Visiting Fort McCoy soon? Adventure awaits just 40 minutes away in La Crosse, Wisconsin and we’ve rounded up all the must-do and see activities for you.
Exploring La Crosse
Having earned a Bicycle Friendly Community silver-level designation, it’s a no-brainer that the best way to see La Crosse is via cycling. The city boasts miles of well-marked, designated bike lanes and bike-friendly businesses, making for the perfect family adventure. Check out the City of La Crosse’s trail maps to find the perfect distance and difficulty level for your group.
For those who like to keep two feet on the ground, there are over 30-miles of hiking trails on the east side of La Crosse that lead to beautiful views. The 600-foot-high bluff at Grandad Bluff Park is a visitor favorite and has a phenomenal view of the city-- you’ll see the Mississippi River Valley and three states: Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa.
Spend time splashing around
At the junction of three rivers, La Crosse offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy time on the water. Whether on the Mighty Mississippi, the La Crosse River or the Black River, there are plenty of launches and trails in the area-- Goose Island Campground offers seven miles of moderate paddling, while the Neshonoc Lakeside Campground Resort provides a scenic and easy paddle on the lake. Rent a canoe, kayak, paddleboard, pontoon boat or fishing boat at a number of area businesses, like Schafer’s River Rentals.
Visit Riverside Park
Riverside Park is a jewel to the La Crosse community and perfect for the visitor looking for the city-life feel. Check out the vibrant collection of public gardens at the Riverside International Friendship Garden which showcases flora and fauna from La Crosse’s sister cities in China, Germany, France, Norway, Ireland, Russia and Cameroon. You’ll also find plenty of shopping and more than 100 eateries to choose from in Historic Riverside.
For those over 21 years old, the Coulee Region Craft Beverage Trail highlights local wineries, breweries and a new area distillery. No need to be an expert, just come thirsty!
Experience the arts
The city of La Crosse offers a vibrant arts scene. Pump House Regional Arts Center has been on the National Register of Historic Places list since 1979 and presents visual and preforming arts, as well as educational programming. Past exhibits have highlighted Mexican Folk Art, ceramics and more.
The Viterbo University Fine Arts Center is another popular location for arts and cultural events. Located on the Viterbo University campus, it has hosted shows featuring The Oak Ridge Boys, the United States Marine Band, the musical “42nd Street” and comedian Lewis Black.
Lastly, don’t miss a symphonic evening at the La Crosse Symphony Orchestra – only six concerts are held per year.
Take in the beauty of a shrine
The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe is an attraction not to be missed. Visitors from around the world travel to view the chapels, gardens, statues and spiritual area blanketing more than 100 acres. The site, devoted to Mary, includes a visitor center, cafe, rosary walk, Stations of the Cross and gift shop.
Take a road trip
If hiking, biking and paddling aren’t your speed —or it’s just been a busy week— you can take in the view during a scenic drive.
The Apple Blossom Scenic Drive is a 17-mile route that showcases rolling hills of blossoming apple trees, with the Mississippi River Valley below. For the road-trippers, the Wisconsin Great River Road includes 250-miles of beautiful Wisconsin scenery, with scenic overlooks and places to stop for hiking and fishing.
After a day of exploring, you can relax and enjoy prompt and courteous service from the IHG® Army Hotels team, plus take advantage of great amenities including hot complimentary breakfast, social events, free Wi-Fi and of course, pets are always welcome! Book your next stay at IHG Army Hotels Anderson Hall here.
