3 Weekend Getaway Ideas

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Find the Perfect Weekend Getaway in The La Crosse Region!

The La Crosse Region offers a charming history, fun memories and adventure, captivating views, and unparalleled outdoor recreation. Whether you’re a Foodie Guru, an Arts and History Buff, or an Adrenaline Junkie, a Leisure Lover, a Social Butterfly or prefer the ever-coveted Family Time, the La Crosse Region is for YOU!

For The Food & Drink Connoisseurs!

JavaVino

At JavaVino, they’re more than just a coffee shop. They’re a local gem offering a unique blend of gourmet coffee, delectable food, and fine wine. From classic breakfast and brunch favorites to innovative lunch and dinner options such as gourmet paninis, burgers, and fresh salads. They’ve got something to satisfy every craving!

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Rudy’s Drive In

Starting as a Root Beer stand in 1933, Rudy’s drive-in restaurant has been open for over 80 years! Drive-in, sit-in or carryout their famous hot dogs and world class shakes! Their menu features the highest quality products, including vegan friendly options. Take the fun home with a 1/2 gallon of root beer to enjoy later!

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Pearl Street Brewery

Enjoy a beer tasting in the old Rubber Mills La Crosse Footwear and observe a wild brew-master and their crew doing what they do best… making exceptionally crafted beers! The beer tap lineup is always changing, the perfect reason to keep coming back! Oh, and make sure to check out their events calendar!

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Starlight Lounge/Buzzard Billy’s

This swingin’ martini lounge is above Buzzard Billy’s and has a retro atmosphere filled with the voice of legends, like Frank Sinatra. The vibes are unmatched as vintage swivel chairs and top shelf hooch inspire maximum nostalgia.

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The Charmant Hotel

The Charmant was transformed from an 1898-built Candy Factory into a nationally ranked boutique hotel and confectionary. The hotel has a restaurant with ample outdoor seating, a lounge and a rooftop bar. And did we mention this it’s dog-friendly?!

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For The Arts & History Buff

All Glazed Up!

Get creative and have fun painting pottery, taking art or pottery classes, playing with glass
masterpieces or taking a wine and the sip paint class in the evening.
This is a great place to have fun with friends and family while sipping on sensational wine and
creating memorable art
together!

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Freighthouse

Dine at a historic train station in downtown La Crosse that was built in the 1880’s and contained the freight offices of the Milwaukee Railroad. It opened as a restaurant in 1978 serving steak and seafood. It also received the Heritage Ward by the La Crosse Historical Preservation Society and is a National Historic Site.

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Castle B&B

Stay at this grand 19th century residential bed and breakfast. The historic home was originally owned by a wealthy lumber baron. Gentle updates have been made, but has remained in remarkable condition. The Castle is a national, award-winning bed and breakfast filled with one-of-a-kind international finds.

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Le Chateau

This restaurant features a European style ambiance and French cuisine. The owners are trained sommeliers and culinary masters! The venue is a mansion of gothic revival and Italian villa features from the 19th century. It also won awards for its architectural significance in the 1980’s!

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Hixon House

Tour the Historic Hixon House; a local museum in a wealthy lumber baron’s home – Gideon Hixon. A tour of the historic house embodies stories of the first half-century of the City of La Crosse. It features fashion to furnishings restored and maintained in their original glory.

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For The Nature Lover & Adrenaline Junkie

Hiking Trails

Wander through meandering trails or bluff lookouts, vast marshes or blooming meadows! There’s over 100 miles of well maintained trails to explore with the exceptional bluff-side views of the La Crosse Region.

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Paddling Trails

Paddle on Lake Onalaska or the multiple rivers! The area has many landings, backwaters and wavy riverways to paddle through. Rent a kayak or canoe and explore easy paddle trails or take on more strenuous adventures!

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Refuel at Red Pines

Eat at Red Pines, nestled on Lake Onalaska with a lakeside view and sand volleyball court! They’re known for their cozy, rustic atmosphere, hand-prepared walleye, lake perch, in-house smoked catfish and ribs, and more!

