Explore, Savor and Stay at these Famous Hideaways this Season!
If a getaway is what you’re craving, check out these cozy, award-winning hideaways to explore winter wonderlands, enjoy savory food and wine, and snuggle up by a fire – warming yourself from the inside out!
– LODGING –
There’s nothing simple about these hideaways! From cozy cabins nestled in local coulees to historic establishments brimming with stories, your overnight stay will be nothing less than legendary.
Justin Trails Resort
Cozy – Outdoor Adventure – Fire Places – Pets One of the cozy places to explore and stay in the La Crosse Region is Justin Trails Resort, in Sparta, WI. It has been ranked as a number 1 best Wisconsin luxury cabin rental hideaway. Their picturesque and private, dog-friendly cabins feature whirlpool bathtubs, handcrafted log beds, gas fireplaces and more nestled in their 200-acres of hills, valleys, forests and meadows. Visitors can venture out of the cozy cabins, rent resort snowshoes, and explore their trails filled with wildlife such as birds, hawks, deer, fox and more. Oh! And they have 3 pet llamas to hand-feed and snow tubing – perfect, goofy fun that’s enjoyable for all ages to boot!
Historic – Outdoor Adventure – Tours This authentic log cabin was built 150 years ago and is truly a step back in time. It is nestled in the Norskedalen Nature and Heritage Center with a “little house on the prairie” feel! Due to its location, it is not only a cozy hideaway, but it has epic, outdoor exploration available as well! Norskedalen has 400-acres filled with trails and is located in Coon Valley, WI. The property also highlights the Norwegian heritage with unique buildings and artifacts. If you don’t know where to start when it comes to exploring the one-of-a-kind property that bursts with history, they offer both guided and self-tours. It’s definitely an experience to be had.
B&B – Historic – Chef – In Town – Easy Access If the great outdoors in a wintery wonderland isn’t your speed, and you prefer to stay closer to the heart of La Crosse, WI, Castle La Crosse is an extraordinary place to stay. Originally built by a local lumber baron in 1982, the architecture is truly fit for a king – or queen! The elaborate wood working details throughout the massive castle-like structured home is striking. They have luxurious, themed suites, an on-site chef, and every room bursts with international and historic furniture, art and artifacts. This award-winning Bed and Breakfast has become famous both locally and nationally and has been voted as the most welcoming bed and breakfast in America.
Cozy isn’t limited to lodging in the La Crosse Region, though. The area has become renowned for exceptional cuisine,and there are countless places to warm up and experience diverse ambiances, no matter your taste.
Lovechild
Luxury – Romantic – Unique Ambiance Lovechild is an establishment located in Historic Downtown La Crosse. Food and Wine listed it among the 50 most romantic restaurants in the country! With round, crushed-velvet booths, red velvet curtains, exposed brick, and an impressively long bar, one definitely feels fancy and “boujie” while dining. Nobody explains the food better than the establishment themselves; “uncomplicated food with intriguing ingredients and big flavors.”
Intimate – Seafood – Charcoal Steaks Located in North La Crosse, Pogreba Restaurant is known for their innovative food in a cozy atmosphere. It is the perfect location for a special occasion, celebrated for their unique charcoal grilled steaks and seafood selections. From the moment you walk in, the aroma of burning charcoal builds excitement for the outstanding, quality meal to come! Enjoy exceptional service, daily and seasonal specials, unique dishes, and incredible presentation.
Casual – Fish Fry – Lake Views For a more casual and cozy atmosphere, Red Pines Bar and Grill of Onalaska is a sure win. This bar and grill has been voted as the No. 1 fish fry and the No. 1 rural bar and grill in the La Crosse Region. It is also distinguished for its location, sitting along the edge of Lake Onalaska. Red Pines has a rustic atmosphere serving hand –prepared walleye, perch, in-house smoked ribs, and homemade pizza. The location is an all-around crowd pleaser!
In the summer of 2021, at 91, Louis “Louie” Ferris was trim and fit, with a palpable energy that belied his stage 4 cancer diagnosis. “I wake up in the morning and … get out of the way!” he said when interviewed, “Before most people get up I’ve already put in a full day!”
A first-generation American whose parents immigrated from Lebanon, Louie grew up in La Crosse. While he was still in high school he joined the Wisconsin 32nd Red ARROW Division of the National Guard. He then served for eight years as a Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force, during which he served in the Korean War. Later, he took on the role of Commander of VFW Post 1530 in La Crosse.
