Road Trip to the
La Crosse Region
Straight from Sioux Falls
Discover a different kind of Midwest landscape.
The La Crosse Region makes for the perfect weekend getaway, and you could be here by lunch! These big bluff views are closer than the Black Hills. Only a half-day away, escape and explore the ancient topography, charming history, and elevated adventure of the Driftless!
Scroll for the Perfect Itinerary for Sioux Falls Explorers!
A Weekend Road Trip to the Driftless Region
The La Crosse Region is nestled between ancient bluffs and is known as one of the best places in the Midwest for legendary outdoor experiences. Located in the Driftless Region, the unique landscape exists because glaciers didn’t reach this area, leaving ancient limestone bluffs and steep river valleys untouched and intact. Hike panoramic overlooks, bike over 100 miles of trails, and paddle or fish on serene waterways, all shaped by the topography itself. Whether you’re chasing elevation or simply a change of scenery, the La Crosse Region is always in season and makes for the perfect weekend road trip straight from Sioux Falls. Learn more about the Driftless Region >
24-Hour Getaway: The Great 8 Things to Do
Some things you simply MUST do.
From the “Wisconsin Wonder” 600-ft bluff or a classic fish fry on the water, to a paddlewheel cruise on the Mississippi River, get ready to create your La Crosse Region bucket list!
Child’s Play: Family Friendly Bucket List
Play isn’t just for kids… It’s a way to explore together!
Here, curiosity sparks adventure, campfires become bedtime stories, and every treat tastes like childhood. It’s never too late to build your core-memory bucket list.
Why People Keep Coming Back
The La Crosse Region bursts with spirited adventure as unique as each explorer.
No matter the season, bluffs are calling, and the rivers are ready when you are! Here, the La Crosse Region hits its stride in summer and autumn, with longer days, lively nights, and just enough spontaneity to turn a road trip into something unforgettable.
From endless outdoor recreation to festive, spirited communities bursting with things to do, adventure calls for every explorer! This is your cue to wander a little further, stay a little longer and come alive this season. Elevated adventure… It’s in our nature!
Scenic Stops
Sign us up for views worth the climb – AND the camera roll! In the heart of the Driftless Region and along the Great River Road, the area is packed with blufftop overlooks, trolley tours,, charming downtowns, paddle boats, natural wonders, and so much more.
Here’s the Bucket List: 24-Hour “Must-Dos” Itinerary
Water Activities
Paddle through peaceful backwaters, cruise between islands on a riverboat or rental, and get to fishing where the bite is always on. Whether you’re after walleye or favor a sunset, life flows a little better on the West Coast of Wisconsin.
Waterfront Dining is Just as Memorable: Dining on the Water
Elevated Trails
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! Did you know you can ride from the Mississippi coast to the top of Grandad Bluff?
Elevated Adventure: It’s In Our Nature
Itineraries for South Dakota Explorers
The La Crosse Region is just a 4.5-hour road trip away from Sioux Falls! Simply take I-90 on the southern Minnesota border to uncover all that there is to do, where the area’s 600-foot bluffs and the Mississippi River beautifully converge.
An Extended-Stay from SD
Road-trip your way through the La Crosse Region with an itinerary featuring experiences that make this destination a must-visit, year after year. Ready to make memories with your entourage?
Custom Itineraries for You!
Recess and refresh with a getaway specially curated for your tastes! The La Crosse Region offers charming history, elevated adventure, captivating views, and epic outdoor recreation. Which will you enjoy?
The La Crosse Region in the News
Don’t just take it from us! The La Crosse Region is newsworthy.
Browse the La Crosse Region’s Attractions
Discover the area’s notable attractions and local destinations!
Attractions, Bars, Members Directory, More to do
The Driftless Axe & The Driftless Arcade
Attractions, Members Directory, Vineyards
River View Vineyard and Winery
Attractions, Members Directory, More to do summer, Sport, Sports
La Crosse Loggers Baseball Club
Arts & Culture, Attractions, Members Directory
Twisted Skull Studios
Arts & Culture, Attractions, Members Directory, Music, Performance
The Marie W. Heider Center for the Arts
Attractions, Bakery & Grocery, Groups, Members Directory, Shopping
Southwind Orchards
Attractions, Birding, Hiking, Members Directory, Sports & Recreation
Friends of Trempealeau Refuge
Area Lodging, Art & Classes, Attractions, Health & Wellness, Meeting Spaces
Franciscan Spirituality Center
Attractions, Birding, Groups, Members Directory, Tours
National Eagle Center
Area Lodging, Art & Classes, Attractions, Bed & Breakfast, Education
Rainbow Ridge Farms Farmstay
Attractions, Festivals
Paddles and Premieres
Attractions, Members Directory, Road Trip, Tours & Road Trips
Niagara Cave
Explore More Things to Do
Dive into Our Visitors Guide
Check out La Crosse’s Visitors Guide to explore the best attractions, dining, and events in the area!