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Fishing in the La Crosse Region

The Upper Mississippi sprawls well beyond its main channel, creating hundreds of tiny islands, channels, and deep pools which harbor more species of fish than any other temperate-climate river in the world. Catch a big fish? Enter our Lunker League Program!

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Camping in the La Crosse Region

Can’t wait to pitch your tent and let the good times roll? Stay at one of the 7 campgrounds in the La Crosse Region that will have you coming back for s’more! Look into Goose Island Campground & Park or a Cabin at Justin Trails Resort for an unforgettable trip!

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Mom’s Adventure Guide With Family

Relax with mom and the whole family with these six adventures in the La Crosse Region. Visit these top picks and locations to create memories with those who matter most!

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Girls Weekend Getaways

Next time you’re in need for a girls trip getaway, visit the La Crosse Region and see what all the hype is about! There’s so many options, the La Crosse Regions has it all!

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Second Nature At Reads Creek

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Relax, swim, wander and enjoy true natural beauty!

Find Your Sanctuary at Second Nature

Second Nature at Reads Creek is a destination nursery, greenhouse, gift shop, and landscape design center. Now, this is not your typical quick-stop, parking lot, rush-rush garden center… They encourage everyone to wander and wonder, dream and plan, and find the colors, textures, shapes, and sizes that speak to your heart. From the koi pond to the rocking chairs on the porch overlooking the valley, this gem is calling your name. Located at S7301Hwy 14/61 just north of Readstown, Wisconsin, you will come for the plants but stay for the experience!

Location, Location, Location!

Set in the rural Driftless Region of Southwestern Wisconsin, the nursery is nestled in a verdant valley along a meandering Class A trout stream just 7 miles south of Viroqua. Once you have visited, you will understand why people drive hours away to experience the tranquility of their valley, and return year after year for the high-quality plants and landscaping services. The nursery is a safe haven, a place of renewal and rejuvenation. It’s a place where worries of the outside world fade away as you begin to stroll amongst the plants and listen to the water coursing over the rocks in the valley or watch the eagles fly high above their nest on the property.​ With the vast collections of annual and perennial plants offered, it makes finding that elusive something special for your garden feel like a dreamy pleasure-hunt.

Special Features

Visit every third Thursday of the month from May to October for an open-air market, full of local vendors selling handmade goods, baked, and farm fresh produce. Enjoy this chance to shop, eat at a food truck and support local businesses! Keep your eyes out for the Gem & Fossil day where kids can sift and search for their treasure among the sand. Don’t forget to explore all that Second Nature has to offer by swimming along the creek and setting up a picnic or enjoy delicious food, live music, several fun activities for the kids, bonfires and more! It’s truly a place of relaxation.

Experience The Difference Today!

Learn why it’s called the Second Nature experience and visit all its natural beauty. Shop or get advice from several professional designers on any upcoming landscaping projects. Not interested in a new project? Relax with a leisure afternoon stroll throughout the stunning gardens surrounded by nature. Whatever your goal, Second Nature At Reads Creek has it all!

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Relax and unwind with a sneak peek into Second Nature At Reads Creek:

@explorelacrosse

Find your sanctuary at 📍Second Nature at Reads Creek in Readstown, WI! #fyp #naturereserve #sanctuary #nursery #flowers

♬ Acoustic guitar live performance Gentle and nimble in nature(1007339) – Melonest

Visit Second Nature At Reads Creek today and see why it’s a family-favorite!

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See The Arts In The La Crosse Region

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Explore your creative side and jump into the fine arts of the La Crosse Region!

Admire compelling arts in local galleries and see all the public art and sculptures. Hear remarkable performances by the La Crosse Symphony or by the local theatre. Feel clay spinning between your hands on a pottery wheel or savor wine while making art of your own. Ignite your senses with local art and live performances!

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La Crosse Symphony Orchestra (LSO)

Listen to a beautiful concert of the La Crosse Symphony Orchestra. They provide the greater La Crosse area with six symphonic concerts each year. LSO is a non-profit corporation providing quality music, educating people in the symphonic repertoire, and encouraging the development of all musicians. Several fundraising events occur throughout the year including the signature Valentine Ball.

