Exploring La Crosse - Wisconsin

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At 150 years old, La Crosse is the business center of western Wisconsin. It is the largest city in the area and is situated on the banks of the Mississippi River. The city itself is a mix of historic gems waiting for you to explore.

Reflecting the grand Victorian lifestyle, the recently restored Hixon House (429 North 7th St., La Crosse; 608-782-1980), is an Italianate-style residence that features original period furnishings. Built in 1860, the house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is owned by the La Crosse Historical Society. Hixon House is open for tours ($3/adults; $2.50/seniors; $1.50/children ages 12 and under) from Memorial Day to Labor Day from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m., with the last tour given at 4 p.m. Group tours are available throughout the year by appointment.

The Historical Society also manages the Swarthout Museum (Ninth and Main Streets; 608-782-1980), located next to the main public library. Open year around, the museum features changing exhibits depicting history of La Crosse. Children will enjoy the hands-on exhibits with period dress up clothes and toys. The museum is opened year round Tuesday – Friday from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., and on the weekends from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Admission is a $1 for adults and free for children.
With over 96 historical buildings in La Crosse’s commercial district, it is one of the state’s largest historic districts. Learn more about the buildings when you take the self-guided tour, Historic Commercial District Walking Tour (along State, Main and Pearl Streets; 608-784-0440). Mainstreet, Inc has created a brochure/map highlighting six blocks of various buildings that reflect different architecture, such as the Italianate and Romanesque styles found in the late 1800s to early 1900s, the early 20th century Chicago Commercial style, and the Art Deco/Art Moderne styles of the 1920’s – 40’s.
The Riverside Museum (410 Veterans Memorial Drive; 608-782-1980), details the importance and the role of the mighty Mississippi River in the development of the western Wisconsin region. Located in Riverside Park, various exhibits include a look into the wildlife found along the river’s banks, as well as artifices from the steamboat “The War Eagle” and other steamboats. The museum is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Monday –Friday from 10:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Saturday from 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Admission is $2/adults and $1/children. Admission for families is $5. Group tours are available year round by appointment.

Live out history by taking a riding on the Mississippi aboard one of the paddle wheelers docked at Riverside Park. The Julia Belle Swain (227 Main Street; 800-815-1005/608-784-4882), offers a number of cruise options that can be found on the website, www.juliabelle.com . For a quick trip on the river, there is a three-hour local cruise starting at $19.95. The La Crosse Queen (405 Veterans Memorial Drive; 608-784-2893) tours begin at $12.95. More information is available at www.greatriver.com/laxqueen .