Falling For The La Crosse Region!

If you haven’t experienced the fall season in La Crosse Region and the surrounding area, you need to add it to your bucket list. The changing colors of the trees that cover the bluffs make for a beautiful sight!

1. Hidden Trails Corn Maze

Growing family memories for over 20 years, Hidden Trails is one of the original fall tourism destinations in the La Crosse Region. Be sure to put this corn maze on your fall to-do list! The Corn Maze is a La Crosse’s agri-tainment venue. They offer 4 corn mazes, a pumpkin patch, weekend wagon rides, farm animals, and fall décor, and more! Get lost in over 5 miles of paths in a 12-acre corn maze. This years theme is Alien Invasion, don’t accidently get lost and find your way among something extraterrestrial.

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2. 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 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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3. Rainbow Ridge Farm

Rainbow Ridge Farms Bed & Breakfast is a charming turn-of-century working farm. Nestled in a peaceful valley, guests can relax and enjoy the area`s attractions. This fall stop by the farm for their pumpkin patch, see farm animals and even pet their friendly goats! There’s also three trail-heads for great hiking and biking along the Great River Bike Trail, Sparta-Elroy Trail, and Human-Powered Trails. Or bring a large group and sign up for a farm camp day, where students and others can learn about farming, agriculture and more!

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4. Hidden Hills

Look no further for some family fun in nearby rolling country hills! At Hidden Hills there’s so many fun fall activities to-do to get in the fall spirit. Start your trip off by petting their many animals on property (goats, cows and chickens, oh my!). Grab your friends for a competitive game of paintball or nerf gun war on their 5 acres of wooded areas or nerf course. Purchase local produce, pumpkins and fall crafts while there and lastly, stop by their haunted barn for a quick scare!

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5. Great River Landing

The Great River Landing in Onalaska, WI plays host to the trailhead of the Great River State Trail for bicyclists enjoying the 101 miles of interconnecting state trails. The Visitor Center overlooks the beautiful Lake Onalaska and its wooded surrounding reveals the golden oranges, yellows and reds of fall. Even stop by for a quick family photo op at Sunny The Sunfish a enormous fish along the Great River Road.

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6. Apple Blossom Drive

Wind your way through the colorful bluffs along Apple Blossom Drive in La Crescent, MN. Ride along the bluff-top roads that overlook the Mississippi River and La Crosse, and descend into the Pine Creek Valley. Here you’ll see the vibrant fall colors, apple orchards and mighty bluffs. Make a pit stop for a wine tasting, crunchy fall apples, or some of the best restaurants to grab a hot apple cider along the way.

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7. Southwind Orchards

Southwind Orchards apples are grown on the choice hillsides of Dakota, MN nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River. You’ll spot this orchard along Apple Blossom Drive, full of gorgeous views, colorful trees and memories you won’t forget! It’s a great stop for purchasing your apples for the season, and many other jam/jellies, caramel apples, and more

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8. Festivals

Learn about the many unique fall festivals and celebrations in the La Crosse Region! Most notably, celebrate Oktoberfest USA in La Crosse, Applefest in La Crescent, and many more fun celebrations!

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9. Recreation & Sports

Three majestic rivers and the beautiful bluffs surrounding them make La Crosse Region the perfect outdoor recreation area, especially in the fall. You can kayak, fish, or just cruise the Mississippi, and Hixon Forest is full of trails for hiking and biking.  You can also cheer on your favorite local football team, work on your short game at our area golf courses and cheer on your favorite runner during this season. And don’t forget about hunting season, with the endless wooded forests, waterways and marshes you can’t miss your shot.

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10. Birding

The La Crosse Region and the surrounding areas are home to some of the best birdwatching locales in the Upper Midwest. From Bald Eagles, Tundra Swans, and Great Egrets on down to bluebirds, warblers, and sparrows, the area hosts a wide range of species sure to satisfy birders of every stripe. Fall is an especially active time of year, with several migrating species spending time in the region, so be sure to visit these places to catch a glimpse of your favorite visiting birds.

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Custom Fall Getaway Ideas

Whether you’re an adventurer, craving fall flavors, or want to admire quaint and charming scenes, the La Crosse Region abounds with the perfect getaway exploration for you! Check out our custom getaway itineraries fit for your next journey desires.