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La Crosse Community Theater

See a play at the La Crosse Community Theatre – a famous La Crosse tradition since 1963! The theatre produces six main-stage shows and several youth shows September through June, including dramas, comedies, and musicals. La Crosse Community Theatre is a member of the American Association of Community Theatre and the Wisconsin Association of Community Theatre.

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Pumphouse

Visit the Pump House Regional Arts Center and view the visual arts, performing arts, and a wide variety of educational programming. One program in particular, Artspire, is on June 10-11th which is a free, all-inclusive community art event that attracts, engages and connects our diverse community through meaningful art experiences, including visual, interactive, performing, literary arts and dance.

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Tours In The La Crosse Region

Take a leisure walk through downtown and learn about the variety of art sculptures and Historical Houses that are seen throughout the region. You can learn more about the sculpture tour and where to start here! Interested in architecture? Visit Cass Street and admire the restored 19th-century Historical Homes. You can learn more about this tour here!

See Listings Here!
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Driftless Region History

Take a step back in time and learn about the rich culture & history in the La Crosse Region. Learn a little more about what makes the great La Crosse Region the way it is today through a historic timeline.

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We’re Not Bluffing!

The Driftless Region- A part of the world with unparalleled views, a distinct topography, and a puzzling name. Striking, ancient bluffs guarantee unique views across the Region.

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For a sneak peek at the art in the La Crosse Region, watch on!

@explorelacrosse

View beautiful art at 📍River City Gallery in La Crosse, WI #fyp #lacrossewisconsin #rivercitygallery #art #artgallery

♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim
@explorelacrosse

Sip & 🎨 + Pottery + Fused Glass workshops 📍All Glazed Up | La Crosse, WI #traveltok #explorelacrosse #supportlocal

♬ TWINNEM – Coi Leray

The La Crosse Escape Room

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Choose from four interactive adventure games and escape in 60 minutes or less!

Will you escape in time?

Escape rooms are a new type of interactive adventure game in which people are locked in a heavily themed room with other participants and have to use elements of the room to follow clues, solve puzzles, crack codes, and escape the room within a set time limit. The La Crosse Escape Room is one of the most detailed adventures around! Each room is set for their own specific time period and details are planned down to the very last thought! You’ll find four separate escape rooms: Bootleggers Pub, Prison Break, Deserted Island, and Serial Killer: The Revolutionary.

The Old Bank

You might recognize this building as The Old Bank building that was built in the year 1888. It started out as one large room and has been segmented into several smaller rooms for puzzles and themed rooms designed to hide clues in the smallest of crevices. This space has also been home to the Segway Tours that have eventually branched out to Riverside Park. Every single year they have built a new room and now there are four private rooms available for these interactive games!

Bootleggers Pub
Prison Break
Serial Killer: The Revolutionary
Deserted Island

Special Features

The La Crosse Escape Room also offers a board room which is best for birthday parties, meetings or larger gatherings!

Book A Room Today!

Each interactive game room is set for an escape time of 60 minutes or less, the Prison Break room has a longer time (75 minutes).

The Bootleggers Room and Prison break can accommodate 3-8 people, Deserted Island can have up to 3-10 people, and Serial Killer: The Revolutionary with 3-12 people.

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Watch for a little inside knowledge on each interactive room in the La Crosse Escape Room:

@explorelacrosse

Can you escape in time?! Visit the La Crosse Escape Room in 📍La Crosse, WI #fyp #escaperoom #lacrossewi

♬ Trippin – Official Sound Studio

Book one of the interactive rooms now and test your knowledge with your smartest friends or family!

