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Spend the day exploring the La Crosse Region!
This itinerary will guide you through La Crescent, Onalaska, and all around La Crosse! From good eats and drinks to scenic views and exploring, this guide is perfect for those wanting to explore what the La Crosse Region has to offer.
Discover La Crescent, MN: Coffee with a View & Breakfast
Jules Coffee House
Start the day with a fun drink or sweet treat from the oldest coffee shop in historic downtown La Crosse, WI! Jules Coffee House has been serving fresh coffee since 1993. The specialty coffee shop features organic coffees and a full espresso menu! They also offer many non-coffee drinks like teas, smoothies, and lemonade. Satisfy your morning sweet tooth with their fresh, homemade scones or affogato!
Sunrise at Apple Blossom Overlook
While in La Crescent, take a drive up the Apple Blossom Scenic Drive along the Great River Road to the Apple Blossom Overlook. Explore a short trail to an overlook on the ledge of the bluff, overlooking the Mississippi River Valley below. Go for a beautiful view of the sunrise, for the greenery, spring apple blossoms, or fall hues. Explore the park and wander further amidst the mowed, grassy trails for other scenic views.
Historic Downtown: Fun Flavors and Colorful Culture
Artist’s Alley
Just across the Big Blue Bridge from La Crescent and located in Historic Downtown La Crosse is Artist’s Alley! Take a vibrant stroll through local murals at this hidden gem. This alley features a variety of unique murals painted by local artists. The alley is a hidden gem so pay close attention and find it near 5th and Main. This is an amazing location for photo opportunities and is near many downtown boutiques and shops!
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Local Shopping
Downtown La Crosse offers many shops and boutiques that cater to everyone! Drift Mercantile is a must stop in the region with many locally made crafts and goods. The Pearl Ice Cream Parlor is a great place to go for candies, treats, and old-fashioned favorites. Larson’s General is another great shop downtown with many earth friendly alternatives and sustainable goods. See below for other shops downtown!
Lunch Downtown La Crosse
Take a break from shopping downtown and stop to grab lunch! Enjoy locally sourced American fare at La Crosse Distilling Company, New Orleans style cuisine at Buzzard Billy’s, or tapas at 4 Sisters Wine Bar and Restaurant. Downtown La Crosse offers many types of food – something for everyone! Many downtown restaurants have waterfront views and summer, outdoor seating. See below for other restaurant suggestions!
Afternoon Adventures: Signature Sights and Savory Apps
Riverside Park
Relax and enjoy the scenic sights of the Mississippi River! Riverside Park is just blocks away from Historic Downtown La Crosse and has walking paths, outdoor seating, a bandshell, and accessible, open spaces for people to enjoy the outdoors. Be sure to see the La Crosse Queen docked at Riverside Park and book a river cruise!
Great River Landing
Take a brief drive to Onalaska and check out Great River Landing’s view of Lake Onalaska and the Black River! The Visitor Center provides restrooms and information on exploring the area. Great River Landing is home to beautiful views and is the head of the Great River State Trail with 101 miles of interconnecting state bicycle trails!
Appetizers at David Reay’s
Just across the street from Great River Landing with more lake views is David Reay’s Modern Diner and Tavern! They put a modern spin on the old-school diner experience and specialize in comfort food. Stop in a try their famed, hand-battered cheese curds, spinach and artichoke dip, comfort foods, and cocktails!
An Exciting Evening: Dinner, Drinks and a Sunset Overlook
Dinner at Howie’s
Howie’s is La Crosse’s hometown hangout! The casual and fun atmosphere is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with family or friends. They feature delicious gourmet burgers, signature sandwiches, in-house smoked meats, classic cocktails, and a wide selection of tap and craft beers.
Drinks at Alpine Inn
Visit the Alpine Inn, a historic bar & grill seated atop Grandad Bluff in La Crosse, WI. The Alpine Inn is known for great Bloody Mary’s, burgers and all around good food. This is a great destination spot with a fun atmosphere, outdoor seating, and summer weekly live music!
Sunset at Grandad Bluff
See grand views at Grandad Bluff! Just a short drive up from the Alpine Inn is Grandad Bluff. The 600-ft high bluff overlooks the City of La Crosse, the Mississippi River Valley, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. This is a perfect spot to watch the sunset and get a beautiful view of the La Crosse Region!
