Onalaska
,Onalaska is a charming city located in the state of Wisconsin, United States. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including the Mississippi River and Lake Onalaska. The city offers a mix of outdoor recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
Onalaska also boasts a welcoming community with a range of shops, restaurants, and events for visitors to enjoy.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Onalaska
morning
:Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Afterward, visit the Onalaska Aquatic Center to enjoy some swimming.
afternoon
:Head to the local park for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. You can also rent a kayak to explore the nearby waters.
evening
:Enjoy dinner at a family-owned restaurant featuring regional dishes. Finish the day by catching a sunset at the riverfront.
Nature Retreat
morning
:Kick off your day with a hike in the scenic surroundings of the La Crosse River State Trail. The fresh air will energize you for the day ahead.
afternoon
:Visit the nearby Grandad Bluff for breathtaking views of the valley and the river. Pack your lunch to enjoy in the picturesque ambiance.
evening
:Return to the city for dinner at a barbecue joint. Enjoy the night with a walk around the serene lakeside.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful natural scenery, including the nearby Mississippi River and bluffs.
- Access to outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating.
- Strong sense of community and friendly residents.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger urban areas.
- Good quality schools and educational opportunities.
Bad
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries.
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Potential for isolation due to rural setting.
- Access to healthcare facilities may be limited in comparison to metropolitan areas.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking at Pettibone Park
Explore the scenic trails and beautiful views along the Mississippi River in Pettibone Park, with options for both casual hikers and more experienced adventurers.
Biking on the La Crosse River State Trail
Cycle along the La Crosse River State Trail, which offers a picturesque route suitable for all skill levels, including sections that are paved and well-maintained.
Kayaking on Lake Onalaska
Enjoy a day on the water with kayaking or canoeing on Lake Onalaska, where you can soak in the sunshine and the natural beauty of the area.
Fishing in the Mississippi River
Take advantage of the abundant fishing opportunities in the Mississippi River, with species like bass, perch, and northern pike available for catch.
Picnicking at Goose Island County Park
Spend a relaxing day with family and friends at Goose Island County Park, which features picnic areas, hiking trails, and stunning views of the river.
Birdwatching at the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge
Observe a wide variety of bird species at the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge, ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Swimming at Onalaska Aquatic Center
Cool off during the summer months at the Onalaska Aquatic Center, which features water slides, pools, and recreational areas for families.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Onalaska with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Great River Landing
A scenic overlook along the Mississippi River with beautiful views and a great spot for photography.
Sunset Park
Offers stunning panoramic views of the Mississippi River and a perfect spot for capturing sunset photos.
Van Loon Wildlife Area
A natural area with trails and beautiful views of the wildlife and landscapes, great for photography enthusiasts.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cheese Curds
A Wisconsin specialty, cheese curds are a must-try in Onalaska. These bite-sized pieces of fresh cheese are lightly breaded and fried to golden perfection, creating a crispy exterior with a warm, gooey center. Best enjoyed at local diners and bars like the Pearl Street Brewery and the Freighthouse Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Walleye Pike
As Onalaska is situated near the Mississippi River, sampling the local catch is a culinary delight. The walleye pike, a freshwater fish renowned for its delicate flavor, is often prepared by pan-frying or grilling. Local eateries such as the Red Pines Bar & Grill and the Hilltop Bar & Ballroom are excellent places to savor this dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Onalaska better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Onalaska Farmers Market
For a genuine farm-to-table experience, visit the Onalaska Farmers Market, where local producers showcase an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, artisanal cheeses, and handcrafted goods. It's an ideal spot to sample homemade jams, baked treats, and other local delicacies.
Food Truck Fridays
Every Friday during the summer, downtown Onalaska hosts Food Truck Fridays, featuring a variety of mobile vendors serving up delectable street food. Visitors can relish gourmet burgers, artisanal tacos, wood-fired pizzas, and much more in a vibrant outdoor setting.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Politeness and Courtesy
Residents of Onalaska value politeness. It's important to use common courtesies such as saying 'please' and 'thank you.' A friendly greeting, like a smile or a nod, can also go a long way in fostering goodwill.
