In order to remain safe and responsible, gatherings have had to change or be rescheduled over the last year. If you’re missing your friends and loved ones or were forced to cancel or reschedule a class or family reunion, when the time is right, regroup and make memories in the La Crosse Region!
The region boasts fantastic venues for receptions, hotels for your overnight accommodations, and group tours and attractions that will provide your attendees with moments and memories they’ll be sure to carry with them for years to come.
Let’s take a look at some of the La Crosse Region’s go-to venues for reunions!
La Crosse’s recently-renovated convention center provides groups with ample space options whether your group is looking for an area to hold a banquet, meeting, cocktail hour, reception, or a reunion. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, the views, customer service, and functionality are second-to-none in the region. Experience the magnificent along the Mississippi River, tucked into Historic Downtown La Crosse.
Looking for a space with indoor and outdoor capabilities? Look no further than the Onalaska Omni Center. Just a short 5-10 minute drive from a handful of Onalaska hotels and restaurants, the Omni Center features multiple gathering spaces of a variety of different sizes and capabilities. The recently-renovated West Wing provides groups with a space that can be enclosed due to questionable weather, or open up to allow easy access to ample field space for outdoor activities.
Recently constructed in 2019, the Best Western Plus at La Crescent Area Event Center offers top-notch event space for your group’s reception, banquet, or cocktail hour. The venue is connected to 61 guest rooms so that your group has everything it needs all located under one roof. Need an after-hour bite or beverage? The center is also connected to an on-site restaurant, the Swing Bridge Pub, which is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 AM – 9:00 pm.
Looking for a unique venue in the La Crosse Region? Experience the legendary La Crosse Queen paddle-wheeler! With space for up to 149 passengers, the La Crosse Queen offers a variety of cruise options that are sure to please your attendees. Whether it be a dinner cruise, an all-you-can-eat pizza and beer cruise, or a relaxing sightseeing cruise, good times and unbeatable views await on the mighty Mississippi River.
Need a place to stay so you can enjoy the weekend? You’ll find plenty of quality options whether you’re looking to stay in downtown La Crosse or in one of the surrounding areas.
La Crosse’s Historic Downtown features eight hotels all within walking distance of Riverside Park where you can take in the beautiful scenery of the Mississippi River with a river walk, explore the unique downtown restaurants and shops, or float away on a paddlewheel cruise via the La Crosse Queen.
If you don’t want to stay in the heart of downtown La Crosse, there are a plethora of options to choose from including La Crosse’s north side, Onalaska, West Salem, and La Crescent, MN. One of the wonderful aspects of the region is the fact that no matter where you stay or where your activities take you, you’re never too far away from the next place you need to be.
Special to Onalaska, WI, the Great River Landing hosts spectacular views of Lake Onalaska and the Black River. The landmark also hosts the trailhead to the Great River State Trail connecting to 101 miles of state trails. With sculptures, bench swings, activity features for kids, and a welcome center, it’s a can’t-miss spot!
A La Crosse Region trip is not complete without a venture up Grandad Bluff to take in the breathtaking views overlooking the city. The legendary sights span the Mississippi River Valley, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Standing 600-feet tall, the bluff creates an overhead portrait of the region’s splendor.
Congratulations, you’ve made it to the end of another week of hard work. Now it’s time for some well-deserved fun! The weather is starting to look up, and we’re ready to hook you up with your next Casual Fri-YAY hangout. Whatever your course, the La Crosse Region has got you covered!
Written by: Lauren Head, Guest Blogger
For the Explorer
The changing seasons create the perfect end-of-day sunset escape. But before you go, don’t forget to dress warm and pick up your last-minute warm hiking gear from Duluth Trading Co.!
Your winter adventure begins with a scenic hike through the Hixon Forest trails that offer Grandad Bluff Park access. During your exploration, take advantage of some of the area’s best birding opportunities; spot some Pileated Woodpeckers in the forested hillsides and spy soaring raptors from the lookout atop Grandad Bluff. With stunning views of the city and river valley, Grandad bluff park is your sunset destination! After the hike, settle down at the legendary Alpine Inn bar and grill nestled into Grandad’s bluff side. Enjoy some hot food and drinks on the outdoor door deck that will have you feeling like you’re still deep in the forest admiring a winter wonderland!
