Fun Activities in the Chippewa Valley
It’s a beautiful time of year and the perfect time to get out and explore the Chippewa Valley community! Whether looking for the ideal place to take in the natural beauty or your next favorite restaurant, there’s something for everyone. Below, we’re looking at a few of the best ways to spend your summer days in the Chippewa Valley.
Spending Time at the Lake
What could be better than a beautiful day spent on the water? Not much! Out on Lake Wissota, you can find the perfect activity to keep your family entertained for hours, including swimming and lounging on the beach, fishing, and renting canoes at the park office. If you’ve had enough time in the water, there are more than 18 miles of trails to explore in Lake Wissota State Park. No matter what kind of day you want, spending time in the water is bound to be good!
Farmers Markets
The best produce, fresh meat, and local handmade goods can be found in a booth at a farmer’s market near you! On Thursday afternoons, 12 pm - 6 pm, head over to Allen Park in Chippewa Falls for a selection of fresh foods and food trucks. Saturdays can be spent at the Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market in Phoenix Park from 7:30 am - 1 pm or at Wilson Park for the Menomonie Farmers Market from 8 am - 1 pm. Stock up on your fresh favorites and say hello to the smiling faces in your neighborhood this summer!
Local Restaurants
A day full of delicious food enjoyed outside is one of the best parts of summer! Start your day at Cabin Coffee and enjoy one of their many brews and breakfast items on the patio. For lunch, stop by Red Coal BBQ for a hearty meal of beef brisket or pulled pork, accompanied by the southern sides we all love. In the evening, don’t miss a stop by Nelson Stone Barn for your fill of wood-fired pizza deliciousness! No matter where you’re headed in the Chippewa Valley this summer, you’ll find something delicious to enjoy. What are some of your favorite stops?
Eau Claire's Downtown Sculpture Tour
Enjoy public art all summer long by wandering the streets of downtown Eau Claire! As an ongoing public art exhibit, it is made possible by business sponsorships, private and public donations, and thousands of volunteer hours. In 2021, there were over 53 sculptures, and the tour continues to grow in size and popularity. The Sculpture Tour Eau Claire is a beautiful display of art from local artists and national and international artists, and you can follow their website for updates on your favorite pieces. Bring out your inner artist and enjoy the sculptures on your next stroll downtown.
Spending Time on the Local Trails
If you need to get some energy out, the perfect place is likely outside your front door! Check out the Chippewa River State Trail for a beautiful view of prairies, bluffs, and the river during a bike ride to remember. If camping is more your thing, you can’t beat the Coon Fork County Park for a relaxing weekend in the woods. Responsibly explore over 400 acres of wildlife at the Beaver Creek Reserve and join a yoga class among nature. If you want to spend your summer outside, the Chippewa Valley is the perfect place for you!
Downtown Shopping
The weather is heating up, and it’s the perfect time to look for a new outfit or get some early holiday shopping done! Olive + Eve Boutique is a great little shop where you can find affordable, high-quality outfits for every body type. If you want to freshen up your outdoor gear, stop by Blue Ox Running for top-of-the-line options. Looking for the perfect gift? Check out Ope It’s Soap for various handmade bath products, or stop by Hello Adorn for a sparkly selection of jewelry. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it at one of the incredible shops in the Chippewa Valley!