Five Reasons to Crave Local Craft Beverages

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Whether you’re a beer sommelier or an average joe, craft beverages are often a crowd favorite.

Local wineries, distilleries, and breweries all present unique beverages, eccentric ambiances, and distinct characters all their own. If that isn’t enough to peak your interest, check out these 5 reasons to crave local craft beverages!

1. Superior Conversation

Sure, you can party right with Bud Light but you don’t get a flight and you won’t get a flawless food pairing either. Craft beverage groups are known for the variety of options you can sample. What is a better conversation topic than that of discussing beer, unique wines, or custom distilled beverages? When it is safe, getting to compare and contrast, find your favorite brew, share laughs among the grapevines, and enjoy a behind the scenes tour of a local distillery creates endless memories to reflect on for years to come.

2. Greater and More Creative Variety

Many commercial beer connoisseurs or wine aficionados have selected their “favorite” beverage, but it leaves you wondering, have they ever tasted the Hype Machine: Paradise Smoothie from 608 Brewing Co., award-winning Fieldnotes Vodka from La Crosse Distilling Co., or Frontenac Gris, a cherry and orange-colored wine with hints of tropical fruit from River View Vineyard & Winery in La Crescent, MN? The beauty of craft beverage groups is that they tend to offer a wider variety and selection and are allowed much more creativity to master the perfect flavor, designed for you.

3. Sophisticated Taste

Craft beverage groups take pride in their production. So, they tend to seek out the best, sometimes locally sourced, ingredients to make the best drinks and strive to be socially responsible – unlike commercial companies focused on pursuing cost-effective options. Whether the grapes are home-grown or the hops are unique, like in the Linalool IPA, the only IPA brewed with Northern Discover hops at Pearl Street Brewery, these groups boast of their unique, high-quality twist on timeless beverages.

4. Specialty Drinks for Every Season

Everyone has a unique pallet, but it is not hard to assume that fruity, punch flavored craft beverages aren’t preferred during the winter months, and drinks that feature apple or pumpkin may be more appropriate in the fall. Craft beverage groups take advantage of these periods to inspire creative, seasonal beverages. Talk about craving! If you fall in love with one of these specialty selections, you’re definitely doomed to crave its return all year long…

5. Supporting Local Businesses

Whether flavors, ingredients, and flight samples inspire your desire to try something new or not, it is hard to deny that one of the most rewarding aspects of craft beverages is supporting local businesses. Family-owned, historical, or urban settings alike, small businesses are the pride of our communities, and their service tends to be second to none. The La Crosse Region is blessed to have many craft beverage groups as locals and takes pride in supporting their success. When the time is right, and it is safe to travel, the Craft Beverage Trail is designed to do just that; support our local breweries, wineries, and distillery and promote visits to their one-of-a-kind settings, ambiances, and cultures.

Has the craving hit yet? If so, visit their websites for the most updated information and to learn their available service options!

If you’re looking for a list of all the La Crosse Region wineries, breweries, and distilleries, look no further!

Breweries:

Turtle Stack Brewery | La Crosse, WI

Pearl Street Brewery | La Crosse, WI

Skeleton Crew Brew | Onalaska, WI

Wineries:

Garvin Heights Vineyard | Winona, MN

Elmaro Vineyard | Trempealeau, WI

Tenba Ridge Winery | Blair, WI

Brambleberry Winery | Taylor, WI

River View Vineyard & Winery | La Crescent, MN

DnA Vintners | La Crosse, WI

Branches Winery | Westby, WI

Lost Island Wine | Onalaska, WI

WineSitter BrewHouse La Crosse, WI

Distillery:

La Crosse Distilling Co. | La Crosse, WI

#FishSmart in the La Crosse Region

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The La Crosse area has a unique offering of waterways strewn throughout the coulees and valleys of the Driftless Region.  Pristine trout streams, acres of scenic backwaters, tributaries, numerous rivers, and lakes all abound in the area offer more than 119 freshwater fish species. 

It may sound silly but now is a great time to wet a line and catch some fish.  According to Safer at Home guidelines, outdoor activities (including fishing) are essential activities in order to maintain health, both mentally and physically, at this time. 

Spring is one of the best times to attempt to lure our finned adversaries from the watery depths.  During this time, the fish are gorging to prepare for the spawning process or looking to replenish after they finish spawning.  Either way, this time of the year is excellent for finding many interested lure takers. 