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You Are The #FutureOfTravel

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Why Travel and Tourism Matters To You

When you think about travel, what first comes to mind? Adventure or R&R? Flying or a road trip? Experiencing new cultures and sights or dancing the night away? Travel can be considered as a very personal thing. It is different for everyone; different goals, different bucket lists, different risks, different budgets. But if it is so personal, why celebrate it on a national level? Well, National Travel & Tourism Week (NTTW) was established as the annual salute to travel in America. We celebrate as communities nationwide unite to showcase travel’s contributions to the economy and American jobs. Here are a few reasons why National Travel & Tourism Week matters and how the #FutureOfTravel is here!

 “Travel Matters.”

While travel may seem frivolous or as a special occasion to the traveler, it still affects everyone. Communities benefit from the spirit of travel which spreads through small businesses, stunning landmarks, and hospitality for both residents and visitors. Specifically, travel influences American jobs, local and federal economic growth, and personal well-being. Think about your last trip, no matter how small. You needed gas and a place to sleep. You explored the town and bought a souvenir. You splurged at a restaurant and bought dessert. Maybe you ventured out into legendary nature or saw a local production in town. Every memory you made contributed to local jobs. All while you enjoyed adventure and invested in your well-being, you supplied the locals with jobs and income as well as invested in the community so it can flourish further. Your trip mattered. How special is that?!

“Tourism Matters to Wisconsin.”

“Prior to the pandemic, in 2019, the travel industry was a powerful economic engine, supporting jobs and driving local economies in every pocket of America. Travel generated $2.6 trillion in economic output, supported 17 million American jobs and delivered a $51 billion trade surplus to the U.S. While the industry was hit hard by the challenges of the past two years, we are recovering and positioning our industry for a return to growth. There is great optimism among American travelers to get back on the road and see our great country. We have overcome many obstacles, and the future is bright. That’s why here in the La Crosse Region and across America, we are using NTTW to recognize the contributions of the U.S. travel industry and how we will grow a more dynamic, innovative, sustainable and inclusive future. While the pandemic was a setback, it’s also an opportunity to reimagine the industry to be greater than ever before.”
-USA Travel Association

“You Are The #FutureOfTravel”

“The Future of Travel and the critical role our industry will play in rebuilding the workforce, helping communities recover, fostering sustainability, ushering in new innovations and reconnecting travelers in the U.S. and around the world.”

The #FutureOfTravel will help revive Wisconsin and the La Crosse Region and drive the entire nation forward to a more prosperous future. “The #FutureOfTravel is also inclusive, together we are celebrating one of our nation’s greatest strengths: the diversity of our people, places and POVs. Join thousands of travel and tourism professionals in celebrating what makes our industry so special and how together, we are building the #FutureOfTravel. Our industry is moving toward a future that is increasingly more sustainable, diverse, innovative and globally competitive.” -USA Travel Association

From The Grandad Bluffs to the great Mississippi River, the La Crosse Region’s tourism, promoted by Explore La Crosse, contributes so much to our local economy and the spirit of our community. From all of us at La Crosse County Conventions and Visitors Bureau, we are excited for all of the promising things ahead for the La Crosse Region and the U.S. travel industry.

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The La Crosse Center Renovation

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Welcome to the Newly Renovated and
Expanded La Crosse Center

The La Crosse Convention Center in La Crosse, Wisconsin is pleased to announce that they have successfully wrapped up an impressive renovation and expansion project, doubling the facility’s square footage! The facility and the city are excited to welcome events and guests to relish in all the possibilities the renovated La Crosse Center offers.

The La Crosse Center welcomes and wow’s new guests with a new Entrance Hall Lobby featuring massive windows, modern design, and a grand staircase. An elevator and escalators are also available, leaving the facility accessible and easy to navigate.

New to the La Crosse Center on the second story is the striking Riverside Ballroom with 21-foot ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows. “The ballroom is wrapped in glass, all around, so when you look north up the river you can see the bend of the Mississippi River, the Black River, and the entry of the La Crosse River, and those are the features that we wanted to capture for this part of this building,” says Art Fahey, Director of the La Crosse Center. The views of Riverside Park and the confluence of the three rivers set the Center’s location apart from all others.

