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Travel + Leisure
21 minutes ago
- Travel + Leisure
This Small River Town Is One of the Midwest's Best Outdoor Destinations—and It Also Has a Candy Factory Hotel, a Speakeasy, and Mississippi Views
Stay in Castle La Crosse, a stunning 1892 Tudor Revival mansion-turned-luxury bed and breakfast for a Gilded Age-esque experience. Go treasure hunting at the Antique Center of La Crosse, a three-story trove of vintage finds and quirky curios. Sip cocktails at the Sinatra-era-inspired Starlight Lounge, where smooth jazz and classic drinks abound. Hike the summit of the Gateway Trails for a bird's-eye view of towering bluffs. Take a trip to a suburban French Island, just across the Mississippi, for peaceful parks and nature escapes. Located in western Wisconsin on the banks of the Mississippi River, the oft-overlooked small town of La Crosse is surrounded by dramatic river bluffs and scenic waterways—and in my opinion, it's one of the best outdoor towns in the Midwest. La Crosse was once a 19th-century industrial hub full of steamboats and lumber yards, but it has since evolved into a college town with a lively, youthful vibe. For travelers, the draw here is the city's stunning natural beauty and historic charm. La Crosse's combination of scenic beauty and small-town charm makes it an ideal place to have an outdoorsy adventure while getting a slice of quintessential Midwestern life. For Haleigh Doyle, a longtime resident and the director of marketing at Explore La Crosse, the thing that sets the city apart is 'its location in the Driftless Region with landscapes untouched by glaciers but rich with steep hills, forested ridges, and deeply carved river valleys, making it an unexpected outdoor haven.' In La Crosse's historic downtown, you'll find well-preserved architecture, local breweries, and a bustling dining scene. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to the area's riverfront trails, bluff hikes, and parks such as Grandad Bluff and Pettibone Park. And in the fall, signature events like Oktoberfest USA celebrate the city's deep-rooted brewing heritage. Fun fact: La Cross is also home to the World's Largest Six-Pack, a collection beer storage tanks that pay homage to the city's beer brewing past. Here's what to know before planning a trip to La Crosse, Wisconsin. Colorful facades in downtown La Crosse, Wisconsin. This cute boutique hotel is housed in the former Funke candy factory, which was originally built in 1898. It has 67 rooms that have exposed brick walls, hardwood floors, and refined décor. Spa‑like rainfall showers, luxury bath products, and indulgent details like complimentary chocolates or dessert perks add to the luxe experience. As for dining, there's the aptly named The Restaurant, which serves French-inspired cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Alternatively, you could head to the seasonally open Rooftop Terrace, where you can enjoy Neapolitan-style pizza and craft cocktails with a view. A restored former fish hatchery listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Hatchery Riverside skillfully blends old‑school charm with upscale modern comfort. The hotel opened in 2023, and has just six rooms with spa-like bathrooms, as well as a stylish cocktail lounge that serves small bites, an event space, and a rooftop balcony. Castle La Crosse is a grand 1892 Tudor Revival mansion turned luxurious bed and breakfast, sited in the heart of the historic district. It has five spacious, uniquely styled suites (each named after hardwood trees like mahogany, walnut and oak) that have fun details like period furniture, crown molding, and stained glass windows. Common areas include a music room with a grand piano, a wood-paneled library, and a sunny parlor. It's the perfect blend of Gilded Age elegance and modern comfort. Viewpoint at Grandad Bluff in La Crosse, Wisconsin. This is one of the best places for epic views of La Crosse and the Mississippi River valley. Hike the scenic Gateway trails to get to the summit, where you'll get a bird's eye view of towering bluffs and vibrant foliage, especially in the fall. It's the perfect spot to soak in the region's natural beauty on a quiet hike. For a relaxing river experience, consider hopping on the La Crosse Queen. The boat itself dates back to 1976, but it's a replica of a turn-of-the-last-century paddle steamer. It floats the iconic landscapes between Wisconsin's and Minnesota's shore, and has expert guides on board as well as indoor and outdoor seating. It's one of the most memorable ways to explore the region's waterways. This four-hour-long tour takes visitors around the scenic bluffs of La Crosse and La Crescent, where they can learn about the history of the area, the wine-makers who work the land, and the region's geologic past. The tour also includes a fun stop at an apple orchard, so this is a solid option for families looking to blend sightseeing with tasty treats. Located an hour from La Crosse in Fountain City, Wisconsin, you'll find Kinstone, a 30-acre garden filled with megalithic stone sculptures. This is a point of interest, decidedly a bit on the woo-woo side of the spectrum; however, it's also blissfully peaceful and quiet. Take a meditative stroll along the Way of the Stones to see stone art and the Tree of Intention, where