It is certainly a trying time for all of us but everyone is experiencing a lot more downtime.  What better time than now to make memories with your families that you may not have had before?  In fact, Bassmaster, the worldwide authority in bass fishing, has launched a new initiative labeled “Live Smart, Fish Smart” that focuses on fishing wisely and enjoying time with family during these uncertain times.  They encourage you to post #livesmart #fishsmart while safely enjoying your time on the water.

Some important tips to remember if you make a trip to the water:

  • Fish Local – stay close to home and avoid high-traffic destinations like crowded boat ramps
  • Be Safe – Avoid crowds and maintain social distancing (6 feet or more from others) from other anglers. Move quickly through parking lots and paths or choose a different location or time to fish if the area is busy.
  • Stay Home – If you are not feeling well, STAY HOME!

If you are in need of any fishing gear or equipment to make your trip successful, great businesses like Island Outdoors (FB: https://www.facebook.com/islandoutdoorswtw/) offer curbside pickup for all your needs.  No need to even enter the building (in fact you aren’t allowed in) as they bring your order to you at the door to ensure you get to enjoy the outdoors.

Locals to the La Crosse area are encouraged to get out and enjoy one of the best times fishing the area has to offer.  If you are not local, use this time to fish your nearby waters and plan your summer trip to the La Crosse region in the search of new personal bests and great memories.

Five Pet-Friendly Adventures in the La Crosse Region

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Five Pet-Friendly Adventures to Explore

As the weather warms it is getting easier to entertain ourselves and our “best friends” each and every day! The La Crosse Region is full of pet-friendly fun to enjoy together! We have compiled a list of five great to-do’s for you and your furry entourage to explore this season. Happy trails…or better yet: Happy Tails!

Fishing Excursions

Fishing Excursions

Mississippi River | La Crosse, WI

Does your fur-friend like adventure? As the temps warm up it’s becoming the perfect season to hit the water and cast a line with your pet! The Upper Mississippi sprawls well beyond its main channel, creating hundreds of tiny islands, channels, and deep pools that harbor more species of fish than any other temperate-climate river in the world. Enjoy public docks and boat landings, rivers, or lakes; the La Crosse Region is your hot spot for fishing. Sure, your pet can’t get their own fishing license, but joining you fishing is sure to satisfy their outdoor craving. 

Landmark Photo Shoots

Landmark Photo Shoots

Sunny the Sunfish | Onalaska, WI

Is your favorite photography subject matter your fur-friend? With that irresistible smile, it’s hard to not want to take pictures all day! Fulfill your urge in the La Crosse Region, full of legendary landmarks to accompany your buddy in their photoshoot. With Sunny the Sunfish and Great River Landing in Onalaska, Grandad Bluff in La Crosse, and other notable locations found in the Region, you’re bound to fill both you and your camera’s memory with an adorable collection of images.

Public Art Walks

Public Art Walks

“Confluence” Mural| Downtown La Crosse, WI

Did you know that there are over 25 public art pieces throughout the La Crosse Region? If your furry friend is not one for water or woods, viewing the many murals and sculptures in the area provides the perfect walk. Not sure where to start? Historic Downtown La Crosse is filled with murals on the side of historic buildings and parking ramps and lovely walks stocked with sculptures as you work your way closer to Riverside Park. Create you and your pet’s bucket list of public art and get inspired!

Trail Treks

Trail Treks

Hass Tract, Lookout #11 | La Crosse, WI

With a region as beautiful as this, it is a no-brainer to want to hike high into the bluffs and enjoy the miles of views. Thankfully, there are a plethora of trails to explore with your pet! For a more rigorous hike, head up to Hixon Nature Trails or Hass Tract. If low-key is more you and your buddy’s speed, check out Lytle’s Landing! Before you start your trek, find updates and safety tips for open trails on the Outdoor Recreation Alliance, Mississippi Valley Conservancy, or DNR websites.

Park Exploration

Park Exploration

Halfway Creek Park | Holmen, WI

Could there be a more timeless adventure than that of visiting a park with your “best friend?” In the La Crosse Region, the parks thrive and are gorgeous settings for a stroll with your pet. Whether you hit famous Riverside Park, escape the city life and venture to Myrick Park, or head over the Big Blue Bridge (Cass St. Bridge) into Minnesota and wander Eagle Bluff Park in La Crescent, you’re sure to relish the sights and cultures. The La Crosse Region highlights La Crosse, WI, Onalaska, WI, West Salem, WI, Holmen, WI, The Town of Campbell, WI, and La Crescent, MN. Be sure to visit their Parks & Rec websites for more details on noteworthy parks to roam.

