Explore Between the Bluffs of La Crescent and La Crosse on an Epic Trolley Tour Experience!
From local wine and legendary history to breathtaking views atop ancient bluffs, experience the wonder of the La Crosse Region with these captivating trolley tour tickets.
Enter to Win the Explore La Crosse Ultimate Features Fest Sweepstake!
Enter for a chance to win two VIP concert tickets to Features Fest, a music festival at the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway in West Salem, Wisconsin! Join the party on August 30th to enjoy the lineup including hit singer, Dustin Lynch, and local artists like Blue Collar 40 and Corey Wise! Enter below for a chance to win free tickets to Features Fest!
Sweepstakes: Entries Valid July 31st – August 22nd, 2024
Ultimate Features Fest Sweepstake Includes:
Two VIP Passes to Features Fest!
Features Fest is a music and camping festival at the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway in West Salem, Wisconsin. VIP access includes a pre-party with food and beverages, 4 drink tickets during the show, private bar and toilets, VIP parking, a chance to win prizes during the pre-party, and front stage access. Enter for a chance to win tickets to this unforgettable event!
The La Crosse Region has over 100 different culinary eateries!
Do you enjoy savoring locally sourced ingredients at charming bistros, indulging in innovative dishes at upscale restaurants, or diving into vibrant, classic flavors? Come discover why these restaurants are your next must-visit for a culinary getaway.
The La Crosse Region’s Foodie Scene has Savory Flavors Waiting to be Discovered!
Taqueria Pato Azul | Mexican Cuisine
Broaden your palate at Taqueria Pato Azul – which is Spanish for blue duck! This eclectic Mexican restaurant serves authentic Mexican cuisine with a Bleu Duck twist. They offer a variety of Mexican dishes for all palates, a full bar with craft cocktails, Spanish wines and beer, AND a favored, vibrant ambiance!
Rudy’s Drive-In is an authentic 1950s drive-in restaurant with roller skating carhops. They offer burgers, chicken and fish sandwiches, hot dogs, chicken tenders, cheese curds, and much more! On a hot summer day, join them for amazing Root Beer floats, shakes, dole whip, and fun-flavored ice cream.
Inspired by a mix of rustic Italian classics, Roman street food, and the red-sauce of childhood, SAGRA is the ideal, refined choice for your meal. They feature house-made pastas and charcuterie with height-of-season produce to celebrate classic dishes. A curated wine list recognizes fashionable Italian varietals that flirt with hip, low intervention, nouveau selections.
Buzzard Billy’s Flying Carp Cafe is a unique Cajun restaurant & bar with a lively and hospitable atmosphere. If you’re looking to branch out of your normal routine, this is the place to do it! Buzzard Billy’s offers authentic New Orleans-style cuisine, steaks, seafood, sandwiches and a great draft beer selection. Buzzard’s is located in restored 130 year old hotel in downtown La Crosse.
At Mimi’s Kitchen one can enjoy the best variety of Pho in the La Crosse area; including their house special, Pho King Noodle alongside Thai and Southeast Asian dishes. Additionally, the family-owned business has a deli brimming with Hmong sticky rice, sausage, Hmong eggrolls and more.
Crossroads Bar and Grill is where the fun never ends and the flavors never cease to amaze! Craving a juicy burger, or eager to show case your pool and golf skills? They’ve got you covered! Crossroads is a place where good times meet exciting food. Get Ready for flavor-packed adventure!
Did someone say Tiki Bar? You heard that right! Visit Moxie’s for a satisfying blend of American classic fares with an island twist, tropical cocktails, and refreshing brews. Enjoy Moxie’s great American food in a pub style setting with optional outdoor seating and docks right on the Black River to park your boat. Enjoy a cocktail with lunch or dinner while watching the river flow by.
4 Sisters Wine Bar & Tapas Restaurant is located in the heart of Historic Downtown La Crosse, with views of the majestic Mississippi River and Riverside Park. They specialize in a unique selection of Tapas-style cuisine bursting with big flavor! At 4 Sisters, their Tapas-style dining, like many other parts of the world, is a selection of smaller signature dishes to enjoy with your entourage.
