2014 Explore La Crosse Visitors Guide by Jake Holman

www.explorelacrosse.com

and the Town of Campbell "French Island" OFFICIAL 2014 VISITORS GUIDE

800.658.9424 La Crosse Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

WISCONSIN

and the Town of Campbell "French Island"

On behalf of the citizens of La Crosse, it is my pleasure to welcome you to our beautiful city in Western Wisconsin. La Crosse is a wonderful community bordered by rolling bluffs to the east and the mighty Mississippi River to the west. Our historic town features exciting new developments, modern conveniences, and enlivened stores, restaurants, and galleries. The timeless beauty of our natural resources begs you to boat along our splendid riverways, bike our many woodland and urban trails, drive atop our scenic bluffs, stroll through our beautiful parks – the possibilities are endless! Our friendly, hospitable people are proud and pleased to share with you our wonderful city. We invite you to visit us, and we know you’ll want to return again and again. - Tim Kabat, Mayor

Whether your interests include boating, biking or bird watching, French Island has something to offer everyone. With its natural geographical beauty, visitors find it hard not to stop and look us over. For a fantastic view of a sunset all year long, please visit our observation deck overlooking Lake Onalaska on our northern borders. Since we are an island, we have some of the best fishing opportunities in the entire state of Wisconsin. The winter season offers cross country skiing, ice fishing and snowmobiling. The majestic bluffs of Minnesota provide a natural haven to the eagle, which we can watch fishing in the open waters of the Black River on our eastern border. Many visitors stop to take advantage of our local Thomasville Gallery and the Company Store Outlet located just off the Interstate on Sky Harbour Drive. Also located on Sky Harbour Drive is a Days Inn which offers rest for weary travelers and rooms for meetings or gatherings of all sorts. We look forward to your visit and wish to welcome you to the Town of Campbell. -Scott Johnson, Chairman, Town of Campbell

1 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

EXPERIENCE

Our River City

Contents Welcome To La Crosse................................... 1

View the Mississippi at La Crosse year-round at

History of La Crosse....................................4-5

www.explorelacrosse.com

Attractions................................................8-12

courtesy of the CenturyLink WebCam

Sports & Recreation............................... 18-24

1-800-658-9424

Community.................................................6-7 Dining..................................................... 14-17 Accommodations......................................... 25 Lodging.................................................. 26-33 Lodging Discount Coupons........................ 30 Great River Road Map........................... 36-37 Education............................................... 38-39 Shopping................................................ 41-43 Arts & Entertainment.................................. 45 Calendar of Events 2014....................... 46-58 Business & Service Listings......................... 59 Relocation Information............................... 60 The official La Crosse Area Visitors Guide is published annually by the La Crosse Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this guide. The LACVB assumes no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions. For corrections or inclusion in the next issue, contact the LACVB at 608-782-2366. If you are interested in having your ad placed in future publications, please call the LACVB at 1-800-658-9424. Visit us at our Web site: www.explorelacrosse.com. Reproduction of material used in this publication requires the written consent of the La Crosse Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. Photography by RJ & Linda Miller. Contributing photographers Alan Stankevitz, Doyle and Shirley Gates, Curt Trnka, Anthony Larson, Kayla Shepard and Terry Tobin Graphic Design.

ÂŠ 2014 La Crosse Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Historic Beauty ...

Community Each year, La Crosse attracts more than one million visitors, as people from across the globe are attracted by the natural beauty and recreational opportunities offered by the upper Mississippi River area—not to mention the region’s rich history, unique attractions and variety of great shopping, dining and cultural offerings. Whether you’re stopping over for a short trip or looking for the perfect spot for an extended getaway, La Crosse is the ideal destination for you, conveniently located between Minneapolis, Minnesota and Chicago, Illinois, there is something for everyone!

Grandad Bluff (above) has become not only a destination point for thousands, but also a symbol of this great Coulee Region. La Crosse's recent renovation showed the importance and grandeur of Grandad Bluff to all who visit.

lacrosseareaday.com

AT MILLER PARK • Transportation via motor coach bus to and from Miller Park • Tailgate party with La Crosse made products served by the Moose Club Family Center.

