A layover in Eau Claire is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Chippewa Valley Regional Airport sits just 30 minutes from the city center by Taxi/Rideshare, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Before You Step Outside EAU
Before heading into Eau Claire, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for United States vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Eau Claire is roughly 30 minutes from EAU via Taxi/Rideshare. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting to Eau Claire from the Airport
From EAU, the Taxi/Rideshare gets you to Eau Claire in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Rideshare offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How to Spend Your Time in Eau Claire
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Eau Claire, two standouts are:
- Phoenix Park — Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
- Pablo Center at the Confluence — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside EAU — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- EAU Terminal Waiting Area
- Airport Convenience Counter
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: The Livery and Mona Lisa’s Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Eau Claire.
- At the airport: Chippewa Valley Regional Airport Snack Bar and Airport Coffee & Pastry Spot will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Eau Claire, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Storing Your Luggage at Chippewa Valley Regional Airport
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At EAU, you’ll find bag storage at Not available at this small regional airport..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Staying Connected
WiFi at EAU should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in United States and you’re good to go.
Resting at the Airport
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at EAU.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Eau Claire exploring the streets or relaxing at EAU, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.