Korean War Memorial
In 2015, Louie was serving as the President of the Korean War Veterans Association Chapter 275 in the La Crosse area. “I wanted to do something before we all die off,” he said. He and other members of the association developed a plan to have a plaque crafted honoring the “Forgotten War.” The City of La Crosse Parks and Recreation Department suggested it be displayed in Veterans Freedom Park on Clinton Street in North La Crosse. Planning and fundraising commenced, with nearly 200 donors from across the country supporting the initiative.
After a year of planning and fundraising, the new memorial was finally in place. Fundraising had exceeded expectations, allowing the memorial to include much more than a simple plaque.
A white archway with the words “Freedom is Not Free” emblazoned across the top in gold lettering opens to a brick walkway. A large monument rests further along the path, featuring an outline of both North and South Korea. It reads: “Korean War Veterans Memorial, Forgotten No More.” The monument also features an element of the Korean War Veterans flag, along with the dates the war began and ended (6-25-1950 through 7-27-1953), the number of casualties (36,576), the number wounded (103,284), and the number of POWs returned to the United States (4,418). A mirror embedded in the memorial encourages visitors to reflect on their freedom.
A dedication ceremony was held on July 27, 2016, the 63rd anniversary of the armistice to end the war.
World War I Memorial
The success of the first memorial inspired Louie to keep going. The next memorial would honor World War I veterans—Louie’s father and uncle both served in World War I. Fundraising proved challenging as the WWI veterans were all deceased. “It was very, very difficult,” Louie says. But thanks to a sizable donation from Northside River Bank in La Crosse, the memorial became possible. It was dedicated on October 25, 2017.
This memorial features a brick pathway, flanked by two brick pillars. Etched atop one pillar are the words: “We shall fight on the beaches. We shall fight on the landing grounds. We shall fight in the fields and on the streets. We shall never surrender!” Atop the other, the words: “We are the Dead. Short days ago, We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved; and now we lie In Flanders fields.” At the center of the memorial stands a statue of a World War I soldier, complete with trench boots and a haversack. Additional pillars with inscriptions encircle the statue, and a low curved brick wall provides seating.
U.S. Cadet Nurse Corps
Louie switched gears for the third memorial. Having visited memorials throughout Wisconsin, he noticed they were all male-oriented. Wanting to provide something to inspire little girls, Louie decided the third memorial would feature the U.S. Cadet Nurses of World War II. Louie had a cousin that served as a U.S. Cadet Nurse, and he knew they had bravely served our country. “They came off the farms, sometimes they had never worked outside the house before,” he said, with admiration in his voice. “They saved the healthcare system.”
Following a flurry of planning and fundraising, the memorial was soon completed, with a dedication ceremony held on July 19, 2018. In attendance at the ceremony was Marian Stellick Pavela, of La Crosse. The memorial features a statue in the likeness of Marian, who served as a U.S. Cadet Nurse during World War II. “She was a nurse for 30 years,” Louie said.
The La Crosse-Rebecca Myrick Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) donated a plaque. It reads: “In Commemoration of the 75th Anniversary of the United States Cadet Nurse Corps 1943 to 1948, In Honor of All Who Served.” Other plaques tell the story of the Cadet Nurse Corps and applaud their role in the war.
Members of the DAR can often be found weeding at the memorials.
Hmong-Lao Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Though the last three years had been a whirlwind, Louie wasn’t done yet. For the fourth memorial, he wanted to honor the Hmong-Lao Vietnam Veterans. “I worked for over thirty years with the Hmong task force. I love the Hmong people a lot,” he shared. “They’re so humble and gracious.”
He wanted the memorial to inspire the Hmong youth and remind them of their history. And, to educate and remind Americans about the sacrifices the Hmong-Lao Veterans made. “They fought and died, they gave their life for America’s freedom. We should do something for those that gave their life,” he said.
This fourth memorial was soon completed and honored with a dedication ceremony in July 2019. “We had a big tent, a big celebration, food, dances…it was a beautiful occasion,” Louie recalled.
The memorial itself features a wooden archway atop two brick pillars. Perched atop the archway sit an eagle and an owl; between them traditional Hmong and Lao instruments. A brick path leads to statues in the likeness of Za Xa Vue and NaoTou Lor, La Crosse residents, and veterans of the Vietnam War that migrated to the US in the late 1970s. Garbed in military apparel, the statues stand vigilantly side-by-side atop a bold red base. Flags and landscaping rim the path around the statues. A plaque describes our “moral responsibility to build a memorial in memory of those in the jungle who did not make it to the United States and those that did make it.” A second plaque commemorates the dedication and recognizes donors.