• Game ticket • Brewer Memorabilia Raffle

JOIN US!!

• Live Music by Happy's Garage • Family Event

608-782-2366 800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 3

Our Unique

Legend has it that the French saw the Native Americans playing a game with a curved stick and leather ball and called the game “la crosse.” The region soon became known as Prairie La Crosse. The city charter was signed on March 14, 1856 and the area saw growth from steamboat traffic, fur trading, lumber and brewing companies.

When you travel through the greater La Crosse Area, you will understand why the region is known for its scenic beauty. During the last Ice Age, about 10,000 years ago, nearly two-thirds of North America was covered by a massive sheet of ice. The area included most of Canada and the Northern United States from the New England area to as far west as Montana. In the Upper Midwest this ice mass stopped just short of Western Wisconsin and Eastern Minnesota. This area, which was not affected by the glacier, is sometimes referred to as the Driftless Region. It encompasses La Crosse County as well as the surrounding counties and beyond. 4 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

As the ice melted and the glacier receded northwards, the water runoff cut through the limestone, creating rivers, lakes and the beautiful bluffs and coulees of the region. The Mississippi, Black and La Crosse Rivers, all which converge at the north end of Riverside Park in Historic Downtown La Crosse, are a product of this process. French explorers, traders and missionaries were the first Europeans to make contact with the Native American tribes in Wisconsin. In 1680, Robert Cavalier Sieur de la Salle, driven by a passion to explore North America, sent a few of his exploration party up the Mississippi River from the Illinois River to search for the source of the Mississippi. It was this group, Michel Accau, Antoine Auguel, Father Louis Hennepin and others, that first paddled into the Upper Mississippi River region. They described “a pretty large river called the Ouisconsing or Wisconsin” and another river named by the Native Americans as “the Chebadeba, that is, the Black River”. The Black River was adjacent to an area that was mostly flat prairie and was used by Native Americans to gather for trade, social activities and playing traditional Native American games. Legend has it that the French saw the Native Americans playing a game with a curved stick and leather ball and called the game “la crosse.” The original source of the word is uncertain but French bishops carried a long, intricately carved stick that had a curled loop at the top. The French word for the stick was “la crozier” (la crow-zee-ay). The bishop’s crook looked remarkably like the sticks the Indians used in playing their game. The region soon became known as Prairie La Crosse.

Photos Courtesy of Murphy Library UW-La Crosse In May 1823, the first stern wheel paddleboat passed through the area taking passengers to Fort Snelling, Minnesota. This began an era of commerce, which would flourish for many years, as La Crosse became known as the "Gateway City," a focal point for both amphibious and land oriented trade. Permanent settlement of the La Crosse Area began in 1841, when Nathan Myrick, came north from Prairie du Chien. He built a cabin on Barron Island, just across the east channel of the Mississippi River from what is today, downtown La Crosse. In the spring of 1842, Myrick moved across the river to the mainland and began carrying on trade with the Ho-Chunk and other Native Americans. The site of this first settlement is adjacent to Riverside Park in Historic Downtown La Crosse. Myrick was La Crosse’s first mayor and postmaster and is credited with shortening the name from Prairie La Crosse to La Crosse. The city charter was signed on March 14, 1856 and the area saw growth from steamboat traffic, fur trading, lumber and brewing companies. At one time 25 saw mills were operating in the region, employing more than 4,000 people. From the 1880’s to the early 1900’s these mills produced hundreds of millions of board feet of lumber, much of which was harvested from forests to the north and east of La Crosse. These boards were floated down river or shipped via rail to Minnesota, Iowa, the Dakotas, Missouri and other areas to the south and west of the region. In 1879, the steamboat docking in La Crosse numbered more than 1,600, the most of any city north of St. Louis. La Crosse of the 1800s was on the edge of the West. One of the more flamboyant residents was William Fredrick Cody – Buffalo Bill. The legendary scout and showman put on theatrical plays at opera houses, and more than once brought his Wild West Show to La Crosse. Some of the more well-known people who performed with Cody included Annie Oakley, Wild Bill Hickok and the great Sioux Chief Sitting Bull. Cody spent time in La Crosse, living with his friend, Frank Powell. Powell was part Seneca Native American who often went by the name

