Things To Do
in La Crosse
La Crosse is a city located in the state of Wisconsin, United States, nestled along the Mississippi River. Known for its beautiful natural surroundings, La Crosse offers outdoor enthusiasts plenty of opportunities for hiking, boating, and fishing. The city also boasts a vibrant downtown area with historic buildings, shops, and restaurants.
Home to several universities and colleges, La Crosse has a lively cultural scene and a strong sense of community.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Riverside Park to enjoy the beautiful views of the Mississippi River. Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bike to explore the scenic trails.
Head to the Dahl Auto Museum to learn about the history of automobiles in the area. Grab lunch at a local café and enjoy some regional dishes.
Watch the sunset from Grandad Bluff, offering stunning panoramic views of the city. Dine at a local restaurant with a focus on farm-to-table menus.
Kick things off with a morning kayak rental to explore the river up close. Enjoy the tranquility of the water and take in the natural beauty around you.
Visit the La Crosse River State Trail for biking or hiking adventures. Stop for a picnic in one of the parks along the route.
Wind down with a relaxing dinner in the downtown area at a spot known for its vibrant atmosphere. Consider trying some local craft beers at a nearby brewery.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities, including access to the Mississippi River and nearby bluffs.
- Strong sense of community and local culture, with various annual festivals and events.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in the region.
- Access to higher education institutions, including the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
- A vibrant downtown area with local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
- Harsh winter weather, with cold temperatures and significant snowfall.
- Limited public transportation options, which can make it challenging for those without a car.
- Job market can be competitive, especially for positions requiring specialized skills or degrees.
- Potential for higher levels of humidity in the summer months.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger urban areas.
Best Activities in La Crosse
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the city of La Crosse from the top of Grandad Bluff.
Explore the scenic trail that follows the La Crosse River, perfect for cycling and enjoying the natural surroundings.
Paddle along the iconic Mississippi River, take in the picturesque landscapes, and enjoy a tranquil water adventure.
Cast your line into the Mississippi River at Pettibone Park and enjoy a relaxing fishing experience surrounded by nature.
Tours
Uncover the best of La Crosse with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in La Crosse
Visit one of these nice places.
Perched 600 feet above La Crosse, offering panoramic views of the city, Mississippi River, and surrounding bluffs.
Scenic park along the Mississippi River with walking paths, green spaces, and views of the iconic Cass Street Bridge.
A nature reserve with hiking trails, overlooks, and picturesque vistas of the Mississippi River and city skyline.
Food in La Crosse
La Crosse Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Savor juicy, flavorful burgers at Fayze's, a popular local eatery known for its mouthwatering selection of burgers made from locally sourced ingredients.
Must-Try!
Try the classic Wisconsin Fish Fry, commonly available in many restaurants around La Crosse, showcasing the local appreciation for fresh, fried fish served with classic sides like coleslaw, rye bread, and potato pancakes.
Indulge in the iconic Wisconsin Cheese Curds at the Pearl Ice Cream Parlor, where you can enjoy these addictive, golden nuggets of deep-fried cheese alongside a delightful scoop of ice cream.
Unique Experiences
Get to know La Crosse better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
For a variety of fresh local produce, crafts, and artisanal foods, visit the Cameron Park Farmers Market, open from May through October, and experience the vibrant community atmosphere while exploring the stands.
Embrace the lively atmosphere and sample an array of traditional German street foods at the Oktoberfest USA, featuring bratwurst, schnitzel, pretzels, and other delights alongside live music and entertainment.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In La Crosse, it's important to maintain a comfortable distance when interacting with others and to be mindful of personal space boundaries.
It's important to be respectful of the diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs present in La Crosse, and to be open-minded and inclusive in interactions.
Politeness and using please, thank you, and excuse me are valued in interactions in La Crosse, reflecting a respectful and considerate demeanor.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of La Crosse with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in La Crosse
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in La Crosse, United States, particularly in the service industry. It is customary to tip servers at restaurants around 15-20% of the total bill. Additionally, tipping is also expected in other service-based establishments such as bars, taxis, and hotels.
Payment in La Crosse, United States is primarily done using cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment options. Most businesses and establishments accept major credit cards, and contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular. It is also common for people to pay bills and make transactions online or through mobile apps.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into La Crosse.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit La Crosse, as the weather starts to warm up and the trees and flowers begin to bloom. You can expect comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery as the city comes back to life after the winter months.
Summer is a popular time to visit La Crosse, as the city comes alive with outdoor festivals, events, and activities. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying the many parks, rivers, and outdoor recreation opportunities in the area.
Fall is a beautiful time to visit La Crosse, as the leaves on the trees change color and the surrounding countryside becomes a patchwork of vibrant hues. The weather is generally mild, and you can expect to see stunning fall foliage throughout the region.
Winter can be a magical time to visit La Crosse, especially if you enjoy snow sports like skiing and snowboarding. The city also hosts winter festivals and events, and you can expect a cozy and festive atmosphere during the holiday season.
La Crosse at Night
Hiking in La Crosse
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot offering scenic views of La Crosse and the Mississippi River, with various trails of differing difficulty levels.
A large forest reserve with numerous trails for hiking and mountain biking, featuring diverse wildlife and beautiful wooded areas.
A city park with walking trails, a nature center, and access to the La Crosse River, great for a leisurely hike.
Offers hiking trails with a mix of open space and wooded areas, perfect for families and casual hikers.
A scenic trail that meanders through apple orchards, providing a peaceful hiking experience with beautiful views, especially in spring.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into La Crosse through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach La Crosse by plane.
The largest airport in Minnesota, located approximately 120 miles northwest of La Crosse, MSP serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
One of the busiest airports in the world, located about 250 miles southeast of La Crosse, ORD offers extensive domestic and international connections.
Located about 260 miles southeast of La Crosse, MDW primarily serves domestic flights but also offers some international service, mainly to locations in Latin America.
Located approximately 110 miles east of La Crosse, MKE provides a range of domestic flights and limited international services, serving as a secondary hub in Wisconsin.
Located about 210 miles southwest of La Crosse, DSM serves a mix of domestic destinations and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Approximately 85% of the population, primarily of European descent.
Around 5% of the population, encompassing a diverse range of cultural backgrounds.
About 4% of the population, representing a small but important demographic.
Approximately 3% of the population, with various Asian communities contributing to cultural diversity.
Around 2% of the population, reflecting multiracial heritage.
Less than 1% of the population, includes Native American and Pacific Islander groups.
The Soul of La Crosse
Discover the essence of La Crosse through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport in La Crosse, with local leagues and school teams participating at various levels.
Widely played among youth and adults, with numerous clubs and leagues available for different skill levels.
A traditional American pastime, with local teams and leagues for all ages, including high school and amateur leagues.
Often played at schools and recreational leagues, with both indoor and beach volleyball facilities available.
A popular individual sport in La Crosse, with various running events and clubs promoting fitness and competition.
A competitive sport in the region, with youth programs and adult leagues available for both recreational and serious players.
High school and college football are significant community events, with strong local support and participation.
Gaining popularity in recent years, with youth leagues and club teams forming to promote the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Crosse.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
La Crosse offers a variety of dining establishments with dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus, such as The Root Note, Fayze's, and David Reay's, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience for plant-based eaters.
Several restaurants in La Crosse accommodate gluten-free dietary needs, including The Freighthouse Restaurant, The Charmant Hotel, and The Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern, presenting a range of gluten-free dishes and special menu options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of La Crosse with these cultural adventures.
