30 Best Things to do in La Crosse!
La Crosse in Wisconsin, is a charming city located along the Mississippi River. Known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene, La Crosse offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and urban delights. Whether you’re here to explore the bluffs, enjoy the riverfront, or dive into local arts and cuisine, La Crosse has everything. In this guide, we’ll showcase the best things to do in La Crosse during your visit to Wisconsin.
In this Article
1. Historic Attractions
Hixon House
Built in 1858 by Gideon Hixon, a successful lumber baron, Hixon House reflects the wealth and style of the late 19th century. Today, the house is a museum with 90% of its period furnishings, making it a rare example of a well-preserved Victorian-era home. Guided tours provide insights and allowing visitors to explore rooms filled with Arts and Crafts furniture, decorative pieces, and personal belongings that belonged to the Hixon family. One of the most unique features is Mrs. Hixon’s Turkish Nook, a space designed in the late 19th century, showcasing the Victorian fascination with exotic styles.
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is a public university located in La Crosse, known for its strong academic programs and scenic campus. Founded in 1909, the university has grown into a respected institution with a 128 acres campus surrounded by rivers, offering students a beautiful setting for learning and outdoor activities. It has a student enrollment of about 9,386 and offers more than 100 U.G programs, along with 30 graduate programs and two doctoral programs. It is ranked among the top public universities in Midwest, recognized for its academic excellence and student success.
Downtown La Crosse
The Downtown La Crosse is a lively area with a mix of historic charm and modern attractions. The streets are lined with local shops, restaurants and entertainment venues, making it a great place to explore. Visitors can walk along Main Street, where they’ll find unique stores, coffee shops and art galleries. The area is known for its historic architecture, with buildings that date back to the 19th century, adding character to the city’s landscape. Downtown also has a strong arts scene, with places like the Pump House Regional Arts Center and local galleries, which features exhibits and performances.
La Crosse Historical Society
The La Crosse County Historical Society is dedicated to preserve the history of the region and operates the La Crosse Area Heritage Center, which features exhibits on local history, including the Ho-Chunk presence, early white settlement, logging, brewing, and life on the Mississippi River. One of its key attractions is the Hixon House Museum, a well-preserved Victorian home that offers guided tours showcasing original furnishings and architecture. The society hosts exhibits regularly, such as the Hmong Journey through Story Cloths, which recall the 50th anniversary of Hmong resettlement in the U.S.
2. Outdoor Adventures
Myrick Park
The Myrick Park is the city’s oldest park and its pathway connects with Hixon Forest trails, which lead to Grandad Bluff, a well-known overlook with breathtaking views of the region. Visitors can access trails that link to the state trail system, allowing bikers to travel all the way to Trempealeau or Reedsburg. The park borders the La Crosse River Marsh, an important natural area that helps with flood control and supports local wildlife. Opened in 1873 and it was used as a fairground before it became a public park named Myrick Park for honoring Nathan Myrick, La Crosse’s first non-Indigenous settler.
Hiking Trails
La Crosse has some great hiking trails that offer scenic views and outdoor adventure. Hixon Forest is one of the most popular hiking spot, with almost 10 miles of trails takes you through wooded bluffs. The trails connect to Grandad Bluff Park, where hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River. Another great option is the La Crosse River State Trail, a 22 miles path that follows an old railroad route, passing through forests and wetlands.
The Great River State Trail is perfect for those who enjoy long-distance hikes, stretching 24 miles along the Mississippi River valley. For a shorter but rewarding hike, the Bicentennial Trail leads to Miller Bluff, offering stunning overlooks of the surrounding landscape. The Savannah Oaks Hiking Trail in Onalaska is another peaceful spot, with paths winding through oak savannas and prairie land.
Golfing Courses
La Crosse has golf courses that offer scenic views and enjoyable play for all skill levels. Forest Hills Golf Course is one of the oldest in the area, featuring a parkland-style layout with mature trees and well-maintained greens. Walsh Golf Center is an executive course with a driving range and mini golf, making it perfect for all players. Fox Hollow Golf Course has an 18-hole course, along with a sports bar and event center, making it a popular spot for both golf and social gatherings. The courses in La Crosse suits to players looking for both traditional and casual play, with practice facilities and scenic fairways.
