The La Crosse, Wisconsin, area is rich in scenic beauty, diverse attractions, first-class hospitality, and superb meeting facilities. Centrally located between the states of Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin, La Crosse is the perfect site for regional meetings on the Mississippi. Meeting Planners are encouraged to contact us with questions
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By: Sara Walters
There’s a great assortment of BBQ joints in La Crosse County to try! Whether you like fall-off-the-bone ribs or a nice saucy, smoked-meat sandwich, you can’t go wrong with these five favorites.
Repeatedly voted “Best BBQ” and “Best Caterer” by La Crosse County, this West Salem business has grown to become a popular BBQ hot spot. And for good reason—locals demand their Big Boar! With a traditional menu of sandwiches, ribs, and platters, the sides at Big Boar are also a perk (mac n’ cheese anyone?). Want to take the deliciousness home or to your next gathering? Try the “Pick up ‘n Go BBQ” option and grab a couple bottles of their homemade sauce, while you’re at it.
This franchise favorite continually ranks among the top choices for La Crosse County residents’ BBQ needs. Bring the family for a sit-down dinner and select from a full menu of tasty options. They’ve also got a great catering option that features “pit-smoked BBQ and made-from-scratch sides.”
If ribs are your thing, Piggy’s has Pork Back Ribs you don’t want to miss. Rubbed with herbs and spices and cooked for a full 24 hours, this rack is a BBQ lovers dream. The rest of the smokehouse selection at Piggy’s, a downtown La Crosse staple, is also worth exploring on your next dinner outing.
Mobile meats are the speciality for Sweet Lou’s Barbeque food truck. Owner Andrew Fischer has competed in national BBQ competitions and now takes his talent of slow-smoked meats to the streets of Onalaska and surrounding areas. This is a great pick for a lunch date during warmer months, as Sweet Lou’s is only open from April-November.
The self-proclaimed “really good ribs” at Red Pines are a local favorite. These in-house BBQ smoked ribs go well with the fun lakeside atmosphere of this neighborhood hangout. If you’re dining with a non-BBQ fan, try the signature walleye sandwich. You won’t be disappointed.
Scramble and pack on Friday morning and hope you remember everything so you won’t have to shop for a wrestling singlet or running shoes at a department store chain that you’re not familiar with in a city you don’t know very well.
Winter sports tournament season is upon us, and many will make the trek to La Crosse County for a variety of sports tournaments during the next few months whether it’s for track stars, basketball players, wrestlers or any other sport that your child enjoys.
Here are five matters to consider when planning a sports tournament weekend in the Coulee Region this winter:
Will this visit involve an overnight? It should if you want to make life easier. Will the entire team stay at one hotel or are you on your own? Do you want to be close to downtown like at the Radisson Hotel or Courtyard by Marriott? Or maybe you prefer a location elsewhere like at the AmericaInn of West Salem or Onalaska’s Microtel Inn. The recently remodeled Econo Lodge in La Crosse or Onalaska’s Baymont Suites are also great options. Some families require a place with free breakfast and a hotel pool that can be designated as the child energy burner. Make sure to use hotel ice machines to refresh that cooler of sports drinks and snacks before you head out to the event. Ready for your next trip? Book your accommodations here.
Man (and woman and child for that matter) should not live on tournament hot dogs and Powerade alone. Sometimes sports team overnights include a planned potluck at the hotel, but other meals will be necessary. Lucky for you La Crosse County delivers. Got burger aficionados? Take them to Burger Fusion Co. Is pizza your thing? Pizza Corral has just what you need to get your pizza fix. Looking for a place for both the adults and kids? Head to Two Beagles Brewpub for a great view of Lake Onalaska. The kids can enjoy a juicy burger and you have a selection of their very own craft brews. Maybe you’re looking for a hearty breakfast to fuel your busy day? Head to Breakfast Club and Pub for a blast of the 1980’s. Of course, we can’t forget dessert! Linda’s Bakery in West Salem offers a wide variety of breads, donuts, cakes, etc. You name it, they’ve got it. Choose your next restaurant destination!
When coming to the La Crosse area, why not incorporate some of its best qualities into a family weekend? If it’s before New Year’s, drive or walk through the Rotary Lights holiday display in Riverside Park. Skiers and snowboarders can head to Mount La Crosse. There are beautiful trails to walk on at Hixon Forest and Myrick Park and elsewhere. Drive to a beautiful overlook like Grandad Bluff in La Crosse and take in the picturesque scenery. Or rent snowshoes at Island Outdoors in La Crosse or River Trail Cycles in Onalaska and take in the stillness and beauty of the frozen tundra. That’s not all; we’ve got plenty more where that came from.
If the weather isn’t cooperating, you are still in luck as there are plenty of ways to make an indoors weekend here a hit. Shop inside Valley View Mall located in Onalaska. Visit the many strip malls the area has to offer. If shopping doesn’t appeal, try a game of laser tag or jump in the giant “Human Hamster” balls at Shenanigans Entertainment Center and Sports Bar. Check out Jump Start Adventure Park on Highway B. Or hit up a riddle-themed escape room at the Great Escape of La Crosse. You’ll find plenty to pack your days in La Crosse County. Check out more things to do.
