We’re Biased- Best Midwest Holiday Towns

Our region feels like a dreamy Hallmark movie during the winter season!

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 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 Holiday Lights

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!

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Grandad’s Bluff

If you’re looking for snowy, romantic, and 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.

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Mt. 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!

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Island Outdoors

When the Mississippi backwaters ice over, Island Outdoors becomes your winter headquarters. From expert gear and apparel to friendly guidance from true pros, they’ll set you up right for ice fishing, winter hunting, and cold-weather adventure. Put on your jacket and catch some big ones this season!

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Norskedalen Heritage & Nature

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.

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Omni Center

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!

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Castle 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!

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Coulee Region Craft Beverage Trail

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. pc: @lacrossedistillingco

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Local Shopping

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.

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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!

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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. pc: @seth.polfus

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