Summer is fresh upon us and when you live in the Midwest that typically means packing all your free time with fun activities before summer is over. If you live in the Midwest and you’re not planning on taking any big trips this summer, why not plan a mini vacation to La crosse, Wisconsin.
La Crosse is nestled up against the Mississippi River, in western Wisconsin. We encourage you to visit and experience the beautiful historic downtown that is just steps away from Riverside Park. You can also enjoy unique shopping, dinning and so much more. Plus, there are so many fun things to do in the surrounding area including hiking, biking, wineries and even goat yoga.
Here are a few of our top places we love to visit when in the La Crosse area:
- Riverside Park
- Riverside International Friendship Gardens
- The Pearl Ice Cream Parlor
- The Charmant Hotel (The Parlour)
- Rainbow Ridge Farms
- Elmaro Vineyard
- La Crosse Distilling Co.
- Buzzard Billy’s
- Grandad Bluff
Riverside Park
Just a short walk from the historic downtown La Crosse, Riverside Park is perfect for active lifestyles and also for those that want to relax, maybe read your favorite book and watch the river pass by.
Riverside Park is a beautiful spot to enjoy a morning run or evening stroll with tons of space and beautiful water fountains.
You can start your stroll on the north side of the park and enjoy the gorgeous Riverside International Friendship Gardens.
Then make your way passed the La Crosse Queen where you can experience the unique view of the Mississippi Valley on one of their summer cruises. Depending on the time of year you may get the opportunity to see one of the large steamboats that port at the center of the park.
Riverside Park also hosts different seasonal events like concerts and the Rotary Lights during the Holidays.
Riverside International Friendship Gardens
On the north side of Riverside Park sits the beautiful Riverside International Friendship Garden. This gorgeous garden holds a collection of public gardens that celebrate La Crosse’s sister-city relationships with communities in China, Germany, France, Russia, Norway, Ireland and Cameroon.
The Pearl Ice Cream Parlor
This family-friendly parlor is a must stop spot. It features homemade ice cream, a confectionery and also a coffee house within Pearl Street West—a historic walking mall.
My kids love walking into “The Pearl”. From the second we walk in our mouths are watering from the smell of homemade waffle cones. Then it is the tough decision of picking out our favorite ice cream flavor.
The Pearl uses Wisconsin dairy and mixes numerous ingredients like fudge, caramel, nuts and cookies in their ice cream by hand. They also offer a dairy free sorbet for those with dairy intolerances like me.
The Charmant Hotel
This hotel holds true to its French name meaning “charming”. The maple wood flooring, wood beams and exposed brick only enhance the beauty of this 67-room boutique hotel.
Located next to Riverside Park and just blocks away from downtown La Crosse, the Charmant Hotel is sure to melt your heart.
The building was originally constructed in 1898 for the FUNKE Candy Factory, invites those from all over to relax in grand style.
The Parlour is one of our favorite places to grab a coffee or tea. It’s the perfect spot to sip amazing tasting coffee from Wonderstate Coffee and relax on one of their cozy couches.
You can also enjoy delicious appetizers and pizza on their Rooftop Terrace, delectable dishes at their restaurant or grab a specialty beverage or wine from The Lobby bar and lounge.
Rainbow Ridge Farms
Looking to escape the busy city life for a little peace a quiet?
Rainbow Ridge Farm B&B is just a short 2 hour drive from Madison, WI. This beautiful location is tucked back in the peaceful hills of Onalaska, WI. Established in 1996, the adorable farm is perfect for couples and families looking for a fun farm vacation with the cutest animals.
Rainbow Ridge Farms is also the proud leader of Goat Yoga in Wisconsin! My kids absolutely loved this experience and the little goats were so cute.
You can join the lovely staff from Om Yoga Studio on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. and Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. to experience the uniqueness of goat yoga. Classes start Memorial Day weekend and continue throughout the summer.
Elmaro Vineyard
Elmaro Vineyard is only about 25 minutes from La Crosse. It is tucked back on a beautiful country-side in Trempealeau, Wisconsin. The winery itself overlooks the beautiful grape vines and in the distance you can see the rolling hills and a glimpse of the Mississippi River.
Their wine is absolutely delicious and we highly recommend trying one of their wine flights.
Also make sure to check their calendar of events for live music. The vineyard is open Tuesday through Sunday, closed Mondays. They open around noon and closing times vary on the day.
La Crosse Distilling Co.
Nestled next to Riverside Park in downtown La Crosse and the Mississippi River, La Crosse Distilling Co. is a geothermal powered distillery sourced by local farms.
This distillery captures the heart and history of the region all the while producing field-to-glass spirits that your sure to enjoy.
We also highly recommend checking out their beautiful, family friendly restaurant. Their food is made from the finest local ingredients and there is something on the menu for everyone. From on trend dishes to classic favorites, you can join the staff at La Crosse Distilling Co. for brunch, snacks, lunch and dinner.
And, don’t forget to try some of their delightful specialty cocktails.
Buzzard Billy’s
Buzzard Billy’s Bar and Grill is located on the historic Pearl St. in downtown La Crosse and is just one block from the Mississippi River.
They serve absolutely delicious authentic New Orleans and American style Cuisine. Try everything from gumbo to alligator tail and my personal favorite, the blackened catfish.
Above Buzzard Billy’s is Starlight Lounge, a 1950s cocktail lounge. There you can enjoy great martinis, wines and single malt scotch.
Grandad Bluff
Grandad Bluff is a must see location if you make your way to La Crosse. Visited by thousands, it is the symbol of the great Coulee Region. The 600-ft high bluff overlooks La Crosse and the Mississippi River Valley that includes 3 states, Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
This city park includes picnic areas, coin operated binoculars, and a shelter house.
This list is just a small portion of the things you can do and see in this beautiful location. We hope you take the time to visit La Crosse and enjoy all it has to offer.