As un-paved trails are sensitive to melting in the spring, some other paved-trail experiences may be better suited for your adventure as well as to keep trail maintenance in check. Click Here for additional trail options.
For the Art Connoisseur
For left-brain legends and art enthusiasts, an afternoon stroll through La Crosse’s Sculpture Foot Tour (Some Regional Sculptures: Lyra, Herons of La Crosse, Ribbon V, Le Pineau, Reflections, and Mary of the Angels Chapel) is the perfect inspiration the before making your own masterpiece at Creative Canvas and Boards. Attend a class or event with step-by-step instructions, or utilize the “do it yourself” open studio and take in the weekend-art-therapy you were longing for.
Is it too cold for a sculpture tour? Head to Pump House Regional Arts Center for a rotating gallery experience of local, regional, and national artists!
As all great artists do, follow up your creations with fine wine and dining. Le Chateau offers a perfect ambiance of fine French cuisine and a European-style atmosphere. Every plate achieves that elusive, cuisine-defining balance of sweet, salty, and sour — even dessert! Even better? Le Chateau’s varied distinct dining areas of The Mons Anderson House with its rare blend of Gothic Revival and Italian Villa styles rendered in locally quarried stone would have famous French artist Claude Monet say “Incroyable!”
For the Family
Family fun starts by hitting the slopes at Mt. La Crosse, where all levels of skiers and snowboarders can start their weekend off right. The unique chalet offers food service, a complete ski shop, rental repair shop, and a unique St. Bernard Dog themed bar, all at the base of their slopes. Windows overlooking the ski runs and trails provide attractive views of winter in Wisconsin.
If family still has energy to spare post-ski or if the winter air is still too frigid, check out Features Sports Bar. With an eight-lane bowling center and the area’s largest HD screen in the La Crosse area, you’re not just watching the game; you’re becoming part of it! Match your bowling skills with Features Sports Bar open dining and bar which serves until 10 pm.
The La Crosse Region proudly lies along the Great River Road, now designated as an All American Road.
“In order to reach the ‘All American Road’ status, the drive must be a tourism attraction unto itself. With multiple intrinsic qualities and one-of-a-kind features that can be found nowhere else…”
Explore La Crosse is thrilled to announce that the Wisconsin Great River Road National Scenic Byway was awarded the designation as an “All American Road” by the US Department of Transportation through the Federal Highway Administration.
The La Crosse Region sits on the 250 miles of Great River Road in Wisconsin, nestled between ancient bluffs and along the mighty Mississippi River. As one of the 33 Mississippi River Towns along Highway 35, the region appreciates the many visitors the route brings every year.
Traveling the Wisconsin Great River Road?
3 Must Stops while Driving through the La Crosse Region
1. Grandad Bluff | La Crosse, WI
Grandad Bluff is famous to the La Crosse Region and is a sure landmark to enjoy during your time in the region. The bluff itself sits 600-ft. high and overlooks the city of La Crosse, the Mississippi River Valley, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. It has been voted as “the most scenic view in the state” by Wisconsin Trails readers and should definitely make everyone’s bucket list! If one is looking for adventure beyond just views, visitors can also explore the many new trails along the legendary bluffside!
2. Great River Landing | Onalaska, WI
Great River Landing is host to the Great River State Trailhead – known for its 101 miles of interconnecting state trails. With a beautiful visitor center and views of Lake Onalaska and the Black River, this landmark is sure to be a crowd favorite. Conveniently located next to Downtown Onalaska, there is a plethora of dining and shopping opportunities to explore while you’re there!
