Looking for cheap Flights to Eau Claire, Chippewa Valley, Wisconsin, USA (EAU) airport?

Eau Claire, accessible via budget flights to Eau Claire at EAU airport (Chippewa Valley Regional Airport), is a vibrant city in West Central Wisconsin, nestled at the confluence of the Eau Claire and Chippewa Rivers, celebrated for its thriving arts scene, rich literary history, and abundant outdoor recreation, making it a dynamic travel destination.

The Chippewa Valley Museum, a standout landmark, delves into the region’s logging heritage, agricultural roots, and community stories, offering a deep dive into local history. The Pablo Center at the Confluence, a world-class performing arts venue, hosts Broadway shows, local artists, and cultural events, serving as Eau Claire’s cultural hub. Known as the childhood home of Justin Vernon (Bon Iver), Eau Claire boasts a vibrant indie and folk music scene with lively venues and festivals. The Paul Bunyan Logging Camp Museum showcases the area’s logging past with historic buildings and equipment. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the Eau Claire River Trail and Chippewa River Trail for walking, biking, and scenic riverfront views. Carson Park features a historic baseball stadium (once home to Hank Aaron), a logging camp museum, and the Chippewa Valley Museum. Annual events like the Blue Ox Music Festival and Country Jam USA highlight the city’s musical heritage. Savor Wisconsin cheese curds, craft beers from local breweries, and farm-to-table cuisine. With low-cost flights available to Eau Claire, this city blends indie music, historical richness, and riverfront beauty for an authentic Wisconsin experience.

Why Visit Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Eau Claire captivates with its vibrant music scene, led by icons like Bon Iver, and cultural hubs like the Pablo Center. History buffs explore the Chippewa Valley Museum, while outdoor lovers enjoy the river trails and Carson Park. Foodies savor cheese curds and local brews. With discount airfare to Eau Claire, it’s ideal for solo travelers, families, and couples seeking culture, history, and nature. Festivals like Blue Ox add dynamic energy, making Eau Claire a must-visit.

Quick Facts & Highlights

• Population: Approximately 68,900 (2023 estimate)
• Founded: 1856
• Area: 34.1 square miles
• Key Highlight: Pablo Center at the Confluence
• Notable Event: Blue Ox Music Festival, annual June event
• Fun Fact: Childhood home of Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon
• Local Treat: Cheese curds
• Landmark: Chippewa Valley Museum

Geographic Location & Climate

Eau Claire, in Eau Claire County, West Central Wisconsin, lies 90 miles east of Minneapolis, at 787 feet elevation at the confluence of the Eau Claire and Chippewa Rivers. The climate is humid continental, with warm summers (average high 81°F) and cold winters (average high 24°F). Annual rainfall is 33 inches, with 47 inches of snow. Spring and fall (45-65°F) are ideal for trails, summer suits festivals, and winter offers indoor cultural attractions.

Vital Statistics & Demographics In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Total Population

Eau Claire’s population is 68,900 (2023), with 0.5% growth from 2022, driven by education and healthcare.

Age Distribution

Median age is 34.2 years; 16.8% under 18, 15.4% 18-24, 28.7% 25-44, 24.9% 45-64, 14.2% 65+.

Ethnic & Racial Composition

White 88.7%, Black 1.8%, Hispanic 3.9%, Asian 3.2%, Two or More Races 2.2%, Native American 0.2%.

Gender Breakdown

Males 49.8%, females 50.2%.

Household Types & Sizes

Average household size 2.4; family households 57.6%, non-family 42.4%; 24.1% with children.

Population Growth Trends

Growth of 2.1% since 2020, projected to reach 71,000 by 2028, fueled by university and arts growth.