The La Crosse Region has it all from scenic highways and byways, to miles and miles of meandering waterways that are an absolute paradise for adventure seekers of every type.
Explore the La Crosse Region from the Highway
Captivating views are just a road trip away!
Grandad Bluff
Grandad Bluff has become not only a destination point for thousands, but also a famous symbol of the great Driftless Region. The 600-ft high bluff overlooks the city of La Crosse, the Mississippi River Valley, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. Just a short 10-minute drive up a winding bluff road there are legendary sights of summer greenery. This signature sight is a bucketlist must when visiting the La Crosse Region.
Swing through La Crescent, MN along Apple Blossom Scenic Drive for a short, but epic scenic overlook of the region. Wind your way up the charming bluff and ascend at the designated overlook for a view of a lifetime. Next, walk down a short path and into the woods that opens up to an expansive, rocky view of the entire state below. This route is famous for its breathtaking landscape bursting with thousands of apple blossoms in the spring!
Up for a road trip? Enjoy beautiful scenery, access to excellent hiking, fishing, and boating, rugged bluffs, 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. Over two-thirds of that distance traverses protected land, offering myriad birdwatching and other outdoor opportunities. And 33 charming river towns dot the landscape along the highway providing stopping points to find farmer’s markets, wineries & breweries, and more.
The Great River Landing in Onalaska, WI plays host to the trailhead of the Great River State Trail, on which bicyclists can enjoy the 101 miles of interconnecting state trails and enjoy beautiful views of Lake Onalaska and the Black River. The Great River Landing is renowned for its natural beauty, Welcome Center, and friendly atmosphere. Another famous stop along the Great River Road is Sunny the Sunfish; a massive and brightly colored sunfish sculpture that reaches 15 feet high and 25 feet long. He, and the overlook of which he sits, are ideal family-photo opportunities.
Coast the calm waterways at sunset or turn it up a notch on majestic, renowned rivers. The La Crosse Region offers adventure for both paddlers of all levels and boaters.
Mississippi River/ Riverside Park
The famous Riverside Park of La Crosse is the center of an active community. At the confluence of three rivers, Riverside Park is designed for active lifestyles and for those that want to relax and watch the river slowly pass by. The park is just blocks away from Historic Downtown La Crosse’s restaurants and shopping stops, the La Crosse Convention Center, and a multitude of lodging options. The park also offers a variety of docking options with public docks on the south end as well as a levee which big riverboats and Viking River Cruises use to port.
Onalaska of the La Crosse Region, is memorable with its breathtaking scenery of rocky bluffs, enveloped by wooded trails perfect for vibrant hikes. The town offers unparalleled views overlooking Lake Onalaska, the Black River, and the majestic Mississippi River. Lake Onalaska is known for its sparkling water views seen next to Sunny the Sunfish and the Great River Landing, and is under the direction of the Upper Mississippi National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, which encourages excellent angling opportunities year-round.
One of Western Wisconsin’s most popular campground destinations is located in West Salem, WI and is just 14 miles from La Crosse. Neshonoc Lakeside Campground Resort offers canoe and kayak rentals for paddlers who wish to explore and relax on Lake Neshonoc’s beautiful, placid waters. Enjoy the local lake by kayak, canoe or motor boat rentals and or stay at one of their immaculate campground facilities.
Located three miles south of La Crosse on the Mississippi River and boasting over 300 campsites, is Goose Island Campground & Park. This destination is the largest county campground in Wisconsin and offers amenities for campers and day-use visitors. Utilize kayak and canoe rentals, two nature trails, the public swimming beach, and more! Goose Island offers excellent fishing, wildlife sightings, and sunsets views.
Pettibone Park was opened in 1901 and is favored by both regional residents and visitors alike. The park is popular for its beach, but is also home to park shelters, sand volleyball courts, trails, a disc golf area, fishing, and plenty of open space for making memories.
