24 Hours Getaway- Bucket List Sights in the La Crosse Region!

Cover Photo PC: @driftless_jamie

One night in the La Crosse Region? No problem!

Up for a 24-road trip to the La Crosse Region? We’ve curated a list of epic sights sights, top things to do and more for your next overnight stay in the La Crosse Region!

1. Grandad Bluff Overlook

This landmark is a must for the top of your bucket list! Grandad Bluff has become not only a destination point for thousands but also a symbol of the beautiful Coulee Region. The 600-ft high bluff overlooks the city of La Crosse. The view of the Mississippi River Valley includes the three states of Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. Wisconsin Trails readers voted this “the most scenic view in the state”. Not to mention… Grandad Bluff is magnificent any time of year!

2. Apple Blossom Scenic Drive & River View Winery

Have you enjoyed the Apple Blossom Scenic Drive yet? Early to Mid-May is the peak season to experience the natural beauty of rolling hills covered in blossoming apple trees. However, the drive and overlooks are breathtaking year-round. At the top of the bluff near Apple Blossom Overlook, swing by River View Vineyard & Winery.  In 2003, River View Vineyard was started with cold hardy grapes, La Crosse (white), Frontenac (red), and Swenson Red (rose). This vineyard is open seasonally* and has an outdoor tasting venue with views of the Mississippi River Valley below. 

3. Riverside Park & The La Crosse Queen

Famous Riverside Park in La Crosse is the center of the charming community. At the confluence of three rivers, it’s an iconic location to stop and rest and take in the iconic and sparkling Mississippi River. It’s also home to the renowned La Crosse Queen paddle boat; a modern-day replica of the grand riverboats which used to ply the Mississippi in the early 1900s. Riverside Park is both a signature sight and prized jewel of the La Crosse Region!

4. Great River Landing & Hiking

The Great River Landing is an epic road-side stop along the Great River Road, perfect for stretching and gorgeous views! It is well known for its natural beauty, Welcome Center, and friendly atmosphere overlooking Lake Onalaska. Located in the vibrant city of Onalaska, it also serves as the trailhead for the Great River State Trail which connects over 100 miles of state bicycle trails and is a short walk from local cuisine and shops.

5. Mindoro Cut & The La Crosse Speedway

Thrill seekers, road trippers and motorcyclists… you’ve found your next bucket list item! Located in the West Salem area, journey through the Mindoro Cut. Specifically, the landmark resides in the town of Farmington, Wisconsin just off of Highway C; linking Mindoro with West Salem. The cut is 74 feet deep, 86 feet long, and 25 feet wide. It is the second deepest cut built by hand in the Western Hemisphere and the oldest functional cut which has not been improved! Looking for more to do in the West Salem area? Watch cars whip around the race track at the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. It has NASCAR Racing every Saturday night April-September and the Oktoberfest Races in October.

6. Lake Onalaska & Red Pines Bar & Grill

This stop is legendary for sunset chasers! Make sure to bring your camera as you take in the picturesque scenery and incredible sunsets on the shores of Lake Onalaska. The lake lies in Onalaska, Wisconsin and is a reservoir located on the Black River and Mississippi River. Nestled on the shores of this lake resides Red Pines Bar & Grill. You’ll find a casual restaurant delivering high quality, made from scratch meals. The destination is known for a “Northwoods atmosphere”, delicious hand-prepared walleye, lake perch, in-house smoked catfish, and much more!

7. Island Outdoors & Paddling

The meandering waterways of the La Crosse area are an absolute paradise for paddlers of every stripe. Take the family on a gentle canoe ride through relaxing wetland courses, or enjoy moderate to strenuous kayaking adventures along the Mississippi, Black, or La Crosse Rivers. Canoe trails, launches, and outfitters abound in the area, making it one of the best paddling destinations in the region. Ready to hit the water? Check out Island Outdoors for your paddling needs! You can rent a canoe, kayak, paddle board, water bike etc. and launch onto the Black River from their parking lot. 

8. Halfway Creek Park & Live Music

There’s no place like Holmen for a good time and live music! Stop in to Halfway Creek park for a wonderful hike and live music. With a whopping 14.5 acres, it’s the largest park in Holmen, WI. The quaint spot is also the home to concerts in the park every Sunday from 5pm-7pm, June through August.

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