I have photographed national musicians- American Authors, KISS, Frankie Valli, Sevendust, In This Moment, Papa Roach, Five Finger Death Punch and regional bands – TUGG, The Remainders, and countless others. Since 2015-2017, I was humbled and thankful to be a Best of La Crosse County finalist in the Photographer and Artist categories. Visit bobgoodphotographystudios.com.
The Children’s Museum of La Crosse is proud to be a participant in Blue Star Museums, a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and more than 2,000 museums across America to offer free admission to the nation’s active duty military personnel and their families from Memorial Day through Labor Day (it will start on May 29 at the Children’s Museum of La Crosse since we aren’t open on Mondays). Leadership support for Blue Star Families programming and promotional materials has been provided by MetLife Foundation. A list of participating museums is available at arts.gov/bluestarmuseums.
“Whether they want to use their imaginations at a children’s museum, walk through nature, or encounter animals at the aquarium, Blue Star Museums will help service members and their families create memories this summer,” said Blue Star Families Chief Executive Officer Kathy Roth-Douquet.
“Being a Blue Star Museum allows us to offer military families enriching, budget-friendly opportunities to make their most of their precious time together,” said Children’s Museum Executive Director Anne Snow.
The free admission program is available to any bearer of a Geneva Convention common access card (CAC), a DD Form 1173 ID card (dependent ID), or a DD Form 1173-1 ID card, which includes active duty U.S. military – Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, as well as members of the National Guard and Reserve, U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, NOAA Commissioned Corps – and up to five family members. Some special or limited-time museum exhibits may not be included in this free admission program. For questions on particular exhibits or museums, please contact the museum directly.
The Children’s Museum of La Crosse, located at 207 5th Avenue South in historic downtown La Crosse, offers three floors of hands-on exhibits and programming for children ages 1-12 and their adult companions. Regular hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm, Sunday Noon to 5 pm. Regular admission: $7 per person / $6 per person on Sundays (infants and members free). The Children’s Museum of La Crosse opened on February 28, 1999.
Leanne Poellinger Marketing & Development Director, Children’s Museum of La Crosse 207 5th Ave. S. La Crosse WI 54601 (608) 784-2652 x224 leanne@funmuseum.org funmuseum.org facebook.com/funmuseum
Public Invited to Paddle and View Wildlife Habitat from the River
La Crosse, WI – Mississippi Valley Conservancy offers its second annual paddle tour of the Onalaska Canoe Trail on the north side of Brice Prairie at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 23rd, 2018. This event is part of the Conservancy’s 2018 “Linked to the Land” series of outdoor experiences sponsored by Mayo Clinic Health System-Franciscan Healthcare of La Crosse.
The Onalaska Canoe Trail was opened in 2016 through funding by the Onalaska Tourism Commission. The tour, guided by staff from the Upper Mississippi River National Fish & Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center and Midwest Fisheries, will navigate through the backwaters of the Black River where paddlers can enjoy a leisurely and scenic canoe tour. Stops along the way will allow viewing of wildlife and river bluffs from the water.
Canoes and kayaks will launch from Lytles Landing and paddle to Fred Funk Landing, for a total of 4.3 miles. A limited number of canoes will be available to borrow via pre-registration, along with equipment and life jackets. Registration will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis. All paddlers are asked to pre-register by June 20th to allow coordinators to best plan for event logistics and group safety.
If you have your own canoe or kayak, please plan to drop it off at Lytles Landing by 9:30 a.m. and then bring your vehicle back to Fred Funk Boat Landing. All paddlers should plan to be at Fred Funk Boat Landing between 8:30 – 9:45 a.m. to catch a free shuttle to Lytles Landing.
What to bring: Hat, sunscreen, shoes that will get wet. If you plan to paddle your own canoe or kayak, please bring and wear your own personal floatation device (PFD/life jacket).
Directions: From La Crosse follow Hwy 53 north to exit OT. Take OT into Midway, turn left at stop sign and follow ZN to Z. Take a right at stop sign and follow Z to Lytles Landing. From Lytles Landing follow Z and turn right on ZB and follow ZB to Fred Funk Landing.
About Mississippi Valley Conservancy
Founded in 1997, Mississippi Valley Conservancy is a nationally accredited regional land trust that has permanently protected more than 19,613 acres of scenic lands in southwestern Wisconsin by working with private landowners, businesses and local communities on voluntary conservation projects. The focus of the Conservancy is to conserve the forests, prairies, wetlands, streams and farms that support native wildlife and enrich communities, for the health and well-being of current and future generations. Learn more about programs, services, events, volunteer opportunities, and membership atwww.MississippiValleyConservancy.org.
