La Crosse

Travel Guide

Photo provided by La Crosse Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by La Crosse Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by La Crosse Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by La Crosse Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by La Crosse Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

This southwest Wisconsin city offers gorgeous hilltop views, year-round outdoor pursuits and an important religious site. 

La Crosse lies between the banks of the Mississippi River and a series of steep bluffs. Natural beauty and outdoor recreation are the biggest draws, but the city also captivates with its children’s activities and cultural offerings.

A good way to introduce yourself to the area is with a walk to the top of Grandad Bluff, a steep hill that can be seen from most parts of the city. From the summit, enjoy views of the city, the Mississippi River and the states of Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. Hike on several trails at the top of the bluff.

You can also stroll along the forest trails and open spaces of Riverside Park or find a pleasant place to sit and watch river traffic go by.

Become part of the river scenery on a cruise aboard the La Crosse Queen. This is a replica of the paddle steamers that used to be a common sight on the Mississippi River in the late 19th century. Alternatively, travel through the river’s backwaters on an eco-tour.

For family-orientated fun, treat the kids to a trip to the Children’s Museum of La Crosse. Then make your way to Myrick Park for Kids Coulee. This playground has climbing structures, swings, a maze and tunnels. Children with disabilities can enjoy the equipment too.

Visit the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, an important Catholic pilgrimage site. Non-Catholics are also welcome to enjoy the tranquility and tour the church to view its paintings and sculptures.

If you are in La Crosse during the winter, there’s no need to stay indoors when the snow falls. Go snowmobiling on over 600 miles (966 kilometers) of trails or cross-country ski at Drugan’s Castle Mound. Try snowshoeing and ice fishing at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center.

Reach La Crosse by bus, car or train. You can also fly into La Crosse Regional Airport, located on French Island and connected to the mainland by a bridge. Pack your suitcase for outdoor adventures whatever the season.

Where to stay in La Crosse

La Crosse featuring night scenes and a city

Historic Downtown La Crosse

The abundant dining options and stunning river views are top of the list for many visitors to Historic Downtown La Crosse. A stop by La Crosse Center or Oktoberfest Grounds might round out your trip.

Historic Downtown La Crosse
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Northside

If you're spending some time in Northside, Black River Beach and Riverside Amusement Park are top sights worth seeing.

Northside
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Lower Northside

Lower Northside might not have many top sights, but Oktoberfest Grounds and La Crosse Center are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Lower Northside
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Bluffside

While Bluffside might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Oktoberfest Grounds and La Crosse Center.

Bluffside
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Grandview-Emerson

While Grandview-Emerson might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Oktoberfest Grounds and La Crosse Center.

Grandview-Emerson
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Washburn

If you're spending some time in Washburn, Mississippi River and City Brewery are top sights worth seeing.

Washburn
Pearl Street Hotel & Suites

Pearl Street Hotel & Suites

2 out of 5
200 Pearl Street, La Crosse, WI
Stay at this hotel in La Crosse. Enjoy free parking, a 24-hour fitness center, and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions La Crosse Center and The Wine Guyz ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (217 reviews)
"When we got there we got put into a room that had a broken toilet with black water in it. There was a clear water stain all across the floor. It had been that way for quite some time. They did move us right away, but even when calling to book, was told only 1 room left and that clearly wasnt the ..."

Reviewed on Aug 1, 2025

Pearl Street Hotel & Suites
GrandStay Hotel & Suites

GrandStay Hotel & Suites

2.5 out of 5
525 Front Street North, La Crosse, WI
The price is P7,800 per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
P7,800
P8,970 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in La Crosse. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,005 reviews)
"We would stay again."

Reviewed on Aug 2, 2025

GrandStay Hotel & Suites
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, La Crosse, WI

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, La Crosse, WI

2.5 out of 5
2110 Rose St, La Crosse, WI
The price is P4,548 per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
P4,548
P5,230 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in La Crosse. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,003 reviews)
"Cleanliness of property, friendliness of staff and easy access to location"

Reviewed on Jul 31, 2025

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, La Crosse, WI
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
'riversong' Waterfront La Crosse Home w/ Dock

'riversong' Waterfront La Crosse Home w/ Dock

3 out of 5
La Crosse
Stay at this 3-star cottage in La Crosse. Enjoy free parking, balconies, and in-room fireplaces. Popular attractions Goose Island County Park and Shrine of our ...
'riversong' Waterfront La Crosse Home w/ Dock
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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