Outdoor Recreation Archives - ExploreLaCrosse https://explorelacrosse.com/tag/outdoor-recreation/ Each year, La Crosse attracts more than one million visitors, as people from across ... Explore 250 miles of Wisconsin's only National Scenic Byway, featuring 33 ... Thu, 25 Jul 2024 16:38:26 +0000 en-US hourly 1 From Highways to Waterways https://explorelacrosse.com/highways-to-waterways/ Thu, 25 Jul 2024 16:38:24 +0000 https://explorelacrosse.com/?p=1226305 The La Crosse Region has it all from scenic highways and byways, to miles and miles of meandering waterways and roadways that are an absolute paradise for adventure seekers of every type. 

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]]> 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, la crosse wisconsin, sights, overlooks, grandad park
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.

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Apple Blossom Overlook
Apple Blossom Overlook

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!

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Great River Road
Great River Road

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.

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Great River Landing
Great River Landing

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.

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Explore the La Crosse Region from the Water

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
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.

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Lake Onalaska/Onalaska Waterfront
Lake Onalaska/
Onalaska Waterfront

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.

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sunset at lake neshonoc in west salem with a view of a dock and open water
Lake Neshonoc/Neshonoc Lakeside Campground Resort

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.

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Goose Island Campground & Park
Goose Island
Campground & Park

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.

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Pettibone Park, La Crescent, MN
Pettibone Park, La Crescent, MN

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.

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Looking for More Waterways?
Looking for More Waterways?

 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!

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More Recreation Ideas >
More Road Trips >

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]]> Relaxed Recreation: Summer Itinerary https://explorelacrosse.com/day-trip-to-lacrosse/ Tue, 11 Jun 2024 12:10:30 +0000 https://explorelacrosse.com/?p=1224828 Whether you’re a Foodie Guru, an Arts and History Buff, or an Adrenaline Junkie, a Social Butterfly or prefer the ever-coveted Family Time, the La Crosse Region is for YOU!

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]]> Spend the day relaxing with good food and legendary, outdoor adventure in the La Crosse Region!

Adrenaline junkie? Outdoor enthusiast? If so, you’re in for a treat! From paddling the scenic Black River to savoring a classic Wisconsin fish fry, this itinerary offers the perfect blend of adventure and local flavor. Explore the picturesque landscapes, indulge in thrilling outdoor activities, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Wisconsin. Whether you’re seeking a heart-pounding escapade or a relaxing retreat in nature, this journey promises unforgettable experiences and memories to last a lifetime. Get ready to discover the best of what Wisconsin has to offer!

Unleash Your Adventure: Half-Day Outdoor Recreation Itinerary

The Crow
Gastropub And Bar

Grab a tasty lunch in downtown La Crosse at The Crow! The restaurant features over a dozen different specialty and gourmet burgers that are made fresh to order, as well as the area’s largest bourbon selection and specialty bourbon cocktails. For beer enthusiasts, The Crow offers a large and ever-changing craft beer selection, showcasing some of Wisconsin’s finest brews.

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Upper Mississippi River National Fish & Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center

Immerse yourself in the education of native wildlife and plants at the Fish & Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center! The Visitor Center has many interesting educational displays, classes and workshops on native wildlife, and walking plant trails. Local souvenirs, books, puzzles, tee-shirts and stuffed animals can be found at the Friends’ Prairie Wind Nature Store. Don’t forget to wander through their trails!

Learn More >

Lytle’s Landing

Lytle’s Landing is a hidden gem that is part of the Great River State Trail! Located about 3 miles past the Mississippi National Wildlife & Fish Refuge, this trail is perfect for hiking, biking or paddling, following the former railroad line, and crossing multiple photogenic bridges!

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Red Pines Bar & Grill

End the adventurous day with a classic Wisconsin fish fry and local seafood at Red Pines Bar & Grill! The cozy atmosphere and picturesque location on Lake Onalaska makes Red Pines a memorable dining destination for every member of your entourage.

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Itineraries>
Boat Rentals>
Lodging>

Best Ways to Explore La Crosse
This Summer

The La Crosse Region bursts with adventure and an abundance of great outdoor resources and opportunities, amazing food, arts and culture, and stunning views for you and your entourage to enjoy this summer!

