SOUTHWEST WISCONSIN

La Crosse, Wisconsin

DREAM BIG IN THE DARING DRIFTLESS AREA

Home to rolling hills, lush valleys, and majestic rivers, the Southwest region of the state is full of experiences you won’t want to miss. As part of the state making up the majority of the Driftless Area, the rugged terrain in this region is distinct from the rest of Wisconsin. The steep ridges, numerous rock outcroppings, and deep, narrow valleys in the Driftless Area are marked in contrast with the rest of the state, where glaciers have modified the landscape.

Start your trip to the Southwest with a visit to the oldest European settlement on the Upper Mississippi River: Prairie du Chien. Located just above the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers, this city is history buff heaven with the annual Prairie Villa Rendezvous on St. Feriole Island, a historical reenactment of the fur trade rendezvous that happened in the area centuries ago. Wildlife lovers will not want to miss viewing the bald eagles in Prairie du Chien. The area is along the migration route and a normal wintering area for these birds on the Mississippi River valley. Spend the day cruising the river on a tour boat and learning about the area or taking a trip to Prairie Fun Land and driving bumper cars with your family.

After your historical visit, head north on Great River Road— Wisconsin’s only national scenic byway that extends 3,000 miles along the Mississippi River intertwining with ten states and thirty three historic Wisconsin towns. Take in the beauty while sightseeing by car or by boat, taste original creations at local restaurants along the riverbanks, and uncover knowledge as you pass through towns packed with intriguing history.

The Great River Road trail will lead you to your next stop to explore La Crosse. From cozy bed & breakfasts to luxury suites, locally owned riverside eateries to downtown restaurants, the region is bound to be enjoyed from sunrise to sunset. Get outdoors and explore miles of ancient bluffs to unique bridges— this area features a plethora of breathtaking landscapes for your next adventure. Grab a kayak and cruise the Mississippi, board a paddle wheeler for sightseeing, or go bike the trails for a challenge. Explore everything this area has to offer.

Nestled in the Kickapoo Valley of Southwestern Wisconsin, The Kickapoo Valley Ranch Guest Cabins of La Farge are some of the finest accommodations in the Midwest and a 2020 Travelers’ Choice Top 10% award on TripAdvisor! Surrounded by 8600 acres of forest preserve, the eight individual guest cabins are luxuriously appointed, pristinely kept, quiet, and private. The rolling hills, the stunning vistas, and the horses and llamas are all here to make your stay as relaxing and rejuvenating as possible. This breathtaking setting is perfect for hiking, biking, canoeing, fishing, birdwatching, horseback riding, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and overall relaxation. Trip Advisor reviewers agree—there is no place like Kickapoo Valley Ranch Guest Cabins.

Dare to dream big in the Driftless Southwest Wisconsin region!

Plan your getaway to Southwest Wisconsin today! Search lodging options at WisconsinLodging.org.