La Crosse, Wisconsin, US

La Crosse, nestled along the Mississippi River in Wisconsin, is known for its beautiful riverfront, stunning bluffs, and vibrant cultural scene, offering a blend of nature, history, and community events for visitors.

Location Overview

Timezone

America/Chicago

Local Time

09:18 AM

Population

51,755

Best Time to Visit

Temperature:

59-81°F (15-27°C) - Warm and humid; thunderstorms likely.

Best Time

May, Sep

Connectivity

Power

120V

Port

Type A, Type B

Internet

Great

Airport Info

MSP

Minneapolis−Saint Paul International Airport

Distance

Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes by car, covering around 151 miles via I-90 and I-94.

Description

MSP is a major hub with two terminals offering modern amenities, dining, and shopping. It provides excellent accessibility via light rail and shuttle services.

La Crosse, Wisconsin, is a delightful destination boasting a picturesque riverfront along the Mississippi River and stunning bluffs perfect for hiking. Visitors can explore Grandad Bluff, offering panoramic views of the city. Riverside Park is ideal for a leisurely stroll, while the charming downtown area is filled with boutique shops, local breweries, and excellent dining options. Cultural enthusiasts can visit the La Crosse Center for events or the Dahl Auto Museum. The city hosts several festivals, including Oktoberfest in fall, adding to its appeal as a year-round destination.

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La Crosse Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating

Safe

Exercise standard precautions.

Local Laws

Travelers should be aware of local alcohol consumption laws, including the legal drinking age of 21 and restrictions on open containers in public spaces.

Crime Rates

La Crosse has a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities in the United States. Most crimes reported are non-violent, such as theft and vandalism.

Health Risks

Healthcare facilities in La Crosse are well-equipped and accessible. There are no significant health risks specific to the area.

Natural Disasters

La Crosse is susceptible to flooding due to its proximity to the Mississippi River. Tornadoes and severe storms can also occur, particularly in the spring and summer months.

Law Enforcement

La Crosse has a visible and responsive police presence. The local police department is active in community engagement and crime prevention.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in La Crosse is generally safe. The city offers bus services that are reliable and well-maintained.

Solo Travelers

Solo travelers can feel safe in La Crosse but should exercise standard precautions, especially at night.

Recent Developments

There have been no significant recent developments impacting safety in La Crosse. The city continues to maintain a stable safety environment.

No data Found...

No data Found...

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La Crosse Monthly Weather Overview

Summary

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Average Low


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Rainy Days


Sunny Days


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Best season to visit

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Current Conditions ():

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Best Time to Visit La Crosse

Summary: The best time to visit La Crosse is during late spring (May) to early fall (September) when the weather is pleasant, ranging between 15°C (59°F) and 27°C (81°F). This period includes vibrant festivals like Oktoberfest and breathtaking views along the Mississippi.

❄️

January

Cold and snowy, temperatures average -9°C (16°F). Ideal for snow sports enthusiasts but limited outdoor events.

💘

February

Snow continues with temperatures around -7°C (19°F), marking the peak of the winter season, suitable for indoor cultural experiences.

🌱

March

Cold, but starting to warm with temperatures reaching 2°C (35°F). Occasional winter activities.

🌸

April

Mild temperatures ranging from 4°C (39°F) to 12°C (54°F), prime for spring blooms.

🌷

May

Best

Pleasant weather with temperatures between 11°C (52°F) and 20°C (68°F), ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

☀️

June

Warm temperatures around 16°C (61°F) to 26°C (79°F), perfect for enjoying outdoor attractions.

🏖️

July

Summer highs reach 28°C (82°F), good for water activities along the river.

🌞

August

Warm, averaging 27°C (81°F) with occasional rain. Summer events thrive.

🍂

September

Best

Mild weather perfect for Oktoberfest celebrations, temperatures around 20°C (68°F).

🍁

October

Autumn colors and cooling temperatures between 10°C (50°F) and 15°C (59°F), popular for foliage sightseeing.

November

Cool and crisp, temperatures usually 0°C (32°F) to 7°C (45°F), signaling the onset of winter.

🎄

December

Cold with snow, temperatures averaging -6°C (21°F), setting the festive holiday scene.

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Seasonal Events in La Crosse

Late September to Early October

Oktoberfest La Crosse

A famous celebration featuring parades, traditional music, and brews.

La Crosse Festivals
August

Irishfest

Cultural festival showcasing Irish music, dance, and food.

Irishfest La Crosse
September

La Crosse Storytelling Festival

Features engaging tales from local and national storytellers.

La Crosse Public Library
April

Mid West Music Fest

Showcases diverse local and national music acts.

Mid West Music Fest
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Popular Foods in La Crosse

Bratwurst

A popular sausage staple of Midwest cuisine, often served grilled with sauerkraut.

Cheese Curds

Fried cheese curds are a quintessential Wisconsin snack, known for their squeaky and melty texture.

Fish Fry

Traditional Friday night fish fries are popular in local restaurants, usually featuring cod or perch.

Butter Burger

A unique take on the classic hamburger, adding melted butter for extra richness.

