Our region feels like a dreamy Hallmark movie during the winter season!
Nestled along the snowy banks of the mighty Mississippi River, the La Crosse Region transforms into a winter wonderland, earning our self-made title as the Midwest’s best holiday town (we’re a little biased). With twinkling lights adorning historic downtown streets, festive markets brimming with local charm, and breathtaking views of snow-dusted bluffs, the La Crosse Region captures the magic of the season like no other.
From cherished traditions like the annual Rotary Lights Holiday Display—celebrating its 30th year—to exciting new winter festivals, picturesque snowy landscapes, thrilling winter sports, and cozy spots to enjoy hot cocoa, this vibrant region perfectly blends small-town charm with holiday cheer, making it an irresistible destination for unforgettable winter memories.
Rotary Lights Holiday Display | La Crosse
Walk, drive, or take a carriage ride through Riverside Park and make memories with those who matter most this season! The Rotary Lights Holiday Display is celebrating their 30th anniversary this year! With over 3 million lights on full display, family-friendly events, live music entertainment, live reindeer, Santa, s’mores, ice skating, and so much more, you can’t miss this twinkling lights show!
Between the Bluffs Frothbite
Beer & Bites Festival | La Crosse
Want to celebrate festive craft beverages, tasty bites, fun games, and even better ugly sweaters? Between the Bluffs Frothbite Beer & Bites Festival is the right place for you! You don’t have to be a beer connoisseur to buy tickets to this event. If you love a good beverage, and want to support local, regional, and Midwest vendors, you must stop in for this day of fun! The fest is on December 7th and located inside at the La Crosse Center.
Snowy Sights at Grandad Bluff | La Crosse
If you’re looking for romantic, dreamy views perfect for your next holiday card. Grandad Bluff is the place to visit! This 600-ft high bluff overlooks the city of La Crosse, the Mississippi River Valley, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. Just a short 10-minute drive up a winding bluff road are legendary snowy sights. Voted as “the most scenic view in the state” by Wisconsin Trails readers, this signature sight is a bucketlist must when visiting the La Crosse Region.
Mt. La Crosse | La Crosse
No winter retreat can be complete without a stop at Mt. La Crosse! Since 1959, skiers of all ages and abilities have fallen in love with Mt. La Crosse! From gentle Mileaway, Wisconsin’s longest run, to Damnation, Mid-America’s steepest trail, Mt. La Crosse offers the widest variety of skiing and snowboarding terrain in the Midwest. Not a sports enthusiasts? Cheer on your friends and family, and stop into their unique Saint Bernard room for a drink!
Ice Fishing Hidden Gems | French Island
A hidden anglers paradise can be found among the backwaters of the Mississippi River and Lake Onalaska. As ice covers a wider area, ice anglers begin moving further out to deeper water in search of walleye, yellow perch, and northern pike. Island Outdoors, located on French Island on the Mississippi River is your go-to for all of your outdoor needs! Whether you are looking for rentals or need gear for hunting and fishing, you can fulfill all of your outdoor desires here at the friendly Island Outdoors.
Winter Wonderland at Norskedalen | Coon Valley
Walk into a winter wonderland at Norskedalen Heritage and Nature Center. Hike or snowshoe among 400 acres of breathtaking forests, hiking trails, prairie, spring-fed streams and ponds through the beautiful Driftless region. Experience history and wonder as you step into the full-immersion museum known as the Bekkum Homstead. These buildings originally built and lived in through the 1860s-1900s weave a history and documentation of Norwegian immigrants who came to the Coon Valley area.
Ice Skating Adventures | Onalaska
Hit the ice for your next date-night or family-friendly adventure! The Onalaska Omni Center offers rentals, and open ice skating throughout the months of November through February, on Sundays. Break the ice with someone new at one of their many themed open skate nights!
Cozy Castle Lodging | La Crosse
Dreaming of a cozy place to stay in the La Crosse Region? Castle La Crosse is a charming Bed and Breakfast restored to its original 1892 glory. This house features five guest suites all with private baths and a lavish morning breakfast. Capture the magic of the La Crosse Region here!
Unique Craft Beverage Trail | La Crosse Region
Start on an epic adventure through the Driftless Region with the Coulee Region Craft Beverage Trail. This unique trail will take you throughout the La Crosse Region to many locally owned breweries, wineries, and a distillery. Taste beautifully crafted drinks to help you warm yourself up from the inside out this chilly season.
Local-Owned/Small Business Shops | La Crosse
Walk through historic downtown La Crosse and support small and independent local businesses. Feel their charm and splurge on quality items! The vibrant shopping scene is full of the region’s finest specialty shops, thrift stores, antique stores and more! It won’t take long to find the perfect gift for your loved one this season.
Cozy Winter Cabin & Lodging
From history laden hideaways to elevated cabin experiences, these overnight stays are overflowing with personality. Experience stays that are far from ordinary in the best way!
Winter Weekend Getaway Ideas
The La Crosse Region has something for everybody, whether you’re looking to stay cozy and warm inside or get active in the cool air. Enjoy a weekend away in the La Crosse Region.