Think you’ve found all the best spots for family fun in La Crosse? This Wisconsin gem, in the stunning Driftless Area, offers lots of cool activities. Families big or small can find something exciting here. From outdoor adventures to learning experiences and seasonal events, La Crosse has it all. Read on to discover the best family activities in La Crosse that will make great memories.
Introduction to Family Fun in La Crosse
La Crosse is a top choice for families looking for unforgettable times together. It’s known for its rich culture and breathtaking natural scenes. The city is packed with fun activities, making sure every family member gets to explore.
Outdoor lovers can enjoy scenic hikes or join local events that highlight La Crosse’s lively community. This city welcomes families with open arms, offering a variety of activities. Kids and adults alike will find something to love, making it simple to create lasting memories.
Don’t miss the chance to check out the town’s attractions like parks and cultural spots. No matter if you’re into learning or seeking adventure, La Crosse has it all. Let the spirit of togetherness guide your family as you discover all the fun that awaits in this beautiful place.
Outdoor Adventures and Parks
La Crosse is the place to be for outdoor fun. It’s filled with parks and trails perfect for families. You can enjoy the scenic beauty and lots of activities at some of the top family-friendly spots in La Crosse.
Granddad’s Bluff: Scenic Views for Family Picnics
Begin your adventure at Granddad’s Bluff. It’s a special place with beautiful views of the Mississippi River and the land around it. Bring a picnic and enjoy the fresh air, laughter, and memories. It’s a fantastic spot to relax and connect with nature.
Hiking and Biking Trails: Great River State Trail
The Great River State Trail stretches over 24 miles. It’s perfect for biking and hiking. Families can enjoy scenic trails together. They’ll see different animals and beautiful places along the way. The trail is great for all skills, making it ideal for family outings in La Crosse.
Goose Island County Park: Nature and Recreation
Goose Island County Park is great for outdoor fun. It has hiking paths, picnic spots, and even a beach. Families will enjoy exploring and spending quality time together here. The beauty of the surroundings adds to the experience.
| Location | Activities | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Granddad’s Bluff | Picnicking, Sightseeing | Scenic Views, Hiking Trails |
| Great River State Trail | Biking, Hiking | Long Trails, Wildlife Viewing |
| Goose Island County Park | Hiking, Swimming | Picnic Areas, Beach, Nature Trails |
Kid-Friendly Attractions in La Crosse
Your family vacation in La Crosse can be memorable with its kid-focused attractions. You and your kids will find lots of engaging and fun activities. It’s an adventure that mixes learning with enjoyment.
Children’s Museum of La Crosse: Hands-On Learning
The Children’s Museum of La Crosse is filled with exciting stuff for kids. It has many interactive exhibits just for them. By playing and exploring, kids will spark their curiosity and creativity.
They will learn a lot through imaginative play. This museum is a top spot for families visiting La Crosse.
International Owl Center: Interactive Educational Experiences
The International Owl Center offers a special learning adventure. It has interactive bird of prey exhibits. You’ll see live owls and learn about their lives.
It’s not just fun; it’s also educational for kids. This makes it a key attraction in La Crosse for families.
Exciting Indoor Activities for Families
When the weather is bad, La Crosse still has a lot of fun for families. You can make great memories with exciting activities and cozy fun for all ages.
Jump Start Adventure Park: Thrilling Indoor Activities
Jump Start Adventure Park is a place for your family to find excitement. It has a colorful trampoline area for jumping and having fun. There are ninja courses for older children and safe areas for toddlers. It’s a top choice for family fun in La Crosse.
Rivoli Theater: Classic Films and Pizza Experience
For a calm evening, the Rivoli Theater is perfect. It’s a historic cinema that shows classic movies. You can eat tasty pizza while watching a film. It’s a fun way to combine movies and dining in La Crosse.
Water Activities: Enjoying the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is great for water activities in La Crosse. Families can explore nature through fun adventures. Kayaking or fishing, there’s something for everyone.
Kayaking and Canoeing with Island Outdoors
Island Outdoors offers kayak and canoe rentals. They make river exploration easy and enjoyable. Families can enjoy peaceful waters and stunning views together.
Fishing Adventures with McCormick’s River Guide Service
McCormick’s River Guide Service is perfect for fishing fans. They provide guided fishing trips for all skill levels. Catching fish like Walleye and Bass is thrilling against the beautiful backdrop.
La Crosse Family Activities: Exploring Local Farms
La Crosse, WI, is great for family outings, especially to local farms. These places let you meet animals and learn about farm life. It’s both fun and educational. Here are two great spots for your family to explore.
Hidden Hills Farm: Interactive Farm Experiences
At Hidden Hills Farm, your family can dive into interactive fun. You get to pet animals, pick fresh fruits, and enjoy seasonal events. It’s a hands-on way to connect with nature and agriculture.