“White Beaver.” He was a physician and four term mayor of La Crosse. Powell's home and medical clinic building are both still in use today. As European settlers migrated to Western Wisconsin, they found a landscape very similar to what they had left behind, especially in Western Europe. The hills and valleys reminded them of “home” and they settled the land and started farming. Homes and farm buildings started to dot the countryside. Over time, a series of mud trails that zig zagged across the countryside developed into a network of paved roads, connecting these dairy farms and the small communities that sprung up in the area. These narrow, winding, roller coaster like, country roads offer scenic vistas and fun routes that are enjoyed for many activities, including motorcycling, road biking or a drive to enjoy the fall color. The early lumber and brewing industries were the driving force for La Crosse’s population as a cultural melting pot with strong influences from Norwegian Lutherans, German Catholics, and Bohemians along with those of Swedish, Polish, English, Irish and Native American ancestry. More recently, individuals of Hmong, Hispanic and African American decent have come to call La Crosse home. La Crosse has a strong Sister City program which includes relationships with Dubna; Russia; Epinal; France; Luoyang; China; Forde; Norway; Friedberg Germany; Bantry; Ireland and most recently Kumba, Republic of Cameroon, West Africa. The Riverside International Friendship Gardens, located in Riverside Park, offers a tribute to these relationships. The garden is a private / public partnership that provides a beautiful, tranquil setting for reflection, enjoyment and weddings with flowers, plants and architecture unique to each of these countries. The majestic bluffs and coulees along with numerous rivers and streams make eagle watching, boating, water skiing, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, camping, and bird watching a common occurrence for residents and visitors alike. Each spring and fall over forty percent

of all migratory birds in the United States and Canada travel along the Mississippi River Flyway corridor. The region also features wonderful opportunities for hiking, road biking, mountain biking, golfing, site-seeing and historic tours. La Crosse is the largest city on the Mississippi River between the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul to the north, and the Quad Cities, to the south. Rich in scenic beauty, the community has all the idyllic attributes of small town Americana, with all the amenities of a major metropolitan area. One of the oldest cities in Wisconsin, La Crosse is a diverse blend of regional government, two world class medical facilities, international manufacturing, three award winning institutions of higher learning, a strong agricultural economy and a thriving tourism industry. The area is also a major regional shopping destination, attracting visitors from Minnesota, Iowa, and of course, Wisconsin. La Crosse is served by Amtrak and freight rail, two major air lines and Interstate 90. Additionally, the Mississippi River continues to be a source of recreational opportunities as well as a commercial transportation corridor for barges carrying commodities such as coal, grain, soybeans, corn and wheat. Products move up and down the river from Minneapolis and St. Paul to New Orleans, and to dozens of locales in between.

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 5

Community

Make it Downtown Tonight!

Step back in time into an 18th Century Landmark that has stood the test of time. La Crosse Footwear manufactured from 1897 – 2006. Now renovated.

Great stores, convenient locations that greet you with hometown value and hospitality

Our steakhouse menu includes delicious comfort foods, broasted chicken, homemade specials, soups & always a fresh Salad Bar. Famous Friday Night Fish Fry. Fine selection of wines, beers and spirits.

1501 St Andrew Street, La Crosse | 608-782-3826

(608) 784-9548

4th & Pearl, Downtown La Crosse Open at 6:30 am Daily Happy Hour 4 - 6 pm Daily

Come in & taste our 34 different seasoning blends! Great taste with less sodium Founded in 1952 & still family owned and operated ● Tours welcome by appointment ● ●

Open Mon.-Fri., 8:30am-5pm

www.pleasoning.com 2418 South Ave. • La Crosse (corner of South Ave. & West Ave.)