Perfect for formal events, meetings, weddings, awards banquets, and more, the new ballroom has nearly 12,000 square feet plus as many as seven breakout rooms. Adding to the many benefits of utilizing the Riverside Ballroom is the ability for guests to stroll out to the outstanding terrace. This new, outdoor space hosts aerial, panoramic views of the adjacent Riverside Park, the mighty Mississippi River, and Historic Downtown La Crosse.

The La Crosse Center’s 21,000 square foot arena was also updated. New seating, additional ADA seating platforms, and new safety railings allow for a safe, pleasant event experience. Whether guests attend a concert or bull riding extravaganza, the space is a sure crowd pleaser with convenience, concessions, and an energetic atmosphere!

Wisconsin winters can be cold… but fear not! The facility is designed for guest ease and comfort with skywalks connecting to the Radisson Hotel, the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, and an adjacent parking ramp. For additional comfort and safety, the La Crosse Center has also implemented new, more stringent protocols for cleaning, disinfection, and infectious disease prevention, and has become a Global Biorisk Advisory Council® (GBAC) STAR™ accredited building.

Most importantly, however, is the Center’s setting nestled between the
Mississippi River and famed, towering bluffs.

Located in the heart of downtown, with access to the twenty-one-acre Riverside Park and the one and only Mississippi River, the La Crosse Center is an exceptional place to make memories with those who matter most. The Center is within twenty steps of Pearl Street in the historic downtown district, where one can enjoy a plethora of dining options, one-of-a-kind shopping, and a variety of activities. Or, for a leisurely stroll and peaceful views, guests can wander the famed Riverside Park along the mighty Mississippi River shore.

From weddings to bull riding, sporting events to tradeshows, the La Crosse Center is a destination famous for magnificent experiences. If you’d like to discover the re-imagined La Crosse Center and learn about upcoming events,
visit lacrossecenter.com.

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A Mom’s Adventure Guide With The Family

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Relax with mom & the whole family with these 6 adventures in the La Crosse Region!

Visit these top picks and locations to create memories with those who matter most!

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All Glazed Up! | La Crosse

Pottery painting at All Glazed Up! in Historic Downtown La Crosse is the perfect place for everyone to release their Inner Artist! Stop in anytime, or call ahead and they’ll reserve a spot for you. The talented and enthusiastic staff will give you as much assistance as you would like to help let your creative side shine! This is a perfect time to get creative with mom and spend some time together.

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Children’s Museum | La Crosse

The Children’s Museum bursts with educational fun for the whole family! Located in 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. The Museum also offers a FUN shop, birthday parties, after-hours rentals, summer day camps, and more silly, smart fun.

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Rainbow Ridge Farms | Onalaska

Rainbow Ridge Farms Bed & Breakfast is a charming turn-of-century working farm. Nestled in a peaceful valley, guests can relax and enjoy the area`s attractions. Activities at the farm vary by season. As our guest, you are welcome to help milk goats, feed babies, work in the garden, and collect eggs for breakfast in the morning. One of their more popular sessions is Goat Yoga with the family during the summer season!

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International Owl Center | Houston, MN

The only all-owl education center in the United States, the International Owl Center booms with fascinating exploration. Touch owl feathers, learn to identify owls by the sounds they make, explore children’s owl art from around the world, and take pictures of mounted species of owls. Oh, and did we mention the live owls on site? Ruby and her friends commute to work every day!

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La Crosse Queen | La Crosse

Cruise and tour the mighty Mississippi River on The La Crosse Queen with the whole family. A modern-day replica of the grand riverboats which used to navigate the Mississippi in the early 1900s, She is one of the few “true” paddlewheelers still in operation in the country today. Grab a slice of pizza to eat or enjoy fine cuisine, a full-service bar, and panoramic scenery during each cruise.

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Special Mom-ents

The La Crosse Region is brimming with memory-making mom-ents to explore with savory treats, legendary sights, unique brews, and outdoor adventure. Check out these top picks and start making memories with those who matter most!

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Kid Friendly Getaways

The La Crosse Region is just a road trip away! Explore a destination bursting with adventure and exploration suited for the whole gang. Make a stop at any of these Kid Friendly Getaways, your family might even surprise you and want to head back!