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The La Crosse Region
Fishing Guide

Get ready to reel in the excitement in La Crosse, a premier fishing destination! With a vibrant mix of fish species and prime spots like the Mississippi River and the scenic Driftless region for trout enthusiasts, every cast is an adventure!

READ MORE >

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]]> Scenic Fall Hikes In The La Crosse Region https://explorelacrosse.com/scenic-fall-hike/ Tue, 12 Sep 2023 18:51:33 +0000 https://explorelacrosse.com/?p=1205495 Don't miss the "golden" opportunity to see fall in the La Crosse Region! You can hike among the mighty bluffs, peak into the orange and red leaves along the rivers and waterways, and wander through the many trails in the woods of the region.

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]]> Don’t miss the “golden” opportunity to see fall in the La Crosse Region! You can hike and wander among the mighty bluffs, peek into the orange and red leaves along the rivers and waterways, and witness vibrant, unparalleled views.

Take a Hike & Fall in Love with Autumn in the La Crosse Region

Captivating views are just a road trip away!

aerial photo of grandad bluff with golden orange colors for fall
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 or many trail heads through Hixon Forest there are legendary sights bursting of vibrant fall colors. Voted as “the most scenic view in the state” by Wisconsin Trails readers, this signature sight is a bucketlist must when visiting the La Crosse Region.

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Aerial shot of Hixon Forest in the fall
Hixon Forest

Throughout the bluffs in our region, there’s nearly ten miles of hiking and multi-use trails that crisscross through wooded trails on the Eastern-edge of La Crosse alone. Four designated parking areas provide convenient access to the trails, which can also be reached by bike or on foot via connecting trails from Myrick Park, or even downtown La Crosse via Riverside Park. The Hixon Forest Trails offer access to the popular Grandad Bluff Park and its stunning views of the city and Mississippi River Valley, as well as four other designated vistas.

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Great River State Trail/GRR
Great River State Trail &
Great River Road

Roll through or a walk along the Mississippi River on the Great River State Trail. Enjoy 24 miles of the most beautiful scenery in the Midwest. The hiking and biking trail traverses along 18 different waterways, crosses over the Black River on a 287-foot former railroad trestle, and follows Lake Onalaska and the BNSF railway. Pass through Mississippi River bottomlands, visit Nicholls Hopewell Mound, and the Upper Mississippi and Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuges. From its trailhead in Onalaska, all the way to Trempealeau, the Great River State Trail is one beautiful landscape after another and is perfect for your scenic hike! And if hiking isn’t for you hop in a car and drive along the Great River Road. It’s a nationally renowned scenic byway that you can’t afford to skip! It winds up and down the Mississippi River, perfect for peeping fall colors.

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La Crosse River Marsh Hiking Trails
La Crosse River Marsh Hiking Trails

Visitors may delight in the wonders of the flora and fauna of Wisconsin wetlands by running, walking, and biking on paved and gravel trails. The trail system in this wetland connects Riverside Park to the Great River State Trail, Myrick Park, and Hixon Forest, beginning at the confluence of the Mississippi and La Crosse Rivers and progressing through floodplain forests and marshland. The La Crosse River Marsh has been an important habitat for a plethora of native marsh mammals, migrating birds, and insects. More recently, this wetland has been used for water supply and flood control, updated by humans over the last one hundred years to include trail access to previously inaccessible parts of the marsh. Take a rest stop at the Myrick Park Center to gain more information about nearby natural areas and to look at animals native to the La Crosse River Marsh and the La Crosse River Marsh Hiking Trails.

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Myrick Park
Myrick Park

Myrick Park is La Crosse’s oldest park and connects to numerous trails, from easy to hard, featuring scenic views of the marsh and surrounding bluffs. This park is a great place to start a trail run or hike as it’s a hidden gem in the middle of the city! The Myrick Park trail system connects to the Hixon Forest trails which also connect to the top of the bluffs and the human powered trails. Or, follow the Myrick trails on a bike out of the park, connect to the state trail system and ride all the way to Trempealeau in the north or Reedsburg to the east.