3. Apple Blossom Scenic Overlook | La Crescent, MN
This famous overlook, located on Apple Blossom Scenic Drive, showcases a stunning view of the Mississippi River valley and into the La Crosse Region. The overlook is a short drive up the bluffs from the city of La Crescent, MN and the route is known for its breathtaking landscape. Named after the thousands of sweet-smelling apple blossoms blooming in the spring, this is a destination unto itself along the drive that ultimately connects to the Great River Road.
Hey there, Cupid! Your Valentine’s Day collection of romance destinations is here! Explore the La Crosse Region with the person or entourage that matters most this upcoming holiday. Whether outdoor adventure, indoor activities, or unique dining experiences are your forte, the region offers something for everyone!
Adventures
All Glazed Up!
Looking for a unique and crafty Valentine’s Day date or weekend fun? All Glazed Up! is located in the heart of historic Downtown La Crosse. Whether you choose to attend a class or event with step-by-step instructions or utilize their “do it yourself” in the open studio, you’re sure to enjoy the experience and take home a handmade work of art! All Glazed Up has a Valentine’s Day Art Camp that you can spend time with your special someone or let your little one join you during their class! Let creativity and lovely feelings soar – no experience needed! Learn More >
Photo Courtesy of: Pump House Regional Arts Center
Pump House Regional Arts Center:
Also found in Downtown La Crosse is the legendary Pump House Regional Arts Center! The building was originally built in 1880, a perfect and authentic host to unique artwork. Pump House is a multi-disciplinary cultural center featuring visual, literary, and performing arts! Bring someone special in for an evening of creativity to make a ceramic picture frames to hold fond memories. Designs are endless – add some fun texture or embellishments and a pretty glaze color to complete your piece on February 18 & 25, 2025 from 5:30-7:00pm. Learn More >
Photo Courtesy of: Justin Trails Resort
Justin Trails Resort:
Nestled in the hilly Coulee Region of Sparta, WI, Justin Trails is a 200-acre resort that offers both bed and breakfast experiences as well as trails and outdoor fun to enjoy with your special person or crew! Ready for more? Sparta is home to a Love Lock bridge! Celebrating eternal love and commitment by attaching your lover lock downtown! So, whether you are looking for a romantic, cabin getaway, want to rent snowshoes to explore the trails, or leave some love on the local bridge, this destination is the perfect place for some secluded, natural adventure. V-Day Updates >
Restaurant Features
Photo Courtesy of: The Waterfront
The Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern:
For another something special on Valentine’s Day, The Waterfront is offering a Valentine’s Day special on February 14 -15, 2025 from 5pm- 10pm. The special dinner will feature a unique menu of Beet Salad with a Sherry vinaigrette, an 8-ounce Beef Wellington with a pomegranate demi-glace, Chilean Sea Bass with squid ink linguini, a delicious strawberries and cream cake dessert, featuring the Love Elixir specialty cocktail drink. Experience a night you’ll never forget at The Waterfront and make sure to call and make your reservation ahead of time as you must have a reservation for February 14th! Learn More >
Photo Courtesy of: The Charmant Hotel
The Charmant Hotel and Restaurant:
The Charmant invites you and your loved one to enjoy the holiday with a Valentine’s Day intimate dinner. On February 14, 2025 indulge in delectable features, including our Beef Short Rib and Chocolate Bombe. Sip on recommended wine pairings or festive cocktails like our Pink Lady- a classic cocktail that features Bombay Dry Gin, Laird’s Applejack grenadine, and egg white. Memories made and romance savored will be plenty in this boutique restaurant unlike any other in town. Don’t miss out and be sure make a reservation as they are highly encouraged! Learn More >
Photo Courtesy of: Pogreba Restaurant
Pogreba Restaurant:
Known as North La Crosse’s premier dining experience, Pogreba welcomes you to their warm and cozy atmosphere and serves foods made of the finest ingredients. With a menu curated with international influence, your Valentine’s Day can be filled with a selection ranging from charcoal-grilled steaks and seafoods to specialty, seasonal dishes cooked with fresh spices. End the meal with a sweet dessert to top off your holiday romance experience! Check Out the Menu >
Special to the La Crosse Region with our fabulous bluffs and vistas are the miles and miles of trails to hike and fat-tire-bike! Grandad Bluff, a La Crosse gem, had six new miles created called the Gateway Trails. It’s become the perfect place to stop and admire the three different overlooks which are great for new and avid mountain bikers alike. For more trail opportunities, click HERE!