guests sometimes leave prayers. Hidden Trails and Hidden Hills are family-friendly farms that have corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and petting zoos. These farms also have hands-on seasonal fun, especially in the fall, making them popular destinations for harvest celebrations near La Crosse. Stores in downtown La Crosse. A beloved La Crosse institution since 2013, Larson's General is a family-owned, low-waste store that has refillable goods and "earth-friendly alternatives to everyday essentials." They handmake over 100 of their in-house products and are on the cusp of launching Ceremony Goods, an olive oil and balsamic vinegar brand. Curated is a stylish boutique with a (dare we say) curated selection of artisanal home goods, gifts, and locally crafted items. Known for its modern aesthetic, the shop stocks thoughtfully chosen pieces perfect for decorating or gifting (or maybe gifting to yourself). Drift Mercantile blends coastal-inspired style with Midwestern charm, with cute, unique apparel, home décor, and gifts. It's the perfect place to pick something up for the outdoorsy person in your life. Natty West is a hip store known for its vintage-inspired clothing, accessories, and art. It combines rustic charm with modern trends, and you'll find locally made and one-of-a-kind pieces here. A historic landmark and must-visit, the Antique Center of La Crosse is a three-story treasure trove packed with vintage and collectible items. Its kitschy charm and vast selection—from furniture to quirky curios—make it a destination for antique hunters and history buffs alike. Restaurant signs in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Jessica Brouillette/Adobe Stock A local favorite in La Crosse, The Breakfast Club & Pub serves hearty breakfast classics all day in a cozy atmosphere. With its retro décor and friendly staff, this is a great spot for all your comfort food favorites. Inspired by Sinatra-era glamour, Starlight Lounge is a martini bar with classic cocktails and smooth jazz. The décor and glitzy ambiance feel timeless, making this the perfect place for a date night or to celebrate a special occasion. Nestled on Lake Onalaska, Red Pines Bar and Grill has gorgeous waterfront views paired with hearty Wisconsin Northwoods cuisine. Be sure to try their famous fish fry. La Cave is a trendy speakeasy hidden in the lower level of Le Chateau restaurant. You can order small bites like truffle fries and escargot here, but they're best known for their perfectly executed cocktails. Fall foliage in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Images Fall is the best time to visit La Crosse, Wisconsin, when the ancient bluffs on both sides of the Mississippi burst into red, orange, and gold. This stunning natural backdrop creates a perfect setting for outdoor adventures and scenic drives. The season also sees Oktoberfest USA, one of the largest Bavarian festivals in the country, where the city fills up with lively music, traditional food, and festive celebrations. The Bluff-to-Bluff Trolley tour is a charming way to explore the city's historic neighborhoods and scenic overlooks. Fall is also prime time for family-friendly fun, with corn mazes, petting farms, and apple picking at local orchards. And if you appreciate craft beverages, Doyle suggests the Coulee Region Craft Beverage Trail which highlights local wineries and breweries. The closest major airports to La Crosse are Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE), which is 215 miles away, and Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) in Minnesota, about 150 miles away. Expect about a two to three-hour drive if you're flying into either of these airports. One of my favorite options actually involves flying into the smaller Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) in Madison, Wisconsin, and then enjoying the 2.5-hour drive along I-90 and the Great River Road through Wisconsin's Driftless Region. The Great River Road hugs the Mississippi River with picturesque landscapes perfect for stops and photo ops. The midtown neighborhood of La Crosse, Wisconsin. DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images Midtown La Crosse is a popular hangout spot among locals thanks to its healthy selection of local eateries and boutique shops. This is the place to go to get a taste of everyday La Crosse life. Located just across the Mississippi River, French Island has a peaceful, suburban vibe with easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. With plentiful scenic parks and green spaces, birdwatchers will have a ball here. With historic buildings and easy access to hiking trails and the bluffs, this is a must-visit neighborhood for outdoor enthusiasts. Be sure to stop by The Crow after your adventure to fuel up on bourbon and burgers in a charming brick building. If you're flying in from another part of the country, you'll need to rent a car in order to reach La Crosse. However, if you're planning on just exploring the city, La Crosse has a robust public transportation system and Municipal Transit Utility buses run regularly and fairly punctually. There's also a municipal bike-share program, and the city has plentiful cycling lanes. Compact and easy to navigate, downtown La Crosse is also considered a very walkable area for those who prefer to travel on foot.