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Apple Blossom Scenic Drive overlooking fall colors
Apple Blossom Overlook

Swing through La Crescent, MN along Apple Blossom Scenic Drive for a short, but epic scenic overlook of the region. Wind your way through the fall-colored bluffs and ascend at the designated overlook for a view of a lifetime. Here, you’ll walk down a short path and into the forest that opens up to a rocky view of the entire state below. This is a perfect time of year to view the fall colors as trees are changing into their golden oranges, yellows and deep reds. Plan to stop and pick fresh apples on your way up or down in the Apple Capital of Minnesota!

LEARN MORE >
More Recreation Ideas >
Fall Color Report >

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]]> Ultimate Outdoor Adventures Sweepstake https://explorelacrosse.com/outdoor-adventurer-sweepstake-2023/ Fri, 02 Jun 2023 15:57:49 +0000 https://explorelacrosse.com/?p=1212437 and outdoor recreation abounds! Enter to win fun outdoor experiences alongside some sweet treats!

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]]>
explore la crosse outdoor sweepstakes getaway outdoor recreation opportunities

Enter to Win the Ultimate Outdoor Adventures Sweepstake to the La Crosse Region!

Nestled between ancient bluffs and along the Mississippi River, the La Crosse Region has so much to offer and outdoor recreation abounds! Enter to win fun outdoor experiences alongside some sweet treats!

Getaway Prize Value: Over $300!

ENTER TO WIN THE SWEEPSTAKES

Sweepstakes: Entries Valid June 2 – June 14, 2023

Outdoor Recreation + Sweet Treats + More!

A sweet treat
Nuts
& Treats

Finnottes Nut & Chocolate Shop
Finnottes family owned nut and chocolate shop has both new candies and old fashioned favorites. Stop in and see the wonderful selection they carry and you’ll suddenly find this your favorite and “sweetest” stop in La Crosse. Enjoy a 1.7 oz box butter nut crunch (buttery popcorn with glazed nuts), 1.7 oz tub sesame & nut mix.

4 Aquatic Passes
4
Aquatic Passes

Onalaska Omni Center
Cool down in the summer heat with four aquatic passes to the Onalaska Omni Center. The Aquatic center also offers several different times for open swim, has a zero depth pool, six lap lanes, two 250-foot runout slides, one drop slide, sand play area, kiddie play area, and a concession stand. Perfect for a day of fun!

4 Paddle Lessons
4 Paddle Lessons

KayoeSUP
KayoeSUP is the driftless region’s premier standup Paddleboard Instruction, guide, and rental service. All equipment is provided – Paddleboard, Paddle, PFD and Leash – with each lesson or tour. THEY COME TO YOU! Kayak + Canoe + SUP (Kai – yoo – sup). Enjoy four 1.5 hour paddle lessons this summer!

4 Passes To Petting Farm
4 Passes To Petting Farm

Hidden Hills
Are you looking for some family fun in nearby rolling country hills? There’s so many exciting activities to choose from including feeding and petting their farm animals, walking trails, obstacle course, paintball, shopping store, and more! Enjoy four passes to the petting farm at Hidden Hills.

$100 Gift Certificate
$100 Gift Certificate

Design A Cruise
 Enjoy a $100 gift certificate to Design A Cruise whose pontoon boat is 30 feet long, 10 feet wide, and powered by twin engines. It is a double-deck pontoon so you can enjoy your view from either deck. It’s set up to sit back and relax or enjoy your time fishing. They will design the trip to fit your needs.

ENTER TO WIN THE SWEEPSTAKES

Thank You to the Prize Sponsors!

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]]> 15 Fun Facts About LAX https://explorelacrosse.com/15-fun-facts-about-lax/ Tue, 28 Jun 2022 13:47:14 +0000 https://explorelacrosse.com/?p=1201370 Crosse Area, interesting tidbits of information are always welcomed! Without further adieu, here are 15 of the most fun facts about Lax!

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]]> Who doesn’t love fun facts? Especially when they are about the beautiful La Crosse Region, interesting tidbits of information are always welcomed! From outdoor adventures to drinks, here are 15 of the most fun facts about LAX!

Attention all Festers!!

