The Nationally renowned scenic byway that you can’t afford to skip in the La Crosse Region.
Up for a road trip? Enjoy beautiful scenery, access to excellent hiking, fishing, and boating, rugged bluffs, and of course the picturesque Mississippi River along the Wisconsin Great River Road. U.S. Highway 35 covers 250 miles in the state of Wisconsin, from Prescott in the north to Kieler in the south.
1. Apple Blossom Scenic Drive
Have you enjoyed the Apple Blossom Scenic Drive yet? Early to Mid-May is the peak season to experience the natural beauty of rolling hills covered in blossoming apple trees. Plan to bike or drive the 17-mile route before the season ends! Apple Blossom Scenic Overlook also offers a short path to a rocky overlook with vistas of the La Crosse Region and Mississippi River below. After exploring, descend into charming La Crescent, Minnesota for some savory food and drinks.
This iconic bridge lives on Cass Street in La Crosse, that bridges over the Mississippi River into La Crescent, MN. You can walk, bike or drive along the bridge and get gorgeous views of downtown La Crosse, Pettibone Park, and beyond. Klug and Smith Company of Milwaukee, Wisconsin was the superstructure contractor while Minneapolis Bridge Company of Minneapolis, Minnesota was the substructure contractor.
The famous Riverside Park of La Crosse is the center of our active community. At the confluence of three rivers, Riverside Park is designed for active lifestyles and for those that want to relax and watch the river slowly pass by. The park is just blocks away from Historic Downtown La Crosse’s restaurants and shopping stops, the La Crosse Convention Center, a multitude of lodging options, and is home to the famed La Crosse Queen paddle boat and the International Friendship Gardens. Riverside Park is both a signature sight and prized jewel of the La Crosse Region.
The Great River Landing is renowned for its natural beauty, Welcome Center, and friendly atmosphere overlooking Lake Onalaska. Located in lively Onalaska, it serves as the trailhead for the Great River State Trail which connects over 100 miles of state bicycle trails and is a short walk from local cuisine and shops.
Onalaska is known as the “Sunfish Capital of the World!” To commemorate and to share the city’s love of the fish, head to another road-side stop and see Sunny the Sunfish. Sunny the Sunfish is a quick drive North of the Great River Landing on HWY 35 of the Great River Road. The massive and brightly colored sunfish sculpture is 15-feet high and 25-feet long perched on a scenic overlook of Lake Onalaska. Sunny provides memorable amusement from a massive sunfish statue for family photo ops, the Great River State Trail, and views of Lake Onalaska.
Enjoy beautiful scenery, access to excellent hiking, fishing, scenic overlooks, and the picturesque vistas of the Mississippi River along the Wisconsin Great River Road. The National Scenic Byway sits on Highway 35 and covers 250 miles of adventure and river towns in Wisconsin.
Visit some of the best charming towns in the La Crosse Region! These local hidden gems are top-rated and bursting with delicious restaurants and things to do. Only a few minutes away La Crosse and Onalaska, you’ll fall in love with their charm, sights, food, and so much more!
Enter to Win the Explore La Crosse Girls’ Getaway & Mother’s Day Sweepstake!
The La Crosse Region bursts with adventures suitable for your girl gang or the mom in your life! Enter to win the Girls’ Getaway and Mother’s Day Sweepstake, a $300 value, and share a weekend full of wonderful memories. The Getaway Winner will win gift cards for delicious cuisine, unique local shopping, a scenic river cruise for two, and an epic overnight stay in the rolling bluffs!
Norskedalen Nature and Heritage Center welcomes you to take a step back in time as you view their nature and heritage displays. Enjoy a night stay on the property and tour the 1890s restored pioneer log homestead. After your tour, take a refreshing walk on their trail systems, enjoy a picnic lunch in their open-air shelter, and browse their arboretum.