Economy & Living Standards In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Major Industries & Employers

Education, healthcare, and manufacturing lead; top employers:

• University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, 105 Garfield Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Mayo Clinic Health System, 1400 Bellinger St, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Eau Claire Area School District, 500 Main St, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Menards Corporate, 5101 Menard Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• City of Eau Claire, 203 S Farwell St, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• HSHS Sacred Heart Hospital, 900 W Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Xcel Energy, 1414 W Hamilton Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Walmart Supercenter, 3915 Gateway Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Chippewa Valley Technical College, 620 W Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Nestlé Health Science, 1710 Harding St, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Employment Rate & Job Market

Unemployment rate is 3.2%; jobs focus on education (22%), healthcare, and manufacturing, with seasonal festival roles.

Median Income & Cost of Living

Median household income is $62,400; cost of living 92.1% of U.S. average; median home value $245,800.

Poverty Rate & Economic Challenges

Poverty rate is 11.2%; challenges include student-driven housing costs and seasonal job fluctuations.

Business Environment & Investment Opportunities

Arts and education drive tourism and startups. Wisconsin’s tax incentives support small businesses and breweries.

Health & Wellness In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

General Health Overview

Health metrics are strong; life expectancy is 79.1 years, supported by Mayo Clinic and active lifestyles.

Common Health Issues

Obesity (28%), mental health concerns, seasonal allergies; addressed by wellness programs and outdoor access.

Fitness Centers & Wellness Studios

• Planet Fitness, 2403 London Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Eau Claire YMCA, 700 Graham Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Anytime Fitness, 3005 Mall Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Yoga Center of Eau Claire, 2524 Golf Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• CrossFit Eau Claire, 2104 Eastridge Center, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Mental Health Resources

• Mayo Clinic Behavioral Health, 1400 Bellinger St, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• HSHS Sacred Heart Behavioral Health, 900 W Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Clinicare Counseling, 2802 Oakwood Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Eau Claire Therapy, 2925 Mondovi Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Hope Counseling Services, 2211 E Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Public Health Initiatives

Eau Claire County Health Department runs wellness programs, vaccination clinics, and mental health initiatives; YMCA promotes fitness.

Hospitals & Clinics In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Hospitals & Emergency Services

• Mayo Clinic Health System, 1400 Bellinger St, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• HSHS Sacred Heart Hospital, 900 W Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Urgent Care & Walk-In Clinics

• Marshfield Clinic Urgent Care, 2116 Craig Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Mayo Clinic Express Care, 733 W Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Prevea Urgent Care, 2031 Peach St, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• OakLeaf Clinics, 3802 Oakwood Mall Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Specialty Medical Centers

• Mayo Clinic Heart Center, 1400 Bellinger St, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Eau Claire Orthopedics, 1221 Whipple St, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Mayo Clinic Cancer Center, 1400 Bellinger St, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Chippewa Valley Eye Clinic, 2715 Damon St, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Telehealth & Remote Care Options

Mayo Clinic offers telehealth app; HSHS provides telepsychiatry; most clinics support virtual visits.

Veterinary Services & Pet Care In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Animal Hospitals & Emergency Vets

• Eau Claire Animal Hospital, 2505 Mall Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Westgate Animal Hospital, 2135 N Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Pet Clinics & Routine Care

• Chippewa Valley Veterinary Clinic, 2912 Old Hwy 93, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Banfield Pet Hospital, 4063 Commonwealth Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Oakwood Hills Animal Hospital, 4616 Commerce Valley Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Grooming & Boarding Facilities

• Paws & Claws Pet Grooming, 2510 Mondovi Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Eau Claire Pet Resort, 3225 N Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Happy Tails Boarding, 2712 Melby St, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Pet-Friendly Parks & Trails

• Carson Park, 100 Carson Park Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Chippewa River Trail, 330 Riverfront Terrace, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Eau Claire River Trail, 615 Menomonie St, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Local Government & Public Services In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

City Hall and Administrative Offices

• Eau Claire City Hall, 203 S Farwell St, Eau Claire, WI 54701

County Government Services

• Eau Claire County Courthouse, 721 Oxford Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Public Records and Licensing

• Eau Claire County Clerk, 721 Oxford Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Eau Claire City Clerk, 203 S Farwell St, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Planning and Zoning Departments

• Eau Claire Planning Department, 203 S Farwell St, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Eau Claire County Planning, 721 Oxford Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Tax and Revenue Offices