Second Annual Hiking “Challenge” to Feature Treasures of Protected Lands
LA CROSSE, WI – Friends, families, and organizations are invited to hike the Trail Trek Challenge – a team treasure-hunt and fundraising event that takes place on La Crosse area nature preserves on Sunday, June 10, kicking off at 8:00 a.m. at Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center, in Onalaska. In the event, sponsored by Organic Valley and other area businesses, competing teams raise funds to support Mississippi Valley Conservancy, the accredited land trust that permanently protects more than 4,000 acres of public land in the area, including the properties where the hiking event takes place.
In one morning, participating teams will hike three nature preserves (destinations to be revealed on event day) for a total of 3-4 miles. Along the way, they’ll be hunting to identify the unique natural treasures on each trail. Upon completing a unique three-hike passport, teams will head back to event headquarters for results, lunch, and entertainment. The teams that complete their hiking passports and raise the most sponsorship donations and are the winners. All participants will be rewarded with lunch, commemorative gifts, and sponsor samples and goodies.
Registration and event details for the Trail Trek Challenge are now available at www.MississippiValleyConservancy.org/TTC. Anyone can be a team captain, create their own team page on the registration site, and invite friends to join their team. The cost of registration is $15 for adults and $10 for youth (16 and under). Paper registration forms are also available at the Conservancy office. The deadline for paper registrations is May 24 and for online registrations is June 1.
“The Trail Trek Challenge is a fun and easy way to get outdoors with friends and support protection of the blufflands, prairies, wildlife, and family farms – all natural treasures that make this such a great place to live, work, and play,” said Sister Helen Elsbrnd, Conservancy board member and captain of last year’s winning team.
The event committee has gone all-out to add more trails to this year’s event, with unique hiking routes for each team, according to Carol Abrahamzon, executive director at the Conservancy. “Many of last year’s participants said they weren’t previously aware of the public lands and trails. This year, trail ambassadors at each trailhead will challenge teams to discover nature’s treasures from a list provided for each of their three assigned hikes,” she said.
“Businesses and organizations are encouraged to recruit teams to participate,” said Sarah Bratnober, Conservancy communications director, “Our presenting sponsor, Organic Valley, even awards growth incentive points to participating employees as part of their wellness program. We encourage teams to get creative with names, themes, and colors, too. We’re all birds of a feather in protecting the natural habitats and farmlands of Wisconsin’s Driftless Area.”
Sponsors of the 2018 Trail Trek Challenge include Organic Valley, WKBT-TV, Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center, Mid-West Family Broadcasting-La Crosse, Trane-Ingersoll Rand, Altra Financial, People’s Food Co-op, Dynamic Recycling, Subway, Designing Jewelers, Trust Point, Verve, Dairyland Power Cooperative, MOKA, GoMacro, Advertising Concepts, and Kwik Trip.
About Mississippi Valley Conservancy
Founded in 1997, Mississippi Valley Conservancy is a nationally accredited regional land trust that has permanently protected more than 19,613 acres of scenic lands in southwestern Wisconsin by working with private landowners, businesses and local communities on voluntary conservation projects. The focus of the Conservancy is to conserve the forests, prairies, wetlands, streams and farms that support native wildlife and enrich communities, for the health and well-being of current and future generations. Learn more about programs, services, events, volunteer opportunities, and membership at www.MississippiValleyConservancy.org.
With an impressive lineup of country stars hitting the stage at the newly-formed festival, Country Boom, the La Crosse area is excited to host this fun-filled event. Here are five things you should know before you head to the festival on July 11-13, 2019.
Location, Location, Location
A former golf course, Maple Grove isn’t quite the cornfield the acts will be singing about. Instead, fest goers can relax in the shade of mature trees and beat the heat of summer while enjoying the show. Located just outside of La Crosse in West Salem, Wisconsin, it’s easily accessible and convenient for Interstate travelers.
Stay and Play
Country Boom is a weekend-long event, so if you plan to party, plan to stay. Options for lodging include camping on-site and a variety of nearby hotels, some of which will provide shuttles. For those who plan to rough it, the campsites don’t offer electricity, though there will be a shower trailer available for use.
Music that Rocks
Boasting a lineup of Nashville hotshots, Country Boom has big headliners for a newer festival. Both Friday and Saturday night feature an array of chart toppers with some solid opening acts to enjoy, as well…to name a few…Kip Moore, Kane Brown, and Granger Smith. See the full line-up here.