SHOP

OUR

LOCAL

608-787-1030 800-279-1614

BUSINESSES

6 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

To experience La Crosse is to sit outside on a beautiful day and enjoy the ambiance of our historic downtown or take in a play at the Community Theatre, discover the Our Lady of Guadalupe Shrine, an exhibit at the Pump House Regional Arts Center, walk around the Myrick Hixon EcoPark, the downtown farmer’s market, take the kids to the Children’s Museum or a La Crosse Loggers baseball game, and we haven’t even mentioned Oktoberfest or Riverfest yet!

La Crosse named 2nd most exciting small city In America in 2013 by Business Insider Named the Most Romantic City in America by Redbox Ranked in the Top 10 Best Places to Live by the U.S. News & World Report Ranked as a 4-Star Logistics Metro Area by Expansion Management

Arts & Entertainment

608.785.1434 www.ThePumpHouse.org

Downtown La Crosse 110 South 3rd Street • One of the Midwest’s finest shops • 20,000 sg. ft. of quality antiques • 70+ booths • 1 block from the La Crosse Center Mon.-Sat. 9 am-5:30 pm Sun. 11 am-5:30 pm

608-782-6533 Come In For A Unique Shopping Experience

WITH

RIVERTOWN

Whether you are a connoisseur of fine beer and ale, find delight in the camaraderie of friendly patrons and staff or simply appreciate the eclectic surroundings of this historic establishment, you will enjoy the hospitality of your host and the proprietor, Jeff Hotson.The Bodega offers one of the Midwest's largest selection of micro brew and international beer brands. Choose from nearly 400 beer labels from around the world. Soup & Salads & Sandwiches

bodegabrewpublax.com

122 4th Street S. Downtown La Crosse

608-782-0677

CHARM 800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 7

Attractions Riverside International Friendship Gardens

Ideally located between the tall, limestone bluffs and the mighty Mississippi River, La Crosse is in the heart of what is known as the “Driftless Region” – an area of Western Wisconsin and Southeastern Minnesota that was spared the flattening effects of the Ice Age glaciers that covered two-thirds of North America. With its steep, hardwood studded hills and deep valleys intact, the region’s rugged beauty is unequaled anywhere in the Midwest.

The Mississippi River is where it all started, and it is by far our most

important feature…but there’s much more beyond its shores! A leisurely stroll through Riverside Park is a great way to introduce yourself to the area. While you’re there, be sure to visit our International Friendship Gardens, celebrating our sister cities in China, Russia, Norway, France, Germany, Ireland and West Africa. On the east side of town, head up Grandad Bluff, where you can scope out the panorama of the three-state region. You can even cross the river into neighboring Minnesota and drive along La Crescent’s breathtaking Apple Blossom Drive. La Crosse has been famous for beer since 1858, when Gottlieb Heileman first established the City Brewery. Later renamed the G. Heileman Brewing Company, it grew to become the third-largest brewery in America before being sold and eventually closed. Now enjoying new life as a contract brewer for a number of national beverages, City Brewery still connects present-day La Crosse to our early history. Looking for something more family-oriented? Take the kids to the Children’s Museum. Take in some history at the Hixon House or the Riverside Museum. Myrick Park is home to picnic shelters, Kids Coulee Playscape and the Myrick-Hixon EcoPark. Feed your spirit by touring the St. Rose Convent and Chapel or the beautiful Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The Shrine is located on a 100 acre site, sheltered by woodlands about two miles south of La Crosse along Hwy 14. The domed Shrine Church, key component of the eye-catching complex, attracts pilgrims who come to receive God’s forgiveness in the Sacrament of Penance and to participate in the Holy Mass.

