Eau Claire

Eau Claire got its start in the middle of the 19th century and was able to leverage its position at the confluence of two important rivers, the Eau Claire and the Chippewa, to dominate the local logging industry for decades. These days, much of that industry is gone, though the riverside location continues to offer some pretty views and fun waterborne activities, like rafting and tubing, in nice weather.

In recent years, Eau Claire has earned something of a hip reputation reminiscent of Portland or Austin back in the day, with a handful of great bars and restaurants, a decent live music scene, and some inspired choices for an overnight stay. Work up an appetite paddling the local water trails or cycling along the Chippewa River State Trail before heading to Hooligans for a classic midwestern steak house and supper club experience, or taking in a show at the Acoustic Cafe. Eau Claire, Wisconsin, could probably lay claim to being “The Indie Capital of the Midwest,” but trademarking that would be far too corporate a move for this independent-minded university town. Instead, Eau Claire, located at the confluence of the crystal clear Eau Claire and Chippewa Rivers, goes its own way and encourages everyone who visits to come along for the ride.

Location: Wisconsin, United States
Website: https://www.eauclairewi.gov/
Distance from Minnesota: 250 miles
Travel time: 3 hours 50 minutes
TripAdvisor Review: 204 reviews