Never has anything grown on me as fast as the city of Eau Claire. With its beautiful nature, exciting music scene and incredibly friendly people, it has easily become one of my favorite places and a home away from home. Living here in Eau Claire during the summer has opened my eyes to a whole other side to the city. There are so many fun things to do during these warmer months. Here are nine things everyone has to do in Eau Claire during the summer.
1. Float down the Chippewa River!
This is one of the most infamous activities to do in Eau Claire when it's warm out. At any given point of the summer, you see handfuls of people in their colorful blow-up tubes floating peacefully down the river. This is a must-do if you are in the area during the summer. It should be almost illegal not to experience this at least once in your lifetime.
2. Spend a day splashing at the Fairfax Park Pool
The Fairfax pool is a great place to cool down in the summer with friends. With a water slide, two diving boards and blow-up water toys,you can keep yourself entertained for hours. Not only is the Fairfax Pool a great time, but it is also rather inexpensive, so there is really no excuse not to pay it a visit.
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3. Witness the sunrise from the top of the world
It is definitely worth rolling out of bed at 4:30 in the morning for a view like this. I have experienced very few things more breathtaking than watching the day begin from the highest point in Eau Claire. Trust me on this one!
4. Jump off the cliffs at Mount Simon Park
For the more adventurous soul, this is a must-do! There is nothing quite like the rush of cliff-jumping, especially in a place as beautiful as mount Simon Park. Just make sure you stay smart and safe!
5. Visit the farmers market on a Saturday morning
The farmers market is a fun way to spend a Saturday morning while supporting local farmers and businesses. It is always interesting to see all the different products and locally grown foods. There's also live music and an ice cream stand. What else could you ask for? But seriously, walk over to Phoenix Park sometime and check it out. You won't regret it!
6. Enjoy the Thursday night Music in the Park
Phoenix Park is the place to be every Thursday night! Each week features a new lineup of talented bands, most of which are from the Eau Claire area. The whole city comes together for this event, and it is such a fun and vibrant atmosphere. Check it out, friends!
7. Attend an outdoor movie showing at Haas
Another great event the city of Eau Claire hosts every Wednesday is an outdoor movie screened right on the UWEC campus by the Haas Fine Arts Center. It is a great activity for friends and family. Let's be honest, who doesn't love an outdoor movie? I know I do.
8. Spend a day at Half Moon Beach
Whether you're swimming, paddle boarding or just catching some rays on the sand, Half Moon Beach is the place to be. It is a beautiful place to spend time with friends or family. If you haven't had the chance to visit the beach yet, do yourself a favor and add that to your to-do list!
9. Support local and upcoming artists at Chalkfest
Watch artists from all over the area come together to create masterpieces using only chalk and their creativity. It is a fun day filled with art, live music and community. If all that isn't enough to convince you to attend, there's ice cream! Now you have no excuses. In all seriousness, go out and support the local artists. It's guaranteed to be a blast!
