If you are looking for something fun to do on your vacation or weekend out of your office, then you must make La Crosse, WI, your major attraction destination.
Located on the shores of the Mississippi River, this beautiful city is among America’s best-kept secrets and has many rich and natural histories.
You’ll find so many exciting things to do in La Crosse, WI, ranging from strolling in Gorgeous Riverside Park, walking along La Crosse River State Trail, exploring Grandad Bluff, and tasting the best brews in Pearl Street Brewery, viewing beautiful arts in Dahl Auto Museum, etc.
This city has lots to offer, which is why it is one of the best tourist destinations in Wisconsin.
Where is La Crosse?
Located on the Mississippi River banks, La Crosse is a magnificent yet underrated city in Western Wisconsin.
Despite being underappreciated, La Crosse won’t be deprived of the fact that it is home to many incredible structures, historical buildings, entertaining activities, and other excellent exhibitions.
It is a waterside town with lots of fun things to do for everyone, thus making it a great tourist destination for both residents of Wisconsin and visitors from across the world.
The city is home to several historical institutions like the University of Wisconsin, Western Technical College, and Viterbo University.
La Crosse is also a local technology and medical hub. Apart from the institutions mentioned above, the city features many things that will excite tourists, from spectacular shops, fun-filled entertainment centers, historical museums, and galleries to entertaining festivals around downtown.
Below, we’ve highlighted some of the best fun things to do in La Crosse, WI.
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Fun Things to Do In La Crosse, WI
1. Riverside Park
Are you looking for an adventurous place to spend your vacation in La Crosse, WI? The first on our recommended list is Riverside Park.
Have you thought of how interesting it would be to wander around this stunning city park and one of the several scenic sites in La Crosse?
Riverside Park will be great for those who like finding peace with nature. It has been in existence and opened to the public since 1911, even though it was known originally known by its name. In other words, it was initially called Levee Park.
As long as Riverside Park is concerned, it is an enticing location that is used to host many kinds of events all year round, such as Fourth of July celebrations and the yearly Oktoberfest.
You’ll find several trails to go for a walk or jog during morning hours.
Address: 100 Block, State Street, La Crosse, Wisconsin
2. La Crosse River State Trail
If you want a morning jog or cycling options, you must take a shot at the incredible La Crosse River State Trail.
It is a 24-mile rail trail running between Marshland and Onalaska. The trail is a part of the four linking bike trails within west-central Wisconsin called the Bike 4 Trails.
The La Crosse River State Trail is one of the most renowned trails as long as Wisconsin is concerned, running from Sparta to Onalaska.
This trail also features many recreational exhibitions, including hiking, walking, running, and jogging. This trail is an enjoyable adventure, as you’ll chat with so many people.
Address: Between Marshland and Onalaska, Wisconsin
3. Pearl Street Brewery
Have you tasted some of the best local brews from Wisconsin? You will have the opportunity to enjoy lots of it when you stop by Pearl Street Brewery.
Established in 1999, the brewery hasn’t disappointed in its award-winning Ales and Lagers production.
Pearl Street Brewery is always open for learning tours on Fridays or Saturdays when all visitors will learn how the brews are produced and show a sample.
If anything should make you miss out on the weekend, there’s still an opportunity for you to sit in the tasting room to taste a pint or go home with a case of beer. Live music is available on Thursday or Friday.
Address: 1401 Saint Andrew Street, La Crosse, Wisconsin
4. Mount La Crosse
If you are a winter sports lover, you will surely marvel at the idea of a varied winter wonderland at the Mount La Crosse Ski Area.
Since its founding in 1959, it has been an enticing avenue for winter haunt, offering learners the surest Mlleway Trail, the longest nursery slope in the country.
At the opposing part of the scale, daredevils will experience taking on the challenge of the Damnation Trail, invariably the steepest ski trail in the country.
It features a center where you can participate in the lessons and a Terrain Park where visitors can tour to explore some beautiful exhibitions.