Respect for Nature
Onalaska is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and waterways. Demonstrating respect for the environment is essential; this includes following local guidelines for waste disposal, avoiding littering, and embracing outdoor recreational etiquette.
Community Engagement
Community involvement is highly regarded in Onalaska. Participating in local events, volunteering, and supporting local businesses shows respect for the community's culture and helps build relationships with residents.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Onalaska with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Onalaska, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is a common practice in service industries such as restaurants, bars, and hospitality. The typical tip ranges from 15% to 20% of the pre-tax bill, depending on the quality of service. In some cases, particularly in larger groups, a gratuity may be automatically added to the bill.
Payment
Payment practices in Onalaska generally adhere to standard U.S. norms. Most establishments accept various forms of payment, including cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment options. Contactless payments have become increasingly popular, especially in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, local businesses may also utilize digital wallets and apps for convenience.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Onalaska.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
The best time to visit Onalaska in Spring is from April to June. During this time, you can expect milder temperatures, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.
Summer
The best time to visit Onalaska in Summer is from July to August. Expect warm temperatures, outdoor events, and water activities on the nearby Lake Onalaska.
Fall
The best time to visit Onalaska in Fall is from September to November. You can expect beautiful fall foliage, cooler weather, and local harvest festivals and events.
Winter
The best time to visit Onalaska in Winter is from December to February. While it is cold, there are opportunities for winter sports such as skiing and snowshoeing.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
La Crosse River State Trail
A scenic trail that follows the La Crosse River, offering beautiful views and opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching.
Hixon Forest
A forested area just outside La Crosse, with a variety of trails ranging from easy to challenging, perfect for hiking and nature walks.
Great River State Trail
A multi-use trail that runs along the bluffs of the Mississippi River, ideal for hiking, biking, and enjoying scenic river views.
Perrot State Park
Located at the confluence of the Mississippi and Trempealeau Rivers, this park offers trails with stunning views, diverse flora, and fauna.
Wildcat Mountain State Park
A beautiful park featuring rugged hills and valleys, with miles of hiking trails and stunning vistas over the Kickapoo Valley.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Onalaska through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Onalaska by plane.
La Crosse Regional Airport (LSE)
Located approximately 10 miles from Onalaska, it serves the La Crosse area and offers regional flights.
Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
Located about 120 miles northwest of Onalaska, MSP is the largest international airport in the region, offering a wide array of domestic and international flights.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
Situated around 170 miles to the south, offering significant flight options, primarily for domestic travel.
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
Located approximately 250 miles southeast, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the United States with extensive domestic and international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
White
Predominantly, residents identifying as White make up the largest demographic group in Onalaska.
Hispanic or Latino
This group represents a significant portion of the population, often contributing to the cultural diversity.
Black or African American
A smaller demographic group within Onalaska, adding to the community's diversity.
Asian
The Asian demographic in Onalaska is typically less than that of other groups but contributes to the multicultural landscape.
Two or More Races
Individuals identifying with two or more races represent a growing demographic in Onalaska.
American Indian or Alaska Native
This group comprises a small percentage of the population, reflecting the historical presence of Native tribes.
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander
This demographic is very small in number within Onalaska.
The Soul of Onalaska
Discover the essence of Onalaska through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball
A popular team sport played indoors, often favored by local schools and community leagues.
Football
A widely followed sport in high schools and colleges, with strong community support during the football season.
Baseball
A traditional summer sport enjoyed by youth and adult leagues, with local teams participating in regional competitions.
Soccer
An increasingly popular sport among youth, with various leagues and programs promoting participation for all age groups.
Ice Hockey
A favored winter sport, particularly in youth leagues, taking advantage of local ice rinks.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian
Many restaurants in Onalaska provide excellent vegetarian selections, with options such as veggie burgers, fresh salads, and creative plant-based entrees.
Vegan
While vegan-specific eateries may be limited, numerous restaurants in Onalaska offer customizable vegan options, including tofu stir-fries, dairy-free pizza, and vibrant vegan bowls.
Gluten-Free
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find accommodating menus at various establishments in Onalaska, featuring gluten-free pastas, pizzas, and dedicated gluten-free bakery items.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Onalaska with these cultural adventures.