The La Crosse Region is home to a confluence of rivers including the Mississippi, Black, La Crosse and Root Rivers. Canoe trails, launches, and outfitters in the area make it one of the best paddling destinations in the Midwest. Learn more and enjoy today!
Experience the La Crosse Region’s Exciting Museums, Historical Landmarks, and Outdoor Learning Sites!
Dive into a world of discovery in the La Crosse Region, where kids can explore rich history and vibrant culture through hands-on experiences! Visit engaging museums, fascinating historical landmarks, and outdoor learning sites to uncover the stories of the communities that have shaped this beautiful area. Get ready to learn, play, and to be inspired by the past!
Norskedalen Heritage Center
This “Norwegian Valley” center is dedicated to preserving and sharing the natural environment and heritage of the surrounding Coon Valley region in Southwest Wisconsin. With a Visitors Center, a historical homestead, an arboretum, a Heritage Site, and nature trails, Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center is truly an adventure-packed destination.
Gideon and Ellen Hixon were early pioneers, community builders, and philanthropists in La Crosse. Their home was donated to the La Crosse County Historical Society by their descendants in 1965, complete with most of its original furnishings. Tours of their beautifully preserved home bring together local history and decorative arts history into one fascinating local story.
Second Nature at Reads Creek is like stepping into a magical garden adventure! This awesome spot is a nursery, greenhouse, gift shop, and landscape design center all rolled into one. Kids are invited to explore and imagine, dream big, and discover the coolest plants in all sorts of colors, shapes, and sizes. Check out the super cool koi pond and relax in the rocking chairs on the porch with amazing views of the valley.
The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge Visitor Center in Brice Prairie is like a nature treasure hunt waiting for you! Explore super cool displays and exhibits, a cozy bookstore, and over two miles of fun trails through a beautifully restored sand prairie. This amazing refuge stretches 261 miles, making it the longest in the whole country! Get ready to explore, spot awesome wildlife in the great outdoors.
Open in Historic Downtown La Crosse since 1999, the Children’s Museum celebrates the power of play with three floors of interactive exhibits for ages 1-10 with adult companions. Enjoy family fun with youth entertainment and learning opportunities. This is a great way to get the family active indoors on a rainy day!
The Pump House Regional Arts Center presents visual arts, performing arts, and a wide variety of educational programming. The Pump House has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1979 and is a City of La Crosse Historic Landmark. The building served as the City Water Works until 1914.
Experience the surprising connections between our past, our present, and each other. The La Crosse Area Heritage Center will provide unique opportunities for visitors to discover the astounding stories of all who came before. As a curated museum, cultural center, and gathering place, the La Crosse Area Heritage Center is both seeker and keeper of stories that matter.
The Dahl Auto Museum includes an illustrated timeline of the Dahl Automotive five generation history with Ford Motor Company. Approximately 20 antique and classic cars are on display to highlight each decade from Dahl Automotive inception in 1911. To incorporate historic La Crosse, the museum also features a re-creation of the Starlite Drive-In Theatre.
Rainbow Ridge Farms Bed & Breakfast is like stepping into a storybook adventure on a real, working farm from the turn of the century! Tucked away in a peaceful valley, this charming farm is the perfect place for kids to explore and have fun. Depending on the season, you can help milk goats, feed baby animals, work in the garden, and collect eggs for a delicious breakfast. There are always new activities to discover at Rainbow Ridge!
Hidden Hills is the ultimate adventure spot for kids and families! This local, family-friendly petting farm is packed with fun activities and adorable animals to meet. Get ready to feed and pet a mini horse, cows, pigs, sheep, bunnies, and more. But that’s not all—there’s a super cool Nerf course, towers and chains for epic sponge water wars, and so much more to explore and enjoy. Come join the fun and make awesome memories at Hidden Hills!