Ice Fishing
Ice fishing is next to none in the La Crosse Region and due to the safety aspects of it, has hit quite a boom this season! As Lake Onalaska and the many waterways freeze over, you can catch a wide range of fish; from bluegill to bass and walleye, the pan-fishing is some of the best all year. Before you hit the ice, make sure to check up on safety tips and prepare accordingly. Need some new equipment? Check out Island Outdoors!
Snow Shoeing & Ice Skating
If snowshoeing is your forte, Lytle’s Landing is a nice and peaceful destination to explore. Not to worry if you don’t have snowshoes! The region has multiple locations to rent from! However, if you prefer the ice over snow, there are some legendary spots to ice skate as well! New this year, Lake Neshonoc has been maintained by local volunteers with ice skating paths! Skaters can enjoy a long journey along the lake, smooth and shoveled for enjoyment. Not to mention, the famous ice rink is back in Riverside Park this year!
Downhill Ski & Snowboarding
Mt. La Crosse is a regional favorite in the area and with the latest snows we have had, it is a must stop! Their hours and safety practices have changed to accommodate visitors’ safety, so it is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. For more details, you can visit Mtlacrosse.com. Oh! And when you need a quick break or are wrapping up your day of fun, swing into the St. Bernard Room in the lodge! Famous for both their old fashions and hot chocolates, it is a unique atmosphere enjoyed by all ages – kids will love to check out all the St. Bernard dog artwork that hangs frame-to-frame on the walls!
Don’t miss out on a great game of bowling at Features- West Salem! Warm up while watching the next big game on their large HD screens and eight lane bowling alley. Strike up a great conversation with friends and family all day long.
A Casual Bite to Eat
Buzzard Billy’s: Downtown La Crosse, WI
Swing through this casual and fun cajun restaurant and bar experience – What better way to warm up than with some spiced, New Orleans-styled foods and a classic beverage to quench your thirst?! Located downtown in an old brick hotel, Buzzard Billy’s is famous for its lively atmosphere. You’re sure to be impressed with the food… and if it gets too spicy, you can cross the street and cool your mouth down with a sweet treat from the legendary Pearl Ice Cream Parlor!
Crooked Pint: Onalaska, WI
For some can’t-miss burgers in the La Crosse Region, check out Crooked Pint Ale House! After all the energy you burned playing outside, why not carb up with a fat Juicy Lucy (stuffed burgers) with a side of jumbo tater tots? If a burger doesn’t match your post-adventure cravings, not to worry, they offer a wide variety of other pub classics and regional craft beverages!
Swing Bridge Pub: La Crescent, MN
Operated inside the La Crescent Area Event Center, Swing Bridge Pub, is a quaint little spot that has fantastic appetizers, a wonderful salad bar and delicious Friday night fish fry and Saturday Prime Rib. Dinner is filled with phenomenal entrees, broasted chicken, salmon, and tenderloin tips. The setting is relaxed and beautiful with a variety of art renderings from local artists, you will surely feel at home when you visit. With great food, friendly service, and refreshing drinks, it’s the perfect spot to reminisce the memories you made outdoors.
Pizza Corral: Holmen, WI
Just a “stone’s throw” from I-90, The Pizza Corral is the Holmen Area’s Favorite Restaurant for Pizza, Chicken & Family Dining! Known for their delicious homemade pizza, broasted chicken, and fabulous noon buffet and lunches, the Pizza Corral has been feeding the Holmen, La Crosse, and Onalaska area since 1983.
Rest Up & Retreat
Radisson Hotel: Downtown La Crosse, WI
The Radisson Hotel is located in Historic Downtown La Crosse. Found along Riverside Park on the Mississippi River, the views are hard to beat! Not to mention it’s walking distance from downtown shops, restaurants, and bars! They offer over 40 years of beautiful experiences and delightful customer service.
