With more than 400 acres of wood, rivers, and marshes along with hiking trails, a Butterfly House, and Scheel’s Discover Room, Beaver Creek Reserve (S1 County Hwy. K, Fall Creek), the winner of Best Place to Take Your Kids, is perfect for a day of nature, adventure, and exploration. In second place, The Irvine Park Zoo (125 Bridgewater Ave., Chippewa Falls) is a free park and zoo that houses bobcats, black bears, bison, and more. You can also visit two historic markers and take in the light display during the Christmas season. The Children’s Museum of Eau Claire (126 N Barstow St., Eau Claire) is home to a wide variety of child-friendly exhibits and events. As our third place finisher, it’s a great place to spend the day with your kids – you’ll probably have fun, too! –Stephanie Mickelson