How to squeeze in one more trip!
As students start up their classes for the fall and the shifting seasons, create new opportunities for scenic sights, take the PERFECT day trip to La Crescent, MN! Your destination for extra quality time with friends and family, centered in the Apple Capital of southeastern Minnesota! Only a short drive from La Crosse, La Crescent’s bluff-top views can be seen from their charming local wineries, scenic byways, and miles of hiking trails for all levels!
1. Apple Blossom Scenic Drive
Grab a coffee from your local baristas and start your journey to La Crescent, MN! Enjoy a beautiful morning drive on a 17-mile route and ride along with ancient limestone, bluff-top roads that overlook the Mississippi River, then descend into the Pine Creek Valley, and take your time mozying through the charming town, stopping to enjoy picture-perfect lookouts and cozy local shops off the beaten path.
2. River View Vineyard & Winery
After your morning road trip, relax at one of River View Vineyard and Winery’s ideal patio seating spots overlooking one of the tallest peaks of the blufftop. Soaring trees and sprouting wildlife frame your view of the Mississippi River. River View was established in 2003, bringing signature wines such as La Crosse (white), Frontenac (red), and Swenson Red (rose) to our region. Choose a bottle of your favorite wine and add another to take home after your trip! Bring along your favorite picnic essentials to enjoy with your new local wine while sitting at one of the many outdoor seating options at River View!
3. Choose your Outdoor Recreation Activity
Hiking
Drive to Apple Blossom Scenic Overlook, located on Apple Blossom Scenic Drive. Here, you’ll find the entry point to trailheads leading down the bluffs showcasing stunning views of the Mississippi River Valley. Even bring a portable hammock and swing awhile among the trees!
Biking
Apple Blossom Loop is a local favorite for cyclists to decent through the ridge top next to the Mississippi River through many local orchards. On your ride, look out for signs of native wildlife throughout your journey, and don’t miss out on the city views of La Crosse and Onalaska.
Kayaking
Kayaking local waters await! Head to Pettibone Park, located on the La Crescent side of the big blue bridge, to find affordable kayak rentals. Take Wagon Wheel Trail and Shore Acres Road to lead you to the edge of the bridge, then take the stairs down to the Beach front, where you’ll find the kayak rentals!
4. Schmitty’s TimeOut Tavern
Grab some bites that will hit right; award-winning wings and mouthwatering burgers all at TimeOut Tavern! When visiting, you’ll find a welcoming community atmosphere that will make you feel like a local. On a sunny day, make sure to enjoy their outdoor patio catching up with friends over local craft drinks! We recommend trying their new flatbread options that are the perfect sharable size for the table. Also, take advantage of their daily specials, including create your own burger Monday, 10 wings for $7.50 on Wednesday, and build your own Bloody Mary Bar every Saturday and Sunday!
5. Best Western Plus
End your perfect day trip in self-care luxury! Take a dip in the Best Western Plus indoor saline pool (options of the adults-only swim from 10 pm – 11 pm). Every room is designed with the customer’s comfort in mind, so you can relish in all the memories you’ve created in La Crescent! Increase your relaxation by sleeping in and using Best Western’s late check-out option; this way, you can take this time to enjoy the company of your loved ones without any means of rushing out the door.
6. Kaddy’s Kafe Inc.
Don’t skip out of a local breakfast favorite (open from 6 am to 2 pm) before returning home. Kaddy’s Kafe is a family-owned and locally loved cafe serving outstanding omelets and build your own skillets. If you have a morning sweet tooth, try Lori’s french toast made with slices of texas toast garnished with powdered sugar and added fruit toppings- wow! Even take home locally made pies, cinnamon rolls, and cheesecake to share later on. Every day of the week, Kaddy’s offers different specials such as the el torero scramble, country fried steak & eggs, or blueberry crunch banana pancakes; The options are endless for your perfect La Crescent trip!
Coming Soon… Applefest |Sept. 15 -18, 2022