8 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

ATTRACTIONS: Apple Blossom Scenic Drive: Drive the secondmost-scenic overlook in Minnesota through neighboring La Crescent, the “Apple Capital” of Minnesota. More than 1,400 acres include 12 apple orchards in La Crescent. Take in the spectacular view of the colorful tree-lined bluffs, decorative rolling hills and the majestic Mississippi River; a must-see in autumn as fall colors peak. Follow County Hwy. 12. Children’s Museum: Here is a place where children play to learn and adults learn to play. Three floors of hands-on exhibits, birthday party/meeting rooms, a multipurpose theater, gift shop and more. $6 per person. Open 10 a.m.5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. 207 Fifth Ave. S.; 608-784-2652, funmuseum.org. Dahl Auto Museum: Take a stroll down memory lane and immerse yourself in the rich history of the most widely used mode of transportation, the automobile. The Dahl Auto Museum celebrates the Dahl family’s involvement as automotive dealers spanning over 100 years and 5 generations. It also features the history of the automobile through the eyes of Ford Motor Company, an extensive mascot collection and many beautifully restored classic automobiles from the turn of the century to present. Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10am-4pm. 711 3rd Street, La Crosse, 608-791-6494, dahlautomuseum.com Grandad Bluff: City park located by following Main Street east which becomes Bliss Road as you ascend the bluff. At the top, the entrance is found by turning right on Grandad Bluff Road. The 590-foot-high bluff overlooks the city of La Crosse. The view of the Mississippi River Valley includes the three states of Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. Wisconsin Trails readers voted this “the 2nd most scenic view in the state.” It features a shelter house, coin-operated binoculars, picnic areas and is the site of the annual Skyrockers’ New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show. Great River Road: Designated in 1938, the Great River Road, a National Scenic Byway, stretches from Lake Itasca, MN, to the Gulf of Mexico. The Wisconsin section, Hwy. 35/53, with La Crosse being the largest city on the route, showcases breathtaking views of the river valley and bluffs beyond. Bald eagles are a common sight along the route. Hixon House: The La Crosse County Historical Society’s Italianate-style residence gives an authentic glimpse into the elegant Victorian lifestyle enjoyed by lumberman-financier Gideon Hixon. The beautiful woodwork, period furnishings and charming gardens make the tour a worthwhile experience. Open daily, except Mondays, Memorial Day through Labor Day, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Last tour at 4 p.m. Group tours by appointment. 429 N. 7th St.; lchsweb.org, 608-782-1980.

Kid’s Coulee: Located in Myrick Park is La Crosse’s premier kid’s attraction, Kid’s Coulee, a kid-designed, community-built playscape that is accessible to children of all abilities. This multi-leveled playground features climbing and balance beams, a riverboat with a stage, rubber river, sandmoat, castle, fort, maze, swings, tunnels, bridges, ladders, slides and much more. Equipment for kids with disabilities is integrated throughout the playscape. Lock and Dam No. 7 & Lock and Dam No. 8: Watch 400-foot barges as they navigate up and down the Mississippi River through the lock and dam system. No. 7 is located at the intersection of I-90 and Hwy. 14/61 in Dresbach, MN No. 8 is 12 miles south of La Crosse along the Great River Road, Hwy. 35 in Genoa, WI. Myrick Hixon EcoPark: Welcomes you to our world of environmental education, hiking, birding, prairie restoration, live indigenous animal exhibits, and many wonderful community events. Myrick Hixon EcoPark (MHEP) is a non-profit organization whose vision is to achieve community understanding of, and respect for nature, and to protect the environment for future generations. Our mission is to create a unique destination with dynamic educational programming, interactive displays, and live animal exhibits that will advance the appreciation and conservation of our natural resources. Neshonoc Dam, Powerhouse & Mill: Located along Hwy. 16 in West Salem, these buildings were once a major part of the thriving community of Neshonoc.

Valley Archaeological Center. Located in Riverside Park. 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Memorial Day-Labor Day; also weekends during September and October. 608-782-1980. 1930s Steam Locomotive Aeolus #4000: A Hudson type engine used on the Burlington Railroad. Standing nearby is the railroad tower built in 1928 that controlled the grand crossing of four railroads, the Milwaukee, Burlington, Green Bay and North Western, which once converged nearby. Located in Copeland Park. Shenanigans: La Crosse’s newest destination for children, teenagers, and the young-at-heart. Bump, climb, play and tag your way through our one-of-a-kind attractions. Shenanigans is sure to be the Coulee Region’s most exciting play destination. It’s a blast! 2100 Dawson Ave., French Island, La Crosse. 608-783-3333, www.shenanigansfun.com. Waterfowl and Mississippi Viewing Platform: Located in Nelson Park in the Town of Campbell. Follow Lakeshore Drive as far north as possible. Catch the migration of swans, ducks, geese and eagles. This viewing platform was created to provide a comfortable environment for people of all ages and physical capabilities to view migrating waterfowl.