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
University of Alaska dorms to host up to 750 Russian delegates in town for Trump-Putin summit
The University of Alaska Anchorage is expecting hundreds of Russian delegates who are in the city for the summit between President Trump and President Vladimir Putin to stay in student dorms. 'There may be up to 750 people staying on campus between the U.S. and Russian delegations,' vice chancellor Ryan Buchholdt said in an email to the Alaskan newspaper, Anchorage Daily News. The school can house around 12,000 people. This week marks the start of the school calendar for those returning from the summer break. The summit is going to be held at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, about a 10-minute drive from Anchorage, reports Alaska's News Source. The meeting will mark the first time Trump and Putin have met in person since 2018. 'In addition to the dorms, we do have the Alaska Airlines Center [a sports arena that has a 5,000-seat capacity] that has been set up with beds, meeting most of the need, mostly from the Russian delegation side,' Buchholdt also told Alaska's News Source. University police are working closely with state and federal law agencies to monitor security, Buchholdt added. 'Our main concern is making sure anyone who is staying on campus, whether they are from the United States or Russia or any other locality, is safe,' Buchholdt said, 'and is able to do the mission that they're here to do and go back home safely.' On Thursday, some of the delegates had already arrived as of Thursday afternoon, according to university spokesperson Katie Bender. Flight tracking data showed that at least one flight from Moscow had touched down in Anchorage that afternoon. 'The delegations are in separate locations. For security purposes, we are not able to share where the delegations are located,' Bender added. Alyeska resort, located about 40 miles south of Anchorage, informed local press that they were fully booked for the weekend, and the website of the local hotel, Captain Cook, was also fully booked. The hotel site showed one remaining room in a hostel, at a staggeringly raised price of $150 a night on Friday. Town mayor Suzanne LaFrance explained that finding accommodation at the height of the tourist season is hard enough as it is, let alone with a significant political event taking center stage. 'I know that people are looking at creative solutions. I don't have any specific details about that [housing delegations in UOA], but I know that the university is engaged in those conversations, and I'm optimistic that we'll come up with some options for folks,' she said to Alaska's News Source. At the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, news and camera crews were seen rolling in on Thursday morning. Locals watched on as officials gathered in the vicinity. 'It's kind of a big deal, I mean, do we all want World War III?' one man told Alaska's News Source. The two leaders will hold peace talks regarding the future of Russia and Ukraine, amid a deadly war that has killed hundreds of thousands of soldiers on both sides. Earlier on Thursday, Putin praised Trump's 'energetic and sincere efforts to stop' the war in Ukraine. More than a million Russian troops have been killed or injured since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began on 24 February 2022, reports the British Ministry of Defense. Meanwhile, Ukrainian personnel fatalities and casualties have amounted to around 400,000, says the US-based Centre for Strategic and International Studies. Ahead of the summit, Trump vowed that Putin was 'not going to mess around with me,' as he hopes to secure a ceasefire deal. The Independent contacted the university, along with the Anchorage tourism board, for comment.