World War II Memorial
The fifth memorial, added in 2021, honors World War II veterans. It was imagined and funded by Fern E. Hauser, a La Crosse native who grew up on French Island. Fern’s five brothers served in World War II, and the memorial is designed to honor the memory of all who served. Fern herself served our country through her work in the U.S. State Department, where she was employed for 21years.
Her estate paid for the entire project; Louie was tapped by Fern’s niece to plan and execute it. “They felt I was the only one that could do the job for the money they had,” Louie shared. At first, he wanted to decline; he was in poor health due to the return of his cancer and was spending a lot of time traveling to and from the hospital. He didn’t know how much time he had left. Ultimately, though, he agreed to help. “When they came I couldn’t say no because they already had the money. The hard part is raising the money!” he said.
He set a deadline to have the memorial completed and ready for a dedication ceremony in two and a half months. “Whenever I set a deadline, I make it no matter what,” he beamed. “Two and a half months is nearly impossible, but I made it. The statue wasn’t finished, but he [the sculptor] brought it anyway.”
The statue, created by local sculptor David Oswald, is made of fiberglass in the likeness of an infantry soldier. It stands on an eye-catching, vibrant blue platform.
Six stone pillars encircle the statue, and four of the pillars are etched with the insignia of a branch of the Armed Forces: The United States Marine Corps, the United States Army, the United States Navy, and the United States Coast Guard. A bench with the inscription “In Memory of Arthur H. Melby, Served in WWII, Major Army Air Corps” invites visitors to sit and reflect.
Louie described the dedication ceremony with joy. “It was a beautiful day, but very windy,” he said. “The dedication was packed, they came from all over.” At least two hundred people filled a large tent, including La Crosse’s Mayor, Mitch Renolds, and U.S. Rep. Ron Kind.
Vietnam War Memorial
Now, a new addition to Veterans Freedom Park is in progress: A Vietnam War Memorial. Louie helped fundraise for the memorial but had since taken a step back from being involved in the project. It will include a walkway, statues of soldiers, a curved wall with names of the 1,239 military personnel killed in action engraved on it, and flags.
Louie’s Legacy
Louie continued to care for the memorials at Veterans Freedom Park in the summer of 2021, even as he continued to age. He, along with others, was often found pulling weeds and trimming bushes, keeping the area tidy. “You feel close to God here,” he said, noting the gentle breeze and the splashes of light dancing across the leaves.
It is a peaceful place. Set back from the road, the memorials are quiet, and there’s plenty of parking, making it easily accessible. Visitors can stroll the walkways, pause before the monuments, admire the artwork and landscaping. Glimpses of the river and boat traffic are visible through the trees. A scattering of picnic tables provides places to sit and reflect, or, as Louie suggested, enjoy lunch or a cup of coffee.
Louie hoped that veterans, the families and friends of veterans, and others will travel to La Crosse to visit the memorials. They provide a special place to reflect, to give thanks, and to honor the memories of those who served.
Louie was a man with a heart genuinely filled with love. “I love America. I love La Crosse,” he said. That love is evident in how he spoke about the many friends he made along the way, and through the acts of service he performed his whole life over. “It’s nice to pass something down,” he reflected, “this will be here for 100 years!”
Though the memorials now belong to all, they are Louie’s legacy: a legacy of true love and honor.
This December, Explore La Crosse partnered with special businesses to offer 12 Days of Giveaways to the amazing explorers who love our region!
Giveaways include Snow Much Fun Ski Passes and Tasty Tours to Date Nights, Treat Yourself Packages and more! Oh, and did we mention the Grand Prize Giveaway is a Cozy Overnight Stay Package?!
Sweepstakes: Entries Valid December 6th – December 21st, 2021
Each day we will draw for winners from the entire pool of contestants – so you only need to enter once! The drawing will take place at 3:30 pm daily and the winner will be contacted the following morning.*
Two Wings Giftcards
Howie’s | Timeout Tavern Welcome to unique flavors and spices to warm your insides this chilly season! Win $30 giftcards to both Timeout Tavern and Howies’, famous for outstanding chicken wings. Not to mention a yummy $30 giftcard to Fayze’s, and a $10 giftcard & gators to Finnottes!
Bike Tour & Giftcard
Wrench and Roll Collective Discover La Crosse by bicycle! Enjoy an hour ride with a variety of themes, perfectly customized to your adventure taste! Pick from a sculpture tour or brewery ride to a recreational ride to parks. Don’t forget $30 Wrench & Roll AND $30 Fayze’s giftcards.
Pearl Street Giftcards
The Pearl Ice Cream | Drift Mercantile Co. Pearl Street is famous in Downtown La Crosse and these gift cards are perfect for visiting some of the businesses on the block! Win a $25 giftcard to both The Pearl and Drift Mercantile Co., a $30 giftcard to Fayze’s, and $10 +a bag of gators from Finnottes!