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Explore this Earth Day!

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Happy Earth Day!

Hey Earth… you rock! Thanks for packing the area full of epic activities fit everyone – no matter our niche.
Are you ready to grab your friends, family or partner and try out these recreation activities this Earth Day while exploring the La Crosse Region?!

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Spin Your Wheels

The La Crosse Region

La Crosse County’s picturesque bluffs, riverlands, and quiet country highways make for some of the best road and mountain biking in the world. Over 100 miles of highly maintained bike paths and trails cover the region, and the City of La Crosse has achieved the Silver-Level designation as a Bicycle Friendly Community, with miles of designated bike lanes, bikeways well-marked by sharrows (shared-lane markings), and more bicycle friendly businesses per capita than any other city in Wisconsin. Don’t have a bike? Start exploring by renting bikes from the Drift Cycle bikeshare program in La Crosse!

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Take A Hike

The La Crosse Region

There may not be a better place in the world to explore on foot than the La Crosse Region. With wooded bluffs topped by craggy sandstone outcroppings, vast marshes bursting with wildlife, pristine prairies and meadows, and rivers, lakes, and streams everywhere you turn, there’s a whole world to explore in this quiet little corner of the Upper Midwest. And with hundreds of miles of designated, well-maintained trails, you won’t need a compass to do it! Whether you prefer leisurely strolls along wide, level paths, or heart-pounding climbs up steep, rocky trails, you’ll find your hike in the La Crosse Region.

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Whatever Floats Your Boat (etc. 😉 )

The La Crosse Region

The meandering waterways of the La Crosse area are an absolute paradise for paddlers of every stripe. Take the family on a gentle canoe ride through relaxing wetland courses, or enjoy moderate to strenuous kayaking adventures along the Mississippi, Black, or La Crosse Rivers. Canoe trails, launches, and outfitters abound in the area, making it one of the best paddling destinations in the region. Check out this excellent map of canoe launches in the area to find the most convenient access point for you!

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Reel In Memories & Lunkers

The Mississippi River & More!

The Upper Mississippi sprawls well beyond its main channel, creating hundreds of tiny islands, channels, and deep pools which harbor more species of fish than any other temperate-climate river in the world. Walleye is king in these waters, but you can catch just about anything in the La Crosse Region: sauger, northern pike, shovelhead sturgeon, large and smallmouth bass, perch, sunfish, bluegill, crappie, gar, channel and blue catfish, to name a few. Catch a big fish? Enter our Lunker League Program!

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Earth Day Treasure Hunt

The La Crosse Region bursts with natural wonders perfect for celebrating Earth Day today, or all spring and summer long! Check out our selection of businesses and legendary sights to explore and experience Mother Nature at her finest.

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Natural Wonders In The Region

Legendary destinations you won’t want to miss! The La Crosse Region has so many natural wonders being apart of the Driftless Region! Check out these standouts that will undoubtedly be the highlights of your spring and summer!

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5 Things to Know Before You Go: Between the Bluffs Beer, Wine, and Cheese Festival 2025

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Everything feels just fine when you have beer, cheese, and wine!

Are you excited to fest between the bluffs for our 21st celebration?

Hosted at the Oktoberfest Fairgrounds in La Crosse, Wisconsin, Between the Bluffs Beer, Wine, and Cheese Fest will feature crisp beer, scrumptious wine, and savory cheese and meats from nearly 100 craft vendors! Sample different beers, seltzers, sausage, cheese curds, wine, and more! Don’t forget to photograph your festive entourage and share your photos with our hashtag #explorelacrosse and #beerwinecheese!

Can’t wait to mingle and taste-test all the samples?

Here are a few insightful things to know before you indulge in all the great offerings of Between the Bluffs Beer, Wine, and Cheese Fest. 

1. Come Prepared!

Make sure to bring your tickets, a photo ID (driver’s license), and cash for apparel and games! It will also be beneficial to review the parking information for the event prior to showing up. Handicapped accessible parking will be available and VIP ticket holders will have their very own parking area and they will have a raffle ticket attached to their wristband. Be sure to take that to the VIP tent for your chance to win prizes!

