Dining in The Driftless: A Foodie's Guide to Southwest Wisconsin
Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin's Driftless Area, the state's Southwest region offers a culinary adventure as unique as its rolling hills and winding rivers. This 3-day itinerary will take you and your loved ones on a mouthwatering journey through some of the area's tastiest dining destinations, many of which are part of the Wisconsin Foodie Pass. Get ready to savor the flavors of the Driftless while exploring charming towns and hidden gems along the way.
Day 1: Sample Fresh Flavors in Viroqua
Breakfast at Wonderstate Coffee
Begin your day at the flagship Wonderstate Coffee in downtown Viroqua. Here, you and your crew can enjoy coffee roasted using 100% solar power along with in-house bakery as well as breakfast and lunch specialties that spotlight local ingredients.
Lunch at The Cheese Corner
Enjoy lunch together at The Cheese Corner. This local favorite serves up hearty sandwiches and homemade soups. With your Foodie Pass, enjoy a free fountain drink, chips and cookie with the purchase of any whole sub sandwich.
Afternoon Adventure
Spend the afternoon exploring Driftless Books & Music, a sprawling used bookstore that perfectly captures the artsy vibe of Viroqua. Alternatively, nature lovers can venture out to the Kickapoo Valley Reserve for a scenic hike through hardwood forests.
Dinner at Noble Rind Artisan Cheese
Cap your day off with dinner at Noble Rind Artisan Cheese. This artisanal cheese shop offers a curated selection of Wisconsin's finest cheeses. Create your own cheese board to share or try one of their gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. If the weather is warm, take your meal to go and picnic together in nearby Eckhart Park.
Where to Stay
At the end of the day, rest your head at the charming Viroqua Heritage Inn, two beautifully restored Victorian homes transformed into a boutique hotel. Whether you stay with friends or a special someone, you’ll be rested and ready for more adventures in the morning.
Day 2: Taste La Crosse Flavors
Next, head north to La Crosse, where culinary delights await along the Mississippi River.
Breakfast at The Root Note
Start your day at The Root Note, an artsy and innovative coffee shop that offers tasty breakfast and lunch dishes including sweet and savory crepes. The cafe’s location also makes for a great home base as your group explores the eclectic shops of downtown La Crosse.
Mid-Day Fun
Take a scenic cruise with your crew on the La Crosse Queen, a modern-day replica of the grand riverboats that once filled the Mississippi. Enjoy stunning views of the river valley while learning about the area's rich history for a memorable time with friends or family.
Dinner at SAGRA Food and Wine
End your day at SAGRA Food and Wine in downtown La Crosse. This Italian-inspired eatery offers a delightful dinner menu. Don't miss their Foodie Pass deal: buy one spritz, get one spritz free—perfect for a celebratory toast with loved ones.
Where to Stay
Spend the night at the historic Charmant Hotel, a boutique hotel in a renovated candy factory that received the prestigious One MICHELIN Key 2024 designation by the MICHELIN Guide.
Day 3: Enjoy Prairie du Sac Pleasures
On your final day, make your way to Prairie du Sac for a relaxing morning and a scenic hike before heading home.
Breakfast at The Eagle Inn
Kick off your day with breakfast at The Eagle Inn Sauk Prairie in Prairie du Sac. While it’s not part of the Foodie Pass, this cozy diner is a local favorite, offering classic breakfast dishes and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Explore Devil’s Lake State Park
After breakfast, head to Devil's Lake State Park, just a short drive away. Take a hike up the bluffs for stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape, a perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors before continuing your journey.
Unwind at Wollersheim Winery & Distillery
After your outdoor adventure, sit back and relax at the Bistro at Wollersheim Winery & Distillery, open daily from 12 to 3 PM. Wine and spirit lovers can take a tour of the gorgeous grounds, and use the Foodie Pass to take home a free mini bottle of wine with a purchase of a regular bottle.
As you wrap up your culinary journey through Southwest Wisconsin, you'll have experienced the rich flavors and warm hospitality that make this region a food lover's paradise. Don't forget to check in at each Travel Wisconsin Foodie Pass location to earn points and unlock exclusive deals and rewards along the way. Ready to eat your way through the Driftless? Grab your Foodie Pass here and start planning your next weekend escape!