Boating and Kayaking
La Crosse is a great place for boating and kayaking, with access to the Mississippi River, Black River and La Crosse River. Riverside Park is located in downtown La Crosse, is a popular spot for boat tours and river cruises, with steamboats like the La Crosse Queen Cruises making stops along the river. For those looking to rent a boat, American Marine La Crosse and Pettibone Boat Club offers a variety of options, including fishing boats and pontoons. The La Crosse River State Trail and Lake Onalaska Canoe Trail provide additional paddling routes for those looking to enjoy calm waters and scenic views.
Fishing Spots
In La Crosse, the Mississippi River is one of the best places to fish, with access to Pools 7, 8, and 9, where anglers can catch walleye, bass, catfish, and northern pike. Lake Onalaska, a reservoir on the Mississippi River, is another popular fishing location, known for bluegill, crappie, and largemouth bass. Goose Island Campground & Park, just south of La Crosse, has 2.5 miles of fishable shoreline, making it a great place for fishing and camping. Fishing guides like McCormick’s River Guide Service and Best Dam Fishing Float offer trips for those looking to explore the best fishing spots in the area.
Camping Sites
Camping in La Crosse offers a variety of options for those looking to enjoy nature and peaceful surroundings. Goose Island Campground is Wisconsin’s largest county campground, offering tent and RV sites, along with access to boating, fishing, and hiking trails. Another option is Bluebird Campground, which features tent spots, RV hookups and a swimming area, making it a good choice for families. For camping near the water, Pettibone Resort provides cabins, RV sites and tent spaces along the Mississippi River, offering scenic views and easy access to outdoor activities.
Great River Bluffs State Park, about 13 miles away in Minnesota, offers quiet campsites, scenic overlooks and hiking trails, making it a great escape into nature. Veterans Memorial Campground, situated along the La Crosse River, provides shaded campsites and picnic spots, with easy access to fishing areas. Neshonoc Lakeside Campground offers lakefront camping, with options for swimming, boating, and fishing, making it ideal for a summer trip.
3. Iconic Landmarks
Riverside Park
The Riverside Park is a well-loved public space along the Mississippi River, offering scenic views and a variety of activities. Located in downtown La Crosse, the park is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and relaxing by the water, with plenty of benches and open green spaces for visitors to enjoy. It hosts annual events, including Riverfest, Oktoberfest, Moon Tunes and Rotary Lights, which bring the people together throughout the year. The park is a stopping point for steamboats like the La Crosse Queen, American Queen and Julia Belle Swain, making it a great place to watch riverboats pass by.
Dahl Auto Museum
The Dahl Auto Museum showcases the Dahl family’s long history in the automotive industry. Visitors can explore a collection of classic and late-model cars, including rare vehicles like the 1929 Model A Roadster and the 2006 Ford GT Heritage Edition. It features an illustrated timeline of the Dahl Automotive business, highlighting its connection with Ford Motor Company. One of the highlights is Starlite Drive-In Theater, a tribute to La Crosse’s old drive-in that operated from 1949 to 1978. Guests can enjoy displays of restored automobiles and parts, offering a glimpse into the evolution of car design.
La Crosse Center
Built in 1980, La Crosse Center is a multi-purpose arena and convention center located in downtown, offering space for concerts, trade shows, sporting events and gatherings. The venue can accommodate between 5,000 and 7,500 guests, depending on the type of event, and offers 75,275 square feet of exhibit space, including an arena, North Hall and South Exhibit Hall. The skywalk connects the center to a nearby parking ramp, making access convenient for visitors attending large events. The center has hosted sports teams like the La Crosse Catbirds, La Crosse Bobcats and La Crosse Spartans.
Onalaska Omni Center
The Onalaska Omni Center is a multi-purpose event and sports venue serving the greater La Crosse area, hosting sports tourn aments, trade shows, concerts and gatherings throughout the year. The facility has banquet spaces, a boardroom, two arenas, with Arena 1 offering 28,000 square feet of dry floor space from March through October, while Arena 2 provides 22,000 square feet and is used for ice activities from June through March. The West Wing Shelter is a 3,600 square-foot space, is ideal for company picnics, graduation parties, and sports practices, offering a flexible setup for various events.
