48 Hours in Eau Claire for Marathon Weekend

The Ultimate Runner's Guide to Race Weekend

Whether you're running the marathon, half marathon, relay, 10K, 5K, or cheering on a loved one, Eau Claire offers much more than race day. From award-winning restaurants and locally roasted coffee to riverfront trails and a vibrant downtown, here's how to make the most of your weekend.

Friday | Arrive & Explore

3:00 PM – Check Into Your Hotel

Drop your bags and settle in before exploring one of Wisconsin's most walkable downtowns. The Eau Claire Marathon partners with several nearby hotels, making it easy to stay close to the action.

4:00 PM – Walk Downtown

Stretch your legs along Barstow Street and the riverfront.

Browse locally owned shops, public art, and scenic bridges before the busy race weekend begins. Eau Claire is known as the City of Bridges, with two rivers flowing through the heart of downtown.

5:30 PM – Dinner

Some local favorites include:

Looking for something casual? Head to Water Street for burgers, pizza, or pub fare.

7:30 PM – Early Night

Hydrate.

Lay out your race gear.

Set your alarm.

Tomorrow starts the fun.

Saturday | Race Weekend Comes Alive

7:30 AM – Coffee

Fuel up at one of Eau Claire's favorite coffee shops:

9:00 AM – Explore Downtown

Walk along the Chippewa River State Trail.

Visit Phoenix Park or enjoy the Downtown Farmers Market if it's running during race weekend.

11:00 AM – Eau Claire Marathon Expo

Visit the Expo at the Sonnentag Event Center.

Pick up your race packet, browse over 50 vendors, shop official merchandise, and enjoy race weekend excitement.

Afternoon – Saturday Races

Watch or participate in:

These races bring incredible energy to downtown Eau Claire before Sunday's marathon events.

5:30 PM – Pre-Race Dinner

Keep it simple.

Stick with foods you've trained with and enjoy one final meal before race morning.

7:30 PM – Relax

Take a short walk.

Review your pacing plan.

Get to bed early.

Sunday | Race Day

Before the Start

Grab a light breakfast and soak in the atmosphere as thousands of runners gather in downtown Eau Claire.

Whether you're chasing a PR, a Boston Qualifier, or your very first finish line, enjoy every moment.

After You Finish

Celebrate at the Barstow Block Party, featuring:

  • Live music

  • Food vendors

  • Beer tent

  • Awards

  • Merchandise

  • Family activities

Every finisher receives a complimentary beer or water with their bib tear-off ticket.

Before You Head Home

If you have a few extra hours, don't miss:

Or simply grab one last coffee, take a stroll along the riverwalk, and start planning your return trip.

Why Stay the Whole Weekend?

The Eau Claire Marathon is more than a race.

It's a weekend built around community, great food, local businesses, scenic riverfront trails, live entertainment, and one of the most welcoming running communities in the Midwest.

Come for the race.

Stay for the experience.

Leave already planning your next visit.