It’s been a big year for Eau Claire. Downtown saw a slew of new and new-to-downtown businesses, but nothing wowed readers quite like the dazzling $12. 5 million Children’s Museum of Eau Claire, which opened in early 2023. A few months later and a few steps away, the bustling, 14,000-square-foot Menomonie Market Food Co-op opened its doors to delicious, healthy food options. Soon to come in the year ahead: the new and expanded Eau Claire County Humane Association shelter plus their downtown parner, Mr. Kitty’s Cat Cafe, which we’re sure will be the cat’s meow. —Rebecca Mennecke