10 Fun Things To Do In and Around La Crosse, Wisconsin
Planning a trip to
La Crosse, Wisconsin in
La Crosse County? You’re in for a treat. This river town on the
Mississippi is one of those places that feels cozy and laid-back, but still gives you plenty to see and do.
Whether you love the outdoors, local beer, history, or just wandering around cute downtown streets, La Crosse has something for you.
Below are
10 things to do in La Crosse, WI that are perfect for a weekend getaway, a family road trip, or a couples’ escape.
1. Take In the View at Grandad Bluff
If you do only one thing in La Crosse, make it
Grandad Bluff. Locals love it, visitors rave about it, and the view is absolutely worth the short drive up.
From the top, you can see:
There’s a parking lot close to the overlook, so you don’t have to hike far if you’re not up for a long walk. Benches and picnic areas make it a peaceful spot to just sit, breathe, and take photos.
Tip: Try to visit around sunset. The sky lights up over the bluffs, and it almost looks like a painting.
2. Stroll Riverside Park and See the Mississippi River Up Close
Right in downtown La Crosse,
Riverside Park runs along the Mississippi River and is one of the best free things to do in town.
You can:
- Walk or bike along the wide paths
- Watch barges and boats float by
- Sit on a bench and people-watch
- Let the kids run around on the grass
In summer, you might catch live music, festivals, or events. In winter, the park lights up with holiday displays.
If you like simple pleasures—fresh air, water views, and a gentle stroll—Riverside Park is a must.
3. Cruise the River on the La Crosse Queen
Want a classic
Mississippi River experience? Hop aboard the
La Crosse Queen, a modern-day paddlewheel river boat.
You can choose different cruises, including:
- Sightseeing tours during the day
- Sunset dinner cruises
- Theme or specialty cruises in peak season
It’s a fun way to learn about the river’s history while actually being on it. Plus, the slow pace and steady hum of the paddlewheel feel pretty relaxing.
Helpful hint: These cruises can sell out on weekends and in fall when the leaves change, so consider booking ahead if you’re planning a La Crosse getaway.
4. Wander Through Historic Downtown La Crosse
Downtown La Crosse has the kind of charm that makes you want to park your car and just walk.
You’ll find:
- Brick buildings with vintage signs
- Local shops and boutiques
- Cozy cafes and coffee shops
- Pubs, breweries, and restaurants
It’s an easy area to explore on foot. Grab a coffee, pop into a bookstore, browse some antiques, or sit at an outdoor table and enjoy people-watching.
If you’re into photography, the mix of old buildings, murals, and river views makes downtown La Crosse a great place for photos.
5. Visit the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Even if you’re not religious, the
Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe is worth a visit for its peaceful setting and beautiful architecture.
Located in a wooded area just outside La Crosse, this site offers:
- Quiet walking paths through the woods
- Impressive church and chapel buildings
- Gardens, statues, and overlooks
- A gift shop and café
The walk up to the main church is uphill, but you can take your time and enjoy the surroundings. It’s a calm retreat if you need a break from driving or sightseeing.
6. Sip Local Beer on the La Crosse Bierhaus & Brewery Trail
La Crosse has a long brewing history, and you can still taste it today. If you’re a fan of craft beer, you’ll find some great stops.
Popular spots include:
- La Crosse Distilling Co. – craft spirits, cocktails, farm-to-table food
- Local brewpubs and taprooms with seasonal and small-batch beers
Many places offer outdoor seating, flights, and bar food. It’s a relaxing way to spend an afternoon or evening, especially after a day of hiking or exploring.
Travel note: If you plan to enjoy several stops, consider staying downtown so you can walk or use rideshare and not worry about driving.
7. Explore Hixon Forest and the Bluffs
If you like getting out on trails,
Hixon Forest is one of the best things to do in La Crosse. This wooded park sits on the bluffs above town and has miles of hiking paths.
Expect:
- Shaded forest trails
- Scenic overlooks (some connect toward Grandad Bluff)
- Options for short walks or longer hikes
The terrain ranges from easy to moderate. Some trails are steep in spots, so wear sturdy shoes. In fall, the colors are incredible, with the bluffs glowing in shades of red, orange, and gold.
If you’re visiting La Crosse for outdoor adventure, Hixon Forest should be on your list.
8. Step Back in Time at the Riverside Museum and Historic Sites
La Crosse’s location on the Mississippi means it has plenty of river history. To get a feel for it, check out:
- Riverside Museum – learn about steamboats, logging, and local river life
- Historic markers and statues near Riverside Park
- Old churches and homes around downtown
You don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy it. The stories help you understand how this small Wisconsin city grew and changed over time.
If you’re traveling with kids, museums and markers can turn into a little “history scavenger hunt” as you explore La Crosse.
9. Visit the World’s Largest Six-Pack & Local Oddities
Looking for something a little quirky? La Crosse delivers.
One of the most famous odd stops in town is the
World’s Largest Six-Pack—massive beer-tank “cans” painted like a six-pack near the former
G. Heileman Brewery site. It’s a quick, funny photo-op and a reminder of the city’s brewing roots.
While exploring La Crosse, keep an eye out for:
- Local murals and street art
- Fun shop windows and decorations downtown
- Unique bar and restaurant themes
These little surprises add personality to your La Crosse trip and make for great social media posts or vacation photos.
10. Take a Day Trip Around La Crosse County
If you have extra time, use La Crosse as a base for short drives around
La Crosse County and the surrounding
Driftless Region.
Within about 30–45 minutes, you can:
- Follow scenic back roads along the Mississippi River
- Visit small river towns with wineries, cafes, and shops
- Stop at roadside overlooks and boat landings
- Look for eagles along the river in colder months
The rolling hills and bluffs might surprise you if you think of Wisconsin as flat farm country. This part of the state was never flattened by glaciers, so the landscape is full of deep valleys and high ridges—it’s perfect for a slow, scenic drive.
Planning Your La Crosse, Wisconsin Getaway
Here are a few quick tips to make the most of your visit to La Crosse:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through fall. Summer is great for river cruises and festivals; fall is stunning for bluff views and hiking.
- Getting around: Downtown is walkable. For bluffs, shrines, and day trips, you’ll want a car.
- Trip style: La Crosse works well for couples, families, friend groups, and solo travelers who like nature, small cities, and local flavor.
If you’re looking for a getaway that mixes
scenic views, river life, local beer, and Midwestern charm, La Crosse, WI should definitely be on your travel list.
What Did We Miss? Share Your La Crosse Favorites!
Have you been to La Crosse or anywhere in La Crosse County?
- Did you hike a trail you loved?
- Find an amazing local restaurant or coffee shop?
- Take a perfect Mississippi River photo?
I’d love to hear about your experience.
Drop a comment with your favorite things to do in La Crosse, Wisconsin, or any travel tips you’d share with first-time visitors.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who’s planning a Wisconsin road trip or looking for a new Midwest weekend escape.
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