What better way to celebrate the warming temps than to savor frozen custard or your favorite ice cream flavor! Even better, Wisconsin boasts of a multitude of dairy farms, contributing to the feel-good taste in every bite.
We’ve pulled together a list of some legendary, La Crosse Region ice cream parlors and specialty shops with treats to savor this season.
The Pearl Ice Cream Parlor
Located on Pearl Street in Historic Downtown La Crosse, The Pearl has become a local summer staple. Travel back in time at the authentic 1930’s shop with an old, wooden counter, vintage milkshake machines, and more. The Pearl sells over 20 homemade ice cream flavors made from their vintage soda fountain. Whether you prefer classic vanilla and mint chocolate chip or are more daring with blue moon and black licorice flavors, make sure to get your scoop served on a fresh waffle cone! If hard-serve ice cream or milkshakes are not your style, don’t worry… they have Ice Cream Pops, Ice Cream Sandwiches, Coffee and handcrafted chocolates to try too!
Le Coulee Cheese Castle
“We may be small in size, but our selection of Wisconsin Cheese is large!” Started in 1980 by experienced cheesemakers, Le Coulee Cheese Castle is located in West Salem and is known for its Wisconsin cheese, Wisconsin sausage, ice cream cones, and gifts. The family-owned business features 8 flavors of ice cream, hand-dipped to perfection. Cool off while you shop around for unique cheddars, artisan cheeses, Wisconsin maple syrup, fudge, and more!
The Sweet Shop
Welcome to The Sweet Shop in La Crosse! Specializing in homemade, hand-dipped chocolates and homemade ice cream, this local shop is a can’t-miss this summer. Did you know the local sweet-spot also offers seasonal specialties? Visit them all year with their pecan, Easter Eggs, custom Shamrock Shakes, sweet treats on Valentine’s Day, and Pumpkin Spice ice cream!
Holmen Meat Locker
The Holmen Meat Locker was opened in the 1940s as a meat processing plant for local farmers and has since grown into a famous location for smoked meats, cheeses, micro-brew beers, wines, ice cream, and housewares. After you do a little browsing in their specialty market, satisfy your sweet tooth with a variety of ice cream flavors, a malt, or a shake! It is truly a one-stop-shop to support local and fix all your sweet and salty cravings!
Rudy’s Drive-In Restaurant
Rudy’s Drive-In is an authentic 1950s drive-in restaurant with roller skating carhops. They offer burgers, chicken and fish sandwiches, hot dogs, chicken tenders, cheese curds and much more! On a hot summer day, join them for their amazing Root Beer floats, frozen yogurt, dole whip, and unique flavor burst ice cream.
Now, Get Moo-vin’!
Summer is here and creamy treats are calling. Support local businesses while you celebrate National Ice Cream Month!
Water has a magical way of captivating the human spirit. For time immemorial it has drawn explorers, mystics, and weekend warriors to its shores in search of adventure, reflection, or some good ol’ fashioned fun.
Enter La Crosse, Wisconsin, a booming college town on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River. If there was ever a place for water lovers to unite, this is it! Not only does it sit on the United States’ largest river, it is also home to the Black River, the La Crosse River, Blue Lake, Target Lake, Lake Onalaska, Lake Neshonoc, the Root River, and so much more.
With so much to offer, it can be hard knowing where to begin.
You can start simple by grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many amazing restaurants that dot the banks of the area’s rivers and lakes. Then you can grab your canoe or kayak, or rent one locally, and follow one of the many paddling trails that crisscross the greater La Crosse area.
Looking for even more action? Then it’s time to grab your rod and reel and head out for some world-class bass and panfish fishing. There is a reason the region is home to the giant Sunny the Sunfish statue. Finally, if you love the idea of a day on the water but do not yet have your own gear, then La Crosse has plenty of options to rent it all.
Dining
Looking for a bite to eat with a view? Then you’ve come to the right place! La Crosse offers everything from fine dining to the traditional Wisconsin supper club experience, all with beautiful views of the water.