• Eau Claire County Treasurer, 721 Oxford Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Eau Claire Finance Department, 203 S Farwell St, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Police, Fire, and Emergency Services

• Eau Claire Police Department, 740 2nd Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Eau Claire Fire Department, 216 S Dewey St, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Eau Claire County Sheriff, 721 Oxford Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Courts and Legal Aid

• Eau Claire County Circuit Court, 721 Oxford Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Eau Claire Municipal Court, 203 S Farwell St, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Legal Action of Wisconsin, 310 N Barstow St, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Public Works and Utilities

• Eau Claire Public Works, 203 S Farwell St, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Eau Claire Utilities, 915 Menomonie St, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Voter Registration and Civic Engagement

• Eau Claire County Voter Registration, 721 Oxford Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, 400 Eau Claire St, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Current U.S. Senators & U.S. House Representatives

Senators: Ron Johnson (R), Tammy Baldwin (D)
House Representative (WI-3 District): Derrick Van Orden (R)

Education & Libraries In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Public School Districts

Served by Eau Claire Area School District.

Public School Names and Full Addresses

• Northwoods Elementary, 3600 Northwoods Ln, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Locust Lane Elementary, 3245 Locust Ln, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Memorial High School, 2225 Keith St, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• North High School, 1801 Piedmont Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• South Middle School, 2115 Mitscher Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Charter and Private Schools

• Regis Catholic Schools, 2728 Mall Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Immanuel Lutheran School, 501 Grover Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Eau Claire Academy, 2510 Starr Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Colleges and Universities

• University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, 105 Garfield Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701; Majors: Business, Nursing, Education
• Chippewa Valley Technical College, 620 W Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701; Majors: IT, Health Sciences, Trades

Public Libraries and Learning Centers

• L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, 400 Eau Claire St, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Altoona Public Library, 1303 Lynn Ave, Altoona, WI 54720

Flights & Travel Logistics In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Best Time to Book Flights

Book 2-3 months ahead for cheap tickets to Eau Claire; January and November offer the flight discounts; avoid summer festival peaks.

Airlines That Serve Eau Claire, Wisconsin

EAU served by Sun Country Airlines; connections via Minneapolis (MSP) or Chicago (ORD).

Nearby Airports and Alternatives

EAU is primary; alternatives: Minneapolis (MSP, 1.5 hours), La Crosse (LSE, 1 hour). Drive via I-94; no direct Amtrak; Greyhound to Eau Claire.

Transportation After Arrival

Car rentals at EAU (Hertz, Enterprise); taxis ($12-18 downtown); Uber/Lyft ($10-15); Eau Claire Transit ($1.75/trip).

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Pack for cold winters; book Pablo Center tickets early; try cheese curds; rent a car for river trails; check festival schedules. Secure affordable air tickets to Eau Claire for savings.

Ready to explore Eau Claire? Book budget airline tickets to Eau Claire, Wisconsin, USA (EAU) airport and save up to $155 with early booking. Keep in mind that the nearest airport to Eau Claire, Wisconsin, USA (EAU) may offer low-fare flights and alternate date options depending on departure city and season.

Where to Stay In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

• Super 8 Eau Claire, 1151 W MacArthur Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Motel 6 Eau Claire, 2305 Craig Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Quality Inn Eau Claire, 3117 Craig Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Boutique Hotels and Inns

• The Oxbow Hotel, 516 Galloway St, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• The Lismore Hotel, 333 Gibson St, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Luxury Resorts and Spas

• Hampton Inn Eau Claire, 2622 Craig Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Metropolis Resort, 5150 Fairview Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Family-Friendly Lodging

• Holiday Inn Express Eau Claire, 2935 Craig Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Best Western Plus Eau Claire, 3340 Mondovi Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Country Inn & Suites Eau Claire, 3614 Gateway Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Vacation Rentals and Extended Stays

• Airbnb Downtown Lofts, Various, e.g., 300 S Barstow St, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• VRBO Riverfront Homes, Near Riverfront Terrace, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Staybridge Suites Eau Claire, 1515 Bluestem Blvd, Altoona, WI 54720

Getting Around In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Public Transportation Overview

Eau Claire Transit offers buses ($1.75/trip); limited downtown shuttles.