Stoney Creek: Onalaska, WI
Enjoy Stoney Creek Hotel, featuring wilderness and woodsy decor and vibes. It is located in the heart of vibrant, commercial Onalaska, bursting with shopping and restaurant options. Spending the night with family? The hotel offers a great pool area for playing with kids of all ages. P.S. There are bunk beds available in their rooms designed for families!
Best Western Plus: La Crescent, MN
Best Western Plus is located right across the Mississippi River in La Crescent, MN. It is within walking distance to the quaint downtown, shopping, services, and famous restaurants. With spacious, well-appointed guest rooms and suites, you’re sure to enjoy your stay!
The La Crosse Region has all the activities to keep you warm through these chilly months. From making your mark in the powder, drilling your hole through the ice and warming up in unique restaurants and local shops, bundle up for some serious fun.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Hit the slopes at Mt. La Crosse; a popular downhill skiing and snowboarding destination. Don’t have equipment? The rental shop has you covered with skis, snowboards, helmets and more! With 18 runs designed for every experience level, you can bring the whole family.
Glide into more memories after tearing up the bluff side. Head into the St. Bernard room to warm up with some hot chocolate and grub with your entourage. Don’t forget to visit the lodge for some Old Fashioned and live music during winter-month weekends!
Ice Fishing
The Upper Mississippi River islands, channels, and deep pools harbor more species of fish than any other temperature-climate river in the world. The Mississippi opens into over 8,000 acre Lake Onalaska, full of Panfish, Northern and Bass. Other popular fishing destinations include Lake Neshonoc in West Salem and the area’s cold-water streams.
To date, the river lands, Lake Onalaska, and backwaters have ice! Drill into the cold waters to catch your limit of Panfish in a setting like no other. Drop your line in and enjoy the scenery nestled between the bluffs. In search of more ice fishing equipment? Visit Island Outdoors for all of your fishing tackle needs.
Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
Slide into an adventure by trying out cross-country skis on the region’s numerous trails including Hixon Forest and the La Crosse River State Trail. If walking is your preference, strap on some snowshoes, and trek through the snow-covered winter landscape before the powder melts. Leave your mark by exploring the trails of Goose Island Park, Green Coulee, and Lytle’s Landing. Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe rentals are available at Outdoor Connection, located in the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, and Island Outdoors.
Indoor Warm-Wandering
Not everyone is cut out for outdoor winter recreation. Not up for exploring in the snow? With museums, performing arts, cultural experiences and do-it-yourself creative classes, the region will still warm your soul. Visit the Pump House Regional Art Center; a must-stop destination in Downtown La Crosse. The historical building has three galleries, a 140-seat theatre, and art classes to enjoy.
The Minnesota Marine Art Museum also offers discovery for the area’s visitors. With cities up and down the Mississippi River, marine-based artwork holds a special place in the heart of the region. Featuring renowned pieces inspired by water, this unique museum hosts a mix of historical and contemporary exhibitions including masterpieces by Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, Picasso, and more.
For masterpieces you can take home, make a trip to All Glazed Up! A pottery gallery, studio, and education center, the business offers hand-made pottery and art classes to create your own works of art. Available for all ages and skill levels, you’ll mold memories you won’t soon forget.
Events and Festivals
The La Crosse Region is known for its festive spirit and for hosting a multitude of festivals and events year-round. Make sure to plan your trip around local celebrations by searching the Explore La Crosse Calendar!
Whether you visit for the outdoor adventures, indoor havens or local festivities during the chilly season, you can get cozy in the communities that will warm you to your core. The La Crosse Region offers over 100 culinary eateries, unique lodging, and a multitude of locally-owned specialty shops. Are you ready to take your winter adventure between the bluffs before the snow melts?
Planning on doing some winter fishing in La Crosse? Here are some dos and don’ts to be mindful of when it comes to fishing in the winter cold.