Pump House Regional Arts Center
The Pump House Regional Arts Center offers a mix of visual, performing, and literary arts, making it a key cultural space in the region. The building itself is a historic landmark, originally serving as the City Water Works before being repurposed as an arts center. Visitors can explore exhibit galleries, which showcases temporary art displays selected through a juried process, ensuring a various range of artwork. The center hosts theater performances, concerts and film screenings, and events like Artspire, a free arts celebration held at Riverside Park, featuring live concerts and interactive exhibits.
4. Family-Friendly Activities
La Crosse Queen Riverboat Cruise
The La Crosse Queen Riverboat Cruise offers a unique way to experience the Mississippi River in La Crosse, aboard an authentic paddlewheel boat. This modern-day replica of early 1900s riverboats is one of the few still operating with a split sternwheel powered by twin diesel engines, keeping true to traditional paddlewheel propulsion. The boat offers sightseeing tours, dinner cruises and themed events, giving passengers a chance to enjoy scenic river views while learning about local landmarks and wildlife. The narrated tours provide insights into the history of the river and its surrounding areas.
La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway
Since 1957, La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway features a 5/8 mile outer track and a 1/4 mile inner track, both designed for fast-paced stock car racing, with progressive banking from 5 to 11 degrees to create thrilling competition. As part of the NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series, the speedway hosts weekly races, street drags and special events, giving spectators plenty of opportunities to watch high-speed action. Originally a half-mile dirt track, it was paved in 1970, marking an important milestone in the track’s history and transforming it into one of the most respected short tracks in the region.
Clearwater Farm Petting Tours
The Clearwater Farm focuses on sustainable agriculture, historical preservation, and hands-on learning, making it a great place for families and nature lovers. Guests can meet and interact with farm animals, including goats, chickens, rabbits and ponies, while learning about their care and daily routines. The farm hosts summer camps and seasonal events, such as Open Barn Days, Easter Egg Hunts and Halloween Spooktacular, providing fun activities for the community. Visitors can also explore the gardens and walking paths, which showcase sustainable farming practices and learn local plant life.
Children’s Museum of La Crosse
The Children’s Museum of La Crosse is a fun and educational place for kids and families, that provides hands-on activities that encourage creativity and learning through play. It focuses on making education accessible and engaging for young visitors. Kids can explore exhibits covering science, art, and daily life, helping them develop problem-solving skills while having fun. One highlight is the Fire Truck, where children can dress up as firefighters and learn about emergency response. Another favorite exhibit is the Kid-Sized Town, allowing kids to role-play in a mini grocery store and doctor’s office.
La Crescent Community Ice Arena
The La Crescent Community Ice Arena is a welcoming space for ice skating and hockey, hosting open skate sessions, youth hockey programs and local events, making it a popular spot for families. Visitors can check the La Crescent Youth Hockey Association website or the arena’s Facebook page for updated schedules and open skate hours. The facility supports community activities, bringing people together for skating and hockey games throughout the year. The arena is home to the La Crescent Youth Hockey Association, which provides a chance for young players to develop their skills and enjoy.
5. Natural Attractions
Riverside International Friendship Gardens
The Riverside International Friendship Gardens offering visitors a quiet space to walk and enjoy different landscapes. The gardens represent La Crosse’s sister-city relationships, featuring designs inspired by China, Germany, France, Russia, Norway and Ireland. Each section reflects the plants and styles of these countries, creating a unique experience for visitors. The gardens are a result of a public-private partnership, with the City of La Crosse Parks Department, Bluff Country Master Gardeners and Riverside International Friendship Garden Board of Directors working together to care for the space.