This sightseeing cruise is on the La Crosse Queen; a modern-day replica of the grand riverboats which used to ply the Mississippi in the early 1900s. She is one of the few “true” paddlewheelers still in operation in the country today. In keeping with early traditions, she was built with stern wheels which are her only means of propulsion.
Finnottes family owned nut and chocolate shop has both new candies and old fashioned favorites. Enjoy a 14 oz gift box of milk & dark assorted chocolates, an 8oz gift bag of milk gators (similar to turtles), and a 9oz container of jumbo cashews.
Enjoy a meal for two at 4 Sisters Wine Bar & Tapas Restaurant, located in the heart of Historic Downtown La Crosse, across from Riverside Park, with views of the Mississippi River. They specialize in tapas-style cuisine with unique selections for lunch, dinner and everything in-between.
Enjoy a gift card to Mainstream Boutique in Onalaska, WI. This shopping destination an exciting retail clothing and accessories store that sells stylish clothing and accessories at affordable prices. Their staff loves working with their multigenerational clientele as the store celebrates and styles “today’s woman.”
The region surrounding La Crosse, Wisconsin has a lot to offer the avid outdoor adventure seekers.
Its expansive bluffs, miles of trails, and endless array of water are all draws to the area. It wouldn’t be fair to mention this area’s outdoor connections and not talk about its laundry list of fishing opportunities. La Crosse has prospects for all types, no matter an angler’s preference, experience level, or the current season – including opportunities for conventional fishing or fly fishing, as well as the chance to fish from shore, from a boat, or on the ice.
The area boasts healthy populations of panfish, walleye, trout, catfish, and bass to name a few. As a premier fishing destination, the area attracts anglers from all over including several major tournament trails, such as Bassmaster and Major League Fishing.
Perhaps the most well-known body of water in the La Crosse region is the Mississippi River. Three pools of the Mighty Miss are located within close proximity to this region – Pools 7, 8, and 9 which also encompass the popular lake Onalaska. Two major tributaries of the Mississippi River in this region include the Black River and La Crosse River – all of which meet at the City of La Crosse. Beyond the major river systems, this portion of the State is also home to the world renowned Driftless region which boasts healthy populations of brown trout, rainbow trout, and brook trout.
Countless miles of fishable water are available in this region. Regardless of how you want to fish, there are options for you. They can be accessed from shore, from the water, or from some truly unique locations.
The Shore Options
Don’t have a boat? Not to worry. The La Crosse Region has many access points for shoreline anglers.
Pettibone Park
If you’re looking for family friendly, Pettibone Park is one of the best options in the region. Located on Pettibone Lagoon, a backwater of the Mississippi River, the park has several access options including docks, piers, and shorelines. The area hosts a healthy population of panfish, as well as the chance for bass and pike.
Goose Island Campground & Park
The Goose Island Campground & Park is located just three miles south of the City of La Crosse on the shores of the Mississippi River. The park is the largest county campground in the State of Wisconsin with more than 300 campsites. The area offers more than 2.5 miles of fishable shoreline.
Copeland Park
Copeland Park is located on the north side of La Crosse – just east of French Island – on the Black River. The park offers a stretch of access for shoreline angling. As the home to the Copeland Park baseball facility, the park gives anglers the chance to cheer on the local La Crosse Loggers baseball team while enjoying a night of fishing.
The Driftless Region
If cold water species are more your style, then this area is worth checking out. The Driftless refers to the area of Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa and Illinois that was left untouched by glacial erosion during the last Ice Age. This unique area offers some of the best trout fishing opportunities in the country – with more tan 13,000 miles of streams. These streams have impressive numbers of brown trout, brook trout, and rainbow trout with recent surveys showing 2,500 fish per mile. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website has detailed maps and tools to help track down stream locations and access points.
Other Areas
In addition to the number of park facilities throughout La Crosse, there are also several other areas that fishermen can access. Opportunities for fishing access exist near many of the area’s dams, spillways, bridges, as well as local power plant facilities.
