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Lacrosse, Wisconsin: Where the Fun Never Stops – Best Things to Do and Places to Visit

Are you planning a trip to La Crosse, Wisconsin and wondering what to do and see? Look no further! La Crosse is a charming city nestled in the Driftless Region, surrounded by bluffs and hills. There are plenty of fun and exciting activities to do and places to visit in La Crosse that will make your trip unforgettable.

Exploring Downtown La Crosse is a must-do activity. Stroll along the Mississippi River and take in the beautiful scenery. Visit the Riverside International Friendship Gardens, where the Black, La Crosse, and Mississippi Rivers converge. The gardens are beautifully landscaped and maintained and offer a peaceful and serene setting. You can also check out the Dahl Auto Museum, which features a collection of vintage cars and motorcycles.

If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, La Crosse has plenty to offer. Biking is a popular pastime here, with miles upon miles of road, mountain, and multi-use trails. You can also go hiking, fishing, kayaking, or canoeing. For family fun, visit the Riverside Amusement Park, which offers a variety of rides and attractions for all ages. And don’t forget to indulge in some of the culinary delights that La Crosse has to offer, from farm-to-table restaurants to local breweries.

Key Takeaways

• Downtown La Crosse and the Riverside International Friendship Gardens offer beautiful scenery and peaceful settings.
• Outdoor adventures such as biking, hiking, and water activities are popular in La Crosse.
• La Crosse offers a variety of family-friendly activities, culinary delights, and local events and festivals.

Exploring Downtown La Crosse

If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to spend a day in La Crosse, look no further than Downtown! With its unique blend of history, architecture, and entertainment, Downtown La Crosse is the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore all that this great city has to offer. Here are some of the best things to do and places to visit in Downtown La Crosse:

La Crosse Segway Tours

If you’re looking for a unique and exciting way to see Downtown La Crosse, look no further than La Crosse Segway Tours! These guided tours will take you on a thrilling ride through the heart of the city, giving you a chance to see all the sights and sounds of Downtown in a whole new way. Whether you’re a first-time rider or an experienced pro, La Crosse Segway Tours is the perfect way to explore all that Downtown has to offer.

Riverside International Friendship Gardens

For a more relaxing and peaceful experience, head over to the Riverside International Friendship Gardens. These beautiful gardens are located right on the banks of the Mississippi River, and offer stunning views of the water and the surrounding landscape. With its serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery, the Riverside International Friendship Gardens is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Dahl Auto Museum

If you’re a fan of cars and history, you won’t want to miss the Dahl Auto Museum. This incredible museum is home to a wide range of vintage and classic cars, as well as a number of fascinating exhibits on the history of the automobile. With its impressive collection of cars and its engaging exhibits, the Dahl Auto Museum is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the history of transportation.

So whether you’re looking for history, architecture, or just a fun day out, Downtown La Crosse has something for everyone. So why not head over to Main Street and start exploring all that this great city has to offer? You won’t be disappointed!

Outdoor Adventures in La Crosse

La Crosse is a city that is surrounded by natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From canoeing and kayaking to hiking and biking, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had in La Crosse.

Canoe and Kayak Excursions

One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of La Crosse is by taking a canoe or kayak excursion. The city is situated on the Mississippi River, which is home to a variety of wetlands and wildlife. You can rent a kayak or canoe and explore the river lands on your own, or you can take a guided tour with a local outfitter.

Grandad Bluff

If you’re looking for a breathtaking view of the city, Grandad Bluff is the place to go. This landmark is located on the city’s east side and has an elevation of 1,183 feet above sea level. From the top of the bluff, you can see the entire city and the surrounding countryside. It’s a great spot for a picnic or a hike.

Hiking and Biking Trails

La Crosse is home to a variety of hiking and biking trails that wind through the city’s parks and green spaces. The Great River State Trail is a popular destination for bikers, while Hixon Forest is a great spot for hikers. The county park and Riverside Park also have plenty of trails for hikers and bikers alike.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the river or an adrenaline-pumping hike through the forest, La Crosse has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an adventure you won’t soon forget!