Grandad Bluff Park
The Grandad Bluff Park offers one of the best views in the area, standing 600 feet above the city and providing panoramic sights of the Mississippi River Valley and nearby states Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. The bluff has been a landmark since 1851, with the city officially acquiring the land in 1912 to preserve its natural beauty. A stone shelter was built in 1938, and a flagpole was added in 1941, later replaced in 1994 with a taller one that still stands today. The park is part of Driftless Region, known for its unique geological formations and landscapes, attracting nature lovers and photographers.
Hixon Forest
The Hixon Forest is a great place for hiking and outdoor activities, offering nearly 10 miles of trails that pass through wooded bluffs and provide scenic views of the Mississippi River Valley. Located on the eastern edge of La Crosse, the forest connects to Grandad Bluff Park, making it a popular destination for visitors looking to explore nature. The forest is also a favorite spot for mountain biking, with paths leading to Upper Hixon Forest, which has additional trails for biking and hiking. In winter, it becomes a hub for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, offering outdoor recreation year-round.
Perrot State Park
Covering 1,270 acres, Perrot State Park is a beautiful destination where the Mississippi and Trempealeau rivers meet. Visitors can explore hiking trails, including the popular Brady’s Bluff Trail, which leads to an overlook with stunning views of river valley. The park offers canoe and kayak rentals, allowing visitors to paddle through Trempealeau Bay. The Great River State Trail is a 24 miles biking path, runs through the park, giving cyclists a chance to ride along the river and through wooded areas. The park is home to Trempealeau Mountain, which was considered sacred by Native American tribes.
Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge
The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge is a vast protected area that stretches 261 miles along the Mississippi River, covering more than 240,000 acres of floodplain. Established in 1924, the refuge is a paradise for migratory birds, fish and wildlife, making it a great place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The refuge is also recognized as a Globally Important Bird Area and Wetland of International Importance, bringing birdwatchers from all over. The refuge plays a key role in conservation, helping protect native species and maintain the health of the river environment.
6. Day Trips & Excursions
Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge
Located 30 miles from La Crosse, Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge covers 6,800 acres of protected land along the Mississippi River. It is known for its wetlands, prairies and forests, providing a home for many birds and wildlife. The refuge is part of the Mississippi Flyway, a major migration route, making it a great spot for birdwatching. Visitors can explore the area by walking, biking or driving, with trails and roads leading to scenic spots. The Prairie’s Edge Tour Loop is a 5 miles driving route that offers views of the wetlands and grasslands, with stops along the way for wildlife observation.
Petenwell Lake
Located 90 miles from La Crosse, Petenwell Lake is spans for 23,000 acres and provides excellent conditions for pontoon boating, kayaking and fishing, with rentals available at local marinas. Anglers can catch walleye, bass, northern pike and catfish, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. The public boat launches and fishing piers make access easy for visitors wanting to spend time on the water. The surrounding forests creating a peaceful environment for hiking and picnicking. There are campgrounds and recreational areas for those looking to extend their trip with an overnight stay.
Rochester, MN
Start a day trip to Rochester in Minnesota takes around 1.5 hours from La Crosse, is a great way to explore city’s attractions and outdoor spaces. Downtown Rochester has a variety of local shops and restaurants, making it a great place to walk and enjoy the city’s atmosphere. The city is best known for the Mayo Clinic, a world-famous medical center with a historic campus that visitors can explore. The Plummer Building, with its iconic bell tower, is one of the most recognized landmarks in Rochester. The Peace Plaza hosts seasonal events and provides a relaxing space to enjoy the surroundings.
Waterloo, IA
From La Crosse, a day trip to Waterloo in Iowa takes around 3 hours drive, and offers a mix of history, outdoor activities, and local attractions. One of the best places to visit is the John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum, where visitors can learn about the company’s history and see vintage farming equipment. Another great stop is the Grout Museum District, which includes exhibits on science, history, and military artifacts, giving insight into the region’s past. Downtown Waterloo has a variety of local restaurants, coffee shops, and small businesses, making it a great place to explore and grab a meal.
Winona, MN
Planning a day trip to Winona takes around 30 minutes from La Crosse, is a great way to explore the Mississippi River Valley. Start from Minnesota Marine Art Museum, which features works by famous artists like Van Gogh, Monet and Picasso. Another great spot is Garvin Heights Park, where visitors can take in panoramic views of the city and river after a short hike. Winona is home to Sugar Loaf Bluff, a well-known rock formation that stands above the city, offering many hiking trails. Downtown has a mix of local restaurants and historic buildings, making it a great place to walk around and explore.