Rainbow Ridge: Fun on a Working Farm
Rainbow Ridge gives you a real working farm experience. There, you can do fun stuff like goat yoga in the summer. It’s an exciting place for kids to learn about farm life and make lasting memories.
| Farm Name | Activities Offered | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Hidden Hills Farm | Petting zoo, fruit picking, seasonal events | Spring through Fall |
| Rainbow Ridge | Goat yoga, educational tours, farm activities | Summer for Goat Yoga, year-round for tours |
Seasonal Family Festivals in La Crosse
La Crosse shines with lively events that spotlight local culture, known as seasonal family festivals La Crosse. These festivals bring the community and visitors together. They offer joy, excitement, and fun activities for everyone.
Cultural Celebrations: Year-Round Events
La Crosse’s cultural festivals are a treat. They let families explore the area’s unique heritage. With colorful parades and live music, they show off the community’s skills and legacy. These events help families make memories that last.
Kid-Friendly Food Trucks and Treats
The seasonal family festivals La Crosse feature food trucks that everyone loves. They serve tasty meals and treats that win over kids and adults. At these festivals, families can try new foods while enjoying the lively mood.
| Festival Name | Month | Main Attraction |
|---|---|---|
| La Crosse River Fest | July | Fireworks and live music |
| Wisconsin Salsa Fest | August | Salsa tastings and dance competitions |
| La Crosse Oktoberfest | September | German food and traditional music |
| Holiday Lights Festival | December | Illuminated displays and family activities |
Dining Options for Families
La Crosse offers many fun activities for families, including great places to eat. You can find casual spots or more formal dining. Each one aims to please everyone in your family.
Restaurants with Kids’ Menus: Milwaukee Burger Co.
Milwaukee Burger Co. has an exciting menu for kids. It offers delicious burgers and cheese curds. It’s perfect for a family meal, combining a fun setting with food everyone likes.
Family-Friendly Supper Clubs: Sullivan Supper Club
Sullivan Supper Club invites families to enjoy classic Wisconsin meals in a cozy place. Kids have tasty options like grilled cheese. Families can spend quality time here, sharing a satisfying meal.
| Restaurant | Kids’ Menu Highlights | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee Burger Co. | Burgers, Cheese Curds | Casual, Fun |
| Sullivan Supper Club | Grilled Cheese, Traditional Dishes | Cozy, Family-Oriented |
La Crosse’s dining spots focus on making family visits enjoyable and memorable. They cater to all ages, ensuring a great time for visiting families.
Unique Experiences for Memorabilia
Creating lasting memories is vital for families in La Crosse. Unique experiences strengthen your family’s connections. There are two notable spots in La Crosse for this.
All Glazed Up: Paint-Your-Own Pottery Studio
At All Glazed Up, your family can express their creativity. This studio lets you paint pottery pieces. They can be keepsakes or gifts. It’s a fun way to make special memories in La Crosse.
Pearl Street Books: A Quaint Family-Friendly Bookstore
Pearl Street Books is great for families. It has a big collection of children’s books. It’s a snug spot for finding new books and talking about your favorites.
| Experience | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|
| All Glazed Up | Paint-your-own pottery studio for creative family fun. | Downtown La Crosse |
| Pearl Street Books | Independent bookstore with a great selection for children. | Pearl Street |
Sports and Recreation: Local Teams
La Crosse family activities get more exciting with local sports. Going to professional games or playing recreational sports builds memories. It also makes the community feel closer.
La Crosse Loggers: Summer Baseball Fun
Summer feels special with La Crosse Loggers baseball games. Copeland Park’s lively vibes are great for families. Enjoy snacks, watch the game, and bond with other fans and your family.
Bowling and Skating Rinks: Pla-More Lanes and More
For indoor fun, try bowling or skating. Pla-More Lanes has a vibrant atmosphere for family fun. Bowling brings teams together for fun competition. Skating rinks offer another chance for active fun in La Crosse WI. They are perfect for sharing laughs while skating.
Conclusion
La Crosse is packed with family fun, ensuring your trips are loaded with excitement. You can discover beautiful parks and dive into outdoor adventures. Families also enjoy visiting interactive museums, making every trip a memorable one.
Kayaking on the Mississippi or visiting local farms, there’s no end to the fun. Your family will have lots of opportunities to enjoy themselves.
The town’s seasonal festivals add a special touch. They offer unique experiences for all ages. The lively vibe all year round makes La Crosse a top spot for family outings. Here, you’ll make memories to cherish, thanks to the mix of fun and learning.
By picking La Crosse for your family holiday, you’re starting an adventure with lots of enriching activities. Enjoy the journey and make every moment count in this friendly place.