Journey to a Holy Place!

Holy Mass & Confession Daily Peaceful Meditation Trail Devotional Areas

Pickwick Mill, Inc.: Winona, MN. The Pickwick Mill is on the National and State Register. Built of local limestone, it stands six stories tall. The mill contains 19th-century machinery and a beautiful 20-by-4-foot waterwheel. 507-452-9658. Riverside International Friendship Gardens: La Crosse enjoys thriving relationships with sister cities, business partners, students and people from around the world. We celebrate the success of these partnerships, and built a tribute to the culture and traditions of our worldwide friends. The gardens represent the style of a typical garden in each sister city. La Crosse’s current sister cities are: Epinal, France; Luoyang, China; Friedberg, Germany, Dubna, Russia; Bantry, Ireland; Forde, Norway and Kumba, Republic of Cameroon, West Africa. Located in Riverside Park. www.riversidegardens.org. Riverside Museum: In 1870, the steamboat War Eagle burned and sank at the docks of La Crosse. The Riverside Museum features the largest collection of artifacts brought up from the wreck of the War Eagle, as well as exhibits about the impact the rivers had on the growth and development of La Crosse. The museum also has many artifacts from the Mississippi

Shrine of

Our Lady of Guadalupe La Crosse, Wisconsin

Cafe & Gift Shop open year-round: 9a - 4p Shrine hours: 9a - 4p (Sept.-May); 9a - 7p (Summer) Phone: (877) 799-4059 / www.guadalupeshrine.org

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 9

Attractions

ARCHITECTURE Christ Episcopal Church: 111 N. Ninth St., 608-784-0697. This church holds the traditional symbolic features of a European cathedral, from Romanesque architecture and a Gothic cruciform shape to an interior of Italian Renaissance. Built in 1898, the cathedral also has a magnificent Tiffany window. St. Rose Convent: 715 S. Ninth St., 608-784-2288. The Mother House of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, the Chapel of Angels is recognized as one of the most beautiful in the United States. Since Aug. 1, 1878, at least two Franciscan Sisters have maintained a 24-hour, 365 day per year prayer vigil for the Church, community and world peace.

St. Joseph the Workman Cathedral: 530 Main St., 608-782-0322. This traditional Gothic cathedral is the church of the Bishop. The Cathedral holds 12 burial vaults for diocesan bishops, two chapels and a 1,500pound bronze canopy over the Botticiano marble altar. Beautiful stained-glass windows depict Wisconsin’s Catholic heritage. A relief carving of St. Joseph the Workman above the main entrance depicts the Saint with a carpenter’s square symbolizing his labors. Masses: Saturday 5:10 p.m., Sunday 7 a.m., 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. and 5:10 p.m. Weekdays 6:30 a.m., 8 a.m, 12:10 p.m. No 12:10pm mass on Saturdays. cathedralsjworkman.org.

ART GALLERIES Viterbo University Art Gallery: 929 Jackson St., 608-796-3100. UW-La Crosse Art Gallery: 16th St. and Vine Street, 608-785-8522. Pump House Regional Arts Center: Founded in 1977, the center presents visual and performing arts with a Midwest emphasis. Educational outreach is an important part of its mission. The Pump House is located in a former water pumping station, one block from the Mississippi

River. $2 suggested donation. Tuesday through Friday 12-5 p.m.; Saturday 12-4 p.m. 119 King St.; thepumphouse.org, 608-785-1434. La Crosse Public Library: 800 Main St., 608-789-7100. Changing exhibits, paintings for loan. Minnesota Marine Art Museum: 800 Riverview Dr, Winona, MN 55987 (507) 474-6626

MEETING/CONVENTION FACILITIES La Crosse Center: The Wisconsin Society of Architects has given the Center its “Award for Excellence in Architecture” for the flexibility offered by its design. The award honors the Center on the Mississippi as a center of choices that shapes itself to many purposes. This flexibility makes it the center of choice for events from all over the state and region. See ad featured on page 2 (inside front cover). Omni Center: The Onalaska Omni Center is a multipurpose facility offering two arenas, four conference rooms and an outdoor picnic shelter that hosts a variety of events each year. From wedding receptions and company picnics, to conferences and trade shows.