Spring and summer are prime times for anglers to cast off and catch sunfish, bass, or spawning walleyes. But fishing in the winter is just as rewarding, and you’ll find that freshwater fish of different species tend to group together. This will bring more fish to your lure than you know what to do with!
La Crosse has prime fishing spots with easy access to boat landings, floats, piers, and outfitters. If you’re interested in winter fishing in some of these spots, here are our top tips.
Do: Pick The Right Spot
You’ll find the waters around La Crosse to be a rare combination of small islands, small channels and deep pools. These waters and channels are home to the largest variety of fish species in any temperate-climate river across the globe! This is thanks to the Mississippi River, which spreads across its main channel.
Before you set out on your fishing trip, do some research, and find out where the best spots are. As the winter sets in, you’ll find that the backwaters in La Crosse will be the best place to start. These backwaters will provide a steady stream of fishing action until the ice sets in on the lakes and waterways.
You’d want to avoid areas that have, or have predictions for, elevated currents, as this could be dangerous and can make fishing more difficult. Once the lakes and pools start to ice over, you can move to deeper water where you can catch northern pike and walleye.
Do: Make Sure You’re Warm
There’s nothing worse than being wet and cold on the bank, and this could lead to you not catching anything at all. Make sure to wear clothing that’s made from wool or synthetic fabrics and avoid cotton. If cotton gets wet, it’ll chill you right down to the bone.
Layer your clothing, as you can always remove a layer if you’re getting too hot. Your base layer should draw moisture away from your skin. Get your season 5 gear out and make sure that you have a decent groundsheet and good quality bivy to keep you warm.
Nothing complements a great winter fishing experience like a sumptuous and hot meal! No matter where you’re fishing, you’ll most likely find that you’re close to a restaurant on the water.
If you’re fishing on or near the Black River, stop in at Moxie’s, where you can enjoy the live band. They have an assorted menu where you’ll find wraps, salads, pizza, or sandwiches.
Should you find yourself fishing by Lake Onalaska, then pull your boat up to the dock and have a bite at Red Pines Bar and Grill. Here you’ll find everything from fish tacos and walleye sandwiches to cheeseburgers and fries to satisfy your hunger and warm you up.
Don’t: Leave Home Without Checking Your Fishing Gear
Make sure that your gear is suitable for fishing in winter. This means you’d need to tune your reels so the bearings won’t freeze or seize up an hour into your fishing trip.
If you need to get a fishing license or some live bait, there are local bait shops around the marinas that can set you up, as well as recommend what bait you should use. You’ll also be able to rent fishing boats, canoes, and pontoons from bait shops like Scafers River Rentals or Bob’s Bait & Tackle.
Before you cast, make sure you’ve used a line conditioner. This will help prevent tangles and keep the line moving freely through the eyelet. It will also help prevent the rod guide from freezing.
Don’t: Fish Alone
The waters that surround La Crosse are home to some big fish, like sturgeons of 55 inches long or spotted suckers that could weigh 4 pounds from the waters of Lake Onalaska.
You never know when you’re going to land a record fish, and it’s always important to have your fishing buddy there to ensure your safety and to record the moment! There are many ice fishing safety tips and tools to explore before you head out on the ice.
Let’s Catch a Good Time!
Summer or spring fishing is a relaxing warm-day pastime. But winter fishing is a new, exciting experience that every fisherman should try.
What are you waiting for? Grab your best baitcasting reel, layer yourself up warmly, and pick a winter fishing spot!
‘Tis the season for sharing and caring! Going into this holiday season, it is more important than ever to support small and local businesses. The pandemic has presented many unique challenges to everyone, but let’s not forget to show some love to favorite, local restaurants*! With options for dining-in or enjoying at home, you can spend more time out of the kitchen and with your loved ones around the table.
Big Al’s
Located in downtown La Crosse, the renowned Big Al’s is open daily for dine-in, carry-out, curbside, and delivery. With their wide array of specialty pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and more, you are sure to find something you love. Until the end of 2020, you are able to get a 16” Speciality or two-topping build-your-own pizza for special pricing! They are also currently offering handcrafted cocktails for the holidays including Al’s “Twisted Peppermint Hot Chocolate” and “Holiday Mule”!