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Fall Agritourism Adventures

What is Agritourism? It is the combination of agriculture and tourism! The La Crosse Region has many farms, sustainable buildings and locations rich in agriculture who use this practice. Visit these six businesses this fall and share your fun with us!

Read More >

The post Top 10 Things To Do In Fall appeared first on ExploreLaCrosse.

A September to Remember

On a vibrant fall day, there’s nothing like watching the visual artistry that nature creates! The bluff tops once green exterior transitions to a colorful canvas on display for all of La Crosse to witness. Here are some prime locations for outdoor activities in the crunching leaves.

Myrick Park
Center

Hike the La Crosse River Marsh trails at the center of La Crosse’s natural bluff lands, wetlands, woodlands, and native prairies. Trails can be found directly next to the nature center to begin your
exploration.

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Hear, Here
Listening Tour

This activity will have you smiling ear to ear; orange street signs placed around downtown with the Hear, Here logo lists a toll-free number to call to hear stories in the exact place where they occurred; no app required!

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Shrine of our
Lady of Guadalupe

A spiritual landmark for people worldwide seeking peace, love, and compassion, the Shrine of Our Lady Guadalupe is a must-see in the fall. This stunning church, nestled among the bluffs, provides visitors numerous offerings.

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When the fall weather is less than ideal, here are some ways to have an amazing autumn day. We’ve raked up our favorite indoor activities that will have you saying, “oh my gourd, we can’t wait to come back for more!”

Driftless Axe
&
Arcade

Challenge your friends, family, or co-worker to an axe-throwing experience with fun and safety as a top priority. Once you’ve hit the bullseye, head over to their vintage arcade bar to reminisce over childhood favorites and enjoy a fun game!

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Catch a
Football
Game

Sloopy’s Alma Mater is home to the “Big Ten” burgers and 24 tap beers since 1969. Try the Wisconsin burger with bacon, mushrooms, onion, green pepper, swiss, American, lettuce, and tomato on a juicy, beefy patty… this one is a touchdown!

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Pump House Regional Arts Center

Attend an upcoming fall event like performing arts plays or dabble in the artistic side of things and stop in and see a new exhibition this fall. There’s so much to do and see with the many talented artists in the La Crosse Region!

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All
Glazed
Up!

Check out the All Glazed Up! calendar to sign up for one of their many instructed classes. Sip great wine while following along in an instructed class, or try a mixed media workshop for beginners! If you’re feeling inspired, go for the open studio hours.

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Leaf your Summer Attire Behind

When shopping for local treasures or gifts, turn to T.J.’s Cheddarheads Gift Gallery. Pick up locally designed and printed apparel, local Wisconsin Cheese, and sports merchandise. Next, go to Handmade Natural Beauty Boutique for all the self-care essentials you’ll need in the dry fall air; you’ll find 100% natural soaps, moisturizers, and luxury bath products with fall flares.

Fresh Picks from the Patch

If you want to know where to get the freshest produce in season, you will love the People’s Food Co-op. Everything in their deli is made from scratch and locally sourced; their fresh deals are a great way to save money and try food in the prime harvest!

5 FALL FAVORITES DINING GUIDE

1. Fall Flavored Coffee | Bean Juice

2. Seasonal Soups|Pickerman’s Soups & Sandwiches

3. Cider Flights ( Purple Reign, Cool Haralson & Honey Honey) |Pearl Street Brewery

4. Black Cherry Old Fashioned on the Patio | The Bistro

5. Bloody Mary’s with Woodland Views | Alpine Inn

The post Autumn Aesthetics in the La Crosse Region appeared first on ExploreLaCrosse.

Enter to Win an Explore La Crosse Autumn Adventure Getaway!

Join in on the fun and fall in love with the La Crosse Region! Enter for a chance to win an exciting Autumn Adventure Getaway. This sweepstake package includes four tickets to see Quinn XCII and Chelsea Cutler at the La Crosse Center as well as two different overnight stays, unique tours, festive fun, gift cards, and more!

Total Prize Value: Over $500!

Sweepstakes: Entries Valid September 4 – 25, 2024

Concert + Lodging + Unique Tour + Dining + Fall Fun + More!