As noted above, important sports equipment is sometimes forgotten during the mad rush to pack for a sports weekend. Sometimes shopping for forgotten items becomes part of the sports weekend tradition. Sport tournament cities can leave you high and dry with nowhere to purchase name brand sporting equipment, but La Crosse doesn’t. This area has almost every retail chain you can think of in addition to specialty stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods and Play it Again Sports. Shop until you drop – we have a great list of places to do just that!
Anastasia Penchi is graduate of UW-La Crosse and a long-time Coulee Region writer who has written for area newspapers and magazines (www.loislaneforhire.com).
Pull out those skis and snowboards – or just rent them for a day – and enjoy the thrill as you zip down the hills and valleys of Mt. La Crosse.
Here are five reasons to head to Mt. La Crosse this winter…
When someone on skis or a snowboard is “carving,” it means they are riding the equipment tilted on a high edge and leaning into their turns until their forearms just about skim the slope. Expert carving enthusiasts do not skid to a stop as they turn, and apparently this feels like riding a roller coaster as the turn radius continues to accelerate. Carving is what most skiers want to do, as it’s the quickest way down a mountain. Make sure to ‘carve-out’ some time in your day to hit one (or all) of the 19 scenic slopes Mt. La Crosse has to offer.
Coming to town and want to have some fun without breaking the bank? The ski hill has specials going on all the time. Mondays nights are for area students, while Tuesdays are focused on the ladies. Wednesday night offers free rentals (that’s right, free) while Thursday offers discounted tickets. Friday nights are Corporate Night, offering a great way to relax with your co-workers as well as Scout Night so bring the whole troop for a fun time. Saturdays offer plenty of fun for families. Sunday deals are geared to church groups. And why not have the best snow day ever? When school gets called off due to too much snow, Mt. La Crosse will have an awesome deal so don’t just accept Cabin Fever for the kiddos, get them outside!
Mt. La Crosse officials surely have some interesting stories behind the names of the runs. I’ll bet someone there knows the history behind the trail “Damnation,” and why it’s also called “Mid-America’s steepest trail.” What’s behind the trail name “Salvation?” Or “Aug’s Access?” My guess for the latter is that some guy named Aug kept making his own shortcut back to the chalet because he was thirsty. I knew a guy with that same name years back who liked to ski. He might have taken such a shortcut. Could it be named after him?
Speed demons have reason to cheer loud here. There are regular races for those with a need for a speed with their competition. Racing participants can start as early as age 5 and can continue on until they are racing for area high schools and beyond. Do you have a similar need? Maybe are you harboring a yet-unfulfilled dream? Join other speed racers on Tuesday nights for the Adult Racing League. You, too, can go fast. Maybe speed isn’t your thing but you enjoy the watching the talent of others? No worries, friend. The ski hill hosts several ski and snowboard competitions through-out the months of January and February.
The Saint Bernard Room is located on the upper level of the Chalet and offers a great hang out to warm up after a day of fun on the hill. A full bar is available with a variety of beverages for you to choose from including local craft beers. Live music and tap takeovers are common occurrences so make sure to check out the website’s calendar to catch one of those special nights. After all of that you’re probably still wondering why it’s called the Saint Bernard Room. Guess you’ll have to pay a visit to find out!
If you would like to learn more about Mt. La Crosse, visit the Mt. La Crosse Ski & Snowboard Facebook Page or visit the webpage at http://mtlacrosse.com/.
Anastasia Penchi is graduate of UW-La Crosse and a long-time Coulee Region writer who has written for area newspapers and magazines (www.loislaneforhire.com).
We will be featuring a new ongoing photo series from Bob Good! Check back periodically!
We also feature a new photo that is shared with us on Instagram. Your photo could be next! Just snap a photo and use #explorelacrosse
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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.
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Do you have someone in your life that enjoys vintage and antique toys? Finding the right gift for them may be a feat but as luck would have it, we have an idea for you. Gasoline Alley Toys & Antiques offers vintage and antique toys. They specialize in toy vehicles dating as far back as the 1970’s. It’s not just about the cars though – you can find gumball or even slot machines perfect for any game room or man cave. Who knows, maybe you’ll find a gift for yourself! See a more complete list of what they offer on their website.
Do you have a goal to shop local this year? The Craft and Vendor Marketplace offers just that. Located in Downtown La Crosse, the marketplace is a cooperative atmosphere where local crafters and entrepreneurs have the opportunity to showcase their products every day. Customers are able to browse the Coulee Region’s largest collection of handmade, made in the USA items, perfect for the gift giving season. Visit them on Facebook.
Based in La Crosse since 1911, The Company Store prides itself on creating high quality down and bedding essentials, sure to keep you and your loved ones warm and cozy all winter. From home décor to gifts for your furry friend, they offer a variety of products. Wait, down and bedding products for gifts? Don’t let that fool you, they offer so much more! Rugs, furniture, mirrors, and even matching pajama sets for the whole family! Don’t believe me? Check out thecompanystore.com and you’ll see exactly what I mean.
