La Crosse, WI
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Institutions and Services
La Crosse is a vibrant city on the Mississippi River in western Wisconsin, known for its stunning bluff views, rich German heritage, and as the home of the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: La Crosse
- Administrative Center: La Crosse serves as the county seat of La Crosse County . It is the largest city on Wisconsin's western border .
- Location: The city is located in the state of Wisconsin, in the United States. It lies in the Coulee Region of southwest Wisconsin, nestled along the eastern bank of the Mississippi River . This area is part of the Driftless Region, known for its rugged, unglaciated topography with steep hills and deep river valleys .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Origin of the Name: The city's name comes from the French term for the game of lacrosse. French explorers named the prairie where the city now stands "Prairie La Crosse" after witnessing the Ho-Chunk Nation (Winnebago) and Sioux Indians playing the game there .
- Historical Names: Early American explorer Zebulon Pike referred to the site as "Prairie La Crosse" in his diary in 1805 .
Founding Date and Age
- First Settlement: The first permanent European settlement was established in 1841 when Nathan Myrick built a trading post on the prairie .
- Official Incorporation: La Crosse was officially incorporated as a city in 1856 . As of 2026, the city is 170 years old.
- Early Growth: The city's growth was spurred by the arrival of the railroad in 1858, connecting it to Milwaukee and St. Paul, and its position as a hub for the lumber industry .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Coordinates: 43°48′48″N 91°13′59″W
- Positioning: La Crosse is situated on the eastern bank of the Mississippi River at the point where it meets the La Crosse River . The city is characterized by its location in a river valley, surrounded by steep, forested bluffs . It is part of the Driftless Area, which features rugged terrain untouched by recent glaciers .
- Elevation: The center of the city is approximately 204 meters (669 feet) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
La Crosse is a multi-faceted city with a diverse economy. Its primary functions include:
- Educational Center: It is a major university town, home to the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, Viterbo University, and Western Technical College .
- Medical and Commercial Hub: The city serves as a regional center for healthcare, retail, and commerce for western Wisconsin and southeastern Minnesota .
- Historic Industrial Center: While lumbering declined around 1900, the city has a long history of brewing, manufacturing (heating/cooling systems, rubber/footwear), and food processing .
- Tourist Destination: Tourism is a significant part of the economy, driven by its scenic beauty, the Mississippi River, and major events like Oktoberfest .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, the city of La Crosse had a population of 51,227 . The larger La Crosse-Onalaska, WI-MN Metropolitan Statistical Area had a population of over 170,000 as of 2023 .
- Population Class: La Crosse is classified as a small city.
- Demographic Note: The city has a significant student population due to its three institutions of higher learning. It also has a strong German heritage, reflected in its annual Oktoberfest celebration .
City's "Calling Card" (Brief)
La Crosse is a scenic gem on the Mississippi River, where dramatic limestone bluffs provide a stunning backdrop to a vibrant, historic riverfront city. Known for hosting one of the largest and most authentic Oktoberfest celebrations in the United States, it's a destination where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from Grandad's Bluff, explore the mighty river on a paddlewheel boat, and experience a charming blend of outdoor adventure, college-town energy, and deep-rooted German heritage .
Geography
Mountains and Bluffs
While not mountains, the area's defining geological features are its towering limestone bluffs.
- Grandad Bluff: The most iconic landmark in La Crosse . Located on the east side of the city, this bluff rises prominently above the valley. A drive to the top offers panoramic, breathtaking views of the city, the Mississippi River, and the surrounding countryside in Minnesota and Iowa. It is a must-see for visitors and a symbol of the city .
- The Bluffs: The city is surrounded by numerous other forested bluffs, part of the Driftless Region. These bluffs are crisscrossed with hiking trails of varying difficulty, offering outdoor enthusiasts numerous opportunities to experience the region's unique topography .
Water Bodies
- Mississippi River: The lifeblood of the region, the Mississippi River forms La Crosse's western border . It has been central to the city's history as a transportation route for lumber and commerce. Today, it's a hub for recreation, including boating, fishing, and sightseeing cruises on boats like the La Crosse Queen paddlewheeler . The city is a key stop on the Great River Road, a National Scenic Byway .
- Riverside Park: This expansive park along the riverfront in downtown La Crosse features a beautiful walkway, gardens, and a marina. It's a central gathering place for community events and offers excellent views of the river and the Cass Street Bridge .
- Pettibone Park: Located on an island in the Mississippi, this park is a popular recreational spot featuring a beach, a free disc golf course, and picnic areas .
Unique Landscapes
The city is located in the Driftless Region, an area of North America that was bypassed by the last glaciers. This resulted in a unique and dramatic landscape of steep, forested hills, deep coulees (valleys), and rocky ridges, a stark contrast to the flatter, glaciated terrain typical of the Midwest .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
La Crosse has a humid continental climate . It is characterized by four distinct seasons, with warm to hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The city experiences significant temperature variations between seasons .