Señor Villa
With locations in La Crosse and Onalaska, it’s convenient to spice up a day with Señor Villa’s Mexican cuisine! You will be sure to find original recipes made with fresh ingredients and service with a smile. Try the fajitas and top it off with some fried ice cream for dessert. Señor Villa is open for dine-in, carry-out, curbside pickup, and delivery.
David Reay’s Modern Diner + Tavern
Miss eating on the patio? David Reay’s Modern Diner + Tavern has got you covered this winter! With their newest iWave-C’s installation, they now offer heated patio dining in addition to curbside pick-up, carry-outs, and delivery. With a modern spin on the old-school diner experience and specialty homemade comfort food, David Reay’s takes pride in bringing people together for a great time. What more could we want than to get cozy during these months with comfort food made from fresh, local ingredients?
Lindy’s Subs & Salads
The delicious sandwich and salad shop is conveniently located in both downtown La Crosse and Onalaska! Lindy’s Subs & Salads is providing dine-in, carry-out, curbside pickup, and delivery. You will love their made-to-order subs served on freshly baked bread. They offer only the finest of meats, cheeses, and veggies available. A great quick meal on the go!
Uno Venti Pizzaria
Uno Venti Pizzaria is famous for using only the finest ingredients and locally sourced cheeses to build homemake pizzas fired in an Italian Stone Dome Oven. Fresh, Made-to-Order Pies, Charcuterie Board, Italian Appetizers and Salads? Sign us up! Uno Venti is currently offering dining options, both indoor and outdoor, as well as carry-out options. Located in Historic Downtown La Crosse, this is a can’t-miss destination for cozy, comfort foods.
*This brief list is not conclusive of all La Crosse Region restaurants. For a full listing, please Click Here >
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 helicopter ride, delicious cuisine, unique local shopping, seasonal craft beverages, outdoor adventures, and cozy hideaways.
Castle La CrosseBed and Breakfast Located just blocks from Historic Downtown La Crosse, Castle La Crosse is a spectacular Bed & Breakfast. Built in 1892, this house is full of charm. Guests have access to their private suite, the music room, library, sun porch, and even fresh breakfast created in-house by their Certified Pastry Chef. Whether you are a historic home lover or not, all will appreciate the splendor located inside this magical home.
1 Night – King Room
The Radisson Hotel Located along the Mississippi River, Riverside Park, and the Rotary Lights Show, the Radisson Hotel features the “Three Rivers Lodge” restaurant, indoor pool, whirlpool, fitness area, and more! Enjoy breakfast in the morning, and cocktail and Hor D’oeuvres at night. Being so close to the La Crosse Rotary Lights at Riverside Park and just blocks from Historic Downtown, this location is hard to beat.
Symphony Tix.
La Crosse Symphony Orchestra The La Crosse Symphony Orchestra provides the greater La Crosse area with symphonic concerts. Enjoy the sounds and experience the excitement of the music during their December 18th concert with 2 complimentary tickets!
$100 Gift Card
Freighthouse The Freight House Restaurant is located in Historic Downtown La Crosse. They feature premier steak and seafood, and are known for their fabulous staff, great food, and beautiful atmosphere!
Photo Shoot
Dylan Overhouse Productions Enjoy a complimentary couple or family holiday photo session from Dylan Overhouse Productions. Capture your love in the lights at Riverside Park’s beautiful Rotary Lights display.
Helicopter Ride
Lake Superior Helicopters Check out the beautiful Driftless area from up above! Lake Superior Helicopter offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience helicopter ride above the La Crosse area. Enjoy the sights in a safe, socially responsible way.
$25 Gift Card
David Reay’s If you are looking for a perfect blend of home-style cooking and a lively tavern then look no further! David Reay’s Modern Diner is all about friends, family, fun, and fresh fare using local and regional ingredients. Enjoy a unique bite paired with classic beverages during your getaway!
