Winter in Eau Claire doesn’t have to be loud, sparkly, or packed with plans. Sometimes, the best way to experience the season is by leaning into hygge — the Danish idea of finding comfort, connection, and joy in simple, cozy moments. This cozy-seeker edition of our 48-hour winter itinerary is all about slowing down and savoring Eau Claire at its most inviting. Think warm drinks sipped slowly, fireside conversations, well-loved books, comforting meals, and live music that fills the room. From intimate coffee shops and crackling fireplaces to cozy foods and welcoming spaces, this guide is your invitation to a winter weekend in cozy mode.
Get lost in the book stacks
Begin your cozy Eau Claire weekend with one of the quietest kinds of adventures — getting lost in the pages of a good book. Dotters Books is a downtown gem and a must-visit for anyone who wants a literary escape off the beaten path. This woman-owned independent bookstore champions diverse voices and thoughtfully curated titles, making it a welcoming place to browse, discover something new, or pick up a novel that feels like a warm companion for a snow-covered afternoon.
Not far away, Amanita Books offers a different kind of cozy charm with its shelves full of used and rare volumes. Inspired by literature and the magic of storytelling, this beloved spot invites you to trade in old favorites or hunt for unexpected finds.
The list doesn't stop there! Check out our blog to see more places to find your next winter read in Eau Claire.
Coffee shops made for lingering
Once you’ve picked up a good book or two, let the day unfold at one of Eau Claire’s welcoming coffee shops, where the drinks are warm and the pace is perfectly unhurried. Start at Racy D’Lenes, a local favorite known for rich espresso, creative seasonal drinks, and a friendly vibe that feels like a hug in a mug. Over in River Prairie, Cabin Coffee offers a rustic, wood-accented space that feels like a living room away from home. Try their drink of the month and other seasonal drinks this winter!
If you’re up for a short jaunt, the Osseo Nickel Barn adds an extra layer of charm to your coffee crawl. This quirky cafe doubles as a small-town antique shop – a perfect cozy duo.
Or, for the ultimate cozy afternoon, Mr. Kitty’s Cat Cafe brings together purring friends and hot drinks in a cheerful environment that instantly lifts spirits. The cats here are also up for adoption, so if you fall in love with one, you could even bring them home!
Click here to view more coffee shops in Eau Claire. Or, if you're looking specifically for winter-themed coffees this season, check out our blog for the complete guide!
Warm up at fireplace favorites
When the day turns cool and the light softens, Eau Claire’s fireplaces become magnets for cozy seekers looking to warm up and unwind. Infinity Beverages Winery & Distillery sets the tone with its inviting fireside seating and relaxed vibe. Whether you’re sipping a glass of wine or lingering over a crafted cocktail, the crackle of the fire makes every moment feel slower and warmer. At Helix, the firelight complements an intimate atmosphere perfect for evening conversation, wine flights, or a small-plates pause between adventures.
Lazy Monk Brewing also earns a cozy nod: its rich, dimly lit interior and deep brew list pair beautifully with the winter season, especially when friends gather around and the chatter hums as warmly as the room. And for those who want to blend coffee culture with fire-side comfort, Eau Claire Downtown Coffee is the perfect spot for a downtown pick-me-up.
Want to warm up more places? Click here to view our blog highlighting more places with cozy fireplaces.
Bakeries that warm the heart
Winter mornings in Eau Claire were practically made for bakeries. At The Nostalgic Bean, that sense of comfort starts the moment you step inside. With the smell of fresh espresso and classic baked goods, it’s the perfect stop to begin your day or to treat yourself after a snowy walk around Altoona.
Over in Osseo, Norske Nook brings its own brand of home-style warmth to winter afternoons. Known for hearty, scratch-made favorites and the kind of pies that you'll remember forever, this restaurant is a must-visit, any time of the year. And then there’s Acoustic Cafe, a beloved local spot that blends baked goods with a full cafe experience. Think fresh breads, scratch soups, and the perfect place to meet up with an old friend!
For more bakery recommendations, check out the complete blog here.
Perfectly paired sips & snacks
As the light softens into winter evenings, there’s nothing quite like settling into a warm lounge with a good drink and a thoughtfully curated board. Start your night at River Bend Winery & Distillery and take a wine flight, or find your ideal cocktail at the distillery. In downtown Eau Claire, 2 Roots combines wine, art, and music for a creative experience perfect for the cozy winter season.
At 3rd & Vine, go the beer route and pair a flight with various cheeses and cozy up with games and friendly conversation. And for an elevated winter night out, head to The Lakely, which brings a warm feeling to the live entertainment scene with unique craft cocktails and special small plates for all to share.
These lounges and wine spots are perfect for date nights, holiday get-togethers, and something new to try in the winter. Explore more wineries, cocktail spots, and breweries in Eau Claire!
Comfort in a bowl
When winter’s chill settles in, nothing feels more comforting than a warm bowl of soup, ramen, or pasta! And at Eau Claire's restaurants, you can warm up with comfort foods across the board. At Mona Lisa’s or Draganetti’s Ristorante, classic Italian flavors and rich, saucy pastas hit the spot on cold winter evenings.
In downtown Eau Claire, Acoustic Cafe is the master of the soup and sandwich combo with their daily soups from scratch and crowd-favorite hoagies. For some spicy warmth, Thai Orchid serves up some of the top pho in Eau Claire, along with a menu full of other delicious Thai dishes. Or for some classic ramen orders, hit up Madden Ramen in downtown Eau Claire for the perfect, soul-soothing bowl.
Still hungry? We have blogs dedicated to highlighting soup, pasta, ramen, and pho in Eau Claire – check them out!
Live tunes through the winter blues
As the weekend unfolds, Eau Claire’s music scene offers a different kind of warmth. Throughout the week, there are various locations, atmospheres, and events that host live music and bring people together, even on the coldest days of winter!
The Lakely is a perfect place to settle in with a cocktail and let smooth acoustic sets or laid-back local bands add rhythm to your night. Nearby, Leona’s offers a lively yet intimate atmosphere where jazz, folk, and indie talents take the stage. Art and music blend beautifully at 2 Roots Art & Wine Gallery, where curated live performances pair perfectly with wine and conversation. And for those seeking a bigger night out, shows at the Pablo Center bring touring acts, vibrant local bands, and seasonal performances that make winter evenings feel truly magical.
To extend the soundtrack of your trip even after you’ve headed home, don’t miss stopping by Revival Records or Abraxas Wax. These beloved local record shops are perfect for hunting down that special vinyl to add to your collection and creating the perfect winter playlist.
Stay tuned to our events calendar to see more live music events in Eau Claire!