La Crosse Travel Guide

Tourist 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 kilometres) of trails or cross-country ski at Drugan’s Castle Mound. Try snowshoeing and ice fishing at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Centre.

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 showing a city and night scenes

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

While visiting Northside, you might make a stop by sights like Black River Beach and Riverside Amusement Park.

Northside
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Lower Northside

While Lower Northside isn't home to many top sights, Oktoberfest Grounds and La Crosse Center are some notable places to visit nearby.

Lower Northside
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Grandview-Emerson

Though Grandview-Emerson may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Oktoberfest Grounds and La Crosse Center.

Grandview-Emerson
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Washburn

While visiting Washburn, you might make a stop by sights like Mississippi River and City Brewery.

Washburn
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Bluffside

While there might not be top attractions in Bluffside, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Oktoberfest Grounds and La Crosse Center.

Bluffside
GrandStay Hotel & Suites
GrandStay Hotel & Suites
2.5 out of 5
525 Front Street North, La Crosse, WI
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is ₹10,227 per night from 27 Jul to 28 Jul
₹10,227
₹11,761 total
27 Jul - 28 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in La Crosse. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,005 reviews)
"We really liked the full sized refrigerator in our room. Room was clean and had everything we needed."

Reviewed on 7 Jul 2025

GrandStay Hotel & Suites
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 centre and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions La Crosse Center and The Wine Guyz ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (192 reviews)
"We are repeat travelers and we love staying at Pearl Street! Staff has been great. Parking is always available. So many dining and entertainment options within walking distance."

Reviewed on 10 Jul 2025

Pearl Street Hotel & Suites
Radisson Hotel La Crosse
Radisson Hotel La Crosse
3.5 out of 5
200 Harborview Plaza, La Crosse, WI
The price is ₹8,679 per night from 3 Aug to 4 Aug
₹8,679
₹9,980 total
3 Aug - 4 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly hotel in La Crosse. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,002 reviews)
"Wonderful experience"

Reviewed on 9 Jul 2025

Radisson Hotel La Crosse
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, WI
Stay at this 3-star cottage in La Crosse. Enjoy free parking, balconies and in-room fireplaces. Popular attractions La Crosse Center and Goose Island County ...
'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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