Photo: CoLab
Things to Do
Get a history lesson at the Chippewa Valley Museum
If you're a history guru, the Chippewa Valley Museum is just for you! The Chippewa Valley Museum and Wisconsin Logging Museum duo resides in Carson Park, and it's your one-stop shop to learn all about the upbringing of Eau Claire, the settlers that brought the logging industry to the Chippewa Valley, and, of course, the famous Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox! This museum is the perfect place to take your time wandering through the exhibits and to be taken through the decades of Eau Claire.
Bring your work to CoLab
If you're traveling to Eau Claire for business (or if you just need a place to spark some inspiration!), you need to check out CoLab! This coworking space is located in downtown Eau Claire and is filled will independent work spaces, private call rooms, conference rooms, and fun communal spaces. If you are traveling alone, this is a great opportunity to connect with other professionals and network with other members of CoLab. Click here to learn more about the coolest coworking space in Eau Claire!
Pick out a book at Dotters Books
There's no more relaxing way to spend a day to yourself than curled up with a good book! Shop at Dotters Books in downtown Eau Claire to pick out books that are trending, books by local authors, and other notable reads from every genre. Get into full relaxation mode by bringing your new book to one of Eau Claire's parks with your hammock, or hang out at a local coffee shop with your new reads!
Embark on the Eau Claire Sculpture Tour
One of the easiest ways to explore the Eau Claire area is by taking on the Eau Claire Sculpture Tour! Explore more than 150 unique artists, big and small, created from all sorts of materials. See pieces that depict roosters, bears, birds, dragons, sharks, and many more iconic sculptures throughout the tour. Once you've visited the Sculpture Tour, visit the link to vote for your favorite in the People's Choice!
Rent an e-bike or scooter at The Local Store
Stop into The Local Store in Eau Claire to cruise around town on electric bikes or scooters! Grab your gear and helmets, and adventure through the different trails in Eau Claire to see Eau Claire's favorite bridges, downtown area, the countryside, and many more routes created for you. Click here to plan your solo adventure with e-bike rentals!
Play a round of golf
Hit the golf greens on your solo trip to Eau Claire! While sometimes it's a pastime to play a round with your friends, you can't go wrong with a solo walk through the course. Try out courses like Osseo Golf Club, Wild Ridge Golf Course, Hickory Hills, and many more stunning golf courses in Eau Claire.
See live entertainment at a local bar
Who says you can't chase entertainment by yourself?! When you're exploring Eau Claire on your own, you're more than welcome to experience live music and entertainment at local bars and lounges. Catch open mic nights, live bands, trivia nights, and outdoor music all summer long in River Prairie and Phoenix Park. See more ways to catch live music in Eau Clair here.
Get a spa treatment at Lotus Spa
Lotus Spa will be the answer to all your relaxation and reset desires in Eau Claire. Schedule a facial, massage, body treatment, and more at the stunning spa, and soak in the peaceful and healing environment at this beautiful, professional establishment. Click here to learn about the services that Lotus Spa offers and how to have the best solo experience!
Treat yourself to a shopping spree
Show yourself a little appreciation, and treat yourself to a shopping spree at Eau Claire's local shops! Whether you're shopping for Eau Claire-themed goods, jewelry, music, home decor, clothing pieces, or other special gifts, Eau Claire has something for everyone. Check out our shopping page or visit our blog which highlights places to shop locally in Eau Claire.
Photo: Egg Roll Plus
Places to Eat
California Tacos
Feeling Mexican food for dinner? Try out California Tacos for some of the best in Eau Claire! They have a fairly small menu but pour their hearts into the flavors of their tacos. Order some of the popular Birria Tacos, and take them to go for a solo picnic!
Cast Iron Pizza
Build your own pizza at the new Cast Iron Pizza Company in downtown Eau Claire! This pizza joint offers 12 and 16-inch pizzas with crusts seasoned with garlic and infused with basil oil. Many of their toppings and salad bar ingredients are locally sourced from Eau Claire vendors. Choose from pizza combinations off their specialty menu, or create your own with your favorite flavors– after all, if it's a pizza just for you, you can make it however you want!
Court'n House
One place that you'll always feel welcome and at home when visiting Eau Claire is the beloved Court'n House. In this casual atmosphere, you have no problems finding good food and friendly people. While you're here, you'll be in good hands with some of the best burgers and cheese curds in town!
Eau Claire Downtown Coffee (ECDC)
You'll always feel comfortable when dining at Eau Claire coffee shops. ECDC is located in downtown Eau Claire at the Lismore Hotel, and they serve some of the best breakfast, seasonal drinks, smoothies, and grab-n-go options for your quick, healthy mornings! This coffee shop has plenty of tables and communal spaces to get work done in the company of others– the perfect place to meet someone new in Eau Claire! Click here to view more coffee shops to hang out at in Eau Claire.
Egg Roll Plus
You truly haven't lived until you've tried the widely popular Egg Roll Plus in Eau Claire. This restaurant is take-out only, making it the perfect grub to take to a local park and picnic with authentic Asian food. We recommend their egg rolls, pho, Pad Thai, or stir-fries!
Grand Avenue Cafe
Step into the cozy atmosphere at Grand Avenue Cafe on West Grand Avenue for a delicious breakfast or brunch. Not only is the menu filled with incredible home-style plates, but you'll feel like a true local being amongst the sweet crew at Grand Avenue Cafe.
Jay Ray's Deli
Jay Ray's Deli may be one of the smallest restaurants in Eau Claire, but their specialty sandwiches have big flavors and big toppings! Jay Ray's is a drive-thru deli shop offering original hot and cold sandwiches. Head through the drive-thru, and take your sandwich to-go to some of Eau Claire's best views for an outdoor dinner.
Norske Nook
Whether you're traveling by yourself or with a crowd, you cannot miss out on trying some of Norske Nook's famous pies. Choose from a huge list of seasonal flavors all year round, and even take a slice for later. (You won't be able to get enough of Norske Nook's pie!)
The Nostalgic Bean
Stop in for your morning coffee and an exquisite pastry from The Nostalgic Bean in Altoona, WI. This little bakery has won many awards for its perfect pastry recipes and specialty coffee orders. Take our word for it– the macarons never disappoint!
Bonus : Food Truck Friday
When visiting Eau Claire in the summer, don't miss out on Food Truck Fridays the first Friday of the month! Be amongst multiple different food trucks offering pizza, tacos, ice cream, BBQ, hot dogs, burgers, and more! This monthly event takes place at Phoenix Park for an easy place to try a few lunch/dinner options and maybe meet someone new in the park!
Photo: The Lismore Hotel
Places to Stay
The Lismore Hotel
Book a luxury stay away on your solo trip to Eau Claire at The Lismore Hotel! Located in downtown Eau Claire, The Lismore is conveniently located at many popular attractions including local shopping, restaurants, coffee shops, ice cream shops, parks, and more. The Lismore Hotel is home to ECDC, the Dive, a cocktail bar on the second floor of the building, and The Informalist, a fine-dining restaurant in the hotel lobby. Get stunning views of downtown Eau Claire, and explore the communal spaces in the lobby of The Lismore! Click here to check out our blog highlighting The Lismore Hotel: A Place for Comfort, Coffee, Cuisine, & Cocktails.
Staybridge Suites
Staybridge Suites is located in River Prairie right amongst the delicious dining options, stunning outdoor space, and various artwork in the park. When staying at Staybridge, you're right across the street from Cabin Coffee, right next to the trail systems, and you'll be within walking distance of the weekly summer concert series in River Prairie. See more reasons why Staybridge Suites is perfect for all travelers coming to Eau Claire!