Casual Fri-YAY Adventures

Congratulations, you’ve made it to the end of another week of hard work. Now it’s time for some well-deserved fun! The weather is starting to look up, and we’re ready to hook you up with your next Casual Fri-YAY hangout.  Whatever your course, the La Crosse Region has got you covered!

Written by: Lauren Head, Guest Blogger

For the Explorer

The changing seasons create the perfect end-of-day sunset escape. But before you go, don’t forget to dress warm and pick up your last-minute warm hiking gear from Duluth Trading Co.!

Your winter adventure begins with a scenic hike through the Hixon Forest trails that offer Grandad Bluff Park access. During your exploration, take advantage of some of the area’s best birding opportunities; spot some Pileated Woodpeckers in the forested hillsides and spy soaring raptors from the lookout atop Grandad Bluff. With stunning views of the city and river valley, Grandad bluff park is your sunset destination! After the hike, settle down at the legendary Alpine Inn bar and grill nestled into Grandad’s bluff side. Enjoy some hot food and drinks on the outdoor door deck that will have you feeling like you’re still deep in the forest admiring a winter wonderland!

As un-paved trails are sensitive to melting in the spring, some other paved-trail experiences may be better suited for your adventure as well as to keep trail maintenance in check. Click Here for additional trail options.

For the Art Connoisseur

For left-brain legends and art enthusiasts, an afternoon stroll through La Crosse’s Sculpture Foot Tour (Some Regional Sculptures: Lyra, Herons of La Crosse, Ribbon V, Le Pineau, Reflections, and Mary of the Angels Chapel) is the perfect inspiration the before making your own masterpiece at Creative Canvas and Boards. Attend a class or event with step-by-step instructions, or utilize the “do it yourself” open studio and take in the weekend-art-therapy you were longing for.

Is it too cold for a sculpture tour? Head to Pump House Regional Arts Center for a rotating gallery experience of local, regional, and national artists!

As all great artists do, follow up your creations with fine wine and dining. Le Chateau offers a perfect ambiance of fine French cuisine and a European-style atmosphere. Every plate achieves that elusive, cuisine-defining balance of sweet, salty, and sour — even dessert! Even better? Le Chateau’s varied distinct dining areas of The Mons Anderson House with its rare blend of Gothic Revival and Italian Villa styles rendered in locally quarried stone would have famous French artist Claude Monet say “Incroyable!”

For the Family

Family fun starts by hitting the slopes at Mt. La Crosse, where all levels of skiers and snowboarders can start their weekend off right. The unique chalet offers food service, a complete ski shop, rental repair shop, and a unique St. Bernard Dog themed bar, all at the base of their slopes. Windows overlooking the ski runs and trails provide attractive views of winter in Wisconsin.

If family still has energy to spare post-ski or if the winter air is still too frigid, check out Features Sports Bar. With an eight-lane bowling center and the area’s largest HD screen in the La Crosse area, you’re not just watching the game; you’re becoming part of it! Match your bowling skills with Features Sports Bar open dining and bar which serves until 10 pm.