Trolley Pub & VIP Tix
Trolley Pub Tours | BTB Beer, Wine, & Cheese Fest Get ready for some savory fun in the La Crosse Region! From a complimentary Trolley Pub Tour with friends to two VIP tickets to Between the Bluffs Beer, Wine & Cheese Festival, you’re sure to make some BREW-tiful memories. Oh, and a $30 Fayze’s giftcard!
Beauty Items & Giftcard
Handmade Natural Beauty | Mainstream Boutique ‘Tis the season for giving… but you can treat yourself too! With a Beauty Box from Handmade Natural Beauty and a $30 giftcard to Mainstream Boutique to a $30 Fayze’s giftcard and $10 plus gators from Finnottes, you’ll feel luxurious in no time!
Brewery & Wine Tasting
DnA Vintners | Pearl Street Brewery The La Crosse Region hosts many breweries and wineries and this is your chance to cross two off your bucket list! Winning $20 to Pearl Street Brewery and $20 to DnA Vintners, this is a sampling tour to celebrate! Don’t forget your $30 giftcard to Fayze’s!
Trio Tree of Giftcards
The Charmant | The Waterfront | Schuby’s Who doesn’t love a Holiday Tree…. let alone one stuffed with giftcards! The Giving Christmas Tree comes with a $40 giftcard to The Charmant, a $40 giftcard to the The Waterfront Restaurant, and a $20 giftcard to Schuby’s Neighborhood Butcher!
Bowling & Food Passes
Features Sports Bar & Grill – West Salem You can’t “strike” out with this date night package! Hit up Features Sports Bar & Grill and enjoy two meals. The package also includes bowling passes for two at their alley. Roll into some fun! You’ll also receive a Finnotte’s $10 giftcard and a bag of gators!
Two Ski Hill Passes
Mt. La Crosse It’s a WINTER-ful season and you have to SKI the La Crosse Region to believe it! This package includes two ski passes to Mt. La Crosse, prime for some epic fun! You and your entourage can warm up with some comfort food at Fayze’s ($30)afterward too!
Paddle Boat & Italian
La Crosse Queen | Il Luigi Italian Romance is in the air with this datenight package! Start your date with sweets from Fayze’s Bakery ($30 giftcard), enjoy two sightseeing cruise passes on the La Crosse Queen, and savor elaborate meals at Il Luigi Italian Cuisine ($40 giftcard).
Ice Fishing with a Guide
McCormick’s River Guide Service Don’t think ICE about it! This package is a must for entering the Giveaways by sportsmen! Hit the ice with Mike McCormick, a local fishing guide, and catch some awesome memories. Follow it up with some warm food and drink with $60 to Fayze’s!
Room Night & More!
Country Inn | Red Pines | Viterbo Fine Arts The Grand Prize is a package to swoon for! Relish in the memories of an overnight stay at the Country Inn, a $50 giftcard to Red Pines Bar & Grill, $60 to Fayze’s, and two tickets to Mads Tolling & The Mads Men showing at Viterbo University Fine Arts Center!
*If a contestant has already won one time, they cannot win again. Must be 21+ and live in the United States to enter and win. Drawings will take place December 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 2021 – the day following each valid Giveaway day.
‘Tis the season to be thankful and by-gobbly, we sure are grateful for the local businesses that make the La Crosse Region so special! Small Business Saturday is the perfect way to shop local, family-owned businesses before the holiday season. What better way to find unique gifts for those you love and support the community all at the same time?
Antique Center of La Crosse
Known as Western Wisconsin’s largest antique center, this antique shop has it all! With three floors of antiques and collectables, it is an antiquer’s wonderland. They’re located in Downtown La Crosse and sell everything from furniture and vintage clothing to dishes, books, jewelry and more! As the Minneapolise Tribune stated, “Don’t miss this one!”
Originally founded in 1998, Treehouse Gift & Home is located in an adorable, hard-to-miss building in Onalaska, WI. They offer a personalized shopping experience uniquely their own! Find holiday decor or last-minute gifts for those you love from an inventory known for igniting sparks of love and light. Get ready to find and gift treasures from the heart!
Calling all treasure hunters, vintage and antique freaks, rescuers of retro, and lovers of junk to Onalaska! Relic Road Junk & Vintage is the spot for anybody looking for a good deal on something they can re-home and make their own! Amplify your holiday gifts and decor at this cute shop!