Forbes
an hour ago
- Forbes
Five Great Summer Road Trips In America
Summer is my jam, and yours too - windows down, snacks in hand, tunes blasting. What's not to love? Here are five personally tested scenic routes across America that'll either blow the blues from your soul or help you appreciate the season anew. All are gorgeous. Don't forget to hydrate. 17 Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, California This is wonderful road adjacent to white beaches, tall forests, stunning coastal cliffs, and it's only 17 miles. It's so exclusive that motorcycles are prohibited and there's a $10.25 cash fee per vehicle, although that can be reimbursed if you spend $36 or more at Pebble Beach Resort restaurants. (It's waived completely if you're staying at Casa Palmero, The Inn At Spanish Bay or The Lodge At Pebble Beach.) You'll behold the majesty of the Restless Sea at Point Joe, dwell amongst the gigantic trees at Cocker Grove, stroll the boardwalk above the beach at Spanish Bay, and so much more. A red line's painted on the road; follow it and you won't veer off the course. Historic Route 66 At 2,450 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, Route 66 is the longest trip on this list, but a must for anyone interested in old-school America. Along the way, you'll come across must-see roadside attractions like the world's second-largest rocking chair in Fanning, Missouri, the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, the Wigwam Hotel in San Bernardino, California, and so much more. Also, familiarize yourself with these lyrics: 'If you ever plan to motor west/Take my way/That's the highway that's the best.' Then get thee to Nat 'King' Cole, The Rolling Stones or any number of artists who've recorded 'Route 66' and you'll get the urge. Independence Pass, Colorado Colorado's full of sights most everywhere you drive or motorcycle that'll make you pull over and simply gape at nature's natural wonders. But Independence Pass is Colorado on steroids. It's 32 miles long and the highest paved pass in North America; at the Continental Divide between Aspen and Leadville, you're 12,095 feet above sea level. You can drive Independence Pass in about 45 minutes if need be, but you'll want to take your time and pull over for photos of the Roaring Fork River, groves of trees and majestic, jaw-dropping gorges. There aren't any guardrails and your path is narrow and twisty at times, so follow the speed limit. At the Aspen end, consider lodging at the Limelight, with its huge lobby complete with fireplace for guests and their friends to loiter at their leisure, the magnificent mountains in sight. Their complimentary breakfast is sumptuous and plentiful, and there's an Audi Q7 available for guests' use upon check-in. Palisades Parkway, NJ/NY Beginning at its southern point at the George Washington Bridge, the Palisades parkway is a 38.25 mile 2-lane limited access highway (meaning you won't see commercial trucks) eventually connecting New Jersey to upstate New York. Not only are its north and south roads home to acres of trees with gorgeous colorful leaves in the fall, there are three scenic lookout points along the way, and soon you'll find yourself cruising alongside historic Hudson River. Make your way up to the college town of New Paltz and eat, shop, stroll and experience some of the most vivid, colorful foliage the East coast has to offer. Spend a night at Mohonk Mountain House, whose acres of forest will provide a feast for the eyes and the nose; enjoy their world-class buffet, leisurely pace and many activities for guests if you so choose. The Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway The Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway in Washington winds through an ancient, mystical, alive landscape formed millennia ago underneath the ocean, subsequently carved by glaciers and then sprinkled with forests by Mama nature. Starting in the 1800s as a series of trails winging through forests and connecting the logging and fishing communities, the modern world brought roads with it for horses and wagons, the automobile, school buses, and you. Along your way along this 100-plus mile route, you'll find a plethora of parklands, wilderness preserves and national forests as well as hot springs, pristine mountain streams, many waterfalls, temperate rain forests, a large assortment of wildlife, snow capped mountain peaks and beautiful coastal beaches. Though it's possible to travel the byway in as little as four hours, many people end up staying overnight so as to properly absorb and appreciate its many wonders and Shore Drive, Minnesota The North Shore Scenic Drive stretches along the shore from Canal Park in Duluth, Minnesota, through lovely burgs and placid woodlands and onto to the international border at Grand Portage. A few of the highlights you can expect on your north shore scenic drive include unique, agate-studded black and pink cobblestone beaches, three lighthouses, two harbors and many Lake Superior bays, top fishing spots along the scenic north shore drive, historical landmarks and for-real ghost town. There's also a gondola, the Grand Portage National Monument and shops and eateries you won't find anywhere else.