Because who doesn’t love a cheese and sausage gift box? Le Coulee Cheese Castle in West Salem boasts over 50 different cheeses to choose from. Find an old favorite or something new and unique. But wait, didn’t I mention sausage too? They are also home to not only Wisconsin sausage but also a selection of honey and syrup. They’ll even do the work for you and ship your gift box anywhere in the US or Canada.
When you step into the toy shop, prepare to feel like a child again. The Toy Shop offers a large variety of everything fun from board games to classic wooden cars. The best part is, the Shop’s staff encourages you to try things out before you buy. Come play pretend in the kitchen or puppet theater, take the wooden trains on a trip around the track, check out the Calico Critter Family’s new home, or have some fun with the latest board game or building set. Learn more about them online at thetoyshoplacrosse.com.
Swing by the Holmen Locker & Meat Market and you’ll be sure to find the perfect gift for anyone on your list this holiday season. Gift baskets or gift certificates are always an option but that’s not all that they offer. Take a step inside and you’ll find a wide variety of fresh meats and cheeses, microbrew beers, wines, specialty foods, and house wares. Learn more by visiting them online.
We will be featuring a new ongoing photo series from Bob Good! Check back periodically!
We also feature a new photo that is shared with us on Instagram. Your photo could be next! Just snap a photo and use #explorelacrosse
https://www.explorelacrosse.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Oktoberfest111.jpg
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.
https://www.facebook.com/bobgoodphotographystudios
https://www.instagram.com/bobgood67/ Instagram
Everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful Mississippi River Valley. We have some great ideas to help you get outside and enjoy the best of nature in our area and have a truly accessible vacation.
Upper Missisisippi U.S. Fish & Wildlife Visitor Center
The Center is located on Brice Prairie in Onalaska and is completely ADA accessible. With a couple miles of paved trails you’ll be able to experience the wildflowers and wildlife along the trail.
View the map of the trails here. These trails bring you to an overlook on Lake Onalaska where you can enjoy pristine views of the Coulee Region.
NASA
Not to be confused with space ships and rockets, NASA (North American Squirrel Association) of the Coulee Region helps support the physically challenged and the elderly with outdoor recreation opportunities. NASA offers lake tours/fishing expeditions on Lake Onalaska, shore fishing, golf, skiing, bicycling, and hunting opportunities. Reservations fill up quickly so be sure to sign up early. Using donated funds and equipment from generous individuals and businesses in the Coulee Region, NASA has been able to provide such opportunities free of charge to those in need, all the while continuing to grow. Please visit their website for more information.
Mosey Landing
Mosey Landing is a completely accessible fishing landing and plans are in the works to add to it the only fully accessible Veteran’s park in Wisconsin. The pier is equipped with benches and pole holders and there is a wheel chair accessible bathroom. Mosey Landing is something you don’t want to miss on the Prairie.
Your itinerary…
Check out Mosey Landing to do some shore fishing on their accessible landing and later leave on a cruise with NASA to soak up the sun on a boat right on Lake Onalaska, pool 7 of the Mississippi River. Maybe put in a fishing rod as well. After you get back from your boat ride, head on over to the Upper Mississippi Fish & Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center and learn about the history of the refuge and the wide variety of birds and animals that call it home. The Visitor Center also boasts over 2 miles of paved flat trails that lead you to their new Lake Onalaska overlook.
By: Sara Walters
One of the region’s top contenders is Rivers Rats on French Island. On the banks of the Mississippi, River Rats is a local favorite, featuring a full menu and bar as well as a waterfront view.
Their Bloody Mary is served with a pepper and onion-infused vodka (photo) that gives it a little more kick than your standard rail option. It’s got bell peppers of all colors as well as a few jalapenos for fans of a nice, spicy Bloody. Although they wouldn’t divulge their trade secrets, this seems to be a unique step in the process.
For Bloody Mary connoisseurs, it’s all about the add-ons. River Rats’ version comes with a skewer that includes a green olive, a pickled onion, a pickle spear, a beef stick, a mushroom and a hearty chunk of pepperjack cheese. They don’t skimp on the snacks, here.
Sometimes Bloody Marys can be too filling, but that’s not the case at River Rats. Their drink is a little more on the tomatoey side and is quite refreshing. Yes, there is a spicy component, but it’s a true beverage and not a meal replacement. And the snacks are generous, but they’re not overdone. They’ve discovered a balanced equation for their signature drink.
River Rats serves their Bloody Mary in a Mason jar glass with an optional beer chaser. They’ve also got a menu of tasty appetizers to go with it, including some delicious spicy shrimp for those who want to keep with the heat.
Drinking a Bloody Mary at River Rats is also about the atmosphere. Tucked back near the water, it’s a bit of a hidden gem. Plus the patio and unique decor are added bonuses. It’s got great service, to boot. River Rats is located at 1311 La Crescent Place and is open daily.