Address: Mount La Crosse Ski Area, Old Town Hall Road, La Crosse, WI 54601, Wisconsin
5. La Crosse Segway Tours
One of the best things to do during your vacation in La Crosse is participating in the La Crosse Segway Tours, an exciting adventure for everyone, be it locals or visitors worldwide.
It is situated in the northern part of Riverside Park; the Segway operators ensure visitors discover the fantastic attractions in La Crosse in a spectacular way.
Thanks to La Crosse Segway Tours, you can witness some of the most amazing places to go. The tour is headed by experienced guides that will tell you more exciting things about the city while guiding you to some of the city’s underrated but fantastic spots.
The tour will lead you to Experience the Pettibone Park Tour, where you will go past Cameron Street and Cass Bridges.
There are three rivers from Riverside and Pettibone Park, which will treat you to panoramic vistas. It’s all fun out there as long as you are in the Segway Tours.
Address: North side of Riverside Park, 410 E Veterans Memorial Dr. La Crosse, WI 54601
6. DNA Vintners
If you want to get many unique adventures from the rest of the everyday things you have constantly been experiencing, you should consider visiting DNA Vintners.
It will give you something different from your standard vineyard by offering you a delicious and unique fruit wine.
If fruit wine is your favorite drink, you should choose DNA Vintners as your favorite spot when it comes to getting the best fruit wine drinks. Its fruits are obtained from local sources and are available for tasting at the tasting room.
Meanwhile, they are rated highest on the Winery & People’s Choice list at the Between the Bluffs Beer, Wine, and Cheese Festival in La Crosse for 2013, 2014, and 2016.
Address: 1223 Caledonia Street, La Crosse, Wisconsin
7. Garvin Heights Vineyards
If you want to experience more of a world-class winery adventure, you should stop by Garvin Heights Vineyards. It is situated just past the state line in Minnesota but seats on the scenic bluffs across the Mississippi River.
This vineyard features different collections of grape wines gotten from locally produced grapes.
A bottle or glass of wine is available for purchase with several locally produced cheese, local sausage, and crackers to experience the enjoyable scenery of the vineyard’s 3.5 acres of grapes.
Address: 2255 Garvin Heights Road, La Crosse, Wisconsin
8. Copeland Park
La Crosse is a city in Wisconsin most commonly known for the numerous spectacular places, one of which is Copeland Park.
This place is one of the most fun-thrilled attractions that will give you the adventure of your lifetime. Founded in 2003, Copeland Park is a stadium that is a home ground for the La Crosse Loggers baseball team.
This adventure will surely intrigue baseball enthusiasts, as they will get to witness lively and entertaining matches of America’s favorite pastime. Again, the stadium is a hosting center for many different concerts and events.
You can enjoy Copeland Park whenever the home team plays, as the occasion always results in a thrilling and vibrant atmosphere. Matches are always played between May and August and offer great moments of competitive atmosphere.
Address: 1130 Copeland Park Dr, La Crosse, WI 54603
9. Pettibone Resort
You must have heard of the Mississippi River and the host of wonders surrounding it.
After being stressed from the day’s enjoyable adventures and tours around this famous river, Pettibone Resort is the best place to relax your nerves while enjoying the company of others around a campfire.
Seated over the Mississippi River’s west area, Pettibone Resort is the closest of all campgrounds to La Crosse and offers one of the best things to experience in the city. It is particularly famous for its panoramas and rustic beauty.
It also features canoe rental services alongside more than 250 local and electric campsites.
The best time to enjoy this resort is during the night when you will get to relax in your lawn chair and watch the shiny stars while listening to the campfire crackle.
Address: 333 Park Plaza Dr, La Crosse, WI 54601
10. Pump House Regional Arts Center
You can spare a few hours of your time in La Crosse exploring the beautiful artworks in Pump House Regional Arts Center, and thank me later.
Established in 1977, this center was built to develop La Crosse’s cultural life by preserving the historic Pump House as a cultural center.
It is a non-profit organization aiming to present a comprehensive schedule of art exhibits, including works by residents and artists from all over the world.