Take it up a Notch
Want the full VIP experience? County Boom’s got it. Indoor private bathrooms, air conditioning, all you can drink, main stage seating and exclusive dining options—what’s not to like?
Big City Bands, Small Town Feel
Yes, you’ll be able to hear your favorite acts performing their radio hits. But the beauty of Country Boom is that it all happens in a small town with a true country feel. No big city traffic, just down home music fans.
Disclaimer: This is just my perspective on La Crosse County events, businesses and activities. I’m only one local opinion. Explore the rest of the site to learn more on those that I’ve missed.
Sara Walters is a writer, mom and marketing professional. She lives in La Crescent, MN with her husband and two daughters, Caroline and Maggie. Visit Sara’s website at creativecontentandconsulting.com.
Explore La Crosse is happy to welcome the 2018 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III Women’s and Men’s Track & Field Outdoor Championships, taking place May 24-26 at Roger Harring Stadium at Veterans Memorial Field Sports Complex at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
This is the the fourth time UW-La Crosse has hosted the NCAA III Outdoor Championships and it is the largest Division 3 National Championships that the NCAA hosts.
What: 2018 NCAA Division III Women’s and Men’s Outdoor Track & Field Championships
When: May 24-26, 2018
Where: Roger Harring Stadium at Veterans Memorial Field Sports Complex
Not many states have as many natural recreation opportunities as we do in Wisconsin.
And thanks to the DNR, we all have the opportunity to enjoy them on Free Fun Weekend! Here are five things you’ll need to know to take advantage of this fee-free event, held this year on June 2nd and 3rd.
No license required
Fish to your heart’s content, license-free. Do you have a kiddo who has expressed interest in the sport? Try it out before purchasing a license. If you’ve never tried trout fishing, this is the perfect time to give it a shot since there’s no trout stamp required. You can even use free fishing equipment available at more than 50 state parks, DNR offices and partner organizations. Keep in mind, though, that all rules and limits do still apply.
Ride like the wind
This weekend only, all state trail fees are waived! This includes registration fees for ATVs. Gas up your ride and hit the trails, or just enjoy the perks of free vehicle admission at all state parks.
Events galore
Many of Wisconsin’s State Parks will be hosting free events over the course of the weekend. Explore your area park for activities like geocaching, archery, kayak demonstrations, craft vendors and kids activities.
Hashtag it up
Wisconsin State Parks has an exciting initiative that focuses on promoting good health through the great outdoors. When you post photos of your adventure weekend, be sure to include the hashtag #OutWiGo to join the movement.
Discover adventure
Follow Wisconsin DNR on social media to stay up-to-date on all activities happening during Free Fun Weekend. You can also visit their website for specifics on state park events near you.
Disclaimer: This is just my perspective on La Crosse County events, businesses and activities. I’m only one local opinion. Explore the rest of the site to learn more on those that I’ve missed.
Sara Walters
Writer
Sara Walters is a writer, mom and marketing professional. She lives in La Crescent, MN with her husband and two daughters, Caroline and Maggie. Visit Sara’s website at creativecontentandconsulting.com.
You wouldn’t be in Wisconsin if you didn’t celebrate all things dairy.
Kick-off your summer fun with this annual festival that does just that! June Dairy Days 2018 will take place June 1st – 3rd at Village Park in West Salem, WI – just a short drive from La Crosse.
A family favorite
Start off the weekend with a boom! Don’t miss the Friday night fireworks! Of course the Saturday parade is a biggie, but don’t stop there. Give the kids their own driver’s seat and let them feel the need for speed. Well, maybe not, but they’ll definitely have fun in the kid’s tractor pull which gives children ages 4-6 a chance to pedal as fast as they can go. Last, but certainly not least, a festival wouldn’t be complete without the carnival rides and face painting!
Calling all car show fanatics
Do you have a love for vintage, antique, or just seeing pieces of the past? Then you should definitely check out the Classic Car Show. Held at the Union State Bank Parking Lot, you can peruse a collection of classic automobiles that definitely boast some serious street cred. Maybe you own one of your own and want to show it off? Easy peasy! June Dairy Days (JDD) offers free entry, complimentary chicken dinner or JDD food stand equivalent for first 150 collector cars registered.
Feel the burn
No festival would be complete without live music. 2018’s June Dairy Days starts things off on the Main Stage Friday at 8:30 PM with a local favorite: Burnin’ Whiskey. This high energy country rock band will be sure to have you off your seats, enjoying the perfect start to the summer season. Be sure to check out the full schedule for live music performances throughout the weekend including another popular band, Rough-House Rox. They cover everything from ACDC to Zep, Bon Jovi, Def Lep, Journey, Aerosmith, and Kiss.