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2. Fun Starts on Friday

Taster’s Eve kicks off the event on Friday Night! All ticket holders can enjoy drink specials from 5 pm -10 pm, thanks to local establishments, vendors, and Pearl Street Brewery for partnering together. There is also a free shuttle stopping at the participating members throughout downtown La Crosse! Discounted drinks, live music, and free transport? Now that’s a win-win!

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3. VIP Status? Sign Me Up!

The VIP experience starts on Friday, as they receive two (2) drink tickets, one (1) food ticket, plus $1 off beer with a wristband and a chance to win hourly giveaways on the Friday of Taster’s Eve. VIPs have on-site parking, a special gift, and access to the VIP tent the day of the event. In addition, VIP guests get to sample 2 hours early!

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4. Safety First!

The grounds are located close to an assortment of downtown lodging options – no need to leave town after a day of sampling! There is a shuttle available as another responsible option. Between the Bluffs fully supports safe transport after sampling which is why we sell Designated Driver tickets for $25 at the door! No underage drinking is allowed, and all attendees will be ID’d and wrist banded upon entry. These regulations allow Between the Bluffs to supply a fun time while keeping everyone safe.

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5. Sample City

Upon entry to the festival comes a complimentary, commemorative souvenir sampling glass for you to use throughout the day. You can expect the pours to be 2-ounces or less for beer and 1-ounce or less for wine. However, you can help yourself to as many samples as you’d like throughout the event…If you feel like you want to try something; please do! Keep in mind that overly intoxicated attendees may be asked to leave. Thus, sample responsibly and don’t forget a water here and there.

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6. Download The Digital Program!

This year we will have a digital program that is free to download to your phone, tablet, or desktop. It’s your guide to Between The Bluffs Beer, Wine & Cheese Festival! It will have included information on vendors & sponsors that will be on the fest grounds, and an interactive map of the festival grounds!

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Natural Wonders Of The La Crosse Region

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Legendary Destinations You Won’t Want to Miss

As part of the Driftless Region, the La Crosse area features many natural wonders! Check out these standouts that will undoubtedly be the highlights of your spring and summer!


The Driftless Region
“Drift” refers to glacial drift: the rock and sediment deposited by a glacier as it moves over an area of land. During the last Ice Age, a small piece of the Upper Mississippi Region was miraculously left untouched by glacial erosion and drift deposits. The surrounding landscapes that once featured prominent bluffs were leveled to plains and rolling hills, yet no glaciers entered one small pocket… And so, the Driftless Region became the last remnant of the natural, rugged terrain that once spanned today’s Upper Midwest!

Apple Blossom Scenic Drive

La Crescent, MN

Starting in late May you should plan to bike or drive the 17 mile scenic Apple Blossom Drive, to experience the natural beauty of blossoming apple trees. Ride along the bluff-top roads that overlook the Mississippi River and La Crosse, Wisconsin and descend into the Pine Creek Valley for your return trip back to La Crescent, Minnesota.
 Riders start on North-East corner of Cameron Park and head south on 5th Ave for one block before turning right on Cass St.

Grandad Bluff Park

La Crosse, WI

Grandad Bluff has become not only a destination point for thousands, but also a famous symbol of the great Driftless Region. The 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 sights bursting of summer greenery. 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.
3020 Grandad Bluff Rd. La Crosse, WI

The Mindoro Cut

Farmington, WI

Mindoro Cut is located in the town of Farmington in La Crosse County, Wisconsin just off of Highway C, which links Mindoro with West Salem. The cut is 74 feet deep, 86 feet long, and 25 feet wide. It is the 2nd deepest cut built by hand in the Western Hemisphere and the oldest functional cut which has not been improved. Work on the cut began in 1907 and concluded in 1908, completed primarily with hand tools. The Mindoro Cut was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2007.
Highway C, Farmington, La Crosse County

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The Mississippi River

This famed, long and winding river gives the Driftless Region something to talk about! It has miles of waterways for anyone in the region to explore from sight seeing, hiking, and fishing to birding, camping, or cruising. The River truly provides unparalleled adventures!