You can also spare a few hours to see the different interesting theater productions, storytelling festivals, a movie club, and other events initiated by the performing arts department.
Address: Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse, WI 54601
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11. Riverside International Friendship Garden
You will not leave La Crosse without enjoying your adventure, as the city features many beautiful views within and around its regions. Another crucial part of the beauty of La Crosse is its Riverside International Friendship Gardens.
If you are a lover of raw beauty, you will surely be amazed at the sight of these spectacular gardens.
Riverside International Friendship Gardens is a collection of some of the most beautiful gardens in entire Wisconsin, including Irish, French, German, and Chinese gardens, amongst others.
This garden is situated just on the convergence of the Mississippi River, the Black, and the La Crosse River and offers an exceptionally stunning piece of work. It surely deserves to be on your list of things to do in La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Address: 345, 405 E Veterans Memorial Drive, La Crosse, WI 54601
12. Dahl Auto Museum
If you are a car enthusiast, Dahl Auto Museum should be at the top of your list of things to do in La Crosse, Wisconsin. This museum was created to celebrate classic vehicles and automobiles and the rich past of car production in the United States.
It is a family-owned and managed business that pays tribute to the many years of involvement of the Dahl family and their impact in the automobile industry, spanning over five generations of Dahls.
Dahl Auto Museum has a complete history of the automobile through the famous Ford Motor Company.
It features stunningly rebranded and maintained classic vehicles dating as far back as the early 20th century and a wide mascot collection. This is an interesting adventure you shouldn’t miss out on.
Address: 711 3rd St S, La Crosse, WI 54601
13. Children’s Museum of La Crosse
Talking about Museum, you’ll find it all in La Crosse, Wisconsin. If you want your kids to grow in educational know-how and make a difference to other children and display their unique knowledge to the world, then the Children’s Museum of La Crosse is a must-visit.
Come with your children to this museum to engage in intelligent interactions and immerse themselves in all forms of fun and educational exhibits, displays, and programs that encourage learning via play.
Children’s Museum of La Crosse features three floors of interactive activities for children ages 12 and above and their adult companions.
It also features a multipurpose theater, which displays various activities from fun performances, dance, music, readings, and a climbing wall for the restless spirits.
As far as this museum is concerned, these exhibits depend on educational themes like rivers and bridges, libraries, fire trucks, stores, and banks.
These kids will also be encouraged to spare a few more time to explore, discover, and learn via play. Why not give your children the experience of their lifetime?
Address: 207 5th Avenue S, La Crosse, WI 54601
14. Rudy’s Drive-In
Make sure you taste some of the best delicacies of Wisconsin with a few moments of relaxation at Rudy’s Drive-In.
Just as its name implies, you can just breeze in after a long day or adventure around town to grab some of the best lunches at these great joints.
Established in 1933, Rudy’s Drive-In has fast developed into a preferred dining destination for locals and visitors from far and near, thanks to its focus on the city’s best and most freshly-made staple foods.
It is arguably among the most famous restaurant in the area, offering a wonderful dining experience taking you back in time.
As far as food is concerned, this eatery provides everything to the other meals on its menu, including classic burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Rudy’s Drive-In offers a unique venue for you to drive in and have a quick but tasty and sumptuous evening meal.
Address: 1004 La Crosse St, La Crosse, Wisconsin
15. Grandad Bluff Park
La Crosse is a city that is home to many incredible parks, one of which is Grandad Bluff Park. Suppose you want to have the most remarkable enjoyable experience of your time in Wisconsin.
In that case, you must visit one of its attractive cities to explore and partake in the many exhibitions in this park.
Your visit to Grandad Bluff Park will surely make you fall in love with it, as it offers the most incredible views of the Mississippi River valley, which is a significant reason it is common amongst tourists and frequented by visitors all year round.
This park is also considered a symbol of the Coulee Region, making it a significant part of the city’s culture.
