Clear water. The French had little trouble christening the beauty they found here in the Chippewa Valley, and today, Eau Claire has remained true to its name. Sitting along the banks of the Chippewa and Eau Claire Rivers, we’re western Wisconsin's largest city and water is still an important part of our industry and recreation.

Eau Claire is rich in diversified industry and retail vitality. Two large hospitals, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, excellent shopping, and outdoor recreational opportunities all add up to reasons Money magazine named our city one of the best places to live in the U.S.

For uncrowded natural beauty and the four seasons at their best, nothing’s better than life in Eau Claire. Here, sports of all kinds are enjoyed year-round. In the summer, catch a water-ski show in Carson Park or an Eau Claire Cavaliers game, one of the top amateur baseball teams in the Midwest. The Chippewa River Trail, a first-class recreation trail can be enjoyed every season. It meanders through the city and connects with an existing state trail, further celebrating the beauty of the great outdoors.

Eau Claire has another famous baseball connection. The city’s bronze statue of Hank Aaron honors the slugger who began his career here in 1952 playing for the Eau Claire Bears.

In addition to recreational activities, you’ll find a wide variety of arts and entertainment here. The university offers a host of music concerts, art exhibits, and foreign films. And the planetarium lets you enjoy an authentic evening under the stars.