About Eau Claire

Your future home

When you attend UW-Eau Claire, you join a vibrant community beyond the boundaries of campus. With a population of around 70,000, Eau Claire celebrates a thriving music and arts scene, miles of waterways and walking trails, an ever-expanding list of unique restaurants and much more.

From campus, you’re within walking distance of two popular shopping districts with coffee shops, art galleries, live music and parks. Movie theaters, athletic clubs and performing arts venues also provide plenty to do and see nearby. Take a look around and see what this city has in store for you!

Pablo Center at night — Eau Claire ranked No. 2 'Most Livable College Town' in U.S.

In August 2021, the city of Eau Claire was ranked nationally as the second "Most Livable College Towns," according to the financial technology firm SmartAsset. The ranking was based on a number of factors, including Eau Claire's favorable commute times, concentration of restaurants and entertainment and average household income.

264

miles of bike trails in Eau Claire

Named one of the

coolest small cities

in the U.S.

Thrillist.com, 2023

380+

restaurants in town

Discover what lies beyond the UW-Eau Claire campus

Biker crossing the river on the bridge at Phoenix Park — Eau Claire Bike Trails

Set down the books and get outside! Eau Claire is home to hundreds of miles of biking and walking trails for you to enjoy throughout the seasons.
View local bike maps

Jazz Crawl — Eau Claire Jazz Fest

The Eau Claire Jazz Festival is an annual event that combines educational opportunities for jazz students and exciting entertainment for the entire community.
Tune in to the sounds of Eau Claire

A display of veggies at the Eau Claire Farmers Market — Eau Claire Farmers Market

Just a short walk from campus in the beautifully renovated Phoenix Park district, the Farmers Market is one of Eau Claire's finest. With local vendors selling fresh vegetables, flowers and foods, you’ll be sure to get a taste of the community feel.
Learn more about the farmer's market

UW meets EC — Things to do in Eau Claire

There's always something to do here! From visiting the Pablo Center to horseback riding and everything in between, there's no shortage of things to do!
Explore Eau Claire

Eau Claire reminded me of my hometown; I instantly fell in love with how interactive, positive and engaging the community is.

Lili Shank Exercise Science

From the Viennese Ball to the Eau Claire Jazz Fest, there's no shortage of things to do in Eau Claire. The local community embraces its students and is home to countless events, restaurants, and coffee shops!