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 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

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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Washburn

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

Washburn
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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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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
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! (234 reviews)
5/5
"Very friendly and welcoming. Very helpful in finding a parking spot. Very clean."

Reviewed on 14 Aug. 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 NZ$260 per night from 1 Sept to 2 Sept
NZ$260
1 Sept - 2 Sept
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! (1,001 reviews)
"Ashley was fantastic at check in and check out and went above and beyond to help out my kids."

Reviewed on 15 Aug. 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 NZ$170 per night from 7 Sept to 8 Sept
NZ$170
7 Sept - 8 Sept
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! (1,004 reviews)
"Nice hotel for quick one night stay for business."

Reviewed on 13 Aug. 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.
Blue Way Inn and Suites Lacrosse - 2 Queen Bed Non Smoking

Blue Way Inn and Suites Lacrosse - 2 Queen Bed Non Smoking

La Crosse
Stay at this vacation home in La Crosse. Enjoy air conditioning. Popular attractions La Crosse Center and Shenanigans Entertainment Center & Sports Bar are located ...
Good Performance
"The property is in the process of renovaton. The staff were helpful to deliver the needs of myself and my granddaughter and for that we are greatful."

Reviewed on 20 May 2025

Blue Way Inn and Suites Lacrosse - 2 Queen Bed Non Smoking
8th Street Blues!  3 Bed, 2 Bath near downtown LaCrosse

8th Street Blues! 3 Bed, 2 Bath near downtown LaCrosse

La Crosse
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in La Crosse. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions La Crosse Center and Mary ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (146 reviews)
"This was our 2nd stay at the 8th Street Blues and we had a great time again! The common areas are cozy and we particularly love the game room. Check in/out was easy and the house is located nearby all our favorite places in La Crosse."

Reviewed on 12 Aug. 2025

8th Street Blues! 3 Bed, 2 Bath near downtown LaCrosse
Jake's Place

Jake's Place

La Crosse
Stay at this vacation home in La Crosse. Enjoy laundry facilities, patios, and air conditioning. Popular attractions St. Rose of Viterbo Convent and Mary of ...
10/10 Exceptional! (4 reviews)
"Overall good place. There was food in the fridge when we got there. The pullout couch is ok. Have you thought about not having the big dresser in the twin room and putting in a full size bed? Would make it more comfortable for couples. Thanks."

Reviewed on 7 Jun. 2025

Jake's Place
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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