Floats & Barges
If you’re looking for a fun and unique fishing experience, there are two facilities in the La Crosse Region that offer just that.
Best Dam Fishing Float
The Best Dam Fishing Float is a floating dock located just below Lock & Dam Number 7 on the Mississippi River. The operation offers everything you need for a great day of fishing. A day of fishing on the “Float” includes a pontoon ride there and back – and up to ten hours of fishing. You can bring your own rods and tackle, or they have equipment available for rent. The on-site bait shop also sells food, live bit, tackle, and drinks. The Best Dam Fishing Float is typically open from March through October.
Clement’s Fishing Barge
Clement’s Fishing Barge is located near Genoa, WI just below Lock & Dam Number 8 on the Mississippi River. There’s some serious fishing history associated with this “Barge” as it’s been operating since 1936. A daily fishing package includes a boat shuttle to the barge and back to shore – with the ability to fish for up to ten hours. They recommend you pick up live bait ahead of time, but food and drinks are available for purchase on-site. The Barge is open year-round except for the month of August.
The Rentals
If do-it-yourself is more your style, there are a handful of resources in this region that offer boat, pontoon, kayak, and canoe rentals.
Keep in mind, the State of Wisconsin requires any residents born on or after January 1, 1989 to have a valid boating safety certificate in order to rent or operate a watercraft.
Schafer’s River Rentals
Located on the shores of Lake Onalaska, Schafer’s River Rentals offers a wide range of rental options. Options include boat, pontoon, kayak, and canoe rentals – all of which can be rented for a full day or half day. Schafer’s has rentals that can accommodate up to 15 people.
American Marine
American Marine has five rental locations including one in La Crosse, WI. They offer four different rental options available for half day, full day, and three-day rentals. American Marine has rentals that can accommodate up to 13 people.
Island Outdoors
Island Outdoors offers rentals for canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and water bikes. They are located right on the shores of the Mississippi River – offering consumers the ability to drop right in without having to trailer or tow their rental for use. Island Outdoors also offers customers the ability to take many of their paddled options for a “test-drive” before they buy.
Other Rental Options
There are a few Parks & Recreation and Local Government resources that offer kayak and canoe rentals throughout the La Crosse Region – including Goose Island Park and Pettibone Park which are located on the Mississippi River and Great River Landing which is located on lake Onalaska.
The La Crosse Region is full of opportunity for the outdoor enthusiast – especially for those that enjoy time on the water. Whether it’s conventional fishing or fly fishing, shore fishing or from a boat or kayak, there are options for all. Regardless of what you decide, fishing in the La Crosse area can be fun for everyone.
Join the La Crosse Lunker League
Fishing is an excellent choice of outdoor activity to partake in if you happen to have some time to spend in the great outdoors in La Crosse. If you want to add an extra element of excitement to your fishing, you can join the La Crosse Lunker League.
It’s simple. Catch a qualifying species in the La Crosse area, take some pictures for size and memories, release your fish, and submit your catch! You’ll be notified when your catch has been approved and you can see the awards you’ve gained. There are goals, milestones, and various awards to be won.
It’s open to both residents and visitors. It’s a fun way to challenge yourself and possibly win some cool awards!
No boat? No problem! The area has amazing options to fish from shorelines, docks, piers, floats, and more without ever having to step foot on the water.
Fishing 101: For First Time Anglers In The La Crosse Region
No matter what kind of fishing you want to do, there’s an opportunity for you in La Crosse. It’s an excellent spot for newbies to learn the ropes of fishing.
The La Crosse region has some of the most unique and remarkable fishing opportunities. Reel in memories along the Mississippi River, confluence of rivers, Lake Onalaska, a Dam and barge, and more!
No matter what kind of fishing you want to do, there’s an opportunity for you in the La Crosse Region. Check out our guide for anglers arriving to the area and get ready to fish these lively waters!
