Hidden Gems of the La Crosse Region

Posted

July 3, 2025

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La Crosse is famous for its many views and adventures… but there are still hidden gems to enjoy! You just can’t beat the La Crosse Region. Check them out!

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Rim of the City

A lovely drive up into the bluffs lies the Rim of the City. After a short, scenic hike an enormous and awesome view of the La Crosse Region opens up. While Grandad Bluff holds many splendid reviews, the Rim of the City is a hidden gem that rivals in greatness. As it is a lesser-known spot, a private view lies ahead. The best part? If you can weather the cold, it’s an enjoyable stop all year!

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Lytle’s Landing

Located on the outskirts of Onalaska is Lytle’s Landing. A pleasant, moderate stroll is in store on an old railroad track! You can enjoy multiple bridges with stunning architecture among the beautiful creeks and waterways of the prairie. Perfect for an easy walk with the family and pets or a unique bike ride, Lytle’s Landing will not disappoint year-round. The question is, will you wear hiking shoes or snowshoes when you explore?

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Niagara Cave

Hike one mile underground into some of the Nation’s most unique caves! At Niagara Cave you can discover 450-million-year-old fossils, soak in the sites of an underground waterfall and see cave formations, both delicate and large! For more family fun, you can mine for fossils and real “hidden gems” as well as enjoy a round of mini-golf. Open seasonally, the Niagara Cave is truly a unique hidden gem.

Explore Unique Organizations

When visiting the La Crosse Region, there is always a bucket list of places to check out… but we’ve picked a few hidden gems you won’t want to skip! Nestled into small towns and a short drive from La Crosse live some pretty memorable sites. Have you explored them?

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International Owl Center

Found in the darling small town of Houston, Minnesota is an internationally known owl center! With learning sessions, a gift shop, international owl artwork, and live owls on site, you will genuinely enjoy your visit. Hosted by owl experts, the knowledge and passion of the center are astounding. For the perfect learning retreat, this is a can’t miss destination.

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Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge La Crosse District Visitor Center

When in the Region, visit the Refuge Visitor Center offering a plethora of activities. With an overlook of Lake Onalaska and interactive exhibits of wildlife and habitats, you’re sure to learn a thing or two! Most memorable? The “Walk on Water” exhibit, to see what lies below the surface of the river!

Explore One-Of-A-Kind Shopping

Splurge in locally-owned shops or venture to large shopping districts, the La Crosse Region has it all. Get ready to treat yourself!

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Treehouse Gift & Home

Located in Onalaska, Treehouse offers a unique variety of gifts, home décor, and local art to regular shoppers and visitors alike. Founded originally in 1998, Treehouse Gift & Home has deep roots in the community. On the shelves, you’ll find things made by local artists making what you buy truly unique. Spark your inspiration, breathe new decorative life into your favorite spaces from their slice of heaven with retail therapy. Come find your new treasures!

Relic Road Junk & Vintage

Relic Road Junk & Vintage is a great local vintage shop full of unexpected finds and fabulous junk! Whether you are looking for architectural salvage to repurpose or the perfect piece of retro furniture, they’ve got it! They bring in new inventory and barn finds daily. Not to mention their famous junk rack spinners full of little odds and ends. Bring a friend and enjoy browsing around!

Explore Treasured Wisconsin Meat, Cheeses and Goodies

It wouldn’t be a true Wisconsin experience without tasting the La Crosse Region’s savory jerky, summer sausage, squeaky cheese, and more!

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Holmen Locker & Meat Market

Holmen Locker & Meat Market has a large selection of meats and much more! At the market you’ll find a wide variety of fresh meats and cheeses, microbrew beers, wines, specialty foods, gift baskets, and housewares. Explore their 14-foot fresh meat case stocked full of the most popular fresh cuts of meat: beef steaks and roasts, ground beef, pork roasts and chops, whole and cut up chicken, ham, turkey, lamb, and sandwich meats. Their Beef is all local from cattle raised in Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.

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Valley Market

Valley Market is passionate about providing you with quality foods, as well as friendly, helpful service! They also offer fresh-cut sandwich meats & cheeses from our deli, sliced daily, and upon request can be cut any way you like. Valley Market Specialties: Their own local pure, natural RAW HONEY, Fresh Wisconsin Cheese, Monthly deals – new each month, a Fine selection of frozen meats from Holmen Meat Locker, locally ground coffee and more!

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Creamery Creek Farms

Source high-quality beef born and raised in the Coulee Region. Creamery Creek specializes in beef that has been aged for a minimum of 21 days for truly a recognizable flavor difference. Locally processed at a USDA inspected locker and available for on-farm pickup, local delivery or nationwide shipping. Whether you want individual cuts or a customized box, you will taste and appreciate the difference!

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Categories:

The Bluffs Blog, Blogging on the River, Fun for the Fam, Fun things to do in La Crosse, La Crescent, Onalaska, Road Trip, Shopping, Sporting & Outdoor Fun

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