Four Tickets to Quinn XCII & Chelsea Cutler Concert

The La Crosse Center is hosting Quinn XCII and Chelsea Cutler for an unforgettable night of music! Enter to win four tickets to this spectacular event happening October 4th, 2024 in historic downtown La Crosse, WI!

Ticket Info >

La Crosse Center >

1 Overnight Hotel Stay on October 4, 2024

After the concert on Oct. 4, head to the Courtyard by Marriott in downtown La Crosse, WI for a wonderful night of rest! The Courtyard by Marriott is a stone’s throw away from wonderful downtown restaurants, and within walking distance from bars, as well as the La Crosse Center. 

Courtyard by Marriott >

1 Overnight Stay for 2024/2025 Season in RV
OR Cottage

Enjoy a cozy overnight stay at Lake Road Campground for their 2024 or 2025 season! Lake Road Campground is a small RV park in Trempealeau, WI. Family-owned and operated, with nearby access to the river, lakes, hiking trails, Trempealeau’s historic downtown, local supper clubs, and more.

Lake Road Campground >

$20
Gift Card

Enjoy fueling up at Grounded Patio and Café with a $20 gift card. Located in historic downtown La Crosse, enjoy a hot cup of coffee or lemonade at this one-of-a-kind local coffee shop. You might spot their iconic coffee mural on the side of their building.

Grounded Patio & Cafe >

Membership
Package

Enjoy a one-year membership with Drift Cycle, a Drift Cycle tote bag, and stickers! Drift Bike Share is an easy-to-use, affordable bike rental program for residents, commuters, and visitors. 75 bikes are available to throughout the community in 15 docking stations. 

Drift Cycle >

2 Sightseeing
Cruise Tickets

Get on the water with two sightseeing cruise tickets for the La Crosse Queen. The La Crosse Queen is a modern-day replica of the grand riverboats which used to ply the Mississippi in the early 1900s. It is one of the few “true” paddlewheelers still operating.

La Crosse Queen >

2 Corn Maze Tickets

Celebrate fall with two tickets to Hidden Trails Corn Maze. Hidden Trails Corn Maze is La Crosse’s Agri-tainment venue. They offer 4 corn mazes, a pumpkin patch, weekend wagon rides, farm animals, and fall décor and more! Get lost in over 5 miles of paths in a 12-acre corn maze.  

Hidden Trails Corn Maze >

$25 Gift Card

Get some tasty grub at the Crow Restaurant with this $25 gift card. Located in downtown La Crosse, the restaurant features over a dozen different burgers that are made fresh to order, and the area’s largest bourbon selection and specialty bourbon cocktails. 

The Crow Restaurant >

Thank You to the Prize Sponsors!

The post Autumn Adventure Getaway Sweepstake! appeared first on ExploreLaCrosse.

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.

Tour Dates: September 7th and 21st, October 5th. 12th, 19th, and 26th

Each Trolley Ticket Includes:
An Orchard Tour, Treats and Local Winery Samples, Hor d-oeurves at Le Chateau and More!

Explore La Crosse

Meet us at Explore La Crosse, the La Crosse
Region’s Visitor Welcome Center, and kick
off the festive fall trolley tour.

Grandad Bluff

Admire views of three states and the
mighty Mississippi River from on top of the
region’s famous Grandad Bluff Overlook.

La Crescent History Center

Visit the La Crescent History Center and Apple
Museum to explore historic collections and
learn all about the Apple Capital’s unique past.

Apple Blossom Overlook

Ride up Apple Blossom Scenic Drive of the
Great River Road to the route’s captivating
overlook featuring the Mississippi Valley below.

Van Lin Orchards

La Crescent is famous for their apples and this
orchard has provided a wide variety of apples
and rural fun within the region for over 20 years.

Le Chateau

Savor fine French cuisine in the restored Mons
Anderson House. The award-winning home
has a fascinating history with European charm.

Thank You to the Bluff to Bluff Experience Partners!

The post Introducing: The Bluff to Bluff Experience appeared first on ExploreLaCrosse.

Up for a 24-road trip to the La Crosse Region? We’ve curated a list of epic sights sights, top things to do and more for your next overnight stay in the La Crosse Region!

