
La Crosse, Wisconsin: A Hidden Treasure in the Midwest of the United States
Place Description
Located on the banks of the majestic Mississippi River, La Crosse is a city in the state of Wisconsin, in the Midwest of the United States. With a population of around 50,000 inhabitants, La Crosse is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene.
Tourist Attractions
La Crosse is a popular tourist destination due to its variety of attractions and activities. Here are some of the most notable:
Grandad Bluff
Grandad Bluff is a 180-meter high cliff that offers panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River valley. The park at the top of the cliff features picnic areas, walking trails, and a lookout.
Riverside Park
Riverside Park is a beautiful park on the banks of the Mississippi River. The park features a boardwalk, a statue of Hiawatha, an antique carousel, and is the site of several events and festivals throughout the year.
La Crosse Queen
The La Crosse Queen is a paddle wheel boat that offers cruises on the Mississippi River. Visitors can enjoy a sunset dinner cruise, a lunch cruise, or a sightseeing cruise to learn about the river's history and ecology.
La Crosse Art Museum
The La Crosse Art Museum houses an impressive collection of American art, with a focus on works from the Midwest region. The museum also offers educational programs and special events.
Oktoberfest USA
La Crosse is home to Oktoberfest USA, one of the largest and oldest Oktoberfest festivals in the United States. The festival, which is held each fall, features live music, German food, parades, races, and much more.
Surroundings
In addition to the attractions in the city, La Crosse is an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding region. The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge, a short drive from the city, offers opportunities for bird watching, fishing, and hiking. The region is also known for its vineyards and wineries, many of which offer tastings and tours.
Gastronomic Products of La Crosse
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Craft Beer
La Crosse is famous for its thriving craft beer industry. With several local breweries, such as Pearl Street Brewery and Turtle Stack Brewery, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of unique beers. Many of these breweries also offer tours and tastings so visitors can learn more about the beer-making process.
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Wisconsin Cheese
Wisconsin is known for its cheese production and La Crosse is no exception. Visitors can find a variety of local cheeses at farmers markets and specialty stores. Wisconsin cheeses are famous for their quality and flavor, with options ranging from strong cheddar to smoked gouda and creamy blue cheese.
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Bratwurst
Bratwurst is a German sausage that is very popular in La Crosse and throughout Wisconsin. It is often served on a bun with mustard and sauerkraut. Bratwurst is a staple at summer barbecues and at Green Bay Packers games, Wisconsin's football team.
Highlighted Gastronomic Places of La Crosse
La Crosse, Wisconsin, is a place with a rich culinary culture. From high-end restaurants to cozy taverns, there is something for every taste. Below, we present some of the most outstanding places:
The Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern
Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, The Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern offers an unparalleled culinary experience. This high-end restaurant specializes in seafood dishes and premium meats. The elegant atmosphere and panoramic view of the river make this place a perfect choice for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.
Freighthouse Restaurant
Freighthouse Restaurant is a historic place in La Crosse that has been serving delicious dishes since 1978. Known for its prime steak and extensive wine list, this restaurant offers a unique culinary experience in a cozy and rustic atmosphere. In addition, its location in the city center makes it a convenient place to dine after a day of sightseeing.
The Charmant
The Charmant is a boutique hotel that houses an exceptional French restaurant. Here you can enjoy classic French dishes with a modern twist, such as coq au vin and steak frites. The elegant and sophisticated atmosphere, along with the friendly and attentive service, make this place an ideal choice for a special dinner.
Howie's on La Crosse
If you're looking for a charming place with good prices, Howie's on La Crosse is an excellent choice. This cozy pub offers a wide variety of American dishes, such as burgers, chicken wings, and pizzas. In addition, its extensive beer list will allow you to pair your favorite dishes with the best selection of local beers.
Sporting Activities in La Crosse, Wisconsin
Fishing
La Crosse is known for its world-class fishing on the Mississippi River. You can fish a variety of species, including pike, catfish, and bass.

Cycling
La Crosse boasts numerous cycling routes that offer stunning views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding limestone cliffs. The city also hosts the annual La Crosse Cycling Festival.

Hiking
La Crosse offers a variety of trails for all skill levels. The trails at Perrot State Park and the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge are especially popular.

Skiing
In winter, you can enjoy skiing at Mount La Crosse, which offers 18 runs for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

Rowing
The Mississippi River offers opportunities for rowing. You can rent a kayak or a canoe and explore the tranquil waters of the river.

Places near La Crosse
If you're in La Crosse and want to explore a bit more, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and culinary experiences: