The Essential Guide to La Crosse, Wisconsin

Located in western Wisconsin on the banks of the Mississippi River, the oft-overlooked small town of La Crosse is surrounded by dramatic river bluffs and scenic waterways—and in my opinion, it’s one of the best outdoor towns in the Midwest.

La Crosse was once a 19th-century industrial hub full of steamboats and lumber yards, but it has since evolved into a college town with a lively, youthful vibe. For travelers, the draw here is the city’s stunning natural beauty and historic charm. La Crosse’s combination of scenic beauty and small-town charm makes it an ideal place to have an outdoorsy adventure while getting a slice of quintessential Midwestern life.

For Haleigh Doyle, a longtime resident and the director of marketing at Explore La Crosse, the thing that sets the city apart is “its location in the Driftless Region with landscapes untouched by glaciers but rich with steep hills, forested ridges, and deeply carved river valleys, making it an unexpected outdoor haven.”

In La Crosse’s historic downtown, you’ll find well-preserved architecture, local breweries, and a bustling dining scene. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to the area’s riverfront trails, bluff hikes, and parks such as Grandad Bluff and Pettibone Park. And in the fall, signature events like Oktoberfest USA celebrate the city’s deep-rooted brewing heritage. Fun fact: La Cross is also home to the World’s Largest Six-Pack, a collection beer storage tanks that pay homage to the city’s beer brewing past.

Here’s what to know before planning a trip to La Crosse, Wisconsin.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Charmant Hotel 

This cute boutique hotel is housed in the former Funke candy factory, which was originally built in 1898. It has 67 rooms that have exposed brick walls, hardwood floors, and refined décor. Spa‑like rainfall showers, luxury bath products, and indulgent details like complimentary chocolates or dessert perks add to the luxe experience. As for dining, there’s the aptly named The Restaurant, which serves French-inspired cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Alternatively, you could head to the seasonally open Rooftop Terrace, where you can enjoy Neapolitan-style pizza and craft cocktails with a view.

Hatchery 

A restored former fish hatchery listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Hatchery Riverside skillfully blends old‑school charm with upscale modern comfort. The hotel opened in 2023, and has just six rooms with spa-like bathrooms, as well as a stylish cocktail lounge that serves small bites, an event space, and a rooftop balcony.

Castle La Crosse

Castle La Crosse is a grand 1892 Tudor Revival mansion turned luxurious bed and breakfast, sited in the heart of the historic district. It has five spacious, uniquely styled suites (each named after hardwood trees like mahogany, walnut and oak) that have fun details like period furniture, crown molding, and stained glass windows. Common areas include a music room with a grand piano, a wood-paneled library, and a sunny parlor. It’s the perfect blend of Gilded Age elegance and modern comfort.

Best Things to Do

Grandad Bluff Overlook 

This is one of the best places for epic views of La Crosse and the Mississippi River valley. Hike the scenic Gateway trails to get to the summit, where you’ll get a bird’s eye view of towering bluffs and vibrant foliage, especially in the fall. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the region’s natural beauty on a quiet hike.

The La Crosse Queen 

For a relaxing river experience, consider hopping on the La Crosse Queen. The boat itself dates back to 1976, but it’s a replica of a turn-of-the-last-century paddle steamer. It floats the iconic landscapes between Wisconsin’s and Minnesota’s shore, and has expert guides on board as well as indoor and outdoor seating. It’s one of the most memorable ways to explore the region’s waterways.

Bluff to Bluff Trolley Tour

This four-hour-long tour takes visitors around the scenic bluffs of La Crosse and La Crescent, where they can learn about the history of the area, the wine-makers who work the land, and the region’s geologic past. The tour also includes a fun stop at an apple orchard, so this is a solid option for families looking to blend sightseeing with tasty treats. 

Kinstone

Located an hour from La Crosse in Fountain City, Wisconsin, you’ll find Kinstone, a 30-acre garden filled with megalithic stone sculptures. This is a point of interest, decidedly a bit on the woo-woo side of the spectrum; however, it’s also blissfully peaceful and quiet. Take a meditative stroll along the Way of the Stones to see stone art and the Tree of Intention, where guests sometimes leave prayers.

Visit a local farm.

Hidden Trails and Hidden Hills are family-friendly farms that have corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and petting zoos. These farms also have hands-on seasonal fun, especially in the fall, making them popular destinations for harvest celebrations near La Crosse.