Huck Finn’s On The Water
Voted “La Crosse’s Best Outdoor Dining”, Huck Finn’s is a local institution. Relax on the river overlooking North Bay Marina and enjoy their famous Herb Lemonade or Bloody Mary’s. Then get ready for mouth watering burgers, juicy steaks, and fresh walleye.
The Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern
Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern offers fine dining with arguably downtown La Crosse’s best riverfront patio. Get ready for an unforgettable meal, superb service, excellent wine, and hopefully a stunning sunset to top it all off!
Sullivan’s Supper Club
Enjoy classic dining along the Mississippi River and immerse yourself in Wisconsin’s Supper Club tradition at Sullivan’s Supper Club. If you’re lucky, you can enjoy some classics like their shrimp dinner or a savory Filet Mignon on their coveted patio.
Pettibone Boat Club
Did somebody say Tiki Bar? Pettibone Boat Club, with their expansive patio and one-of-a-kind tiki bar, is definitely worth a stop. The patio offers 270 degree views of the Mississippi River and great burgers, wraps, sandwiches, and one-of-a-kind fresh fish.
Paddling Trails
There is no better way to explore a river town than by paddling its water trails. La Crosse is home to numerous options including the Black River Trail, Goose Island Paddling Trail, La Crosse River Paddling Trail, and the Lake Onalaska Canoe Trail.
Black River Trail
A great way to spend the day is on the Black River around French Island. You can grab a bite to eat at Huck Finn’s, rent your preferred water craft from Island Outdoors, and then enjoy a leisurely paddle up and down the Black River. If you really want to go all out, paddle across the river to Moxie’s Tiki Bar for a Rum Runner or Mojito!
Goose Island Canoe Trail
Goose Island County Park serves as the trailhead for the seven-mile Goose Island Canoe Trail. The full trail takes about 4–5 hours to complete and winds through the scenic Mississippi River backwaters. The fishing is amazing, and the views are breathtaking.
Goose Island County Park also hosts the county’s largest campground, a general store, and canoe rentals. Unlike the Black River Trail, this is a B.Y.O.B. destination.
Lake Onalaska Canoe Trail
Another great option is the relatively new Lake Onalaska Canoe Trail. It takes you through the Mississippi backwaters into Lake Onalaska. The trip from Lytle’s Landing to Fred Funk Landing takes about four miles, and it is another three miles to Mosey’s Landing, home to the local legend, Red Pines Bar and Grill.
Fishing
There is no better feeling than casting a line across the water, apart from casting said line and feeling a bite! La Crosse’s unique location in Wisconsin’s Driftless Area results in quality fishing to excite almost any angler. Whether you are after bass, sunfish, walleye, or even trout, the area boasts plentiful populations.
Bass Fishing on the Mississippi River
There is a reason the area hosts countless bass fishing tournaments each year, and it’s not because of the beautiful views and great restaurants. It is the high quality largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing that draws in the crowds. But you don’t have to be a competitive angler to land a lunker. Given the productivity of the river and its backwaters, beautiful fish can be found by even the most novice angler.
Pan Fishing on Lake Onalaska and Lake Neshonoc
If you’ve ever stopped at the Lake Onalaska Overlook, then you’ve come across Sunny the “Giant” Sunfish. The reason the city hosts a 15-foot tall giant sunfish statue is because it has been named the “Sunfish Capital of the World.”
Any parent with young kids knows that all it takes is some wax worms, a bobber, and some hungry sunnies to keep kids interested. Just make sure you’re paying attention, as the local panfish grow to healthy sizes and you won’t want to let them get away!
Fly Fishing in Root River
While not as well-known as the area’s bass and panfish angling, the Driftless Area hosts some of the best fly-fishing in southern Minnesota and Wisconsin. If you are looking for a unique fishing experience, then grab your fly rod and head out onto one of the area’s many trout streams, including the famous Root River.