Average Temperatures by Season
Based on 1995-2024 data from the Wisconsin State Climatology Office :
- Winter (Dec-Feb): Average high: 28.6°F (-1.9°C) / Average low: 12.1°F (-11.1°C)
- Spring (Mar-May): Average high: 56.4°F (13.6°C) / Average low: 35.2°F (1.8°C)
- Summer (Jun-Aug): Average high: 80.4°F (26.9°C) / Average low: 59.3°F (15.2°C)
- Fall (Sep-Nov): Average high: 58.8°F (14.9°C) / Average low: 39.3°F (4.1°C)
Average Temperatures by Month (Detailed)
For more granular data, here are the 1981-2010 normals from the La Crosse Regional Airport :
- January: 8.9°F (-12.8°C) low / 25.9°F (-3.4°C) high - Coldest month.
- February: 13.6°F (-10.2°C) low / 31.4°F (-0.3°C) high
- March: 25.2°F (-3.8°C) low / 43.9°F (6.6°C) high
- April: 37.9°F (3.3°C) low / 59.3°F (15.2°C) high
- May: 48.7°F (9.3°C) low / 70.7°F (21.5°C) high
- June: 58.5°F (14.7°C) low / 80.0°F (26.7°C) high
- July: 63.2°F (17.3°C) low / 84.1°F (28.9°C) high - Warmest month.
- August: 61.3°F (16.3°C) low / 81.5°F (27.5°C) high
- September: 52.4°F (11.3°C) low / 73.2°F (22.9°C) high
- October: 40.4°F (4.7°C) low / 59.9°F (15.5°C) high
- November: 28.1°F (-2.2°C) low / 43.8°F (6.6°C) high
- December: 14.2°F (-9.9°C) low / 29.1°F (-1.6°C) high
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Annual Precipitation: 36.1 inches, which is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, though summer months tend to be wettest .
- Wettest Season: Summer (14.1 inches) .
- Snowfall: Average annual snowfall is 45.0 inches, with the majority falling from December through February .
- Record 1-Day Rainfall: 7.95 inches (August 28, 2018) .
Extreme Temperatures
- Hottest Recorded: 108°F (42°C) on July 13, 1995 .
- Coldest Recorded: -43°F (-42°C) on an unknown date . (Note: A record of -45°F was recorded in nearby West Salem on Jan 30, 1951) .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Summer (June-August): The warmest and wettest season, ideal for river activities, hiking the bluffs, and enjoying festivals. Be prepared for high heat and humidity, with an average of 19 days per year reaching 90°F or higher .
- Fall (September-October): Arguably the best time to visit. The weather is mild and sunny, the summer humidity drops, and the bluffs come alive with spectacular fall colors. This season is highlighted by the city's famous Oktoberfest celebration .
- Winter (December-February): Cold and snowy. This season is perfect for winter sports enthusiasts who enjoy activities like ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and enjoying the holiday lights .
- Spring (March-May): A time of transition with gradually warming temperatures and melting snow. The landscape greens up beautifully, but it can be muddy for hiking. It's a quiet time to visit before the summer crowds arrive.
Landmarks
Grandad Bluff
The city's most iconic natural landmark . This massive bluff offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city, the Mississippi River, and three states (Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa). It's a symbol of La Crosse and a must-visit for any traveler .
World's Largest Six Pack
A beloved and quirky roadside attraction, this landmark features six massive, 54-foot-high storage tanks at the City Brewery that were painted in 1970 to resemble giant cans of Old Style beer . It's a testament to La Crosse's rich brewing history, which once made it one of the largest beer-producing cities in Wisconsin . Nearby, you can also find a statue of King Gambrinus, the patron saint of beer .
Riverside Park
The heart of La Crosse's downtown riverfront, this beautiful park is home to several landmarks:
- The Spanish Cannon: A historic war trophy from the Spanish-American War, this cannon was cast in Seville, Spain, in 1787. It arrived in La Crosse in 1900 and was moved to its current location in Riverside Park in 1918 .
- Rotary Lights: An enormous holiday light display that transforms the park from late November through December. Starting with 250,000 lights in 1995, it now features millions of lights and is one of the largest holiday attractions in the Midwest, drawing visitors from all over the region .
- La Crosse Queen: A replica 149-passenger stern-wheeler riverboat moored at the park. It is one of the few authentic paddlewheelers in the country and offers sightseeing and dinner cruises on the Mississippi River .
Historic Downtown Architecture
The downtown district features many historic buildings from the city's lumber and brewing heydays of the 19th century . A prime example is the Doerflinger Building at Fourth and Main. Built in 1904 after a fire, this four-story building was the city's premier department store for most of the 20th century and has been beautifully restored as a mixed-use commercial space .
