Things To Do
in La Crosse
La Crosse, Wisconsin, is a picturesque city nestled between the bluffs of the Mississippi River. Known for its vibrant cultural scene and outdoor recreational opportunities, it offers a unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty. The city boasts a rich history, evident in its historic architecture and museums.
With a welcoming community and a variety of activities, La Crosse is a fantastic destination for all types of travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with breakfast at The Waterfront Restaurant, known for its local ingredients and river views. Afterward, take a stroll along the Mississippi Riverfront to enjoy the scenic views.
Visit the La Crosse Historical Museum to learn about the city's past, then head to Riverside Park for a leisurely walk or picnic. Explore local shops and boutiques in downtown La Crosse.
Dine at The Charmant Hotel's restaurant for a delicious farm-to-table experience, followed by an evening walk to see the sunset over the river.
Start with a hearty breakfast at Fayze's, a local favorite, before heading to Grandad Bluff for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River.
Spend the afternoon hiking the trails at Myrick Park, where you can also visit the nature center and see local wildlife.
Enjoy dinner at The Old Crow, then check out a local brewery like Pearl Street Brewery for a taste of La Crosse's craft beer scene.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Fast Food Meal | $8 |
| ☕Coffee | $4 |
| 🍕Dinner for Two at a Mid-Range Restaurant | $50 |
| 🏨Hotel Room (per night) | $120 |
| 🚌Bus Fare | $2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
- Rich cultural and historical attractions.
- Welcoming and friendly community.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Cold winters may deter some visitors.
- Smaller city with fewer entertainment options compared to larger cities.
Places to Visit in La Crosse
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of La Crosse and the Mississippi River, especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
A beautiful park along the riverfront, perfect for capturing nature scenes and local events.
Features charming architecture and vibrant street scenes, ideal for urban photography.
Food in La Crosse
La Crosse Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried cheese curds are a must-try snack, crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, often served with ranch dressing.
Must-Try!
A staple in Wisconsin, bratwurst is often grilled and served with sauerkraut and mustard.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held every Saturday, this market features local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Midwesterners are known for their friendliness; a simple smile or 'hello' goes a long way.
Visitors are encouraged to respect natural spaces and wildlife, following Leave No Trace principles.
Being on time is appreciated in social and business settings.
Safety
Tipping in La Crosse
Ensure a smooth experience
A standard tip in restaurants is 15-20% of the total bill. It's also customary to tip bartenders and taxi drivers.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to carry some cash for small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.
Summer is warm and popular for river activities, festivals, and outdoor dining, but be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.
Fall offers stunning foliage with vibrant colors, ideal for hiking and photography.
Winters are cold with snow, providing opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing.
La Crosse at Night
Hiking in La Crosse
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Offers a network of trails for varying skill levels, with options for hiking, biking, and birdwatching.
Located a short drive from La Crosse, this park features trails with scenic views of the Mississippi River and diverse wildlife.
Airports
How to reach La Crosse by plane.
Located approximately 8 miles from downtown La Crosse, this airport offers flights to major hubs and is the primary air travel gateway for the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
With several higher education institutions in the area, a significant portion of the population consists of college students, contributing to the vibrant culture.
La Crosse is home to many families who appreciate the community's safety, outdoor activities, and educational opportunities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The local high school and college teams draw significant crowds, especially during fall seasons.
Ice hockey is popular in winter, with local teams competing and offering recreational leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Crosse.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in La Crosse offer vegetarian and vegan options, but it's advisable to check menus in advance.
Several cafes and restaurants cater to gluten-free diets, but always confirm with staff.