What Can You Fish in Spring & Summer?
Kenneth Reaves, an Outdoor Writer, mentions that “just about every species of fish can be found in the area in spring and summer. The walleye are out in full force just after the ice and snowmelt. Head downriver or to one of the many dams if they’re your target fish.
“As the waters warm up, so do the panfish and pike. But if you’re after bass, then late spring, early summer is the ideal time to be casting your line. Both smallmouth and largemouth bass are abundant in the La Crosse waters—largemouth in shallow backwaters and smallmouth in the bigger rivers.
“Channel and flathead catfish also put up an excellent fight in the warmer months, providing a challenge for anglers of all levels.
“Other fish you may just find at the end of your line include sturgeon, sauger, crappie, and sunfish, and trout (depending on which waters you’re fishing in). “
Why Should You Fish in Spring & Summer?
Spring is a time when many anglers in La Crosse County turn their eyes to walleye. Shortly after the ice leaves the river, walleye are running, and the catching can be spectacular. On the Mississippi, many anglers head to the dams where large numbers of walleye congregate. However, there’s often great fishing downriver as well. As waters warm in the spring, panfish action starts picking up, particularly in the flats and backwaters of the Black River, Mississippi River, and Lake Onalaska that tend to warm faster than the moving waters near the river’s channel. The warming waters also make northern pike fishing pick up.
Late spring, and early summer can be excellent times to catch nearly every species of fish – but bass fishing really stands out. Both largemouth and smallmouth can be found in the river system around La Crosse. Look for smallmouth in the main river channels in spots that protect them from the heavy current, such as rocks, downfalls, and wingdams. Largemouth bass is plentiful in the shallow backwaters. Fishing for catfish during the warmest months of the year can be also an exciting affair as both channel cats and flatheads provide some of the best catfishing in the Midwest.
What Gear Should You Bring?
Kenneth Reaves also mentions, “if you’re fishing in the spring or summer, you’ll want to use a rod and reel that’s appropriate for the fishing you want to be doing.
“Take your pick of a fly fishing rod and reel if you want to fly fish for trout. But a normal spinner reel or baitcasting reel and rod will work well for most people if you’re fishing for bass, crappie, walleye, or other fish.
“Other than that, be sure to dress for the weather. Remember to wear a hat and sunscreen in summer. Non-slip shoes are a must, and make sure you have first aid essentials just in case.”
Which Fishing Spots Are Best According to Kenneth Reaves?
Neshonoc Lake
This 606-acre, 11-foot deep lake is about 15 miles outside of the city and offers good fishing opportunities. You can expect to catch largemouth bass, catfish, northern pike, and a variety of panfish.
Depending on the day, the water can be a touch cloudy. Brightly colored lures may have the best luck in these waters.
You can fish from the shore or head out on the boat. Surrounded by trees and marsh, it’s a beautiful spot to spend some time.
Lake Onalaska
Lake Onalaska, 4 miles wide and 40-feet deep at its deepest point, is a reservoir on the Black and Mississippi Rivers. It’s the ideal place to visit with the family in summer, as there’s a variety of activities on offer.
While you’re fishing for walleye, smallmouth and largemouth bass, northern pike, or bluegill, the family can go waterskiing, wind-surfing, or bird-watching.
Lake Onalaska also holds the state record for spotted sucker. The big fellow, 20.5-inches in length and weighing 4 pounds 10 ounces, was caught in 2018 in these waters.
Black River
The Black River in La Crosse is a backwater river that offers exciting fishing. The part of the river at MM 695 across from La Crosse is dotted with small islands, providing a variety of hideaways for walleye.
It’s a little more remote than the first two locations, which is ideal if you’re looking for a serene spot without others around.
Participate in the La Crosse Lunker League
Fishing is an excellent choice of outdoor activity to partake in if you happen to have some time to spend in the great outdoors in the La Crosse Region. If you want to add an extra element of excitement to your fishing, you can join the La Crosse Lunker League.