Boat Rentals
Don’t worry. You don’t have to have your own boat to enjoy all that La Crosse has to offer. There are a number of rental options in the La Crosse area that can outfit you with either a powerboat or human-powered vessel.
Pontoons and Fishing Boats – Does your idea of a great day on the water involve cruising around in a pontoon or fishing the backwaters with the speed and comfort of a fishing boat? Then check out one of the La Crosse area’s premier boat rental companies.
Schafer’s River Rentals
Schafer’s rents everything. From pontoons and fishing boats to canoes and kayaks, they have it all. If fishing, be sure to stop in their bait shop for up-to-date fishing reports and a great selection of lures and bait.
American Marine
American Marine isn’t just a watercraft showroom. They also rent a wide variety of pontoon boats with tubing, skiing, wakeboarding, and wakeskating packages. Best part? They are located right at Huck Finn’s, so you can grab a bite to eat and a cool drink once your water-based adventure is complete!
Design a Cruise
Not sure if you are ready to captain your own vessel? Then head over to Design a Cruise and let Captain Bob do it for you. He’ll plan everything, from fishing trips to sightseeing tours, all aboard his double-deck twin-engine pontoon. Bob also serves as a part-time captain on the La Crosse Queen, so he knows his way around a ship!
Canoes, Kayaks, and SUPs – Would you rather enjoy the serenity of the river without the hum of an outboard engine? Then a canoe, kayak, or stand up paddleboard is your best bet.
Island Outdoors
Island Outdoors is a proper outfitter. They rent everything from canoes and kayaks to stand up paddleboards and hydrobikes. They also sell all the gear you could even need for a successful day on the water.
Neshonoc Lakeside Campground
Neshonoc Lakeside Campground is an excellent home-base for exploring Lake Neshonoc. In addition to traditional camping amenities, they also rent kayaks, canoes, and motorboats. The campground also has a heated pool and hot tub.
KayoeSUP
If you are looking to try stand-up paddleboarding, then check out KayoeSUP. They rent a variety of different SUP models and offer highly-rated classes for all ability levels. SUPing is the fastest growing watersport in the world, and for good reason.
So there you have it. A trip to the La Crosse area isn’t complete without some time on, or at least near, the water. Whether you are an avid angler, outdoor watersports enthusiast, or just looking for a drink with a view, you’re bound to find something!
Make This Summer Count With Endless Memories, Fun, and Exciting Opportunities in the La Crosse Region!
Lace up your hiking boots, splash around the many waterways, grab a ticket for a tour, and bring your furry-friends because it’s summer-time in the La Crosse Region! Whether you’re a local looking for new experiences or a visitor seeking unforgettable moments, we’re thrilled to present the ultimate summer bucket list for the La Crosse Region. From breathtaking natural wonders to vibrant cultural events and mouthwatering culinary delights, our carefully curated list is here for you! So grab your sunscreen, embrace the warm rays, and join us on a journey as we explore the epic activities that will make your summer truly extraordinary. Let the adventure begin!
Top Tours of the La Crosse Region
Enjoy a tour in the La Crosse Region that will immerse you in history, stunning landscapes, and cultural scenes. Whether you seek outdoor escapades, cultural exploration, or simply a getaway, there’s an unforgettable experience waiting to be discovered.
Bow wow! Let the dogs out during your next trip at these epic, 5-paw-star businesses and adventures. It’s as easy as a stroll through the park, bring your furry-friend along while you explore the La Crosse Region! Check out more locations with your whole family (pets included)!
Prepare to roll up your sleeves and get messy with these unique, hands-on activities! Get the whole family involved in something fun this summer, there’s so many opportunities to get up close and personal with adorable farm animals, paint or be painted on, and dig into the great outdoors with all things gardening!
Find Adventure and Reel In Excitement Outdoors Together
The La Crosse Region is known for being located directly on the Mississippi River, one of the greatest fisheries in the country. Touting over 119 species, Old Man River is a destination for die-hard anglers and families alike. The area has amazing options to fish from all waterways!