Find earth-friendly products at Larson’s General for a truly thoughtful gift this season. This Downtown La Crosse shop provides everyday goods with reusable packaging, offering shoppers the ability to lead a healthier, happier, sustainable life. Products include kitchen goods to toiletries and gifts.
Help your special someones “treat themselves” with a gift from Handmade Natural Beauty Boutique in La Crosse! This charming boutique offers handmade bath and body products including soaps, lotions, lip balms, bath salts, bath bombs and more! Get ready to give the gift of natural beauty.
Opened in 1940 as a meat processing plant for local farmers in Holmen, the Holmen Locker & Meat Market has evolved into a celebrated smokehouse and retail market. Wander their shop for fresh meats, unique cheeses, microbrew beers, local wines, specialty foods, and more for your holiday presentations!
Enter to Win a Holiday Getaway to the La Crosse Region and the Rotary Lights Show!
Home of the Rotary Lights Show, the La Crosse Region has so much to offer! Enter to win a two-night weekend getaway to explore the twinkling Rotary Lights, a carriage ride, delicious cuisine, unique local shopping, seasonal craft beverages, outdoor adventures, holiday sweets, and theater tickets.
GrandStay Hotel & Suites – La Crosse Awarded Travelers’ Choice in 2020 by TripAdvisor and rated one of the top hotels in La Crosse, Grandstay Hotel & Suites is an exceptional accommodation during a special, holiday getaway. Located in La Crosse’s historic downtown, just steps from the Mississippi River, a short walk to Rotary Lights in Riverside Park, and close to winter-wonderland walking trails, this Suite will have you jolly your whole visit!
Fine Dining for Two
Pogreba Restaurant – $125 Gift Card Experience dining in a whole new *holiday* light at Pogreba Restaurant. Located in North La Crosse, this establishment specializes in family tradition mixed with innovative food selections and daily specials that WOW. Using the freshest ingredients, Pogreba features famous, charcoal-grilled steaks and seafood. Savor these bites in their warm and cozy ambiance during your getaway!
2 Theater Tickets
La Crosse Community Theater The La Crosse Community Theater creates productions and projects that enhance human connection and the appreciation for the arts. This season, enjoy (2-4) tickets to Sound of Music.
Carriage Ride
Rotary Lights – Riverside Park Cinderella Carriage Rides will be present at the Rotary Lights Show this season! Ride through the park’s holiday splendor on a horse-drawn carriage ride! (Family Ride Offer)
Photo Shoot
Rotary Lights Holiday Photography Enjoy a complimentary couple or family holiday photo session at the Rotary Light Show! Capture your love and holiday spirit in a unique way amidst the lights in Riverside Park.
$75 Gift Card
Swing Bridge Pub Swing Bridge Pub is found just a short drive across the Big Blue Bridge into La Crescent, MN. The establishment features outstanding cuisine from the all-you-can-eat salad bar, and loaded mac & cheese to burgers, ribeye, and tenderloin tips. Yum, right?!
$50 Gift Card
Treehouse Gift & Home Originally founded in 1998, Treehouse Gift & Home in Onalaska, WI offers a shopping experience uniquely their own. Find holiday decor or last-minute gifts for those you love from an inventory known for igniting sparks of love and light. Get ready to find and gift treasures from the heart!
$25 Gift Card
Finnottes Nut & Chocolate Shop Finnottes offers a fantastic assortment of nuts, gourmet chocolates, and assorted candies in La Crosse. Looking for holiday and seasonal specials? This is your spot. Peanut butter Santas, foiled mini snowmen, chocolate Advent calendars, and more… Ho Ho Holy Moly! The selection!
Tour & Flights
Pearl Street Brewery Brewing since 1999, Pearl Street Brewery of La Crsse is known for crankin’ out award-winning beers. Enjoy a brewery tour and flights in their epic tasting room with a $50 gift card. From V/O Haze and Linalool IPA to their Pale Ale and D.T.B. Brown Ale, you can’t really go wrong!
$25 Gift Card
Relic Road Junk & Vintage Calling all treasure hunters, vintage and antique freaks, rescuers of retro, and lovers of junk to Onalaska! Relic Road Junk & Vintage is the spot for anybody looking for a good deal on something they can re-home and make their own! Amplify your holiday gifts and decor at this cute shop!
$50 Gift Card
Schuby’s Neighborhood Butcher Schuby’s is bringing back the neighborhood butcher! With a focus on sourcing quality regional meats and providing amazing service, this restaurant offers artisanal sandwiches, charcuterie, dry-aged meats, bar services, and other market staples! Get full the fun way at Schuby’s in downtown La Crosse.