Car Rentals and Ride Shares

Rentals at EAU (Avis, Budget); Uber/Lyft $10-15 for local trips; taxis $12-18; bike rentals ($10/day).

Walkability and Bike-Friendly Areas

Downtown scores 75/100 walkability; Chippewa River Trail and Carson Park bike-friendly.

Parking Tips and Local Driving Rules

Metered parking downtown ($1/hour); free near Carson Park; 25 mph in city; watch for student pedestrians.

Natural Wonders & Outdoor Activities In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

National Parks and Scenic Areas

Hoffman Hills State Recreation Area (20 min); Chippewa Moraine State Recreation Area (45 min).

Hiking, Biking, and Nature Trails

• Chippewa River Trail, 330 Riverfront Terrace, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Eau Claire River Trail, 615 Menomonie St, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Lowes Creek County Park, 5235 S Lowes Creek Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Wildlife Viewing

Deer, herons, and fish in Chippewa River and Hoffman Hills.

Lakes, Rivers, and Water Activities

• Chippewa River, kayaking, 330 Riverfront Terrace, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Lake Altoona, fishing, 604 Beach Rd, Altoona, WI 54720

Camping and RV Parks

• Eagle Ridge Campground, 2305 Craig Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Pine Harbor Campground, 7181 185th St, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729

Seasonal Outdoor Adventures

Spring hiking, summer kayaking, fall foliage biking, winter cross-country skiing.

History & Heritage In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Founding and Historical Background

Founded 1856; grew as a logging and manufacturing hub in the 19th century.

Major Disasters and Events

Happy: Pablo Center opening (2018). Sad: 1886 Eau Claire flood; 2011 tornado.

Recovery Efforts for Recent Disaster

Post-2011 tornado: FEMA aid, infrastructure repairs, community rebuilding programs.

Historical Landmarks

• Chippewa Valley Museum, 1204 E Half Moon Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Paul Bunyan Logging Camp Museum, 1110 Carson Park Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Carson Park Baseball Stadium, 100 Carson Park Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Museums and Cultural Centers

• Chippewa Valley Museum, 1204 E Half Moon Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Paul Bunyan Logging Camp Museum, 1110 Carson Park Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Eau Claire Children’s Museum, 220 S Barstow St, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Local Folklore and Legends

Paul Bunyan tales; Chippewa River ghost stories; logging era legends.

Indigenous and Pioneer History

Ojibwe and Dakota lands pre-1800s; settlers arrived 1840s; logging and rail industries shaped growth.

Prominent Public and Private Personalities In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

• Justin Vernon: Musician (Bon Iver), Eau Claire native.
• Hank Aaron: Baseball legend, played at Carson Park.
• Melvin Laird: Former U.S. Defense Secretary, Eau Claire native.

Arts & Culture In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Performing Arts Venues

• Pablo Center at the Confluence, 128 Graham Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• State Theatre, 316 Eau Claire St, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Art Galleries and Exhibitions

• 200 Main Art & Wine, 200 N Main St, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Galaudet Gallery, 618 S Farwell St, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Local Artists and Artisans

Indie musicians, painters, and crafters at Blue Ox Festival and Pablo Center events.

Cultural Festivals and Events

• Blue Ox Music Festival, 5024 Crescent Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Country Jam USA, 3443 Crescent Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Music Scene and Live Performances

• The Lakely, 516 Galloway St, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Stones Throw, 304 Eau Claire St, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Food & Drink In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Restaurants by Cuisine

• American - The Nucleus, 405 Water St, Eau Claire, WI 54703; Specialty: Cheese curds
• Italian - Mona Lisa’s, 428 Water St, Eau Claire, WI 54703; Specialty: Homemade pasta
• Southern - The Informalist, 333 Gibson St, Eau Claire, WI 54701; Specialty: Biscuits and gravy
• BBQ - Ramone’s BBQ, 316 Eau Claire St, Eau Claire, WI 54701; Specialty: Brisket
• Midwestern - The Lakely, 516 Galloway St, Eau Claire, WI 54703; Specialty: Local walleye

Farm-to-Table and Local Ingredients

The Informalist uses local produce; Eau Claire Farmers Market sources cheese, honey.

Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries

• Leinenkugel’s Brewing Company, 124 E Elm St, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
• The Brewing Projekt, 1807 N Oxford Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Street Food and Casual Dining

• Eau Claire Farmers Market, 300 Riverfront Terrace, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Northern Tap House, 5020 Keystone Crossing, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Vegan, Vegetarian, and Dietary Options

Mona Lisa’s offers vegan pasta; The Nucleus has gluten-free options; most eateries provide dietary choices.

Shopping & Leisure In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Local Boutiques and Artisan Shops

• Eau Claire Farmers Market, 300 Riverfront Terrace, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Tangled Up in Hue, 416 S Barstow St, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Malls and Shopping Districts

• Oakwood Mall, 4800 Golf Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Downtown Eau Claire, Barstow St, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Antique Stores and Markets

• Eau Claire Antique Mall, 1519 S Hastings Way, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Revival Records, 306 Eau Claire St, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Souvenirs and Specialty Goods

• Chippewa Valley Museum Gift Shop, 1204 E Half Moon Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Pablo Center Gift Shop, 128 Graham Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Events & Entertainment In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Annual Festivals and Parades

• Blue Ox Music Festival, 5024 Crescent Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Eau Claire Winter Festival, 300 Riverfront Terrace, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Farmers Markets and Local Gatherings

• Eau Claire Farmers Market, 300 Riverfront Terrace, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Phoenix Park Summer Series, 330 Riverfront Terrace, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Sports Events and Recreational Leagues

• Eau Claire Parks and Recreation, 915 Menomonie St, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• UW-Eau Claire Athletics, 105 Garfield Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Holiday Celebrations and Seasonal Fun

• Eau Claire Christmas Parade, Barstow St, Eau Claire, WI 54701
• Sawdust City Days, 300 Riverfront Terrace, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Nearby Destinations In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Popular Day Trips

• Chippewa Falls, WI (15 min): Leinenkugel’s Brewery
• Menomonie, WI (30 min): Mabel Tainter Theater

Hidden Gems in the Region

• Hoffman Hills State Recreation Area, 750th St, Menomonie, WI 54751
• Augusta Bean and Bacon Days, 144 W Lincoln St, Augusta, WI 54722

Scenic Drives and Routes

• Chippewa River Scenic Drive, WI-29, Eau Claire, WI 54703
• Great River Road, WI-35, Prescott, WI 54021

Regional Attractions Worth Visiting

• Leinenkugel’s Brewery, 124 E Elm St, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
• Mabel Tainter Theater, 205 Main St E, Menomonie, WI 54751

Audience-Specific Guides In Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Family Travel Tips

Visit Carson Park, explore Chippewa Valley Museum, stay at family-friendly hotels, attend Blue Ox Festival with low-priced flights to Eau Claire.

Solo Traveler Highlights

Explore Paul Bunyan Logging Camp, dine at The Nucleus, bike Chippewa River Trail, visit Pablo Center with cheap plane tickets to Eau Claire.

Romantic Getaways

Dine at The Informalist, stay at The Oxbow Hotel, tour river trails, visit State Theatre with budget travel flights to Eau Claire.

Business Travel Essentials

Near EAU airport, meeting spaces at The Lismore, quick dining, Wi-Fi at Hampton Inn with economical flights to Eau Claire.

Accessible Travel Resources

ADA-compliant museums and trails, wheelchair rentals at Mayo Clinic, accessible transit, Wisconsin Relay services.

Natural Resources

Timber, fish, sand, gravel, water resources.

Article Published on August 27, 2025, Last Modified on October 2, 2025. Content subject to change at any time.