It’s simple. Catch a qualifying species in the La Crosse area, take some pictures for size and memories, release your fish, and submit your catch! You’ll be notified when your catch has been approved and you can see the awards you’ve gained. There are goals, milestones, and various awards to be won.
It’s open to both residents and visitors. It’s a fun way to challenge yourself and possibly win some cool awards!
No boat? No problem! The area has amazing options to fish from shorelines, docks, piers, floats, and more without ever having to step foot on the water.
We’ve put together a guide for anglers arriving in La Crosse to fish these waters. You’ll find all you need to know in this guide: Fishing 101 for first-time anglers in La Crosse.
Whether you’re Irish or not, we can all feel lucky savoring the St. Patrick’s Day flavors of the La Crosse Region! Treat your taste buds for this fun holiday with authentic and savory meals. Here are some destinations to get festive and have a shamrockin’ time!
St. Patrick’s Day Restaurant Specials
Pearl Street Brewery
“Visit Western Wisconsin’s premier craft brewery! Since 1999, Pearl Street Brewery has produced award-winning Ales and Lagers.Brewing great beer isn’t everything — it’s the only thing.“
St. Patrick’s Day Specials
On Friday March 17th, Pearl Street Brewery is having their annual Saint Patrick’s Day Party from 3-9pm. They are featuring live music by the best Irish band around, the Guilty Kilts.
Meal Features: They are also offering free Irish stew with corned beef and cabbage while it lasts!
From their farm straight to your door. With a focus on sustainability and high quality animal care – you can be confident in your choices with Creamery Creek Farms! They want to make it easier than ever to buy directly from your farmer.
St. Patrick’s Day Specials
Special Discount:Creamery Creek Farms is offering Dry Aged Beef Briskets and Picanhas – 5% off – the whole month of March, while supplies last, and it automatically applies at checkout. Get your lucky green popcorn mix just in time for the holiday! Their Lucky Cheese and Popcorn Gift Box is a $14 flat rate shipping, 48 states and FREE La Crosse local delivery the week of March 12-18th – exclusive for The Bluff Blog Readers!
Taqueria Pato Azul, Spanish for blue duck, is a Mexican restaurant that may not be Irish but they serve authentic Mexican cuisine with a Bleu Duck twist.
St. Patrick’s Day Specials
Visit Taqueria Pato Azul on March 13-18th for their St. Patrick’s Day specials of:
Drink Features: They will be also featuring a Green Margarita drink ONLY on FRIDAY AND SATURDAY: Green Margarita – $10 Tequila Reposado / Lime / Agave / Orange Curacao
HALF OFF on Happy Hour Always from 4-6pm and 8-10pm
As time goes on, brewing methods evolve and tastes change, but Grounded continues to stay true to their passion of serving quality food and drinks. Check out their tasty holiday specials you may be lucky enough to try!
St. Patrick’s Day Specials
Drink Features:Grounded Patio & Cafe will be offering a hot cocktail called the Nutty Irishman: Irish cream with hints of hazelnut and their house espresso. Non-alcoholic option are also available! This seasonal favorite will be available through the month of March and they’ll be selling green mimosas for the holiday.
Nestled in the Mississippi River bluffs, The Monarch Public House in Fountain City has been a destination for travelers since 1894, MAKING IT THE STATES OLDEST SERVING ESTABLISHMENT.
St. Patrick’s Day Specials
Appetizers/Soups: Start your savory meal off with The Monarch’s Original Dingle Bay Dip with Fresh Bread, the Irish Beef & Vegetable Stew or their Gramma’s Irish Potato Soup.
Dinner Plates: There’s no shortage of that Irish home-cooked feel with the many dinner plates available. Take your pick from their Irish Traveller plate, Handmade Bangers and Mash, Bangers and Corned Beef Plate, Their Famous Stacked Reuben, Shepherd’s Pie (no peas!), Traditional Bubble and Squeak, and Steak and Bacon Pie!
