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River Falls

River Falls, Wisconsin, United States

Nestled in the picturesque St. Croix River Valley of western Wisconsin, the charming town of River Falls beckons travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm. Located at the conflu…

#River Falls#Wisconsin#United States#scenic views#outdoor activities

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into River Falls.

Top Hotels in River Falls

Top Flights to River Falls

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in River Falls.

Tours

Kinnickinnic State Park Visit

Explore the beautiful Kinnickinnic State Park, offering stunning views of the confluence of the Kinnickinnic and St. Croix rivers.

Swinging Bridge in Glen Park

Cross the historic swinging bridge in Glen Park, a local landmark and great spot for photos.

Shopping

River Falls Farmers Market

Enjoy a variety of local produce and artisan goods at the River Falls Farmers Market.

Historic Main Street Shopping

Explore a variety of unique shops and boutiques on River Falls' historic Main Street.

Outdoor

Kayaking on the Kinnickinnic River

Experience the thrill of kayaking on the Kinnickinnic River, suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in River Falls.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

15,000

Languages

English, English

Average weather

River Falls

Jan

-5°-15°

Feb

-2°-12°

Mar

4°-7°

Apr

12°1°

May

19°7°

Jun

25°13°

Jul

28°16°

Aug

27°15°

Sep

22°10°

Oct

15°4°

Nov

6°-3°

Dec

-2°-10°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on River Falls.

What people love

River Falls, located in Wisconsin, United States, offers numerous attractions and activities for travelers to enjoy. Some of the pros of traveling to River Falls include:

Natural beauty: River Falls is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including the Kinnickinnic River, which offers opportunities for activities such as fishing, kayaking, and scenic hikes.
Outdoor recreation: The area around River Falls has plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, and camping. There are also several parks and trails to explore.
Small-town charm: River Falls has a quaint and charming downtown area with local shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town and experience the friendly atmosphere.
Cultural attractions: River Falls is home to the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, which hosts various events and performances throughout the year. The town also has a historical society and museum that showcases the area's heritage.
Nearby attractions: River Falls is conveniently located near other popular destinations in Wisconsin, such as Minneapolis-St. Paul, the Twin Cities, and the scenic St. Croix River Valley.

Overall, traveling to River Falls offers a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and small-town charm, making it a great destination for travelers seeking a relaxing and enjoyable getaway.

Enjoy your trip to River Falls, Wisconsin!

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to River Falls, Wisconsin, United States may include:

Limited Public Transportation: River Falls is a relatively small city with limited public transportation options. Visitors may find it challenging to get around without a car.
Weather Extremes: Wisconsin experiences all four seasons, which can bring extreme weather conditions. Winter can be particularly harsh with cold temperatures and heavy snowfall, making travel more difficult.
Limited Nightlife and Entertainment Options: River Falls is a smaller city compared to larger urban areas, so visitors looking for a vibrant nightlife scene or a wide variety of entertainment options may find it lacking in comparison.
Limited Accommodation Options: While River Falls does have a few hotels and bed and breakfasts, the selection may be limited compared to larger tourist destinations. Visitors should plan ahead and book accommodations in advance.
Limited Dining Options: While River Falls does have a variety of restaurants and cafes, the options may be limited compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a wide range of culinary experiences may find the choices limited.
Distance from Major Cities: River Falls is located away from major urban centers like Minneapolis and St. Paul, which may make it less convenient for travelers who want to explore multiple destinations in the region.

Overall, while River Falls offers a charming small-town experience and access to outdoor activities like hiking and biking, visitors should be aware of these potential cons when planning their trip.

River Falls, Wisconsin, is a city located in both Pierce and St. Croix counties. It has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century and has grown to become a significant community in the region.

Early History

Founding and Settlement: The area that is now River Falls was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Dakota and Ojibwe. European settlers began arriving in the 1840s. Joel Foster is credited as one of the first settlers, arriving in 1848. He played a significant role in the early development of the town.
Naming: Originally named Greenwood, the settlement was later renamed River Falls, drawing from the nearby Kinnickinnic River and its falls.

Development

Incorporation: River Falls was incorporated in 1885. The city grew due to its fertile land and the presence of the Kinnickinnic River, which provided power for mills and later attracted industry.
Education: The establishment of the River Falls State Normal School in 1874, now the University of Wisconsin–River Falls, significantly contributed to the city's growth and development. The university remains a central institution in the community.

Significant Events

Economic Growth: The city developed around agriculture, education, and later manufacturing. The Kinnickinnic River played a vital role in the industrial growth of the city.
Flooding: River Falls has experienced significant flooding due to the Kinnickinnic River, impacting the community and leading to infrastructure improvements over the years.

Historical Figures

Joel Foster: As one of the earliest European settlers, Foster is a key historical figure in River Falls' history. He was instrumental in the establishment of the community.

Important Landmarks

University of Wisconsin–River Falls: The university is a major educational and cultural institution in the city, contributing significantly to its identity and economy.
Glen Park: Established in the early 20th century, Glen Park is one of the city's oldest parks and is a popular recreational area for residents and visitors.
Kinnickinnic River: Often referred to as the "Kinni," this river is a central natural landmark known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.

Modern River Falls

Today, River Falls is known for its vibrant community, educational institutions, and commitment to sustainability. The city continues to balance growth with the preservation of its natural environment, particularly the Kinnickinnic River.

River Falls remains an important cultural and educational hub in western Wisconsin, attracting students, families, and visitors with its rich history and picturesque setting.