Splash into Summer with Water Adventures in the La Crosse Region

When the summer season arrives, it’s time to get together with family and friends and enjoy the sun, sand and gorgeous waterways of Wisconsin. One of the best places to make lasting golden memories together is the La Crosse Region. From the towering bluffs to the majestic Mississippi River to all the opportunities for unforgettable fun, summer feels a little sweeter in and around La Crosse. Read on to discover some of the great ways to make the most of your summer vacation in this special area of the state.

See the Sights on A One-of-a-Kind Cruise

Want to meet the queen of La Crosse? It’s easier than you might think! The impressive La Crosse Queen is a modern-day replica of the riverboats that use to sail the Mississippi River in the 1900s. That means instead of a noisy engine, you and your crew can enjoy watching the wooden wheels that propel the Queen gently across the water. Have an extra special date night on the Saturday Dinner Cruise while sharing delicious prime rib as the sun sets behind the bluffs or opt for the sightseeing tour with friends for an unforgettable afternoon on the water.

Paddle or Pedal Together

Another fun way to explore the refreshing waterways of the La Crosse Region is by kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard. Stop in at Island Outdoors located right on the Black River where it's easy to get on the water right from the shop. If you and your crew are feeling extra adventurous and want to try something new, try out HydroBikes to bike across the water or a Pedaltoon to pedal together while relaxing under a shaded canopy for the ultimate on-the-river experience.

Cast A Line on the Mississippi

The Upper Mississippi River makes for an angler’s paradise in the La Crosse Region, and whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned professional there are endless opportunities for fishing fun. Explore the hundreds of small islands, pools and channels that are home to more species of fish than any other temperate-climate river in the world, including walleye, northern pike, bass, catfish and many more.

Journey out on your own or have an experienced guide from Best Dam Fishing Float take you and your group to a floating dock below Lock & Dam 7 via pontoon where you can fish the day away together. The pontoon and dock are both wheelchair accessible and the dock has a wheelchair accessible bathroom so that everyone can try their luck on the water. Bring your own equipment or rent from the bait shop that also offers fishing bait, pizza and snacks to stay fueled up for a day of family adventures.

Discover more about fishing in the La Crosse Region on the water or from the  scenic shoreline.

Cool Off at a Scenic Beach

Island vibes in Wisconsin? You bet! With picturesque views of Riverside Park, downtown La Crosse and the Big Blue Bridge, Pettibone Beach on Baron Island is the ideal spot to go for a refreshing swim with your crew and a relaxing afternoon on the sand. Soak up the summer rays with your favorite people and enjoy a tasty meal from Pettibone Boat Club that serves classic American fare and summer drinks from a tiki bar with a spectacular view of the water. Your group can visit by foot or car, or you can boat right up to the restaurant’s dock to embrace all the best parts of a summer vacation.

Celebrate the Season in Style

One of the best parts of summer in Wisconsin is all the lively festivals, and the La Crosse Region knows how to celebrate. Visit West Salem just northeast of La Crosse in early summer to join in the fun at June Dairy Days, a tribute to one of Wisconsin’s specialties where you can dance to live music, play carnival games with the kids, enter a fishing contest and catch candy at a parade.

The week of the Fourth of July means nonstop fun at Riverfest in La Crosse. For five days the city hosts live music, waterski shows, family entertainment and much more that closes out with a legendary firework display over the breathtaking bluffs and water. Watch with your group from the shore or from a boat for an unforgettable celebration of summer.

Discover more ways to make memories in the La Crosse Region at ExploreLaCrosse.com.