Reel in the big one
June Dairy Days is the perfect opportunity to mix fishing pleasure with family as it offers the annual Fishing Tournament on Lake Neshonoc. Simply pay a small entry fee and show the youngsters how it’s done. Winners will receive prize money and get their names posted in Village Park. Just promise you won’t get mad if you are out-fished by an eight-year-old. It happens.
But you said there would be dairy…
Of course, we can’t go without mentioning the food! It’s one of the most important aspects of any festival but certainly deserves to be mentioned when you’re specifically talking about cheese curds and ice cream. In fact, any festival that dedicates a tent to ice cream is pretty great in our book.
Grandad Bluff has become not only a destination point for thousands, but also a symbol of the beautiful Coulee Region. The 600-ft high bluff overlooks the city of La Crosse. The view of the Mississippi River Valley includes the three states of Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. Wisconsin Trails readers voted this “the most scenic view in the state”. The park features a shelter house, coin-operated binoculars, picnic areas and is the site of the annual Skyrocker`s New Year`s Eve Fireworks Show.
The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe will forever be a spiritual destination for visitors from all over the world. The Shrine is nestled in on over 100 acres of God’s Country in the Mississippi River Valley. In addition to the many beautiful chapels, statues, gardens, and devotional areas, the Shrine has a full service café and gift shop open daily.
The Great River Landing in Onalaska, WI plays host to the trailhead of the Great River State Trail with showers and locker rooms for bicyclists enjoying the 101 miles of interconnecting state trails. During the winter months users can enjoy hiking, snowshoeing or cross country skiing. The landing also offers beautiful views of the surrounding area including Lake Onalaska.
Up for a road trip? Enjoy beautiful scenery, access to excellent hiking, fishing, scenic overlooks, and of course the picturesque Mississippi River along the Wisconsin Great River Road. U.S. Highway 35 covers 250 miles in the state of Wisconsin, from Prescott in the north to Kieler in the south.
The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge has a Visitor Center on Brice Prairie with many displays and exhibits, a bookstore, and over two miles of trail through a renovated sand prairie. The refuge is 261 miles long, the longest in the nation and one of the most visited. The Refuge has 96 miles of marked canoe trails. Including the Lake Onalaska Canoe Trail starting at Lytle’s Landing on Brice Praire and traveling through the backwaters to Lake Onalaska.
The historic McGilvray “7 Bridges” Road trail is located in the Van Loon State Wildlife Area in Northwest La Crosse County. The trail is 1.8 miles long, one way. It was formerly a County Road which contains a unique combination of five rare bowstring arch truss bridges and one low truss bridge which was adopted from Pierce County. The Van Loon Wildlife area is a globally significant floodplain forest which is notable for its wide variety of wildlife. It is listed under Wisconsin Important Bird Areas and is a great trail to snowshoe or cross country ski.
Four rail-bed trails spanning nearly 101 miles from Reedsburg, WI, to Marshland, WI, offer some of the best hiking and biking in the region. The trails take you through marshes and valleys, along the rivers, and offer access to several communities, parks, and recreation areas, including Perrot State Park, Veteran’s Memorial Park, and the La Crosse River Prairies State Natural Area. Snowmobiles occupy the trails in the winter but they are also open to those looking to cross country ski, snowshoe, or hike.
Sunny the Sunfish
A quick drive north of downtown Onalaska along the Great River Road (Hwy 35) takes you to the Sunny the Sunfish sculpture and a scenic overlook perched above Lake Onalaska. Take a quick picture with Sunny and then soak in the multifaceted hues over Lake Onalaska.
Starting in late May you should plan to bike or drive the 17 mile scenic Apple Blossom Drive, to experience the natural beauty of blossoming apple trees. Ride along the bluff-top roads that overlook the Mississippi River and La Crosse, Wisconsin and descend into the Pine Creek Valley for your return trip back to La Crescent, Minnesota.
Looking to explore via bicycle? Click here to view an interactive map which provides a detailed description, elevation, cue sheets, and more.
Coming in the Fall?
Trees are blossoming throughout spring and summer, but as you drive or bike in the fall, plan to stop and pick fresh apples, taste the local apple cider, and purchase your fall pumpkins. Winter is also an opportune time to visit the area, experience perfect snowy landscapes, and snap photos of the migratory birds of the river valley area.