Soak up the summer sun and savor a meal with family and friends at one of the La Crosse Region’s many outdoor dining options. These local restaurants offer cuisine from fine dining and riverside views to ribs and tiki bars!
Grab your hiking boots, bikes, paddles and more! Whether you prefer to wander the many rivers and waterways or traverse the La Crosse Region’s miles of trails, you’ll quickly find yourself immersed in local adventure!
Explore your creative side and jump into the fine arts of the La Crosse Region! Admire compelling arts in local galleries and see public art and sculptures. Hear remarkable performances by the La Crosse Symphony or by the local theatre. Feel clay spinning between your hands on a pottery wheel or savor wine while making art of your own. Ignite your senses with local art and live performances!
Take a step back in time and learn about the rich culture & history in the La Crosse Region. The “Driftless” Region has a long, rich history that started long before the glaciers missed us, leaving our rolling hills and a natural playground. Learn a little more about what makes the great La Crosse Region the way it is today through a historic timeline.
7 Things You Didn’t Know About the La Crosse Region
The majestic bluffs and grand Mississippi River are the backbones of the La Crosse Region. However, there are some unique facts about the area that you may not know! Test your knowledge and check out seven things you may not realize about the La Crosse Region!
Epic memories await in the La Crosse Region year round! Don’t miss your chance at one-of-a-kind outdoor recreation, divine dining, picturesque lodging, and unique shopping locations. Start making your La Crosse Region bucket list – you won’t want to miss out on all the fun!
Enter to Win the Explore La Crosse Ultimate Country Boom Sweepstake!
Enter for a chance to win free concert tickets with our exciting Country Boom Sweepstake! This sweepstakes prize includes 3-day general admission tickets to Country Boom, a country music festival in West Salem, Wisconsin. Join the party this summer, July 11th through the 13th, with a lineup featuring popular artists like Riley Green, Chase Rice, and Nelly! Enter below for a chance to win free tickets to one of the greatest country festivals in the Midwest!
Sweepstakes: Entries Valid June 25th – July 5th, 2024
Concert + Dining + More!
Two 3-Day General Admission Passes to Country Boom
Country Boom is a country music and camping festival in the Midwest located just outside the breathtaking and entertaining La Crosse, Wisconsin. In line with celebrating all things country, Country Boom will include a wide range of the best food, drinks, activities and attractions to ensure your time with us is the best it can be and you leave satisfied on all levels. Enter for a chance to win tickets to this unforgettable event!
Swing Bridge Pub is your friendly, local hotspot in La Crescent, MN! Dive into a mouthwatering menu of food and drinks, and don’t miss out on our daily happy hour from 3-6 PM. Enter for a chance to win a $25 gift card to Swing Bridge Pub!
Neuie’s Vogue Bar & Grill is a north side La Crosse favorite! Find a fun and relaxing atmosphere where you can enjoy good food and tasty beverages. Enter for a chance to win a gift card to Neuie’s Vogue Bar & Grill!
Skeleton Crew Brew & Lost Island Winery in Onalaska, Wisconsin, is your local treasure trove of over 40 delightful flavors of wine and craft brews! This small, family-owned winery and brewery is all about unique tastes and fun vibes. Enter for a chance to win a $25 gift card!
Sensi Co is a THC beverage company out of La Crosse WI specializing in fast-acting, non-alcoholic THC seltzers. Sensi was created to provide an enjoyable way to experience the benefits of THC in a refreshing beverage. Enter for a chance to win four (4) packs of Sensi Beverages!
This itinerary will guide you through La Crescent, Onalaska, and all around La Crosse! From good eats and drinks to scenic views and exploring, this guide is perfect for those wanting to explore what the La Crosse Region has to offer.
Discover La Crescent, MN: Coffee with a View & Breakfast
Jules Coffee House
Start the day with a fun drink or sweet treat from the oldest coffee shop in historic downtown La Crosse, WI! Jules Coffee House has been serving fresh coffee since 1993. The specialty coffee shop features organic coffees and a full espresso menu! They also offer many non-coffee drinks like teas, smoothies, and lemonade. Satisfy your morning sweet tooth with their fresh, homemade scones or affogato!