History Made Daily Hixon House 429 N. 7th Street La Crosse, WI Hours: Weds-Sun: 10am-2pm

Hixon House

Riverside Museum, Riverside Park 410 E. Veterans Memorial Drive La Crosse, WI Hours: Memorial Day to Labor Day Mon-Sat: 9am-4pm Sun: 10am-4pm

Visit the Historical Society Today... and Visit Yesterday!

Silent City cemetery tours, Ice Cream Social, period re-enactments -- The La Crosse County Historical Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to making the past come alive. Visit today and visit yesterday!

La Crosse County Historical Society La Crosse, Wisconsin • (608) 782-1980

email: lchs@centurytel.net

10 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

“Like” us on Facebook

SCULPTURES Anidonts: Abstract boy and dog sculpture by Luis Arata, located in Myrick Park. Fledgling: Contemporary sculpture by Mike Martino of a boy with his skateboard, sporting wings. Located on Fourth and Vine streets. Hiawatha: Located in Riverside Park, this 25foot, 25-ton sculpture by artist Anthony Zimmerhakl stands guard over the sacred place where three rivers meet (the Mississippi River, Black

River and La Crosse River). Legend says that where three rivers meet, no natural disaster will befall. To date, this legend has remained true. La Crosse Eagle: This majestic sculpture by artist Elmer Petersen stands 38-feet tall as it watches over the Mississippi River and Riverside Park. La Crosse Players: Trademark of the city, this sculpture depicts three Ho-Chunk Indians playing the game of their day. It can be found on the Hwy. 53 welcome sign, as well as on the corner of Second and Main streets.

Le Pinau: Symbolizing the history of the city is a copy of a IV Century B.C. Greek statue of a little boy picking “une épine” or thorn out of his foot. Hence the name Epinal. The statue is inspired by a story that as a little boy sat to pull a thorn from his foot, he saw that Epinal was the right place to build a city. The sculpture was a gift from our Sister City of Epinal, France for the 20th Anniversary of our Sister City relationship. The sculpture was placed in Civic Center Plaza in August 2007. Reflections: Fountain-based piece by Paul T. Granlund. Located in front of the Public Library, 800 Main St. The Scroll: An abstract piece by Dale Kendrick representing the beginning of the written word. Located at Third and La Crosse streets. A Simpler Time: Set along the levee on the bank of the Mississippi River, “A Simpler Time” is a sculpture by local artist Mike Martino. This project includes a life-size sculpture of children and their dog surrounded by a plaza with an inlay of bricks inscribed with the names of contributors. Located in Riverside Park. Water Over the Dam: A contemporary piece by Jeff Weideman represents water falling over a dam. Located at Fourth and Vine streets. For a full list of area sculptures visit explorelacrosse.com

Unforgettable in Every Season...

Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center

v Tour 1890s Pioneer Log Homestead v Experience our seasonal Special Events v Enjoy our Museums & Gift Shop v Walk the Beautiful Hiking Trails and Arboretum v Rent our Year Round Paulsen Cabin: Cozy, Sleeps 6, Fully Furnished- including kitchen

3 miles north of Coon Valley, WI on County Hwy. PI

(608) 452-3424 v www.norskedalen.org

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 11

Attractions Branches Winery............................ 608-634-9463 Children’s Museum of La Crosse...................................... 608-784-2652 Cinderella Carriages LLC............. 608-606-0614 Dahl Auto Museum....................... 608-791-6494 Down a Country Road Amish Tours..................................... 608-654-5318 Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center............................. 507-467-2437 Elmaro Vineyard............................. 608-534-6456 Elmers Auto & Toy Museum................................. 608-687-7221

Largest of its kind. Over 100 autos: 650 plus pedal cars, airplanes, tractors. Antique motorcycles, scooters, bikes, tools, large doll collection, over 35,000 toys. Call for schedule. Group tours by appointment.

