Located just off Highway 94 in Western Wisconsin, Eau Claire is a small(er) city with a big heart. Just over 60,000 people call this city home but visitors may be surprised to find just how much there is to do and see here. While we were staying at Metropolis Resort we also had the chance to explore local attractions. If you’re planning a visit with kids, check out our itinerary for a great way to spend your day – squeeze it all into one day or plan to stay a few days!)

Chippewa Valley Museum at Carson Park

This area was built on agriculture and the logging industry. It has been shaped not only by the industry but the immigrants who came here to work. For a small admission fee you can learn the history of Eau Claire and the Chippewa Valley from the beginning. My oldest son was very intrigued and enjoyed all of the exhibits. Towards the end there’s a great interactive area where kids can learn about the immigrants who made this area home. From the early Scandinavian settlers to the present day Hmong diaspora they’ve done a great job including everyone. There’s also an old schoolhouse on the lot that is a replica of what would have been here a century ago. For school age children this is a great stop – don’t forget to get a scoop of the ice cream from the museum parlor. Our favorite exhibits? The early French trading post and the mock dairy farm set up!  Keep Reading...

This post was submitted by Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki: Amanda is a curious world traveling mom of two busy boys, a foodie, and social media addict. She currently publishes the website MarocMama where you can find information about living and eating in a globally conscious, bi-cultural family.  Amanda has lived in the Chippewa Valley for seven years and was back home this summer visiting friends and family.