$15 Gift Card
Bean Juice Coffee Roasters Bean Juice is a La Crosse, family-owned business that’s been welcoming coffee addicts for 17 years! With baked goods prepared and delivered daily by Meringue Bakery, along with having a coffee roaster in the middle of the store, their freshness cannot be beaten! Warm those toes & insides at Bean Juice!
$50 Gift Card
Mary Cody’s Restaurant Located in Onalaska, Mary Cody’s is a brilliant restaurant where comfy and classic dining meet. With seasonal ingredients prepared in unique ways, this restaurant is a crowd-pleaser. You can enjoy dinner entrees, pleasing pasta plates, and sweet endings at Mary Cody’s during this holiday getaway!
Swag Pack
Explore La Crosse Passionate about spreading awareness of the magical La Crosse Region, Explore La Crosse is providing a swag pack stuffed with items that will remind you of this special getaway. From a cute cutting board to stylish mugs and more, you’ll be repping the La Crosse region in style for a long while!
Enter to Win Great Gear for your Next Outdoor Adventure!
The La Crosse Region has so much to offer for outdoor enthusiasts year round! Hike, bike, kayak or snowshoe your way to the extraordinary sights of the Driftless Region. Enter to win fishing and outdoor recreation supplies that are sure to make your next expedition awe-inspiring!
Sweepstakes: Entries Valid September 1st through March 31st
Kayak + Paddle + Cooler + Thermos + Hat + More!
Bonafide Kayak
SS127 Fishing Kayak This 12’7″ Sit & Stand kayak will elevate your next backwater expedition. Dubbed the kayak with “ultimate fishability”, there’s not a chance of flipping over. Despite being only 33.5″ width, the stability on this kayak is outrageous! Not an angler? Not a problem! This kayak is great for anyone looking to hit the water.
Paddle
Bending Branches Bending Branches is a Wisconsin-owned manufacturer of quality canoe and kayak paddles. They pride themselves on making products that are lighter, stiffer, smarter, more durable and more beautiful. With a $150 store credit, you can pick out your own paddle to ensure the perfect fit! Whether you are 6’4 or 5’2, Bending Branches will find the right paddle for you!
Karl’s Lunch Box
This Duluth Trading Co. cooler is sure to hold all the snacks (& beer) you may need! Made with sturdy yet flexible material, this cooler weighs far less than your average plastic cooler. Also includes a detachable shoulder strap for easy transport!
Duluth Trading Co. Hat
Every outdoor adventurer needs a trusty hat! This all black cap comes directly from the Duluth Trading Company in La Crosse, WI. This blank slate is perfect for pins and patches!
Two Yeti Cups
Yeti 10 oz Lowball Ramblers are ideal any time of day! Keep your morning coffee hot and your afternoon drinks cool with ease. Offered in Seafoam and Brick Red, these Yeti Ramblers also come with a 5-year warranty.
Go Buck Naked Pen
You may not need a pen when hiking up a mountain or paddling down a river. But, let everyone at the office or school know that you run with BigFoot with this comical Go Buck Naked Pen from Duluth Trading Co.
$25 Gift Card
Duluth Trading Company An outdoor enthusiast’s daydream awaits you at Duluth Trading Co. They have anything and everything you may want or need for your next excursion! This $25 gift card is redeemable at any Duluth Trading Co. store or on their website!
Silicon Shot Glass
You never know when you might need a little pick-me-up. Bring this easy to clean, reusable shot glass on your next trip! Offered in Blue & Green tie-dye, this little guy may just become your camping companion.
We’re not BLUFFing about the endless romantic destinations that are the ideal setting for an engagement!
It seems that proposals are popping up all over the La Crosse Region and we want to share the top spots for your fairytale ending.
Grandad Bluff
Grandad Bluff is an icon to the La Crosse region featuring 600-ft high bluffs overlooking Mississippi River Valley including sights of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. If you want to be sure your proposal goes off with a bang, Grandad’s bluff is the central point for the annual Skyrocker’s New Year’s Eve Firework show!
This renowned Bed and Breakfast is the charming romantic getaway you need to end down on one knee! The 1892 historic home features five guest suites with private baths, lavish morning breakfasts, and a music room for all your singing proposal needs – you will love this magical stay!
Over 3,000,000 lights make Riverside Park shine with its stunning holiday display. Live music entertainment, carriage rides, and freshly fallen snow are elements straight out of your favorite holiday movies! You can either walk or drive through Riverside Park from the end of November – December 31st, plenty of making your perfect proposal plans!