Great River Landing Sights & Experiences

Onalaska, WI

Outstanding natural beauty, culture, and outdoor activities find their home on the waterfront of Lake Onalaska at the Great River Landing. This destination is renowned for its Great River State Trail: connecting over 100 miles of state bicycle trails and is local to businesses offering unique cuisine and shopping. Don’t miss the chance to partake in fishing, canoeing, or kayaking these famous waters!
Highway 35/2nd Ave and Irvin Street,
Onalaska, WI

Fishing in the La Crosse Region

La Crosse, WI

Near La Crosse, the Upper Mississippi sprawls well beyond its main channel, creating hundreds of tiny islands, channels, and deep pools which harbor more species of fish than any other temperate-climate river in the world. Walleye is king in these waters, but you can catch just about anything here: sauger, northern pike, shovelhead sturgeon, large and smallmouth bass, perch, sunfish, bluegill, crappie, gar, channel and blue catfish, to name a few.
The La Crosse Region

Camp Out & Stay

La Crosse, WI

Whether you’re hosting an event or seeking to camp with loved ones, Pettibone Resort is an ideal campground for your needs. Located on the backwaters of the Mississippi River, your dream summer getaway trip with campfires and starry skies lives here. What’s more? The river resort’s banquet hall provides the perfect rustic elegance for any romantic wedding atmosphere in any season.
333 Park Plaza Drive,
La Crosse, WI

Upper Mississippi National Wildlife and Fish Refuge

Take a deep breath and relax in nature journeying through 261 miles long trail ways – the longest in the nation and one of the most visited. With over 240,000 acres of wetlands, forest and river to explore, you can enjoy a plethora of wildlife. Notably, enjoy sights of eagles, songbirds, blue herons, tundra swans, egrets, ducks, and many more birds that either call the Refuge home or travel through on their migratory route.

Marshes & Other Wildlife

La Crosse, WI

The Marshes near the Mississippi River are extremely important to the River ecosystem as they act as a natural watershed of the Mississippi by holding water when it rains and then slowly, safely releasing it. Myrick Park of La Crosse is a wonderful park to explore this type of unique ecosystem. This park connects to numerous trails, ranging from easy to hard, and features scenic views of the marsh and surrounding bluffs.
Myrick Park Dr., La Crosse, WI

Upper Mississippi National Wildlife and Fish Refuge

Onalaska, WI

Onalaska is home to the Upper Mississippi National Wildlife and Fish Refuge where visitors can wander through the sand prairie overlooking the magnificent Mississippi River. One must make sure to see what lies below the surface of the famous river through The River Walk’s “walk on water” exhibit. The changing prairie colors provide everlasting freshness from late spring to early fall.
N5727 County Road Z,
Onalaska, WI

Seasonal Birding: Eagles to Tundra Swans

La Crosse, WI

La Crosse County and the surrounding areas are home to some of the best birdwatching locales in the Upper Midwest. From Bald Eagles, Tundra Swans, and Great Egrets on down to bluebirds, warblers, and sparrows, the area hosts a wide range of species sure to satisfy birders of every stripe. Fall is an especially active time of year, with several migrating species spending time in the region, so be sure to visit these places to catch a glimpse of your favorite visiting birds.
The La Crosse Region

More Things To Do >
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3 Road Trips To Take In The Region

Take a trip this spring or summer with the whole family! Enjoy beautiful scenery, access to excellent hiking, fishing, scenic overlooks, and the picturesque vistas your family will love! Throw in great dining and day trips to some of the best views around, you may find yourself wanting to stay!

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seasons-in-the-region-overview

Seasons In The Region

La Crosse Region comes alive during the spring and summer months, bursting with adventure and activities for all! Explore the Region that offers an abundance of great outdoor resources and opportunities, amazing food, arts and culture, and stunning views for you and your entourage to enjoy.

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