1. Grandad Bluff Overlook

2. Apple Blossom Scenic Drive & River View Winery

Have you enjoyed the Apple Blossom Scenic Drive yet? Early to Mid-May is the peak season to experience the natural beauty of rolling hills covered in blossoming apple trees. However, the drive and overlooks are breathtaking year-round. At the top of the bluff near Apple Blossom Overlook, swing by River View Vineyard & Winery.  In 2003, River View Vineyard was started with cold hardy grapes, La Crosse (white), Frontenac (red), and Swenson Red (rose). This vineyard is open seasonally* and has an outdoor tasting venue with views of the Mississippi River Valley below. 

3. Riverside Park & The La Crosse Queen

Famous Riverside Park in La Crosse is the center of the charming community. At the confluence of three rivers, it’s an iconic location to stop and rest and take in the iconic and sparkling Mississippi River. It’s also home to the renowned La Crosse Queen paddle boat; a modern-day replica of the grand riverboats which used to ply the Mississippi in the early 1900s. Riverside Park is both a signature sight and prized jewel of the La Crosse Region!

4. Great River Landing & Hiking

The Great River Landing is an epic road-side stop along the Great River Road, perfect for stretching and gorgeous views! It is well known for its natural beauty, Welcome Center, and friendly atmosphere overlooking Lake Onalaska. Located in the vibrant city of Onalaska, it also serves as the trailhead for the Great River State Trail which connects over 100 miles of state bicycle trails and is a short walk from local cuisine and shops.

5. Mindoro Cut & The La Crosse Speedway

Thrill seekers, road trippers and motorcyclists… you’ve found your next bucket list item! Located in the West Salem area, journey through the Mindoro Cut. Specifically, the landmark resides in the town of Farmington, Wisconsin just off of Highway C; linking Mindoro with West Salem. The cut is 74 feet deep, 86 feet long, and 25 feet wide. It is the second deepest cut built by hand in the Western Hemisphere and the oldest functional cut which has not been improved! Looking for more to do in the West Salem area? Watch cars whip around the race track at the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. It has NASCAR Racing every Saturday night April-September and the Oktoberfest Races in October.

6. Lake Onalaska & Red Pines Bar & Grill

This stop is legendary for sunset chasers! Make sure to bring your camera as you take in the picturesque scenery and incredible sunsets on the shores of Lake Onalaska. The lake lies in Onalaska, Wisconsin and is a reservoir located on the Black River and Mississippi River. Nestled on the shores of this lake resides Red Pines Bar & Grill. You’ll find a casual restaurant delivering high quality, made from scratch meals. The destination is known for a “Northwoods atmosphere”, delicious hand-prepared walleye, lake perch, in-house smoked catfish, and much more!

7. Island Outdoors & Paddling

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. Ready to hit the water? Check out Island Outdoors for your paddling needs! You can rent a canoe, kayak, paddle board, water bike etc. and launch onto the Black River from their parking lot. 

8. Halfway Creek Park & Live Music

There’s no place like Holmen for a good time and live music! Stop in to Halfway Creek park for a wonderful hike and live music. With a whopping 14.5 acres, it’s the largest park in Holmen, WI. The quaint spot is also the home to concerts in the park every Sunday from 5pm-7pm, June through August.

3 Road Trips to Take in 2024

Enjoy beautiful scenery, access to excellent hiking, fishing, scenic overlooks, and the picturesque vistas of the Mississippi River along the Wisconsin Great River Road. The National Scenic Byway sits on Highway 35 and covers 250 miles of adventure and river towns in Wisconsin.

Read More >

4 Charming Towns To Visit This Summer

Visit some of the best charming towns in the La Crosse Region! These local hidden gems are top-rated and bursting with delicious restaurants and things to do. Only a few minutes away La Crosse and Onalaska, you’ll fall in love with their charm, sights, food, and so much more!

Read More >

The post 24 Hours Getaway- Bucket List Sights in the La Crosse Region! appeared first on ExploreLaCrosse.

Check out these One-Of-A-Kind Artists

Gallery 1802

Experience the unique beauty of Gallery 1802, La Crosse’s newest art gallery. Gallery 1802 showcases original work from select local, regional and national artists—paintings, sculpture, woodworking, photography, glass, ceramics and more—celebrating those who create beauty and rewarding those who seek it.