Address: Grandad Bluff Park, La Crosse, Coulee Region, Wisconsin
16. Caledonia Street Antique Mall
Don’t have a great time touring around the great city of La Crosse without stopping by the fabulous Caledonia Street Antique Mall to partake in the shopping adventure. The mall stands at 6,000 square feet containing over 40 dealers of exhibits, including collectibles and antiques.
It was first established in 1920 when it was historically known as the host center of the Riviera Theater. You can shop for different types of items and fantastic antiques.
Feel free to explore the mall and take a sip of their excellent wines at its popular vibe.
Address: 1215 Caledonia Street, La Crosse, WI 54603
17. Goose Island County Park
La Crosse is a city littered with various spectacular parks close to the Mississippi River, and right at the heart of the Upper Mississippi lies the Goose Island County Park. The park is an attractive center for visitors, thanks to its picturesque view.
This park is a sure plug for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers looking for a great adventure. Featuring over 400 campsites and a stunning atmosphere, Goose Island County Park will give you a relaxing escape from your bustling city life.
Apart from the fun exhibitions and campsites on offer, the park features trails and many facilities that will give its visitors the enjoyable life they desire.
On a marked canoe trail, you can also check out the tributaries, wetlands, and inlets surrounding the island. You’ll also find spot deer, mink, and muskrat.
Address: W6488 County Road GI, Stoddard, WI 54658
18. Grounded Specialty Coffee
Even if you do not like coffee, you will surely jump at the idea of having a taste of this one. Situated in the heart of the Historic Downtown of La Crosse, Grounded Specialty Coffee is a classic coffee bar featuring six various kinds of locally roasted coffee.
Its menu also includes varieties of rotating flavors and cold brew options, as well as serving different teas and coffees. You can also enjoy breakfast sandwiches, salads, and paninis, with the occasional wine and beer.
Address: 3215, 308 Main street, La Crosse, Wisconsin
19. World’s Largest Six Pack
One of the most incredible attractions in La Crosse is the World’s Largest Six Pack, which is why you must include it in your things-to-do itinerary.
Every year, thousands of visitors troupe-in in their numbers to explore this huge landmark that has six colossal beer tanks.
Established during the 1960s, the Six Pack was built to resemble a six-pack of beer. It is widely recognized as a hometown icon and well-known tourist attraction, where you can also learn about some history of the town.
You can also take a picture of the structure as an exhibit of an enjoyable adventure in La Crosse.
Address: 3rd St S, La Crosse, Wisconsin
20. Lake Onalaska
Lake Onalaska is a 4-mile-wide reservoir that sits atop the Black and Mississippi Rivers between Wisconsin and Minnesota.
Situated in La Crosse County, this lake stretches 7,688 acres and is about 73 feet deep, making it a great structure and an exciting attraction center for tourists worldwide.
The lake is also home to several interesting outdoor exhibits and recreation, including swimming, waterskiing, boating, fishing, and windsurfing, especially during the summer.
The lake’s shorelines are a destination for different kinds of waterfowl and bird species, making it an excellent birdwatching site.
Besides the features mentioned above, Lake Onalaska is also home to many kinds of fishes like bluegill, walleye, crappie, northern pike, and small and largemouth bass, amongst others.
In the fall season, the bluffs around the lake and Mississippi River explode into rich tones of reds and golds, which attracts tourists from all over the country.
Address: La Crosse County, Wisconsin
21. Turtle Stack Brewery
As long as Wisconsin’s very best drinks go, La Crosse is among the top producing cities, thanks to some of the best brewery companies in the town, one of which is Turtle Stack Brewery.
Even though it is a little independent craft brewery and tasting room, it still produces high-quality handcrafted beers on tap and by the bottle.
You can find this brewery within the Historic Downtown La Crosse, and it supplies local beer for resorts in La Crosse and the upper Mississippi River Valley.
It produces high-quality drinks like Smash Golden, Irish Red, Imperial ESB, Brown Ale, Patersbier, Foreign Extra Stout, Belgian Blonde, and Session IPA, amongst others.
You will not lack anything fun and enjoyable to do in La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Address: 125 2nd St S, La Crosse, WI 54601