How to Reach La Crosse
La Crosse is easy to reach by air, train, bus, or car, making it a convenient destination for travelers. The La Crosse Regional Airport (LSE) is the closest airport, located about 5 miles from downtown, with nearby airports include Rochester (RST), Madison (MSN), and Minneapolis (MSP), offering more flight options. Travelers arriving by train can take Amtrak’s Empire Builder, which stops in La Crosse and connects to cities like Chicago, Milwaukee, and Minneapolis.
For those traveling by bus, Jefferson Lines operates routes to La Crosse from Milwaukee and other cities, with daily service available. Driving to La Crosse is also a good option, with Interstate 90 running through the city, making it easy to reach from Madison, Minneapolis, and Chicago. The drive from Madison takes about 2.5 hours, while Minneapolis is about 2 hours away. Once in La Crosse, visitors can hire local taxis, use rideshare services, and public buses to explore around.
Local Transportation
The Municipal Transit Utility (MTU) operates public buses, covering La Crosse, French Island, parts of Onalaska, and La Crescent, Minnesota, with 11 routes serving key areas like downtown, shopping centers, and residential neighborhoods. Riders can check schedules and real-time updates using the Transit app, making trips easy to plan. For private transportation, several agencies provides car rentals, shuttle services and charter buses for longer trips.
Lamers Bus Lines offers school bus routes, charter services, and intercity travel, making it a convenient choice for groups. Ready Bus Company, with over 50 years of experience, provides motorcoach services and organized tours, ideal for larger groups traveling in and around La Crosse. Taxis and rideshare services are available in La Crosse for easy transport across the city. Travelers can also explore the area by biking or walking, with many trails and bike-friendly streets making it a great place to get around on foot or two wheels.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Are there any must-see attractions in La Crosse?
When visiting La Crosse, make sure to check out Grandad Bluff for stunning views of the city and Mississippi River Valley, especially at sunrise or sunset. Riverside Park, along the river, is perfect for picnics, walks, and outdoor events. Enjoy a relaxing riverboat cruise on the La Crosse Queen for a unique perspective of the area. Don’t forget to explore historic downtown, where charming shops, tasty restaurants, and beautiful architecture await.
2. What dining options are available in La Crosse?
La Crosse offers a range of dining experiences, each with its own charm. For a relaxed, upscale meal, head to The Freight House, where you can savor farm-to-table dishes and enjoy a selection of craft beers. If you’re in the mood for something more lively, Buzzard Billy’s serves up a variety of Cajun and Creole dishes in a fun atmosphere. For a unique twist, visit the Rivoli Theatre Restaurant, where you can watch a movie while dining in a historic setting.
3. Are there any special events or festivals in La Crosse?
La Crosse hosts exciting annual events that highlight the city’s charm. In summer, Riverfest celebrates the Mississippi River with live music, food vendors, and fireworks. The fall brings La Crosse Oktoberfest, featuring traditional German food, beer, and cultural activities. During winter, the Holiday Lights Festival transforms the city with a festive display of lights and holiday events. Each event offers a unique way to experience the vibrant community spirit of La Crosse.
4. Is La Crosse a family-friendly destination?
In La Crosse, there are great places for family fun and learning. The Children’s Museum of La Crosse offers interactive exhibits where kids can explore and learn in a hands-on way. The La Crosse Zoo, though small, is a delightful spot where families can see a variety of animals and join in educational programs. For those who love the outdoors, the city has family-friendly parks and trails perfect for hiking, picnicking, and playing at the playgrounds.
5. Can I find any local shopping opportunities?
Yes, La Crosse offers several shopping options, from quaint boutiques to larger retail stores. The Historic Downtown area has a variety of unique shops and galleries, perfect for finding local crafts and souvenirs. The Gundersen Health System’s Health Science Museum Store and The Pearl Ice Cream Parlor also offer a range of local products and gifts.
