Explore a Different Side of Wisconsin along the state’s West Coast.
Trade a Great Lake to Great Bluffs.
The La Crosse Region makes for the perfect fall weekend getaway, and you could be here by lunch! Only a half-day away, escape and explore the Driftless Region’s bluffs, charming history, and elevated adventure along the Mississippi River!
Scroll for the Perfect Itinerary for Milwaukee Explorers!
A Weekend Road Trip From Milwaukee to the Driftless Region
The La Crosse Region offers Milwaukee explorers a different side of Wisconsin. The area is nestled between ancient bluffs and is known as one of the best places in the Midwest for legendary outdoor experiences. Located in the Driftless Region, the unique landscape exists because glaciers didn’t reach this area, leaving ancient limestone bluffs and steep river valleys untouched and intact. Hike panoramic overlooks, bike over 100 miles of trails, and paddle or fish on serene waterways, all shaped by the topography itself. Whether you’re chasing elevation or simply a change of scenery, the La Crosse Region is always in season and makes for the perfect weekend road trip from Milwaukee.
Learn more about the Driftless Region >
24-Hour Getaway: The Great 8 Things to Do
Some things you simply MUST do.
From the “Wisconsin Wonder” 600-ft bluff or a classic fish fry on the water, to a paddlewheel cruise on the Mississippi River, get ready to create your La Crosse Region bucket list!
Child’s Play: Family Friendly Bucket List
Play isn’t just for kids… It’s a way to explore together!
Here, curiosity sparks adventure, campfires become bedtime stories, and every treat tastes like childhood. It’s never too late to build your core-memory bucket list.
Why People Keep Coming Back
The La Crosse Region bursts with spirited adventure as unique as each explorer.
No matter the season, bluffs are calling, and the rivers are ready when you are! Just a road trip away from Milwaukee, the La Crosse Region hits its stride in autumn, with changing leaves, lively nights, and just enough spontaneity to turn a Wisconsin road trip into something unforgettable.
From endless outdoor recreation between the Driftless bluffs to festive, spirited communities bursting with things to do, adventure calls for every explorer! This is your cue to wander a little further, stay a little longer and come alive this season. Elevated adventure… It’s in our nature!
Scenic Stops
Sign us up for views worth the climb – AND the camera roll! In the heart of the Driftless Region and along the Great River Road, the area is packed with blufftop overlooks, trolley tours,, charming downtowns, paddle boats, natural wonders, and so much more.
Here’s the Bucket List: 24-Hour “Must-Dos” Itinerary
Water Activities
Paddle through peaceful backwaters, cruise between islands on a riverboat or rental, and get to fishing where the bite is always on. Whether you’re after walleye or favor a sunset, life flows a little better on the West Coast of Wisconsin.
Waterfront Dining is Just as Memorable: Dining on the Water
Elevated Trails
Whether you prefer to wander the many rivers and waterways or traverse the La Crosse Region’s miles of trails, you’ll quickly find yourself immersed in local adventure! Did you know you can ride from the Mississippi coast to the top of Grandad Bluff?
Elevated Adventure: It’s In Our Nature
Itineraries for Milwaukee Explorers
The La Crosse Region is just a 3-hour and 15-minute road trip away from Milwaukee! Simply take I-94 and I-90 to uncover all that there is to do between 600-foot bluffs and along the mighty Mississippi River.
An Extended-Stay from Milwaukee
Road-trip your way through the La Crosse Region with an itinerary featuring experiences that make this destination a must-visit, year after year. Ready to make memories with your entourage?
Custom Itineraries for Every Explorer!
Recess and refresh with a getaway specially curated for your tastes! The La Crosse Region offers charming history, elevated adventure, captivating views, and epic outdoor recreation. Which will you enjoy?
The La Crosse Region in the News
Don’t just take it from us! The La Crosse Region is newsworthy.
Browse the La Crosse Region’s Attractions
Discover the area’s notable attractions and local destinations!
All American, Area Lodging, Attractions, Cabins & Campgrounds, Canoeing & Kayaking
Champions Riverside Resort – Members
Attractions, Ball Fields, Banquet Facilities, Birding, Camping
Camp Decorah
Attractions, Groups, Members Directory, Tours & Road Trips
Hidden Trails Corn Maze
Art & Classes, Art Galleries, Arts & Culture, Attractions, Meeting Spaces
Minnesota Marine Art Museum
Attractions, Meeting Spaces, Members Directory, More to do Fall, Outdoor Recreation
Ferguson’s Orchards
Attractions, Education, Members Directory
Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge La Crosse District Visitor Center
Attractions, Members Directory, More to do Fall
Pumpkin Hill LLC
Area Lodging, Art & Classes, Attractions, Health & Wellness, Meeting Spaces
Franciscan Spirituality Center
Arts & Culture, Attractions, Members Directory
The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Attractions, Groups, Members Directory, Sports, Sports & Recreation
La Crosse Escape Room
Arts & Culture, Attractions, Members Directory, Music, Performance
The Marie W. Heider Center for the Arts
Attractions, Members Directory, Shopping, Sport, Sports
Three Brothers Bat Company
Explore More Things to Do
Dive into Our Visitors Guide
Check out La Crosse’s Visitors Guide to explore the best attractions, dining, and events in the area!