Best Shopping

Larson’s General

A beloved La Crosse institution since 2013, Larson’s General is a family-owned, low-waste store that has refillable goods and “earth-friendly alternatives to everyday essentials.” They handmake over 100 of their in-house products and are on the cusp of launching Ceremony Goods, an olive oil and balsamic vinegar brand.

Curated

Curated is a stylish boutique with a (dare we say) curated selection of artisanal home goods, gifts, and locally crafted items. Known for its modern aesthetic, the shop stocks thoughtfully chosen pieces perfect for decorating or gifting (or maybe gifting to yourself).

Drift Mercantile

Drift Mercantile blends coastal-inspired style with Midwestern charm, with cute, unique apparel, home décor, and gifts. It’s the perfect place to pick something up for the outdoorsy person in your life.

Natty West

Natty West is a hip store known for its vintage-inspired clothing, accessories, and art. It combines rustic charm with modern trends, and you’ll find locally made and one-of-a-kind pieces here.

Antique Center of La Crosse

A historic landmark and must-visit, the Antique Center of La Crosse is a three-story treasure trove packed with vintage and collectible items. Its kitschy charm and vast selection—from furniture to quirky curios—make it a destination for antique hunters and history buffs alike.

Best Restaurants

The Breakfast Club & Pub

A local favorite in La Crosse, The Breakfast Club & Pub serves hearty breakfast classics all day in a cozy atmosphere. With its retro décor and friendly staff, this is a great spot for all your comfort food favorites.

Starlight Lounge

Inspired by Sinatra-era glamour, Starlight Lounge is a martini bar with classic cocktails and smooth jazz. The décor and glitzy ambiance feel timeless, making this the perfect place for a date night or to celebrate a special occasion.

Red Pines Bar and Grill

Nestled on Lake Onalaska, Red Pines Bar and Grill has gorgeous waterfront views paired with hearty Wisconsin Northwoods cuisine. Be sure to try their famous fish fry.

La Cave

La Cave is a trendy speakeasy hidden in the lower level of Le Chateau restaurant. You can order small bites like truffle fries and escargot here, but they’re best known for their perfectly executed cocktails.

Best Time To Visit

Fall is the best time to visit La Crosse, Wisconsin, when the ancient bluffs on both sides of the Mississippi burst into red, orange, and gold. This stunning natural backdrop creates a perfect setting for outdoor adventures and scenic drives. The season also sees Oktoberfest USA, one of the largest Bavarian festivals in the country, where the city fills up with lively music, traditional food, and festive celebrations. The Bluff-to-Bluff Trolley tour is a charming way to explore the city’s historic neighborhoods and scenic overlooks. Fall is also prime time for family-friendly fun, with corn mazes, petting farms, and apple picking at local orchards. And if you appreciate craft beverages, Doyle suggests the Coulee Region Craft Beverage Trail which highlights local wineries and breweries.

How to Get There

The closest major airports to La Crosse are Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE), which is 215 miles away, and Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) in Minnesota, about 150 miles away. Expect about a two to three-hour drive if you’re flying into either of these airports. One of my favorite options actually involves flying into the smaller Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) in Madison, Wisconsin, and then enjoying the 2.5-hour drive along I-90 and the Great River Road through Wisconsin’s Driftless Region. The Great River Road hugs the Mississippi River with picturesque landscapes perfect for stops and photo ops.

Neighborhoods to Visit

Midtown La Crosse

Midtown La Crosse is a popular hangout spot among locals thanks to its healthy selection of local eateries and boutique shops. This is the place to go to get a taste of everyday La Crosse life.

French Island

Located just across the Mississippi River, French Island has a peaceful, suburban vibe with easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. With plentiful scenic parks and green spaces, birdwatchers will have a ball here.

Northside La Crosse

With historic buildings and easy access to hiking trails and the bluffs, this is a must-visit neighborhood for outdoor enthusiasts. Be sure to stop by The Crow after your adventure to fuel up on bourbon and burgers in a charming brick building.

How to Get Around

If you’re flying in from another part of the country, you’ll need to rent a car in order to reach La Crosse. However, if you’re planning on just exploring the city, La Crosse has a robust public transportation system and Municipal Transit Utility buses run regularly and fairly punctually. There’s also a municipal bike-share program, and the city has plentiful cycling lanes. Compact and easy to navigate, downtown La Crosse is also considered a very walkable area for those who prefer to travel on foot.