The culture and tradition of Irish pubs are alive and well in Downtown La Crosse! Offering delicious dining options, unique drinks, and an authentic Irish pub experience, Dublin Square is a legendary destination in the La Crosse Region.
St. Patrick’s Day Specials:
Famous Irish Plates: Shepherd’s Pie, Corned Beef & Cabbage, Fish & Chips, Bangers & Mash, and Guinness Irish Stew all served with a savory side of home-baked soda bread and honey butter.
Drink Features: Dublin Square hosts the largest Irish fare selection, Irish beer list, and Irish whiskey selection on the West side of Wisconsin!
A La Crosse Region favorite for over 30 years, Houghton’s Jackson Street Pub is Irish-themed and proudly serves the area with home-cooked food alongside impeccably friendly service.
St. Patrick’s Day Specials:
Lunch (Served 11am – 4pm): Taste St. Patrick’s Day in true form for lunch with Corned Beef and Cabbage, a Ruben Sandwich, a Tuna Salad Sandwich, a Chicken Salad Sandwich, Cod entrees, or a Fish Sandwich!
Dinner (Served 4pm – close): Celebrate the holiday at Houghton’s with a fine dinner of Corned Beef and Cabbage, Cod Entrees, Seared Beef Tips, or a Ruben Sandwich!
Serving along the Mississippi River since 1968, Sullivan’s Supper Club has been considered one of the finest restaurants in the Trempealeau, WI area! Guests are sure to enjoy their scenic setting, excellent service, and delicious menu.
St. Patrick’s Day Specials:
Irish Handshake: This delicious special is tenderloin tips and scallops.
Irish Sweepstakes: Featured for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration, enjoy grilled tenderloin tips and fish.
The Luck of The Irish: This special is a white and flaky fish paired with tender shrimp. A classic combo.
Release Your Inner Artist And Let The Creative Juices Flow
Splatter some paint, throw some clay, or fuse some glass and let your creativity take over!
At All Glazed Up! you can express yourself creatively! It is a multi-faceted, “do-it-yourself” art studio with walk-in friendly activities, private party options, and an array of instruction led classes. This destination is a Pinterest board dream come to life and the ultimate “art-mosphere” for family friendly, fun. Meet your must-do La Crosse Region experience for the creative soul.
Putting “Create” in Creativity
Located in Historic Downtown La Crosse, All Glazed Up! is a spot for everyone to help release their inner artist. The shop is co-owned by Laura and Angie and has a staff full of energetic people who are ready to help visitors ‘release their inner artist’. Their team truly strives to be the haven for kindred creatives in the area and be there for anyone who has the bug of inspiration to visit their studio. They have plenty of fun things for everyone to choose from like fused glass, wheel pottery, paint-your-own-pottery (bisqueware), tie-dye, spin art, acrylic painting classes, and board signs, children’s activities, and parties.
Special Features
All Glazed Up! is the perfect place to dip your toes back into art, to engage your imagination, and is ideal for people to get together and create unique pieces and epic new memories. Every month they have different types of classes you can book or private parties for children, bachelorette groups, and friends or family gatherings. They will also be launching the sign-ups for the summer art camps on March 1st, 2023. Not to mention, get ready to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the studio’s new ownership as they’ll have treats (while supplies last) and a loyalty discount card for 10% off or $15 off of $100 purchase to show their customer appreciation all year long.
Take A Class At All Glazed Up!
They have monthly glass and board workshops and painting and pottery classes every Saturday. Or book a private room for your friends and family!
Enter to win a Redfeather Northwind Canoe! It’s a tandem tripper built with purpose, it’s maneuverable, efficient, and stable as this boat paddles easily in any condition. The basalt/innegra blend provides unmatched durability, so whether it’s a week in the La Crosse Region or a weekend at the cabin, this canoe will take you where you want to go.