Hixon Forest
For the outdoor recreation couple, there’s no better adventure than the wooded bluffs with sandstone outcroppings, continuous marshes and wildlife around every corner. Hixon forest has convenient hiking and biking access trails connecting you to Mythank yourick Park, Riverside Park and more.
The Charmant Hotel is loved by locals and travelers alike, the renovated 1898-built Candy Factory features a scenic rooftop bar overlooking downtown and even functions as an event space for your private party. The rooftop is open seasonally and it definitely worth the wait for the warm weather!
Another La Crosse Region staple is the infamous big blue bridge connecting river shores of the Mississippi! A charming touch to any engagement photo, there are ample views of the bridge from Riverside Park, Pettibone beach, and don’t forget about the opportunity to propose from the water!
Bring early 1900’s grand riverboat cruises to your modern-day proposal ideas! The La Crosse Queen Paddlewheeler is one of the few “true” paddlewheelers still operated in the country today. Sightseeing tours and dinner cruises are frequently available. Or make it a romantic private evening with your favorite people!
The Tower Dining Room and underground La Cave bar has a lovely ambiance of fine french cuisine and hand-selected wine pairings by their in-house Sommelier; an elegant location for any proposal.
Awarded as one of the 50 most romantic restaurants in the country, a booth at the Lovechild restaurant is sure to be an incredible evening of intriguing flavors and one big question!
University of Wisconsin – La Crosse Alumni this location is calling your name. The Hoeschler Clocker Tower has many legends including the romantic tale of when a couple shares a kiss under the tower it is certain that they will get married… regardless if you believe this to be true it is still a beautiful location for a proposal!
When it’s time to get away with loved ones, look no further than the stunning La Crosse region to provide you with quality memories like no other. As you walk along the Mississippi River watching the boats drift into the sunset feel the romance in the air take flight and get ready for an extraordinary trip.
Everyone’s idea of the perfect place to settle down with their family is different. When moving to a new place with kids, make sure there’s plenty to do in the area to keep you and your little ones entertained. The good news is that La Crosse has something for all age groups! Here’s everything you need to know before making La Crosse your forever home.
See What La Crosse Has to Offer
If you’re new to Wisconsin, a common question you may have before moving to La Crosse is: what is there to do? La Crosse has so much to offer to people of all ages, habits, and walks of life. Whether your hobby is a hiking, scenic photography, brewery hopping, or hanging out with the family, there’s something here for everyone. Check out these different categories below for ideas on things to do:
Fishing
La Crosse is near plenty of streams and rivers, like the Mississippi or Black River, and lakes so you can fish your heart out. There are various places to rent boats, canoes or pontoons like Schafer’s River Rentals or other local shops. Consider camping at a nearby site to get the most out of your fishing experience. Throughout the colder weather season, it’s home to plenty of ice fishermen and you can find out all the dos and don’ts about winter fishing.
Fishing may not be ideal for everyone in your family so research a type of fishing adventure that includes everyone. Check out Island Outdoors to rent canoes, paddle boards, kayaks and more to let everyone have a little fun during your fishing excursion.
La Crosse has plenty of indoor and outdoor activities for kids to choose from. The Children’s Museum of La Crosse is an educational place for kids, or you can take them to an “escape game” at The Great Escape of La Crosse. Stay on the lookout for local festivals going on throughout the year for kids of all ages. If you’re still looking for a place to tire out your kids, try out Shenanigans which is readied with arcade games, pizza, inflatables and prizes!
When families come to visit, be sure to direct them to our family getaway itinerary so you can make the most our your time together. You’ll find where to stay, dine and more activities that are great for groups!
Attention hiking fanatics! There are plenty of bluff trails in the area to check out like Great River State Trail Park, Upper Hixon Forest, Grandad Bluff Park and many more. There’s usually a good amount of parking places, making commuting to the bluffs easy, or bike trails for convenient access. Make sure you pack for your adventure accordingly by making a day hike packing list before you go off on your own or with friends. There are tons of vistas and overlooks to see the amazing view beneath you from various bluff peaks or hills.
If the outdoors isn’t exactly your thing, don’t worry; there are plenty of other options. If you’re interested in watching a sports game, catch a game or two at the local University of Wisconsin- La Crosse or the La Crosse Loggers collegiate wooden bat baseball team. Check out an adventure park that’s equipped for all ages if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush at Jump Start Adventure Park. There are also various restaurants, breweries and bars to have some fun at after a long day’s worth of work. If you’re looking for a more relaxing kind of vibe, look no further than the different parks and pools around town.
Last but not least, make sure you explore the encompassing areas before you make your move! You’re going to be a local before you know it and you’ll know all the best places within a few hours’ distances to plan a staycation or a day trip. Check out this article for all the places surrounding the La Crosse region that are must-sees in our book with plenty of places to hike and visit for the day.