Specialty Drink
La Crosse Distilling Co. Found in downtown La Crosse, La Crosse Distilling Co. locally sources their ingredients and obsesses over every detail; making each of our spirits a unique expression of a particular place, a farmer’s passion, and our careful work.
Discount Grub
The Crow An American Burbon Bar, The Crow is located in downtown La Crosse. They feature over a dozen different gourmet burgers that are made fresh to order along with the area’s largest bourbon selection.
Beer & Swag
Turtle Stack Brewery Located in Historic Downtown La Crosse, Turtle Stack Brewery is a small craft brewery with their own tasting room. The company focuses on creating high-quality, flavorful beers that leave craft beer enthusiasts thirsty for more.
Discount Grub
Howie’s Howie’s is celebrating its 75th anniversary throughout 2020! They feature gourmet burgers, signature sandwiches, in-house smoked meats, and classic cocktails that are sure to please your taste buds.
Special Discount
Mainstream Boutique Found on Main Street in Onalaska, Mainstream Boutique is a fashion-forward haven! Dedicated to caring for others, they are passionate about lifting customers up and making them feel beautiful.
$25 Gift Card
Duluth Trading Co Located in Downtown La Crosse, Duluth Trading Co. offers useful and rugged clothing, unique historical displays, knowledgeable associates! Enjoy a convenient setting stocked with items to get you prepped for your next adventure.
Swag Pack
608 Brewing Co. Founded by a group of friends who have tasted the best in craft beer and plan to share special creations of bold, and innovative beers with the La Crosse Region. With a fun, friendly, and clean environment, you’re sure to have a great time!
The International Owl Center in Houston, Minnesota
The International Owl Center is found in the quaint town of Houston, Minnesota. Through their dedication to education and research, the team at the Owl Center hopes to improve the world for owls by showing people how their actions impact owls and inform everyone on how fascinating these creatures truly are. They are currently the only all-owl education center in the United States. This has brought attention from all over the world. In addition to their Center that features live owls, staff-presented programs, a scavenger hunt for children, owl live streams, mounted owls, and a gift shop, there is also an impressive collection of artwork from children across the world that can be found in the center and around town. Houston has welcomed owl lovers by featuring 12 public owl sculptures and street banners based on these artwork designs.
There are currently four owl species that you will be able to spot at the International Owl Center: Ruby the Great Horned Owl, Piper the American Barn Owl, JR the Eastern Screech-Owl, and Uhu the Eurasian Eagle Owl. These birds commute to “work” each morning in the Owlmobile van and spend their days with their fans either in their enclosure or on their perch. While not “working” at the Owl Center, they each have their own aviaries just outside of town where they are able to live free, call to the wild owls at night, and watch the other wildlife.
FACT TO KNOW: While American Barn Owls, like Piper, are endangered in some states, they don’t even make it on the endangered list in Minnesota because they are so rare.
Through the staff-presented program, you will learn about how to distinguish owl species apart from one another through their shape, size, and sound. You can even sign up to go on an owl prowl to see these different species out in the wild. Owl prowls are currently hosting smaller groups and promoting social distancing by having participants drive their own vehicles to 3-4 known owl territories. At these stops, staff will help participants identify and call to the wild owls.
The International Festival of Owls is an annual festival in the spring that the Owl Center puts on. The next anticipated festival dates are March 5-7, 2021. Entries are sent in from across the world for the children’s international owl art contest. It brings in an impressive amount of talented artwork. Top owl experts come in to speak at the festival and receive an award in the World Owl Hall of Fame. This display is also featured at the Owl Center.
The International Owl Center just recently acquired their future building site for a larger facility. This center will be able to support on-site aviaries so there will no need to commute to “work”. Additionally, this new facility should enable the center to support even more live owls.
The staff at the International Owl Center wants to get others as excited about owls as they are. If you have not had the pleasure of visiting their center in downtown Houston, make sure you plan your trip! Tickets can be bought ahead of time on their website, and pre-registration is suggested to ensure availability.
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