3 Reasons National Travel & Tourism Week Should Matter to You

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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 such a personal thing. It is different for everyone; different goals, different bucket lists, different risk, 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. While we all stay at home together, travel appears to sit at a standstill. However, we’ve listed three reasons that National Travel & Tourism Week should still matter to you this year.

 “Travel Matters.”

While travel may seem frivolous or as a special occasion to the traveler, it still affects and should matter to 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.”

Let’s break down the data. “2019 was Wisconsin’s best year on record and that building block combined with the spirit of travel will help our industry economically bounce back,” states the Wisconsin Department of Tourism. In Wisconsin, tourism had a $22.2 billion economic impact and supported 202,217 jobs in 2019. One-in-eight jobs within Wisconsin is stained by Tourism activity (Tourism Economics and Longwoods International)! “Without tourism, each Wisconsin household would have to pay an additional $687 to maintain existing services,” explains the Wisconsin Department of Tourism. What is Wisconsin’s competitive advantage? Paired with the state’s overall successful Marketing strategies, Outdoor Recreation is the #1 marketable reason for people to travel to Wisconsin! “The Outdoor Industry Association reports that in Wisconsin, outdoor recreation generates $17.9 billion in consumer spending annually, resulting in 168,000 direct jobs and $1.1 billion in state and local tax revenue” (Tourism Economics and Longwoods International).

“The Spirit of Travel.”

All in all, National Travel and Tourism Week recognizes the spirit of travel uniquely this year by celebrating the industry’s strength, selflessness, and resiliency. This spirit brings joy and memorable experiences to millions of travelers every year and is anticipated to bounce back post-pandemic. Individuals of all backgrounds can celebrate and connect through the spirit of travel. It is found in both far-off places as well as within communities as residents support local businesses and explore at home.

Although times are uncertain, the spirit of travel will not be diminished. Take this time to ponder. Use this time to reflect and to enjoy the mundane. Take this time to plan and dream. This is the time to imagine where you want to be when it’s time to explore. Where do you aspire to visit when it is safe? The spirit of travel still lives in us and someday, we will be able to travel again. When the time is right, the Freedom to Explore Awaits YOU in the La Crosse Region. We cannot wait to safely welcome you soon!

Photo Credit: Colton Nieman

Quiz: What’s Your Travel Persona?

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Find out what your post-quarantine travel persona is and when the time is right, celebrate with a road trip to the La Crosse Region!

Remember what it’s like to take a road trip? Do you daydream about the adventure beyond your front door? Time has passed as you were being socially responsible and self-isolating. Are you the same traveler as you were before quarantining? Well, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, leisure lover, history buff, nature lover, or a social butterfly, the La Crosse Region will meet your traveling needs.

Find Your Travel Style!

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Find out your Traveling Style and when you’re ready,

use your results to plan your road trip to the La Crosse Region!

Your Traveler ID can help you plan the perfect trip with adventure suited to you and your interests! Find your traveling style and get ready to make memories that’ll last a lifetime during your next trip to the La Crosse Region! Whether you are an Adventurist, an Uptowner, a Localist, or a Retreater, the Region is bound to leave you speechless and coming back for more!

NEW Photography Scavenger Hunt

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From landmarks, such as Grandad Bluff and Sunny the Sunfish, to activities like canoeing or hiking, there are endless opportunities to snap a memory in this stunning Region.  Put simply, natural beauty and fun recreation are easy to come by in the La Crosse Region and with everyone carrying their smartphones these days, we know you’ve captured a few fantastic shots! Whether your photos are stored or you’re ready to get out and collect more, Explore La Crosse is promoting the Photo Scavenger Hunt for YOU!

HERE’S HOW TO HUNT:

This is your chance to dig out your photos or get exploring to capture new photos of the La Crosse Region, enter your photos, complete your “Trail,” and get a chance to be featured on one of our many social platforms!

1. Head outside to snap some new, artsy photos that represent you and your favorite hobbies

2. Enter your favorite photography into our form here: FORM

3. Submit FIVE (5) photos to reach the end of your Scavenger Hunt “Trail”

FINISH YOUR TRAIL AND WIN:

If you reach the end of your “Trail” by submitting Five (5) photos or more, you will be entered for a chance to win an Explore La Crosse Prize Pack valued at $75+!

PHOTOGRAPHY IDEAS:

Water Activities, Outdoor Trails, Favorite Hangout, Favorite Food or Drink Order, Shopping, Bird Watching, Arts + Culture, Live Music, Fishing, Biking, Sporting Events, Craft Beverages, Festivals, Winter Fun and More.