While in La Crescent, take a drive up the Apple Blossom Scenic Drive along the Great River Road to the Apple Blossom Overlook. Explore a short trail to an overlook on the ledge of the bluff, overlooking the Mississippi River Valley below. Go for a beautiful view of the sunrise, for the greenery, spring apple blossoms, or fall hues. Explore the park and wander further amidst the mowed, grassy trails for other scenic views.
Historic Downtown: Fun Flavors and Colorful Culture
Artist’s Alley
Just across the Big Blue Bridge from La Crescent and located in Historic Downtown La Crosse is Artist’s Alley! Take a vibrant stroll through local murals at this hidden gem. This alley features a variety of unique murals painted by local artists. The alley is a hidden gem so pay close attention and find it near 5th and Main. This is an amazing location for photo opportunities and is near many downtown boutiques and shops! PC: lexilivinglocally
Downtown La Crosse offers many shops and boutiques that cater to everyone! Drift Mercantile is a must stop in the region with many locally made crafts and goods. The Pearl Ice Cream Parlor is a great place to go for candies, treats, and old-fashioned favorites. Larson’s General is another great shop downtown with many earth friendly alternatives and sustainable goods. See below for other shops downtown!
Take a break from shopping downtown and stop to grab lunch! Enjoy locally sourced American fare at La Crosse Distilling Company, New Orleans style cuisine at Buzzard Billy’s, or tapas at 4 Sisters Wine Bar and Restaurant. Downtown La Crosse offers many types of food – something for everyone! Many downtown restaurants have waterfront views and summer, outdoor seating. See below for other restaurant suggestions!
Afternoon Adventures: Signature Sights and Savory Apps
Riverside Park
Relax and enjoy the scenic sights of the Mississippi River! Riverside Park is just blocks away from Historic Downtown La Crosse and has walking paths, outdoor seating, a bandshell, and accessible, open spaces for people to enjoy the outdoors. Be sure to see the La Crosse Queen docked at Riverside Park and book a river cruise!
Take a brief drive to Onalaska and check out Great River Landing’s view of Lake Onalaska and the Black River! The Visitor Center provides restrooms and information on exploring the area. Great River Landing is home to beautiful views and is the head of the Great River State Trail with 101 miles of interconnecting state bicycle trails!
Just across the street from Great River Landing with more lake views is David Reay’s Modern Diner and Tavern! They put a modern spin on the old-school diner experience and specialize in comfort food. Stop in a try their famed, hand-battered cheese curds, spinach and artichoke dip, comfort foods, and cocktails!
An Exciting Evening: Dinner, Drinks and a Sunset Overlook
Dinner at Howie’s
Howie’s is La Crosse’s hometown hangout! The casual and fun atmosphere is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with family or friends. They feature delicious gourmet burgers, signature sandwiches, in-house smoked meats, classic cocktails, and a wide selection of tap and craft beers.
Visit the Alpine Inn, a historic bar & grill seated atop Grandad Bluff in La Crosse, WI. The Alpine Inn is known for great Bloody Mary’s, burgers and all around good food. This is a great destination spot with a fun atmosphere, outdoor seating, and summer weekly live music!
See grand views at Grandad Bluff! Just a short drive up from the Alpine Inn is Grandad Bluff. The 600-ft high bluff overlooks the City of La Crosse, the Mississippi River Valley, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. This is a perfect spot to watch the sunset and get a beautiful view of the La Crosse Region!
Warmer weather calls for a splash and a change of scenery! Soak up the summer sun and savor a meal with family and friends at one of the La Crosse Region’s many outdoor, waterfront dining options.
From paddling the scenic Black River to savoring a classic Wisconsin fish fry, this itinerary offers the perfect blend of adventure and local flavor. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Wisconsin.