Oktoberfest-crowd

1. Festivals

 The region hosts over 30 different festivals, focusing on gathering families, friends, and cultures to celebrate! Between Irishfest, Oktoberfest, Riverfest, June Dairy Days, Kornfest, Applefest, and Celebrate Onalaksa there is a festival for everyone!

Learn More
Castle

2. The Castle

La Crosse even has a “castle!” Today the “Castle on Cass” is an award-winning Bed and Breakfast and a famous photo destination. Castle La Crosse has become a landmark and is the best-preserved example of late 19th century residential architecture in the region.

Learn More

3. Tourism

 La Crosse County is one of the top 10 of Wisconsin Counties for tourism-related business activity. Whether fishing, festivals, meetings, or food, the La Crosse Region brings people around the world to see our breathtaking bluffs or Mississippi River!

Learn More

Let’s Talk Beverages

4. La Croix

La Croix Sparkling Water was originally created by the G. Heileman Brewing Company, who’s headquarters are in La Crosse.

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Pouring beer

5. Beer Lovers

In 1884, La Crosse produced more beer than any other city in the state. Can you tell what La Crosse’s favorite beverage is? Hint: It’s not water!

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6 Pack of Beer

6. The 6 Pack

La Crosse is home to the World’s Largest 6-Pack! It holds 22,000 barrels of beer, which is equal to 688,200 gallons or 7,340,796 cans.

Learn More

7. Third Street

Third Street, in downtown La Crosse is known for having the most bars on a single street in the U.S. and was listed in the Book of World Records.

Learn More

Missin’ the River?

Fishing

8. Fishy Favorites

The Upper Mississippi River is home to over 119 species of fish; that’s more species than are found in any of Wisconsin’s inland lakes! Favorite sport fish include walleye, sauger, bass, channel catfish, northern pike, bluegill, and crappies.

Learn More
Riverside

9. Riverside Park

Riverside Park is located along the Mississippi and offers over 20 acres of green space. This park was designed by the landscape architect and city planner John Nolen in 1911 and constructed in 1912. Riverside Park is a fan favorite with its beautiful views.

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marsh

10. The La Crosse Marsh

The La Crosse River Marsh is 1,077 acres and is included in the Mississippi River Floodplain. It is extremely important for many reasons including the fact that it absorbs excess water when the river level is high and releases water when the river level is low.

Learn More

Nature Lovers Look No Further

11. The Queen

Not only does La Crosse have a “Castle”, it also has a “Queen”. These boat tours are a great way to see the majestic bluffs and beautiful river without leaving your seat!

Learn More
Swimming

12. Camping

La Crosse has more than 400 camping sites in the two county campgrounds – some of our favorites include Goose Island County Park and Veteran’s Memorial County Park.

Learn More
Dad and Daughter Swinging

13. City Name

 La Crosse was named by explorer Zebulon Pike whom led a group of people up the Mississippi River to the location now called La Crosse. The name came when he saw a Indigenous group playing a game with sticks that looked like a cross. La Crosse is the French word for cross.

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14. The Bluffs

La Crosse’s Grandad Bluff is over five hundred feet above the La Crosse Region. It overlooks three different states including Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. It is also the largest city on the entire western border of Wisconsin. No wonder La Crosse is known for it with it’s far reaching gaze!

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Biking Outlook

15. Biking

Over 100 miles of highly maintained bike paths and trails cover the region! The City of La Crosse has achieved the Silver-Level designation as a Bicycle Friendly Community, with miles of designated bike lanes, and the most bicycle friendly businesses per capita in Wisconsin.

Learn More
PC: Bob Good

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. Here are few other unique facts about the area that you may not know!

READ MORE >

We’re NOT Bluffing- We Have Ancient Beauty!

Check out these spectacular views within the Driftless La Crosse Region! What is the Driftless Region and why is it called that? Read this article to find out!

READ MORE >

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]]> 3 Weekend Getaway Ideas https://explorelacrosse.com/3-weekend-getaways-ideas/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 13:44:08 +0000 https://explorelacrosse.com/?p=1201134 Whether you’re a Foodie Guru, an Arts and History Buff, or an Adrenaline Junkie, a Social Butterfly or prefer the ever-coveted Family Time, the La Crosse Region is for YOU!

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]]> Find the Perfect Weekend Getaway in The La Crosse Region!