LANDMARK IDEAS:

Grandad Bluff, Upper Mississippi National Wildlife Refuge, Sunny the Sunfish, Wisconsin Great River Road, Apple Blossom Scenic Drive, 7 Bridges Road, Wisconsin State Bike Trails, and Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

ENTER NOW >

Note: All photos must be taken within the La Crosse, WI Region. Photos must be submitted by Thursday, April 30, 2020. If you submit less than five photos, you may be featured on our social media but you will not be entered for a chance to win the prize pack. There is a limit of five photos per entry. Please only submit photos that are appropriate for all ages-your photo will not be featured if deemed inappropriate by the Explore La Crosse team.

Disclaimer: By sending in your photo, you are agreeing to the following:

I grant permission to Explore La Crosse, La Crosse County Convention and Visitors Bureau, to use photographs of myself, family and friends that I have submitted. Specifically, Explore La Crosse has my permission to use the photography I submit to further their mission on social media, websites, calendars, email-marketing, paper goods, canvases and other similar mediums.

Where The Driftless Region and Great River Road Collide

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We’re Not Bluffing – We Have Ancient Beauty

The La Crosse Region is nestled in the Driftless Region – a unique part of the world with unparalleled views and ancient, distinct topography. “Drift” refers to glacial drift: the rock and sediment deposited by a glacier as it moves over an area of land. A small piece of the Upper Mississippi Region was left untouched during the last Ice Age, leaving no glacial erosion or deposits. While surrounding landscapes were flattened by glaciers, the Driftless Region remains with the original, rugged terrain of the Upper Midwest. The natural topography reaches into parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois – however the La Crosse Region is special; located where the Mississippi River and Driftless Region collide, beside the Great River Road.

PC: @kaelbwschuster
PC: @kalebwschuster
Striking, ancient bluffs guarantee unique views across the Region.

Choose the Scenic Route

The Great River Road is both a National Scenic Byway and All-American Road that traverses through ten states along the Mississippi River. The La Crosse Region and our famous, Driftless bluffs proudly sit on the route. Our region is part of the 33 Mississippi River towns along Highway 35, and welcomes the many visitors the scenic drive brings every year.

If you’re looking for boundless outdoor adventures, look no further! With trails for hiking, rivers to fish and paddle, challenging cycling routes, and much more, there is definitely a Driftless experience for everyone. The natural landscape of the Driftless Region offers unique experiences for all skill and comfort levels. For a sense of the expanse of the Region, visit Grandad Bluff in La Crosse for a birds-eye view of the City below, Minnesota, and Iowa.

La Crosse Region Stops while Traveling the Great River Road

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!

Learn More >

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. It’s located next to Downtown Onalaska with dining and shopping options to explore while there!

Learn More >

Apple Blossom Scenic Overlook
La Crescent, MN

This famous overlook, located on Apple Blossom Scenic Drive of the Great River Road, showcases a stunning view of the Mississippi River Valley and into the La Crosse Region. It’s named after the thousands of spring apple blossoms and is just a short drive up the bluffs from the city of La Crescent, MN.

Learn More >

Sources and to Learn More:
https://www.sustainabledriftless.org/
https://driftlesswisconsin.com/
https://driftlesswisconsin.com/defining-the-driftless/

NEW Photography Scavenger Hunt

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From landmarks, such as Grandad Bluff and Sunny the Sunfish, to activities like canoeing or hiking, there are endless opportunities to snap a memory in this stunning Region.  Put simply, natural beauty and fun recreation are easy to come by in the La Crosse Region and with everyone carrying their smartphones these days, we know you’ve captured a few fantastic shots! Whether your photos are stored or you’re ready to get out and collect more, Explore La Crosse is promoting the Photo Scavenger Hunt for YOU!

HERE’S HOW TO HUNT:

This is your chance to dig out your photos or get exploring to capture new photos of the La Crosse Region, enter your photos, complete your “Trail,” and get a chance to be featured on one of our many social platforms!

1. Head outside to snap some new, artsy photos that represent you and your favorite hobbies

2. Enter your favorite photography into our form here: FORM

3. Submit FIVE (5) photos to reach the end of your Scavenger Hunt “Trail”

FINISH YOUR TRAIL AND WIN:

If you reach the end of your “Trail” by submitting Five (5) photos or more, you will be entered for a chance to win an Explore La Crosse Prize Pack valued at $75+!

PHOTOGRAPHY IDEAS:

Water Activities, Outdoor Trails, Favorite Hangout, Favorite Food or Drink Order, Shopping, Bird Watching, Arts + Culture, Live Music, Fishing, Biking, Sporting Events, Craft Beverages, Festivals, Winter Fun and More.