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River City Art Gallery

View local art from 60-65 artists from the La Crosse Region! View art from photography, jewelers, oil, acrylics, watercolors, printmakers like wood cuts, linoleum cuts, abstract work, and funky fun abstracts that go beyond just realism, you can also see pottery such as blown glass or ceramics.

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Pump House Regional Arts Center

Admire art at this Historic Landmark with three free exhibition galleries open to the public. Located in the old City Water Works building, it’s been transformed into a wonderful facility that showcases and prioritizes the visual arts, art education, and performing arts. The artwork displayed is selected through a juried process and is for sale to the public. Every month there’s a new set of artwork showcased!

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Viterbo University Fine Arts Center

Since 1971, the Viterbo University Fine Arts Center opened its doors and has been a nexus for arts and culture, education, outreach, and engagement. Located on the art floor (3rd Floor) of the academic wing and throughout the lobby areas of the Main Theatre there is the Gallery program. This includes exhibits by nationally known artists, as well as regional professionals, faculty, and students.

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UWL Visual & Performing Arts

Join the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UWL) Visual & Performing Arts for an exhibition featuring work by UWL Art Faculty. All exhibitions, receptions, and artist talks are free & open to the public. The UWL Gallery displays works by student, faculty, regional and nationally-known artists in all areas of art. The gallery is on the first floor of the Center for the Arts located at the corner of 16th and Vine on the UWL campus. 

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Get Immersed in the local art community

Artist Alley

Spend some time viewing local murals at this hidden gem, located in Historic Downtown La Crosse near the intersection of 5th and Main Street. This alley is filled with murals painted by local artists and is a fun way to immerse yourself in the La Crosse Region community.
PC: @taytakesatrip

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Saturday Art Market

The Second Saturday Art Market is an opportunity for local La Crosse Region artists to sell their art and demonstrate to the general public. You can purchase great local art on the Second Saturday’s of each month July- September. Enjoy live music and fun at the event!

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There’s More to Explore!

Get Your Hands Dirty in the La Crosse Region

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Get Crafty at All Glazed Up

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The post Celebrating Creativity: A Guide to La Crosse Region’s Best Art Galleries appeared first on ExploreLaCrosse.

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!

Concert + Dining + More!

Total Prize Value: Over $450!

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!

MORE INFO >

Campsite at Features Fest

Enjoy a free campsite to relax at before and after the concerts located at the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway.
Enter to win!

MORE INFO >

$50 Gift Card to Features Sports Bar and Grill

Features Sports Bar and Grill is located just across the street from the La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. Enter to win a $50 gift card to Features!

FEATURES >

Thank You to the Prize Sponsor: Features Sports Bar & Grill

The post Ultimate Features Fest Sweepstake: Enter to Win Two VIP Tickets and Fest Package! appeared first on ExploreLaCrosse.

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!

Learn More!

Rudy’s Drive-In | All-American Dining

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.

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Sagra Food & Wine | Italian

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.

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Buzzard Billy’s Flying Carp Café | Cajun

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.

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Mimi’s Kitchen | Thai & Southeast Asian

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.

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Crossroads Bar & Grill | All American Sports Bar

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!

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Moxie’s | Tiki Bar

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. 

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4 Sisters Wine Bar & Tapas Restaurant | Tapas

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.

Learn More!

The post Your Culinary Getaway to the La Crosse Region appeared first on ExploreLaCrosse.

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.

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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

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

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

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

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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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

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 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?

 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!

LEARN MORE >

The post From Highways to Waterways appeared first on ExploreLaCrosse.

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.

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Hixon
House

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.

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Second Nature
at Reads Creek

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.

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UMR National Wildlife & Fish Refuge

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.

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Children’s Museum
of La Crosse

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!

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Pump House
Regional Arts Center

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.

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La Crosse Area
Heritage Center

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.

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Dahl
Auto Museum

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.

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Rainbow Ridge Farms
Bed and Breakfast

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!

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Hidden Hills
Petting Farms

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!

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Discover More History

For the Arts
and History Buff

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The “Driftless”
Region History

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