Giveaway: Entries Valid February 16th – September 30, 2023
Thank You to the Prize Sponsors!
PLEASE NOTE: The randomly drawn winner is responsible for picking up the canoe prize – it will not be shipped. Prize will be awarded as is, cash will not be substituted for the prize value.
Shop local and find the chic fashion at Mainstream Boutique!
Mainstream Boutique is an exciting retail clothing and accessories store that sells stylish clothing and accessories at affordable prices. Whether you are a young mom, a business professional or retired, they strive to help you shine from the inside – out. Their staff loves working with their multigenerational clientele as the store celebrates and styles “today’s woman.”
The Ultimate Personalized Shopping Experience
If you’re looking for a personalized experience, stop in at Mainstream Boutique! They have been in Onalaska for nine years and have a private label “Mac and Me”. This label was founded by a mother and is really an expression of their mother/daughter relationship. The owners are unique, genuine and believe in the phenomenal customer experience, giving each client personal attention. The store has unique, trendy styles that are suitable for every generation and are always ordering fresh, new items! You can purchase a mix of tops, bottoms and jackets, sweaters, denim and jewelry, accessories, leather belts, handbags and more!
Special Features
Mainstream Boutique is located in Onalaska and they carry sizes of extra small to 2xL and one size fits all items. They are also a franchise, but an individual franchise as well, meaning they pick items personally for their customers for their store. They also have a unique way of keeping in touch with their audience as they believe in the customer experience. Every month they throw a party for the shoppers because they love gathering to enjoy new selections, and they do a Facebook live every Tuesday and Thursday evening at 5:30pm. You can find past live shows on their Facebook and each one contains new outfits they have put together, sharing new arrivals, and there’s always a new theme for each one. Mainstream Boutique also loves doing drawings and giveaways of their merchandise and once a month parties!
Shop At Mainstream Boutique
Be sure to keep up with their Facebook Lives every Tuesday and Thursday, their monthly parties and themed experiences. They also do Google Duo and FaceTime to help with a more personalized experience and they have curbside options! Learn why “you come in as a stranger and you leave as a friend!”
View historic artifacts, read stories written a hundred years before, and learn about the region through a museum of history.
Experience the surprising connections between our past, our present, and each other. The La Crosse Area Heritage Center will provide unique opportunities for visitors to discover the astounding stories of all who came before. As a curated museum of the La Crosse County Historical Society, cultural center, and gathering place, the La Crosse Area Heritage Center is both seeker and keeper of stories that matter.
Evolution of Local History
Located in historic downtown La Crosse, the La Crosse Area Heritage Center shares the history and artifacts of the region with members of the local community and visitors who wish to expand and deepen their understanding of the diverse and astounding people who have contributed over time to this area. The Heritage Center provides unique access and rigorous, research-based curation and interpretation of the artifacts and stories of all who came before.
The Heritage Center opened in November of 2020 and replaced the Riverside Museum in Riverside Park. It exists to share our region’s rich history with our community and visitors. The Heritage Center was specifically designed with La Crosse’s second-graders in mind. Local history is taught at the second-grade level. Many of the themes from the second-grade materials are covered and after a successful pilot program last year, they are excited to share that every second-grader in the La Crosse School District will visit the Heritage Center and Historic Hixon House this spring for a hands-on, curriculum-based educational experience.
Special Features
The Heritage Center is a great place for visitors and learners alike to spend an hour exploring the varied exhibits. These exhibits tell the core stories of the La Crosse Region, including the Ongoing Ho-Chunk Presence; Early White Settlement; Logging on the Black River; Brewing in La Crosse County; Made in La Crosse; La Crosse’s Black Barbers, and Steamboats, Mussels, and Fishing: Life on the Mississippi. The museum is self-guided for visitors to explore at their own pace and guided tours are available for additional fee for groups. Starting in late February, LCHS is offering a series of special programs at the Heritage Center, beginning with Dr. David Waters on Saturday, February 25th, discussing La Crosse’s scholar-athlete George Poage. As a benefit of membership, these presentations at the Heritage Center are free. The programs are also open to the public with a small fee of $5/person, which includes admission to the museum. Be sure to follow the Heritage Center as they have three other special presentations happening from February – May.