LANDMARK IDEAS:

Grandad Bluff, Upper Mississippi National Wildlife Refuge, Sunny the Sunfish, Wisconsin Great River Road, Apple Blossom Scenic Drive, 7 Bridges Road, Wisconsin State Bike Trails, and Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

 

ENTER NOW >

 

Note: All photos must be taken within the La Crosse, WI Region. Photos must be submitted by Thursday, April 30, 2020. If you submit less than five photos, you may be featured on our social media but you will not be entered for a chance to win the prize pack. There is a limit of five photos per entry. Please only submit photos that are appropriate for all ages-your photo will not be featured if deemed inappropriate by the Explore La Crosse team.

Disclaimer: By sending in your photo, you are agreeing to the following:

I grant permission to Explore La Crosse, La Crosse County Convention and Visitors Bureau, to use photographs of myself, family and friends that I have submitted. Specifically, Explore La Crosse has my permission to use the photography I submit to further their mission on social media, websites, calendars, email-marketing, paper goods, canvases and other similar mediums.

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Inexpensive Ways to Get Active in the La Crosse Region

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As Spring and Summer approach us, it’s exciting to think about all the outdoor adventure coming our way! You don’t have to just stay home and rake your leaves… Check out ways to enjoy nature and get outdoors affordably in the La Crosse Region!

Frisbee – The weather is warming and the grass is greening in the Region’s many parks! Whether your companion of choice is a dog, a friend, or your kids, tossing a frisbee is a timeless activity to get you moving. For a spacious park with plenty of space to throw, swing through Riverside Park or Myrick Park in La Crosse, WI, Rowe Park or Holiday Heights Park in Onalaska, WI.

Public Sculptures – The region is home to a variety of sculptures and public art that reflect the history of the area, as well as featuring local artists and their masterpieces. You won’t want to miss these regional gems.
Some of these works include:
– Eagle Landmark: State Street & Riverside Park (Elmer P. Petersen). The Eagle, perched on a 30-ft tree trunk, watches over the park and the Mississippi River.
– Hoeschler Fountain: Riverside Park. The 7 Rivers Region is featured in the seven-fountain water feature. The fountain’s three, larger features represent the junction of the
Mississippi, La Crosse, and Black Rivers.
– Reflections: La Crosse Public Library (Paul T. Grandlund). This fountain piece features a bronze woman in quiet contemplation.
– Anidonts: Myrick Park (Luis Arata). An aluminum abstract of a boy and dog welcome visitors to Myrick Park.
– Water Over the Dam: Fourth & Vine Street (Jeff Weideman). Designed in memory of the 1993 flood, the sculpture portrays the River tumbling over the dam.
– Ellen Hixon: Grandad Bluff Park (Michael Martino). The statue is dedicated to Ellen Hixon, the widow of Gideon Hixon, responsible for saving Grandad Bluff and Hixon Forest from quarry developers.

Wisconsin Great River Road – Get out of the house, pack up the family and hit the road for a day trip on the Wisconsin Great River Road. The scenic Wisconsin Great River Road follows the Mississippi River along the picturesque bluff country and charming river towns. The route features rare views that run for miles and captures the essence of the Driftless Region. It is the longest and oldest National Scenic Byway that runs the length of the Mississippi River through ten states.

Sight See – Create your own scavenger hunt and visit all of the sights and landmarks in the La Crosse Region! Explore the outlook at Granddad Bluff and take selfies with Sunny the Sunfish near the Great River Landing in Onalaska, WI. Revel in the tranquility of the winding path at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe and cherish the sights of Apple Blossom Overlook Park in La Crescent, MN.

Birding – The La Crosse Region and surrounding areas are home to some of the best bird-watching destinations in the Upper Midwest. Some say the Bald Eagles are the most magnificent and iconic birds to the Region. They thrive on the rivers and wooded habitat the area provides. With an impressive wingspan of approximately 7feet, you’re sure to marvel at the Eagles’ majesty as they soar the skies. Grab your binoculars and hit the trails and parks along the rivers for great views of the National Bird.

Hiking – With approximately 100 miles of trails throughout the region, hiking is a great way to stay active and get fresh air. Make sure to trek through Lueth Park, Upper Hixon, Lower Hixon Forest, and other WI State Trails!

Are you ready to make some memories? In the La Crosse Region, adventure does not have to cost you an arm and a leg! Get active outdoors and #explore today!