If you’re looking for a small-town feel with big-city amenities, La Crosse, Wisconsin, is the destination for you! Situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, this charming city offers a variety of activities and attractions to enjoy. There’s something for everyone in La Crosse from world-class museums to outdoor recreation. Plus, thanks to its location in the heart of America, it’s easy to get to and convenient to explore. So if you’re ready for an escape, put La Crosse at the top of your list!
Facts about La Crosse
Did you know that La Crosse is the largest city on the state’s western side? Situated along the Mississippi River, La Crosse is known for its scenic views and outdoor recreation. Here are some facts about this charming Midwestern city:
- Founded in 1841 by French immigrants.
- The city takes its name from the nearby Lacrosse River.
- Home to the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
- La Crosse remains Wisconsin’s largest city on the state’s western border.
- The city has a population of around 51,000 people.
- A popular kayaking, fishing, and hiking destination.
- La Crosse has six sister cities: Bantry, Ireland, Dubna, Russia, Epinal, France, Friedberg, Bavaria Germany, Førde Norway, and Luoyang, China.
- The city hosts an annual Oktoberfest celebration.
- La Crosse is also home to the world’s largest six-pack of beer, which is displayed at the City Brewing Company.
- The city has been ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States by Money magazine.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, La Crosse has something to offer everyone.
Things to Do in La Crosse
Looking for things to do in La Crosse? Look no further than this list of activities that are sure to keep you entertained. From hiking and biking to visiting museums and exploring the city, there is something for everyone to enjoy in La Crosse.
The city has plenty of parks and trails to explore for those who love being outdoors. Riverside Park is a popular spot for walking, running, or relaxing by the river. Veterans Memorial Park is another excellent option, with its scenic views and ample picnic tables. For hikers and bikers, the La Crosse River State Trail, Nixon Trail, and Grandad Bluffs offer miles of beautiful scenery to take in. You can see the Mississippi River, Minnesota, and Iowa from the Grandad Bluff, so make sure you pack some snacks and add this to your sightseeing tour!
If you’re interested in learning about the history of La Crosse, be sure to visit the Riverside Museum. This museum chronicles the city’s past, from its early days as a fur trading post to its present-day status as a thriving community. The Children’s Museum of La Crosse is another great option for families, with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
July is the warmest month of the year with an average high temperature of 85 degrees and January is the coldest month of the year with a low temperature of 6 degrees.
For those who want to experience the nightlife scene, La Crosse has plenty to offer. The downtown area is home to many bars and restaurants, perfect for an evening out on the town. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, several breweries in the city offer tours and tastings.
10 Best ‘Off the Beaten Path’ locations in La Crosse
- Elroy-Sparta trail – the first rail-to-trail project in the US!
- Ben Biking – World’s Largest Bicyclist
- State Trunk Tour – pick a road & go! HWY 16 – La Crosse
- World’s Largest 6 pack – downtown La Crosse brewery
- Shrine of our Lady of Guadalupe – beautiful scenery
- Great River State Trail
- Riverside Park, home of the downtown La Crosse Riverfest.
- Dash Park – Onalaska *attached to David Reay’s*
- Granddads Bluff – hiking trails, Rim of the City (complete overview of Lacrosse)
- La Crosse Queen
Stoney Creek Picks for Best Local Dishes/Restaurants
- Cheese Curds of course! Try out the Milwaukee Burger Company – just voted #1 cheese curds in La Crosse County.
- Irish Fare: Dublin Square Irish Pub & Eatery – Locally owned Irish fare.
- David Reay’s Modern Diner & Tavern – Locally owned homestyle cooking & lively tavern with great breakfast food, pot roast, chicken & waffles. Attached to Dash Park
- 4 Sisters: Downtown – Veteran & Women-owned – Tapas Style
- Waterfront – if you’re looking for upscale dining, look no further! This also has a walking trail leading right through Riverside to the restaurant.
- The Pearl Ice Cream parlor in downtown.
Local Hangouts
- Riverside Park
- Downtown – 3rd street bar strip
- Jules Coffee shop downtown
- Dash Park- Onalaska
- Moxies – Northside La Crosse – Tiki Bar & drinks/dining
Tips for Visiting La Crosse
Here are some tips to make your trip even better:
- Check out the downtown area. There are plenty of shops and restaurants to keep you busy.
- Visit one of the many parks in the city. You can go for a walk or just relax in the sun.
- Take a scenic drive along the Mississippi River. There are some beautiful views to be seen. If you’re traveling in May make sure to take part in the Apple Blossom scenic drive along Highway 17!
- Sample some of the local cuisine. La Crosse is known for its cheese curds and bratwurst. Being a proper college town, La Crosse is also filled with fun nightlife opportunities from local bars to swanky restaurant experiences- you get everything here! If you’re looking for a bar close to home, don’t sleep on our in-house Stoney Creek bar. Lumber Jacks offers a variety of drinks and pool table fun for everyone, whether it’s a corporate getaway or a weekend excursion!
- Visit during one of the city’s many festivals. There’s always something going on, like the July 4th Riverfest or the Blue River Folk Festival in August.
- Riverfest- Riverfest is the La Crosse Fourth of July celebration and takes place on Thursday, June 30th -July 4th from 2pm to 12-am. Enjoy live music, drinks, and fun times with locals as they enjoy the summer nights!
- Oktoberfest– Celebrate the 61st anniversary of La Crosse Oktoberfest – you won’t be disappointed!
Where to Watch the Sunset
There’s nothing quite like seeing the sunset over the La Crosse Bluffs—we know, we’ve been there! Here are our top picks for the best places to see the sunset in La Crosse in the summer or the winter.
- Riverside
- Dash Park
- Granddads Bluff
- Rim of the City
La Crosse is a charming town with plenty to offer visitors. If you’re looking for a quiet weekend away or want to explore the great outdoors, La Crosse is worth a visit. Be sure to check out some of the local attractions and take advantage of our tips to make the most of your time in this beautiful corner of America. Do you have any questions for our Stoney Creek team? Please let us know! Our staff would be happy to help!
Where to Stay
If you’re looking for a great place to rest your head when visiting LaCrosse, we think you’ll love Stoney Creek Hotel La Crosse – Onalaska. This contently located location provides rich scenic views and rustic charm paired with our genuine hospitality, providing our guests a true home away from home experience. Situated between Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, you’ll enjoy the scenic sites of the rolling bluffs to the east and the Mississippi River to the west. La Crosse’s vibrant downtown district offers an excellent variety of shopping, and dining, and the community boasts a rich cultural scene for lovers of art, music, and theatre. Perfect for a weekend visit or a two-week vacation, Stoney Creek La Crosse has something for everyone!