Tour The Heritage Center
Walk in as a visitor and learn more about the region for only $5/adult, $4/student, special rates are also available for student and group tours and free for La Crosse County Historical Society members.
The La Crosse Region is famous for the beautiful scenery, nestled between the bluffs and along the Mississippi River. But the arts, culture, and indoor attractions of the area should not be overlooked!
Find Warmth Inside This Season!
If you’re experiencing cabin fever and want to explore unique, family-friendly opportunities indoors, look no further!
1. Historic Hixon House Museum
This historic home was built in 1858 by famed pioneer Gideon Hixon – a wealthy lumber baron of La Crosse. The house has been restored with original floors, wall coverings, and furniture – authentically itself with Victorian inspiration. It’s fun to explore as it embodies the stories of the first half-century of the La Crosse Region. The family was a big community builder who helped finance much of the development in the region and the home reflects their social status. Private tours will reopen in March, 2023.
This performing and visual arts center has been listed on the National Register of Historic places since 1979 as it is located in Historic Downtown. It’s an old brick building with three art galleries, an arts studio, and a small theater. They have a rotation of visual arts exhibitions as well as seasonal theater performances and concerts. Sign up for our NEW KickstART email newsletter, a monthly email showcasing the historic, cultural, and art-based attractions happening here. Sign up here!
The Dahl Auto Museum includes an illustrated timeline of the Dahl Automotive five generation history with Ford Motor Company. Approximately 20 antique and classic cars are on display to highlight each decade from Dahl Automotive from inception in 1911 and exhibits of classic cars at the eighth oldest ford dealership in the nation. The museum also features a re-creation of the Starlite Drive-in Theatre.
Jump Start Adventure Park is an action-packed, multi-attraction indoor experience and trampoline park for youth and adults of all ages! Burn off some steam with this family-friendly park that’s designed for the adventure enthusiast. Jump Start features a variety of innovative core Trampoline Park attractions, Ninja Warrior Course, Extreme Nets Course, Parkour Area, Toddler Area, and much more!
The International Owl Center is currently the only all-owl education center in the United States. See live owls, take classes on owls, and grab your owl souvenirs! Let the staff of the International Owl Center help you unravel the mysteries of them as you meet the Center’s feathered ambassadors up close and personal. Touch owl feathers, learn to identify the sounds they make, explore children’s owl art from around the world, and take pictures of perfectly mounted specimens of nine species of owls.
Whether channeling your inner lumberjack or throwing like a Viking, axe throwing is a fun and unique sport that’s taking North America by storm! The Driftless Axe is the perfect way to celebrate your special occasion, organize a team building event, or simply have a great time with family and friends! It’s so much fun and surprisingly doable no matter how strong you are. There are “Axe-perts” (training coaches) that help make throwing axes easy to learn.
Open in Historic Downtown La Crosse since 1999, the Children’s Museum celebrates the power of play with three floors of interactive exhibits for ages 1-10 with adult companions. Enjoy family fun with youth entertainment and learning opportunities. This is a great way to get the family active indoors on a cool winter’s day!
Play Grounds of La Crosse, Wisconsin’s largest indoor play park, offers 17,000 square feet of fun for kids of all ages. With playgrounds for children 2-5 and 5-12, a giant jumping pillow, a ninja warrior course, a basketball court, and a toddler area, there’s plenty to explore this winter. Younger kids can enjoy a race track with tricycles, while a café provides family-friendly food and specialty coffee for parents.