The La Crosse Region offers a charming history, fun memories and adventure, captivating views, and unparalleled outdoor recreation. Whether you’re a Foodie Guru, an Arts and History Buff, or an Adrenaline Junkie, a Leisure Lover, a Social Butterfly or prefer the ever-coveted Family Time, the La Crosse Region is for YOU!

For The Food & Drink Connoisseurs!

Kaddy’s Kafe

Small town feel, but a big breakfast atmosphere! Kaddy’s Kafe is a small hometown family owned café featuring breakfast and lunch, located in the heart of downtown La Crescent. Enjoy options of breakfast, burgers, homemade soups, salads, sandwiches, and locally made pies, cinnamon rolls, and cheesecakes! 

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Rudy’s Drive In

Starting as a Root Beer stand in 1933, Rudy’s drive-in restaurant has been open for over 80 years! Drive-in, sit-in or carryout their famous hot dogs and world class shakes! Their menu features the highest quality products, including vegan friendly options. Take the fun home with a 1/2 gallon of root beer to enjoy later!

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Pearl Street Brewery

Enjoy a beer tasting in the old Rubber Mills La Crosse Footwear and observe a wild brew-master and their crew doing what they do best… making exceptionally crafted beers! The beer tap lineup is always changing, the perfect reason to keep coming back! Oh, and make sure to check out their events calendar!

Learn more >

Starlight Lounge/Buzzard Billy’s

This swingin’ martini lounge is above Buzzard Billy’s and has a retro atmosphere filled with the voice of legends, like Frank Sinatra. The vibes are unmatched as vintage swivel chairs and top shelf hooch inspire maximum nostalgia.

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The Charmant Hotel

The Charmant was transformed from an 1898-built Candy Factory into a nationally ranked boutique hotel and confectionary. The hotel has a restaurant with ample outdoor seating, a lounge and a rooftop bar. And did we mention this it’s dog-friendly?!

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For The Arts & History Buff

All Glazed Up!

Get creative and have fun painting pottery, taking art or pottery classes, playing with glass
masterpieces or taking a wine and the sip paint class in the evening.
This is a great place to have fun with friends and family while sipping on sensational wine and
creating memorable art
together!

learn more >

Freighthouse

Dine at a historic train station in downtown La Crosse that was built in the 1880’s and contained the freight offices of the Milwaukee Railroad. It opened as a restaurant in 1978 serving steak and seafood. It also received the Heritage Ward by the La Crosse Historical Preservation Society and is a National Historic Site.

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Castle B&B

Stay at this grand 19th century residential bed and breakfast. The historic home was originally owned by a wealthy lumber baron. Gentle updates have been made, but has remained in remarkable condition. The Castle is a national, award-winning bed and breakfast filled with one-of-a-kind international finds.

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Le Chateau

This restaurant features a European style ambiance and French cuisine. The owners are trained sommeliers and culinary masters! The venue is a mansion of gothic revival and Italian villa features from the 19th century. It also won awards for its architectural significance in the 1980’s!

learn more >

Hixon House

Tour the Historic Hixon House; a local museum in a wealthy lumber baron’s home – Gideon Hixon. A tour of the historic house embodies stories of the first half-century of the City of La Crosse. It features fashion to furnishings restored and maintained in their original glory.

learn more >

For The Nature Lover & Adrenaline Junkie

Hiking Trails

Wander through meandering trails or bluff lookouts, vast marshes or blooming meadows! There’s over 100 miles of well maintained trails to explore with the exceptional bluff-side views of the La Crosse Region.

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Paddling Trails

Paddle on Lake Onalaska or the multiple rivers! The area has many landings, backwaters and wavy riverways to paddle through. Rent a kayak or canoe and explore easy paddle trails or take on more strenuous adventures!

learn more >

Refuel at Red Pines

Eat at Red Pines, nestled on Lake Onalaska with a lakeside view and sand volleyball court! They’re known for their cozy, rustic atmosphere, hand-prepared walleye, lake perch, in-house smoked catfish and ribs, and more!

learn more >

Fishing in the La Crosse Region

The Upper Mississippi sprawls well beyond its main channel, creating hundreds of tiny islands, channels, and deep pools which harbor more species of fish than any other temperate-climate river in the world. Catch a big fish? Enter our Lunker League Program!

learn more >

Camping in the La Crosse Region

Can’t wait to pitch your tent and let the good times roll? Stay at one of the 7 campgrounds in the La Crosse Region that will have you coming back for s’more! Look into Goose Island Campground & Park or a Cabin at Justin Trails Resort for an unforgettable trip!

learn more >
Itineraries>
Boat Rentals>
Lodging>

Mom’s Adventure Guide With Family

Relax with mom and the whole family with these six adventures in the La Crosse Region. Visit these top picks and locations to create memories with those who matter most!