Religious Landmarks
- Cathedral of Saint Joseph the Workman: The mother church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of La Crosse. Built in 1962 of limestone in the Neo-Gothic style, it is a striking architectural presence in the city .
- Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe: Also located within the diocese, this shrine was consecrated in 2004 and is an important pilgrimage site in the region .
Hixon House
Located at the corner of 7th and Badger Streets, this historic house museum was the home of one of La Crosse's lumber barons. The Italianate-style house is preserved with its original Victorian-era furnishings, including a unique Turkish Nook, offering a glimpse into the lives of the city's elite in the late 19th century .
Transport
Main Airport
- La Crosse Regional Airport (LSE) : This is the primary airport serving the city and region. It is located on French Island, just north of the downtown area . The airport offers daily flights from Chicago (American Eagle), Detroit, and Minneapolis/St. Paul (Delta Connection) . Ground transportation options include taxis, ride-sharing services like Lyft and Uber, and rental cars .
Rail Service
- Amtrak Station: La Crosse is served by Amtrak's Empire Builder line, which runs daily between Chicago and Seattle/Portland . The station is located at 601 St. Andrew Street, offering a convenient connection to the national rail network . The station also offers checked baggage and a ticket office .
Bus Services
- Intercity Buses: Greyhound and Jefferson Lines provide intercity bus service to La Crosse, with connections to other cities in the region. One bus station is conveniently located near the Amtrak station .
- Local Public Transit: Municipal Transit Utility (MTU): The city's public bus system is highly regarded for its punctuality and helpful staff . It provides affordable and accessible service throughout La Crosse and to nearby suburbs like Onalaska and La Crescent, MN. It carries nearly 1 million passengers per year .
Major Highways
La Crosse is a regional transportation hub, accessible via several major highways :
- Interstate 90: The main east-west interstate highway, connecting La Crosse to Madison and Milwaukee to the east, and Rochester and Seattle to the west.
- U.S. Highway 53: A major north-south route that connects La Crosse to Eau Claire and Superior, Wisconsin.
- U.S. Highway 14/61: This highway runs through the city, connecting it to Rochester, Minnesota, and points south along the Mississippi River.
- Wisconsin Highway 16: Connects the city to the Wisconsin Dells and Milwaukee. It is also the main thoroughfare for accessing the Valley View Mall retail corridor.
River Transportation
- La Crosse Queen: While primarily a tourist attraction, this authentic paddlewheeler serves as a form of river transport for sightseeing, providing a unique way to experience the Mississippi River .
- Port Facilities: The city has a history as a river port, and today its marinas and boat landings support extensive recreational boating .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
La Crosse's food scene is a blend of classic American comfort food, innovative farm-to-table dining, and international flavors brought by the community. While the city doesn't have one single globally famous dish, its culinary identity is strong, with several local specialties and beloved eateries.
Oktoberfest Traditions and German Heritage
La Crosse is home to one of the largest Oktoberfest celebrations in the United States, drawing nearly 150,000 visitors annually . This festival is a direct result of the city's rich German immigrant history, which heavily influenced its local culture and, by extension, its food. During Oktoberfest, the city celebrates with traditional German food, beer, and music.
Local Restaurant Favorites
The city's culinary scene is best explored through its popular, long-standing restaurants and their signature dishes.
- Prime Rib at Piggy's Restaurant and Lounge: A true La Crosse institution for nearly 45 years, Piggy's is a famous barbecue and steakhouse. Their prime rib is particularly renowned for its smoky flavor, achieved through a "low and slow" cooking method and a special blend of herbs and seasonings .
- Al Pastor at Burritos House: A popular spot on La Crosse Street, Burritos House has been serving authentic Mexican flavors since it was taken over by Ysenia Gama in 2017. Gama, who grew up in Jalisco, Mexico, added her own recipes to the menu. The al pastor, a seasoned pork dish, has become a customer favorite and a testament to the city's diverse culinary offerings .
- Birria Beef Tacos at La Crosse Distilling Co.: Combining house-made spirits with delicious food, La Crosse Distilling Co. has made its birria beef tacos a standout item. The dish is so popular that the kitchen prepares 80-100 pounds of birria meat each week .
- The Oscar Sandwich at Jimmy's North Star: A beloved north-side establishment, Jimmy's North Star is known for its classic bar food. Its number one seller is The Oscar, a sandwich loaded with fresh ingredients, proving that simple, well-made food stands the test of time .
- Smokey Loaded Hash at JavaVino: A coffee shop and restaurant, JavaVino offers a unique dish inspired by Peruvian cuisine. Their Smokey Loaded Hash features a choice of smoked chicken or pork, sweet and russet potatoes, red onion, green peppers, and a special aji amarillo sauce .
- Wood-Fired Pizza at Mirage Sports Bar: Mirage Sports Bar introduced a wood-fired oven, offering a unique twist on traditional pizzas in the city .
