Fall Getaway: La Crosse

Spending time in La Crosse this fall is a surefire way to enjoy all the season has to offer. The area’s Grandad Bluff is not only a destination point for thousands, but also a symbol of the Coulee Region, named for its ridges and valleys. The 600-foot-high bluff overlooks the city of La Crosse and provides a view of the Mississippi River Valley and Wisconsin — in addition to views of Minnesota and Iowa.

For those seeking a fun challenge, the Hidden Trails Corn Maze — located in West Salem and just a short drive from La Crosse — also features wagon rides, farm animals and pick-your-own-pumpkin opportunities. Speaking of pumpkin patches, Rainbow Ridge Farms B&B and Pumpkin Patch, nestled in an Onalaska coulee, boasts a huge pumpkin patch and a small farm store.

Spending the weekend? Check out the Bentley-Wheeler Bed & Breakfast, an award-winning bed and breakfast that boasts the Queen Anne architecture style of the 1890s. Or if staying in an 1892 castle sounds delightful, consider Castle La Crosse, which also features a wonderful in-house morning breakfast made by the castle’s pastry chef.

And while the La Crosse area boasts many award-winning cafes and restaurants, fish aficionados will relish Red Pines. Voted the No. 1 fish fry in La Crosse County, Red Pines offers a beautiful, heated patio overlooking Lake Onalaska.

APPLEFEST USA

Sept. 16-19

Make La Crosse your home base and then head over the Mississippi River into Minnesota for Applefest USA in La Crescent. More than just apple-centric treats, the festival also boasts a car show, golf and corn hole tournament, and a parade.

OKTOBERFEST USA

Sept. 30-Oct. 2

Oktoberfest USA began in 1961 and fosters a spirit of gemütlichkeit (friendliness) among all Oktoberfesters by serving traditional German cuisine and brews, and offering numerous activities inspired or influenced by German culture.

This sponsored article is part of our Special Travel Section from the September/October issue.