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Girls Weekend Getaways

Next time you’re in need for a girls trip getaway, visit the La Crosse Region and see what all the hype is about! There’s so many options, the La Crosse Regions has it all!

READ MORE >

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]]> Explore this Earth Day! https://explorelacrosse.com/explore-earth-day/ Wed, 20 Apr 2022 14:14:51 +0000 https://explorelacrosse.com/?p=1198883 Explore the La Crosse Region through recreation in our bluffs and trails full of bursting activities for the whole family, whether it's hiking, biking, paddling or fishing!

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]]> Happy Earth Day!

Hey Earth… you rock! Thanks for packing the area full of epic activities fit everyone – no matter our niche.
Are you ready to grab your friends, family or partner and try out these recreation activities this Earth Day while exploring the La Crosse Region?!

Learn More About Earth Day >

Spin Your Wheels

The La Crosse Region

La Crosse County’s picturesque bluffs, riverlands, and quiet country highways make for some of the best road and mountain biking in the world. Over 100 miles of highly maintained bike paths and trails cover the region, and the City of La Crosse has achieved the Silver-Level designation as a Bicycle Friendly Community, with miles of designated bike lanes, bikeways well-marked by sharrows (shared-lane markings), and more bicycle friendly businesses per capita than any other city in Wisconsin. Don’t have a bike? Start exploring by renting bikes from the Drift Cycle bikeshare program in La Crosse!

MORE ABOUT BIKE TRAILS >

Take A Hike

The La Crosse Region

There may not be a better place in the world to explore on foot than the La Crosse Region. With wooded bluffs topped by craggy sandstone outcroppings, vast marshes bursting with wildlife, pristine prairies and meadows, and rivers, lakes, and streams everywhere you turn, there’s a whole world to explore in this quiet little corner of the Upper Midwest. And with hundreds of miles of designated, well-maintained trails, you won’t need a compass to do it! Whether you prefer leisurely strolls along wide, level paths, or heart-pounding climbs up steep, rocky trails, you’ll find your hike in the La Crosse Region.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HIKING >

Whatever Floats Your Boat (etc. 😉 )

The La Crosse Region

The meandering waterways of the La Crosse area are an absolute paradise for paddlers of every stripe. Take the family on a gentle canoe ride through relaxing wetland courses, or enjoy moderate to strenuous kayaking adventures along the Mississippi, Black, or La Crosse Rivers. Canoe trails, launches, and outfitters abound in the area, making it one of the best paddling destinations in the region. Check out this excellent map of canoe launches in the area to find the most convenient access point for you!

learn more PADDLING >

Reel In Memories & Lunkers

The Mississippi River & More!

The Upper Mississippi sprawls well beyond its main channel, creating hundreds of tiny islands, channels, and deep pools which harbor more species of fish than any other temperate-climate river in the world. Walleye is king in these waters, but you can catch just about anything in the La Crosse Region: sauger, northern pike, shovelhead sturgeon, large and smallmouth bass, perch, sunfish, bluegill, crappie, gar, channel and blue catfish, to name a few. Catch a big fish? Enter our Lunker League Program!

more about fishing >
Camp Here>
Boat Rentals>
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Earth Day Treasure Hunt

The La Crosse Region bursts with natural wonders perfect for celebrating Earth Day today, or all spring and summer long! Check out our selection of businesses and legendary sights to explore and experience Mother Nature at her finest.

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Natural Wonders In The Region

Legendary destinations you won’t want to miss! The La Crosse Region has so many natural wonders being apart of the Driftless Region! Check out these standouts that will undoubtedly be the highlights of your spring and summer!

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