Once you consider all there is to know about moving to La Crosse, it’s sure to have moved to the top of your list of places to live.
Start Preparing for Your Move
Once you’re ready to call La Crosse home, proper preparations must be made. It’s best to start planning for your move as early as possible, even if you’re not going to be physically moving in the next couple of weeks. Look into ways to save some extra cash for your new home, whether that’s changing your daily household expenses and selling unwanted furniture to put that extra monthly money into your “new home” fund. Once you have some extra cash set aside, look into things that need to be done around the home to increase its selling value.
When you’re preparing to move, plan what you must take with you and then make a moving checklist. Once that’s all organized, begin calling moving companies and getting estimates from each one. As soon as you’ve discussed these things with your family, you can get started with the fun stuff.
How Much Does a Home in La Crosse Cost?
After you’ve prepared your own home, it’s time to start looking at places for your future home by looking at how much current homes in La Crosse cost, what neighborhood you want to live in, and what attractions your family will be in close proximity to. An important part of deciding where you’ll live is knowing how much to expect to pay. You’ll also have to consider what the school taxes look like and how much home you’ll be able to afford after selling your current place. Check out the surrounding area and see if it’s what you expected. You may also want to look into a mortgage preapproval, which will help you get a better understanding of what your budget is before you start the house hunt.
Now that you know everything there is to know about La Crosse, it’s time to start putting it in motion. No matter what the reason is for your move to La Crosse, you’ll be happy to know there’s always something here to make you feel at-home.
Try Something New Blog
There are epic new memories to be made in unexpected places of the La Crosse Region! If it’s your 1st visit or 50th- there are always new places to branch out to. Hidden caves, monster truck rallies, and magical gardens… say whatttttt?
It’s the best time of the year and we want to know why you are #FallingForLaCrosse!
Let’s be honest… the Region’s explorers take the best photos!
The natural beauty and recreation abound in the La Crosse Region during the Autumn season and we want to see your pics! With everyone carrying their smartphones these days, we know you’ve captured a few fantastic shots!
This is your chance to dig out your photos or get exploring to capture new photos, enter your photos, get a chance to be featured on one of our many social platforms, and get entered to win a La Crosse Region Swag Pack!
1. Head outside to snap some new, artsy photos that represent you and your favorite fall activities – colorful fall drives, outdoor exploration, cozy fall hideaways, apple orchard picking, pumpkin-spice treats, etc.
2. Use #FallingForLaCrosse on Instagram OR enter your favorite photography into our form.
3. Post or submit photos of your choice by November 12th to be entered to win an Explore La Crosse weekly prize and the ultimate falling for La Crosse prize pack!
La Crosse is home to excellent fishing opportunities, from tiny backwaters to lakes that stretch into the thousands of acres. There’s also a variety of boat launches, beaches for surf fishing, and marinas.
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. But advanced anglers will also find plenty of challenges in these waters.
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.
What Fish Can You Find & When?
Fishing is good year-round in La Crosse. There are plenty of fish species to catch, and whichever season you’re fishing in, there’ll be opportunities for excellent catches.
Spring & Summer
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).
Fall & Winter
The cooling of the climate in fall brings out the aggressive side of many fish, as they prepare for food sources to diminish in winter. Bass are much less active in the cooler months, so it’s advisable to wait for warmer weather if they’re your target.
Walleye are still a predictable and steady catch in the cooler temperatures. And when the waters ice over, winter ice fishing for panfish is one of the most fun winter activities in the region.
When the ice is thick and safe, you can head out to deeper waters and try your hand at reeling in a northern pike.
What Gear Should You Bring?
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.
For ice fishing, you’ll need an ice auger and a special ice fishing rod and reel. Unlike normal fly reels or baitcasting reels and fishing rods, these are designed to be able to withstand the cold and be effective for the kind of fishing you’re doing. They’re often made of fiberglass to be strong and flexible at the same time and are shorter than usual.
It’s a good idea to do some research on fly patterns for your target fish and the season you’ll be fishing in.
Other than that, be sure to dress for the weather. Wear wool clothing and layer up in winter to stay warm. 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?
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 waterskiing, wind-surfing, or bird-watching.
But it’s equally as great a location in the fall and winter. Fall brings a burst of spectacular color to the surrounding scenery, and when the lake ice over, it’s an extremely popular ice fishing spot.
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
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.
Hit the Fall Fishing Frenzy in the La Crosse Region! Take the guesswork out and enjoy area guides with years of experience navigating the Region’s bountiful waterways.