Family Fun in La Crosse

La Crosse is a great place for families to visit with plenty of fun activities for kids of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a playground, hands-on exhibits, or games, there’s something for everyone. Here are a couple of family-friendly places to check out:

Children’s Museum of La Crosse

If you’re looking for a place where your kids can learn while having fun, the Children’s Museum of La Crosse is the perfect spot. With hands-on exhibits, interactive displays, and educational activities, your kids will be entertained for hours. They can explore the human body, learn about science, and even pretend to be a firefighter or a chef. The museum is geared towards kids aged 1 to 12, but there’s plenty for older kids and adults to enjoy too. Admission is affordable, and the museum is open seven days a week.

Riverside Park

Riverside Park is a beautiful park located in downtown La Crosse. It’s a great place to take your kids for a picnic, a walk, or just to play on the playground. The park has plenty of open space for running around, and there are several play structures for kids of all ages. You can also rent bikes, kayaks, or canoes to explore the Mississippi River. During the summer, the park hosts several events, including outdoor concerts, movies, and festivals. There’s something for everyone at Riverside Park.

La Crosse is a great destination for families, with plenty of fun activities that kids will love. From the Children’s Museum of La Crosse to Riverside Park, there’s no shortage of things to do. So pack up the family and head to La Crosse for a fun-filled vacation.

Culinary Delights in La Crosse

Are you a foodie looking for your next culinary adventure? La Crosse has got you covered with its diverse and delicious food scene. From classic Wisconsin supper clubs to ethnic restaurants serving up Thai or Mexican fare, you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds.

Craft Beer Tasting

If you’re a beer lover, you won’t want to miss out on La Crosse’s craft beer scene. Grab a Reel Craft Beer Passbook and explore the city’s breweries and taprooms. Try a pale ale at Turtle Stack Brewery, or a Duvel-style ale at Pearl Street Brewery. You can even take a brewery tour and learn about the brewing process while sipping on some tasty brews.

Local Cuisine

Looking for some local flavor? Check out Digger’s Sting for surf and turf with a craft cocktail, or Bodega Brew Pub for locally-crafted beer and delicious pub fare. For a unique dining experience, head to The Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern, where you can dine on the Mississippi River and enjoy stunning views while you eat.

La Crosse’s food scene is a must-see for any foodie. With over 100 culinary eateries, you’ll dine in a setting like no other among the bluffs on outdoor patios, in retro martini bars, renovated historic buildings, or classic pubs. So what are you waiting for? Come explore La Crosse’s culinary delights!

La Crosse Events and Festivals

La Crosse is a city that knows how to party, and there’s no better way to experience that than by attending one of the many events and festivals held throughout the year. Here are two of the most popular events that you absolutely cannot miss.

Oktoberfest

Ah, Oktoberfest. The time of year when beer flows like water, and everyone dons their lederhosen and dirndls. La Crosse’s Oktoberfest is one of the largest in the country, and it’s not hard to see why. With over a week of festivities, including live music, parades, and of course, plenty of beer, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to grab a bratwurst and some sauerkraut while you’re there, and don’t forget to raise a stein to Prost!

Riverfest

If you’re looking for a more family-friendly event, look no further than Riverfest. Held every summer on the banks of the Mississippi River, Riverfest is a celebration of all things summer. With carnival rides, games, and food vendors, it’s the perfect place to spend a day with the family. And let’s not forget the live music – Riverfest always has an amazing lineup of local and national acts. So grab a corn dog and a funnel cake, and get ready to have some fun in the sun.

No matter what time of year you visit La Crosse, there’s always something going on. From the annual Oktoberfest to the summer fun of Riverfest, these events are just a taste of what the city has to offer. So grab your friends and family, and get ready to make some memories that will last a lifetime.

Sporting in La Crosse

La Crosse is a city that loves its sports, and there are plenty of opportunities for you to get in on the action. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a fun day out, there’s something for everyone in this lively Wisconsin city.

Loggers Games at Copeland Park

If you’re a baseball fan, you won’t want to miss the chance to catch a game at Copeland Park, home of the La Crosse Loggers. This minor league team has been a fixture in the city since 2003, and their games are always a blast. With affordable ticket prices, a friendly atmosphere, and plenty of food and drink options, it’s the perfect way to spend a summer evening.

And even if you’re not the biggest baseball fan, there’s still plenty to enjoy at a Loggers game. From the hilarious antics of the team mascot to the between-innings entertainment, there’s always something going on to keep you entertained. And who knows, you might just become a baseball fan after all!

Sporting Arenas

But baseball isn’t the only game in town. La Crosse is also home to a number of other sporting arenas where you can catch everything from hockey to basketball to roller derby. So whether you’re a die-hard fan of a particular sport or just looking for a fun day out, there’s something for you in this city.

