Owen Park
Eau Claire, WI

If you're looking for a nice place to take the dog or the kids, check out Owen Park. It's near the UWEC, Water Street, and downtown. You can also check out festivals here, play tennis, or take the kids to the play equipment.

Owen Park's band shell is perfect for weddings, events, or...bands. :) I've attended an outdoor wedding here, so I'll tell you -- there was plenty of seating.

If you need to get the kids out of the house, take'em to the park. Because the trails are asphalt, they can bring their bikes and burn off some energy. Don't forget the helmet!

Are you a student at UWEC? Then this is your park. Easy walking distance. Hopefully you brought your tennis racket or bike. Print out the bike map for the area. If you're on foot or bike, it's a lot of fun.

At one end of the park, it's got new play equipment. Though the parking lot is small, it's well kept. Plenty of benches for you to relax on while the kids play. Make sure to look for the gazebo and the giant, hand art. (Even better, make your kids look for it)

Throughout the park, there are picnic tables. I only saw one park grill, so pack a cold lunch.

Situated on the Chippewa River, Owen Park is a great place for festivals. Tuesday Night Blues is worth checking out. Ok, if you even just like blues -- go. Local faves are Mojo Lemon and Howard Luedtke. I personally also love Jimmy Solberg and the Jones Tones.

Owen Park is a great park. For me -- it just seems to be a magnet for blues events. I love that. If you're a student at UWEC, this is your 'community park'. It's quiet enough to study in or just unwind. See you there!

Have you checked out Eau Claire's other great music park?