- RPH Burger at Restore Public House: Since 2019, Restore Public House has been serving homemade, cozy regional dishes with a modern twist. While their menu changes seasonally, the RPH Burger has remained a constant and popular staple .
Museums
La Crosse offers a variety of museums that delve into local history, art, and culture, from pioneer life to the automotive industry.
Historical and Heritage Museums
- La Crosse Area Heritage Center: This museum serves as the curated space for the La Crosse County Historical Society. It offers unique opportunities for visitors to discover the surprising connections between the past and present, acting as a "seeker and keeper of stories that matter" .
- Hixon House: Donated to the historical society in 1965 by the descendants of early pioneers Gideon and Ellen Hixon, this home is preserved with most of its original furnishings. Tours provide a fascinating glimpse into local history and decorative arts .
- Riverside Museum: Co-managed with the Mississippi Valley Archeology Center, this museum's focus is the prehistory and history of the greater La Crosse area as it relates to the Mississippi River. Key exhibits include Paleo-Indian artifacts and items from river-based industries like logging and the steamboat trade, including clam shell buttons .
- Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center: Dedicated to preserving the heritage of the surrounding Coon Valley region, this "Norwegian Valley" center features a historical homestead, a visitor center, an arboretum, and nature trails .
Art and Culture Centers
- Pump House Regional Arts Center: Housed in a historic building that served as the City Water Works until 1914, the Pump House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It presents visual arts, performing arts, and a wide variety of educational programming .
Specialized Museums
- Dahl Auto Museum: This museum showcases an illustrated timeline of Dahl Automotive's five-generation history with the Ford Motor Company. It displays approximately 20 antique and classic cars from each decade since the company's inception in 1911. To incorporate local history, it also features a re-creation of the Starlite Drive-In Theatre .
Museums for Families
- Children's Museum of La Crosse: Open in historic downtown La Crosse since 1999, this museum celebrates the power of play with three floors of interactive exhibits designed for children ages 1-10 .
Sport and Sports Legends
Sports in La Crosse are centered around its university and the strong community support for local athletics.
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Athletics
The primary source of organized sports in La Crosse is the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UWL) . The UWL Eagles compete in the NCAA Division III as part of the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) .
- Sports Programs: UWL fields teams in a variety of sports for both men and women, including cross country, tennis, and many others . The university is a significant part of the community, with its athletic events drawing local fans.
Famous Athletes from La Crosse
While La Crosse may not be the birthplace of many globally recognized sports figures, it is a community that fosters athletic talent. One example is Declan Gregg, a local from La Crosse's Aquinas High School, who runs for the UWL men's cross country team .
Universities and Educational Institutions
La Crosse is the largest university city in the area, with three higher education institutions that make it a regional center for culture and learning .
Major Universities and Colleges
- University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UWL): Founded in 1909, UWL is a public comprehensive university and the largest in the city, with over 10,000 students . It is highly regarded and consistently ranked, coming in as #4 public regional university in the Midwest by U.S. News and World Report .
- Academics: UWL offers 94 undergraduate and 26 graduate programs. Popular and highly ranked undergraduate programs include Biology, Business, Computer Science, and Exercise and Sport Science .
- Faculty: The university boasts a student-to-faculty ratio of 18:1, and 79% of its faculty hold a Ph.D. or other terminal degree .
- Viterbo University: A private, Catholic liberal arts university also located in La Crosse .
- Western Technical College: One of the largest public two-year colleges in Wisconsin, providing technical and vocational education to the region .
Healthcare Institutions and Services
La Crosse is a major regional hub for healthcare, home to two world-class medical institutions that serve patients from western Wisconsin, southeastern Minnesota, and northeastern Iowa .
Major Medical Centers
- Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center: This is the flagship hospital of the Gundersen Health System. Located at 1900 South Ave., it is a comprehensive medical center offering a full range of services, including Emergency Care, Imaging, Surgery, and a dedicated Obstetrics Unit .
- Specialties: The hospital has specialized units for Neuroscience, Orthopaedics, Critical Care, and a combined Medical and Oncology unit. It also features a Level 3 Neonatal ICU and a Pediatric ICU .
- Recognition: Gundersen's La Crosse Hospital has been honored with the Healthgrades Outstanding Patient Experience Award for 16 consecutive years as of 2023 .
- Innovation: Gundersen is known for adopting new technologies, such as robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery and virtual nursing care models . It is also a leader in sustainability, powering parts of its campus with a large solar parking lot canopy .
- Mayo Clinic Health System - La Crosse: As noted by UWL, La Crosse is also home to a Mayo Clinic Health System hospital, which, along with Gundersen, provides 24-hour walk-in urgent care and comprehensive medical services to the region . This institution has a medical school relationship with the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, among others .