Some of the top arenas to check out include the Omni Center, which hosts everything from hockey games to figure skating competitions, and the La Crosse Center, which is home to a variety of events throughout the year. And if you’re looking for something a little more unique, be sure to check out the Coulee Region Chill, La Crosse’s very own junior hockey team. With their fast-paced games and enthusiastic fans, they’re always a crowd-pleaser.

So whether you’re a sports fan or just looking for a fun day out, La Crosse has plenty to offer. From baseball games to hockey matches to roller derby bouts, there’s always something going on in this lively Wisconsin city. So grab your friends, put on your team colors, and get ready for a day of fun and excitement!

Art and Culture in La Crosse

If you’re looking for a dose of culture in La Crosse, you’re in luck. From theater and performing arts to museums and galleries, there’s plenty to see and do. Here are some of the best spots to check out:

Theater and Performing Arts

La Crosse is home to several theaters and performing arts venues, including the Cappella Performing Arts Center. This medium-sized venue hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, from plays and musicals to dance shows and concerts. If you’re looking for a laugh, check out the improv comedy troupe at The Pump House Regional Arts Center. And if you’re in the mood for something a little different, head over to the Weber Center for the Performing Arts, which features experimental and avant-garde performances.

Museums and Galleries

For a dose of history and culture, head to the La Crosse County Historical Society. This museum features exhibits on the region’s history, including Native American artifacts, pioneer life, and more. If you’re more interested in contemporary art, check out one of the many galleries in the area, such as the Pump House Gallery or the Contemporary Art Gallery at Viterbo University.

No matter what your interests are, La Crosse has plenty of art and culture to offer. So grab a book, head to a show, or explore a museum – you won’t be disappointed.

Sacred Spaces in La Crosse

La Crosse is a city with a rich history of faith communities, and this is reflected in the numerous sacred spaces scattered throughout the area. Whether you’re a religious person or not, these spaces offer a unique glimpse into the history and culture of the region.

Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe

The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a spiritual destination for visitors from all over the world. Nestled on over 100 acres of beautiful Mississippi River Valley, this shrine boasts a variety of chapels, statues, gardens, and devotional areas. If you’re looking for a peaceful place to reflect and recharge, this is the place to be.

FSPA Chapel

The FSPA Chapel is a beautiful space that has been a part of La Crosse’s history for over 150 years. This chapel was built by the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, and it remains a beloved part of the community to this day. If you’re looking for a quiet place to sit and meditate, or if you’re interested in learning more about the history of the area, this is a great place to visit.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the history of the region, or you’re simply looking for a quiet place to reflect, La Crosse’s sacred spaces have something to offer everyone. So why not take a break from your busy schedule and spend some time in these beautiful and peaceful places? You won’t regret it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any kid-friendly things to do in La Crosse that won’t make me want to pull my hair out?

Yes, there are! La Crosse is a great place for families, and there are plenty of things to do with your little ones that won’t make you want to scream into a pillow. For starters, you can take a scenic boat tour on the La Crosse Queen Cruises, which is sure to keep the kids entertained. Another great option is All Glazed Up, where you can let your kids get creative with some pottery painting. And if you’re looking for something a little more educational, check out the Children’s Museum of La Crosse. There’s something for everyone!

What are the top things to do in La Crosse at night? (Besides sleeping, of course)

Well, if you’re looking for a good time after the sun goes down, you’re in luck! La Crosse has a thriving nightlife scene, with plenty of options to keep you entertained. One of the best places to start is Bodega Brew Pub, Inc., which offers an excellent selection of drinks and a friendly atmosphere. If you’re a beer lover, be sure to check out Pearl Street Brewery, which is a little off the beaten path but definitely worth the trip. And if you’re in the mood for some live music, head over to the Root Note for some great tunes.

What are the best outdoor attractions in La Crosse that won’t make me break a sweat? (I’m asking for a friend who’s allergic to exercise)

Don’t worry, we won’t judge your friend for not wanting to break a sweat! Luckily, there are plenty of outdoor attractions in La Crosse that are perfect for a leisurely day out. If you’re looking for some beautiful scenery, check out the La Crosse River State Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Another great option is the Riverside Park, which is a great place for a picnic or a relaxing stroll. And if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, you can always take a scenic drive along the Great River Road.

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