploring downtown Eau Claire.
Steve's Hemp
Shop for various wellness products at Steve's Hemp, a new shop in downtown Eau Claire! Find CBD products, THC-P, THCA products, topicals, sleep oils, edible options, and more at Steve's Hemp.
Tangled Up In Hue
Tangled Up In Hue is like a local art gallery and gift shop showcasing the work of over 150 artists and crafters. Shop for quirky prints, jewelry, clothing, woodwork, accessories, and more at this shop on Barstow Street.
Token Jewelry
For more stunning, handmade jewelry, explore Token's beautiful shop on West Grand Avenue in Eau Claire. Walk in and browse through gorgeous, trendy necklaces, bracelets, rings, and more goods & accessories at Token Jewelry.
Wisconsin Makers Market
Wisconsin Makers Market is a unique operation in downtown Eau Claire where they provide businesses the choice of how they want to sell their products within the store, as well as have the opportunity to rent out the space for workshops, classes, and meetings. Shop for locally created pieces, and find an abundance of goods like bath products, candles, stickers, jewelry, stationery, and more!