Kringle

A Norwegian pastry popular in the region, often almond-filled and flaky.

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Closest Airports to La Crosse

Regional Airport

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La Crosse Regional Airport (LSE)

LSE offers daily flights connecting to larger hubs. It features essential services like parking, car rentals, and Wi-Fi.

Around 15 minutes and 8 miles from downtown La Crosse via Rose Street and Airport Road.

Arrive early for security checks and enjoy quick baggage claims and rental car services.

LSE Website

International Airport

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Minneapolis−Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)

MSP is a major hub with two terminals offering modern amenities, dining, and shopping. It provides excellent accessibility via light rail and shuttle services.

Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes by car, covering around 151 miles via I-90 and I-94.

Consider using the light rail for easy access to downtown Minneapolis and enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the airport.

MSP Website

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Popular Trip Types

Family Vacation Icon

Family Vacation

La Crosse is perfect for a family vacation with its diverse range of activities like visiting the Children's Museum of La Crosse, exploring Riverside Park along the Mississippi River, and hiking numerous family-friendly trails on Grandad Bluff. The city offers comfortable and accommodating lodging options for families of all sizes.

Outdoor Adventure

Situated along the Mississippi River, La Crosse is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking on the countless scenic trails in the scenic Driftless Area. The region's lush landscapes and rolling hills make it ideal for both low-key exploration and rigorous adventure.

Cultural Exploration Icon

Cultural Exploration

La Crosse offers rich cultural experiences, with landmarks such as the Hixon House and the Dahl Auto Museum. The city also hosts various cultural festivals and events throughout the year, providing a unique insight into the local history and a chance to immerse oneself in the vibrant community life.

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Couples Retreat

For those seeking a romantic escape, La Crosse provides scenic views and intimate settings with cozy bed-and-breakfasts, charming local eateries, and leisurely strolls along the riverfront. Couples can enjoy peaceful boat cruises on the Mississippi or sip wine at one of the nearby local wineries for a romantic getaway.

Bachelor Party

La Crosse offers a lively nightlife scene perfect for a bachelor party, with its variety of bars, breweries, and live music venues. Thrill-seekers can also find adventure activities nearby, such as golfing, hiking, or even an exhilarating zip-line experience amidst the beautiful surroundings.

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Custom Language

Uff da

Oh my

Expression of surprise or relief, common in Scandinavian-American communities.

Bubbler

Water fountain

A regional term for a public drinking fountain, distinctive to Wisconsin.

Stop-n-go light

Traffic light

Colloquial phrase for a traffic signal found in local vernacular.

Tyme machine

ATM

Wisconsin slang for an Automated Teller Machine, historical reference.

FIB

Tourist from Illinois

Light-hearted term for an Illinois visitor, especially during summer holidays.

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Popular Sports & Teams in La Crosse

La Crosse Loggers

The La Crosse Loggers are a collegiate summer baseball team that plays in the Northwoods League. Known for their competitive spirit and strong community support, the team hosts games at Copeland Park.

La Crosse Loggers Official Website

University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Eagles

The UW-La Crosse Eagles compete in NCAA Division III in a variety of sports, including football, basketball, and track and field, with a strong reputation for athletic excellence.

UW-La Crosse Athletics

La Crosse Spartans

The La Crosse Spartans were a professional indoor football team that played in the Indoor Football League from 2010 to 2011, known for their energetic games and local fan base.

Indoor Football League

La Crosse Freeze

The La Crosse Freeze was a Tier III junior ice hockey team in the North American 3 Hockey League, providing a platform for young players to develop their skills.

NA3HL

La Crosse Area Family YMCA

The YMCA of the La Crosse Area offers a variety of sports programs for children and adults, including basketball, soccer, and swimming, promoting fitness and community engagement.

La Crosse Area Family YMCA

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Unique customs/traditions

Kubb

A traditional Scandinavian lawn game popular in local parks, involving knocking over wooden blocks.

Fish Boil

A method of cooking fish such as whitefish in a cauldron, often a communal event.

Bock Fest

A celebration marking the arrival of the bock beer season in late winter.

Polka Dancing

A lively dance common at local festivals and weddings.

Maple Syrup Making

Every spring, locals tap trees and produce pure maple syrup, a cherished tradition.

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Recommended Activities by Group Type

Riverside Park

Visit a Historic Landmark

Outdoor (Half-day)

A beautiful park with scenic views and interesting historical statues, perfect for families to explore and picnic.

Wildwood Zoo

Explore the Zoo

Zoo (2-3 hours)

This free zoo is perfect for families looking to learn about animals and nature in a family-friendly environment.

La Crosse Loggers Baseball

Catch a Sports Game

Sports (2-3 hours)

Families can enjoy summer fun watching a live baseball game together.

Great River State Trail

Visit the Great River State Trail

Outdoor (Half-day)

A great place for family biking or walking, providing beautiful views of the river and surroundings.

Grandad Bluff

Take Family Photos

Scenic (1-2 hours)

An iconic La Crosse spot ideal for taking family photos with a stunning backdrop.

Ticket to travel

Pass along this location with your friends!

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