Free & Cheap Things to Do in Eau Claire

Parks & Nature

Eau Claire's crown jewel — a beautifully developed 9-acre free riverfront park at the confluence of the Chippewa and Eau Claire Rivers with paved walking paths, a walking labyrinth, a natural amphitheater hosting free summer concerts, and two pedestrian bridges spanning both rivers. The park is the hub of downtown Eau Claire life, hosting the year-round Wednesday and Saturday Farmers Market, live music events, and community festivals throughout the year.

Address: Riverfront Terrace, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Tip: The Farmers Market runs Wednesdays and Saturdays May through October at the Phoenix Park Pavilion — one of the best in western Wisconsin. Free summer concerts in the amphitheater are a local institution. The confluence viewpoint where both rivers meet is a great photo spot.

Outdoors

A free 30-mile rail-trail following the Chippewa River south from Phoenix Park in downtown Eau Claire through river bottoms, prairies, sandstone bluffs, and wetlands. The city section starting at Phoenix Park requires no trail pass and is fully paved — perfect for a free morning walk or run along the river. Old converted railroad bridges span the river at dramatic angles, offering some of the most scenic views of any trail in Wisconsin.

Address: Phoenix Park, Riverfront Terrace, Eau Claire, WI 54703 (north trailhead)

Tip: Start at Phoenix Park for the most accessible and scenic section — no trail pass needed within the city limits. The trail connects to the broader Chippewa River valley for a longer ride. Walking is always free on the entire trail.

Parks & Nature

A beautiful free peninsula park jutting into Half Moon Lake on the edge of downtown Eau Claire with miles of free walking and biking trails, a swimming beach, baseball diamonds, picnic areas, and a historic baseball stadium. The park sits on a wooded peninsula surrounded by water on three sides, making it one of the most scenic free parks in western Wisconsin — a perfect place for an afternoon of hiking, fishing, or just relaxing by the lake.

Address: Carson Park Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Tip: The swimming beach on Half Moon Lake is free to use in summer. The park's walking trail loops the entire peninsula — about 2 miles with water views most of the way. Carson Park baseball stadium is one of the oldest minor league parks still in use, worth a look even outside game days.