Tucked between the Mississippi River and majestic, rocky bluffs, La Crosse is the perfect place to drink in Wisconsin’s superb fall color. There are two must-stops here.
First is Grandad Bluff, an iconic local landmark. The bluff soars 600 feet skyward, offering sweeping vistas of the river, city and surrounding foliage from its viewing area. The second prime locale is Sunny the Sunfish, an overlook off Hwy. 35 in Onalaska. Named for the colorful fiberglass sunfish standing sentinel, the overlook beautifully showcases the river and opposing bluffs. Add a little fun to your trip by heading to West Salem’s Hidden Trails Corn Maze, where you can wander through four mazes, take a wagon ride and check out the pumpkin patch.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Check out these popular fall festivals.
- Applefest (Sept. 15–17). Celebrating its 75th anniversary, this festival in neighboring La Crescent, Minn., features carnival rides, an arts and craft show, Great River Makers Market, orchard tours and plenty of apple pie. The King Apple Parade concludes the weekend.
- Oktoberfest USA (Sept. 28–30). One of the Midwest’s largest and oldest Oktoberfest celebrations, this popular festival boasts plenty of suds, plus live music, parades and a medallion hunt with a $500 cash prize.
Plan your visit at explorelacrosse.com.