Things To Do
in La Crosse
La Crosse sits at the confluence of the Mississippi and Black rivers in western Wisconsin, where bluffs rise above a scenic riverfront. The city blends outdoor adventure with a compact, walkable downtown and a bookish university vibe. Its historic riverfront, colorful neighborhoods, and strong local culture invite easy day trips and memorable meals.
From Grandad Bluff's sweeping views to Riverside Park's pathways, La Crosse offers a welcoming mix of nature and small-town charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in the Historic District, enjoying freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. Afterward, take a stroll along Main Street, where you can admire beautifully preserved Victorian architecture and charming storefronts. Don't forget to stop by the La Crosse County Historical Society to learn about the area’s rich history.
After lunch, visit the Riverside Park, where you can take a peaceful walk along the Mississippi River and enjoy the scenic views. Spend some time exploring the park's beautiful gardens and perhaps rent a bike to ride along the riverfront. As the afternoon winds down, consider visiting the nearby Dahl Auto Museum to discover vintage cars and their fascinating stories.
For dinner, treat yourself to a delicious meal at a riverside restaurant, savoring local dishes while watching the sunset over the Mississippi. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the river, soaking in the evening atmosphere and the twinkling lights reflecting off the water. Conclude your day with a visit to a local brewery, enjoying a flight of craft beers and soaking up the lively ambiance.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before heading to Grandad Bluff for breathtaking views of La Crosse and the surrounding bluffs. The morning is perfect for a hike up the trails that lead to the lookout, providing opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the fresh air. Once at the top, take in the panoramic vistas and capture some stunning photos.
After your hike, return to the city and have lunch at a nearby café known for its farm-to-table options. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Myrick Park, where you can visit the nature center and stroll through the beautiful trails surrounded by lush greenery. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a kayak or canoe to paddle along the Black River.
For dinner, enjoy a culinary experience at a local restaurant that emphasizes seasonal ingredients and regional flavors. After your meal, head to the La Crosse Community Theatre for an evening performance, showcasing local talent. Wind down your night with a nightcap at a cozy bar in the downtown area, reflecting on your day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚌One-way public transit ticket | $1.75-2.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-180 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly, 1 person) | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning riverfront scenery and Bluff views
- Compact, walkable downtown with easy access to nature
- Solid local food scene and festivals
- Strong access to outdoor activities and state parks nearby
- Limited big-city nightlife compared to larger cities
- Winter travel can be cold and icy for non-lskilled travelers
- Smaller international flight options; often requires a drive to MSP or another hub
Places to Visit in La Crosse
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic vistapoint offering sweeping views of the Mississippi River and La Crosse skyline, especially striking at sunrise and sunset.
Lovely riverfront paths with historic bridges, boats, and light reflections—great for golden-hour photography.
Historic architecture, quirky storefronts, murals, and brick streets ideal for street photography and portraits.
Steep bluffs and expansive river views across the Mississippi; a bit of a drive but rewarding for landscape shots.
Food in La Crosse
La Crosse Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Wisconsin staple found in many taverns and casual eateries; pair with mustard and a cold local beer.
Must-Try!
A classic Wisconsin snack, best enjoyed hot and melty with a dip or beer batter crunch.
Local freshwater fish prepared simply to let the river’s flavors shine; commonly featured on riverfront menus.
A light, flaky pastry with various fillings; a popular bakery pick in La Crosse and nearby towns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market at Riverside Park offering produce, baked goods, locally made treats, and prepared foods from nearby farms.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm hello and a smile go a long way; locals are generally friendly but may be reserved at first. Small talk about the weather or local sports is common.
Timeliness is appreciated for appointments and activities, though social plans can be flexible.
Tipping is customary in service settings; show appreciation for attentive service with a fair tip.
Safety
Tipping in La Crosse
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 15-20% at restaurants; round up taxi fares; tip hotel staff $1-2 per bag or per night; tip service personnel for good help.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for small vendors and farmers markets; mobile wallets and contactless payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with humidity; afternoon thunderstorms are common. Perfect for river activities, outdoor dining, and sunset views from the bluffs.
Crisp air and dramatic fall colors along the bluffs and river valleys; ideal for hiking and scenic photography, with fewer crowds.
Cold with possible subfreezing temperatures and snow. Great for winter walks, ice on the river (with caution), and cozy brewery visits.
Mild days with blooming trees and muddy trails early in the season; good for city walks, markets reopening, and wildlife along the river.
La Crosse at Night
Hiking in La Crosse
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic bluff overlooking the city and river; a short to moderate hike with a big payoff in views.
Expansive forest trails near La Crosse, offering shaded hikes, lookout points, and mountain-biking routes.
Scenic trails across the river in Trempealeau County with river overlooks and varied terrain.
Airports
How to reach La Crosse by plane.
Small regional airport offering limited domestic flights; convenient for quick trips to the region.
Nearby option in Dubuque, IA with seasonal and regional departures, about a 1.5–2 hour drive.
Major international hub about 200 miles away; provides the widest selection of domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time locals and students from UW-La Crosse and nearby technical colleges; community-oriented with Midwest hospitality.
A steady presence from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and Western Technical College contributing to a youthful, active culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local enthusiasm for football and basketball is strong, with UW-La Crosse and area high schools drawing communities to games.
Mississippi River access supports competitive and recreational fishing, sailing, and kayaking.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Crosse.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many downtown spots offer veggie burgers, salads, and grain bowls. Look for vegetable-forward specials and avoid heavy sauces if needed.
Ask about gluten-free bread or pasta options and cross-contamination in shared kitchens; many places can adapt with rice or corn-based sides.
Most menus have salads, grain bowls, and veggie entrees; confirm dairy-free dressings and cheese components when ordering.