If You Like Mountains, Then You’ll Love the Driftless Region’s Bluffs.
The La Crosse area is proudly nestled between the bluffs of the Driftless Region . With ancient topography, this unique part of the world claims fame for stunning views, vibrant seasons and legendary recreation. “Drift” refers to glacial drift: the rock and sediment deposited by a glacier as it moves over an area of land. A small piece of the Upper Mississippi Region was left untouched during the last Ice Age, leaving no glacial erosion or deposits. While surrounding landscapes were flattened by glaciers, the Upper Midwest’s original, rugged bluffs and coulees remain. You don’t have to travel out west to hike, bike and explore towering Mountain terrains.
If You Like the Great Lakes, Then You’ll Love the Mississippi River.
Nothing brings people together quite like diving into nature and soaking up time on the water. The La Crosse Region sits on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River and is host to its confluence of other waterways. These meandering lakes and rivers are paradise for paddlers of every stripe. Hit the water on a variety of trail types offering both relaxing floats or exciting excursions. Bring your kayak or rent paddling vessels of all kinds, including Hydro Bikes, at various outfitters throughout the region or grab your lures and reel in some memories!
If You Like Natural Wonders, Then You’ll Love These Rare Attractions.
Seeking rare attractions and unique wonders? The La Crosse Region is central to a variety of exceptional attractions that inspire the mind and connect visitors with nature. The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge is a great example of an epic La Crosse Region attraction. Tucked into the outskirts of Onalaska, views abound and the Refuge’s Visitor Center offers a plethora of activities. With an overlook of Lake Onalaska and interactive exhibits of wildlife and habitats, you’re sure to learn a thing or two! Most memorable? The “Walk on Water” exhibit, to see what lies below the surface of the river!
If You Like Botanical Gardens, Then You’ll Love These Vibrant Grounds.
Every season in the La Crosse Region offers something special with snow-dusted bluffs, spring apple blossoms, sensational vistas and vibrant fall foliage. However, natural beauty truly thrives in the warmer months with bountiful gardens across the region. Most famous in La Crosse is the International Friendship Garden that sprouts to life each year with a vast assortment of living things. Each section of the gardens features plants, sculptures and messaging from sister cities across the globe. From Asia to Germany, spotlights include a domed gazebo, a coy pond and bridge, crane sculptures and more. For those that love unique flora, the International Friendship Gardens within Riverside Park along the Mississippi River is a bucket list must !
If You Like Road Trips, Then You’ll Love the Great River Road.
Whether on the hunt for a weekend road trip or a scenic cruise with unforgettable stops, the famed Great River Road offers the perfect route. The road is both a National Scenic Byway and All-American Road that traverses through ten states along the Mississippi River. The La Crosse Region and our famous, Driftless bluffs proudly sit on the route. Our region is part of the 33 Mississippi River towns along Highway 35, and welcomes the many visitors the scenic drive brings every year.
The La Crosse area has a plethora of memorable stopping points for those making the trip. Not only is the iconic Big Blue Bridge part of the Great River Road, but landmarks such as the iconic Riverside Park, Great River Landing, and massive Sunny the Sunfish are easily accessible along the way as well.
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