House on the Rock........................ 608-935-3639 La Crosse Queen............................ 608-784-8523 Minnesota Marine Art Museum ........................................... 507-385-1209

Ocooch Mountain Acres............. 608-606-2866 Old Country Cheese..................... 608-654-5411 Pearl Street Brewery..................... 608-784-4832 Pickwick Mill, Inc............................ 507-452-9658

Mississippi Explorer Cruises................................... 877-647-7397

Pleasoning Gourmet Seasoning.............................. 608-787-1030

Myrick Hixon EcoPark.................. 608-784-0303 Niagara Cave................................... 800-837-6606 Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center.......................... 608-452-3424

Riverside Amusements, Ltd....... 608-781-7529 Riverview Vineyard & Winery.... 608-534-6456 Seven Hawks Vineyards............... 608-687-9463 Shenanigans.................................... 608-783-3333 Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe.................................. 608-782-5440 Southwind Orchards.................... 507-643-6255 Tenba Ridge Winery, LLC............. 608-525-2413 Vernon Vineyards Winery........... 608-634-8181

Don’t settle for an “Up, Down, Turn-Around, Cruise.” Join us for an interactive and guided riverboat tour through the wild & scenic backwaters of the Mississippi River’s Wildlife Refuge. Our Wildlife Eco-Tours will take you within feet of beautiful backwaters: riverbanks, bald eagle nests, beaver lodges, turtle logs, muskrat huts, blooming lotus & water lilies, and much more. Professionally guided by qualified naturalists; bring your own food and drink. Call for reservations.

Taste Before You Buy at the Pleasoning Gourmet Seasoning Outlet Store. 34 different seasoning blends that will help you add gourmet flavor easily to your food, while using less sodium! Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM. 2418 South Avenue (on the corner of West Avenue and South Avenue). Made in La Crosse since 1952! Tours available for groups of 20 or more with reservations. 800-279-1614 pleasoning.com. A Symphony For Your Tongue!

Cruise the Mississippi

w DaiLy SightSeeing CRuiSeS w 3-houR CRuiSeS w Pizza CRuiSeS w LunCh CRuiSeS w SunDay BRunCh CRuiSeS w WeekenD DinneR CRuiSeS With enteRtainment w ChaRteRS anD gRouP touRS fRom aPRiL thRough oCtoBeR foR ConventionS, ReCePtionS, ReunionS oR gRouP eventS Call for complete schedule and prices: 608-784-8523

405 Veterans Memorial Dr., P.O. Box 1805 w La Crosse, WI 54602-1805 (Located at boat dock, west end of State Street in Riverside Park, downtown La Crosse)

www.lacrossequeen.com 12 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

the Experience #explorelacrosse #MyLaCrosse Stay Connected Now more than ever, you can have great regional travel information at your fingertips with our social media and web sites. Keep up with what is happening in the area on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube & Pinterest. With so much to do in La Crosse, Wisconsin, you'll want to connect with others and share your experience!

facebook.com/explorelacrosse twitter.com/explorelacrosse instagram.com/explorelacrosse YouTube: La Crosse Area Convention & Visitors Bureau pinterest.com/explorelacrosse

800-658-9424 â&#x20AC;˘ www.explorelacrosse.com | 13

Dining Ranked 13th of the Top 25 Best Green Places to Live in America by Country Home Magazine Ranked 16th of 50 Smart Places to Live in the US by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance La Crosse selected as Best Revitalized Downtown in Wisconsin by Wisconsin Trails Magazine

All that activity will work up an appetite, and La Crosse loves to eat! From award-winning restaurants in historic buildings to ethnic enclaves ripe for exploration, there’s something for everyone’s taste. A town known for its beer can’t help but have great pub food and pizza, and you’ll find both in ample quantity and variety. Because La Crosse is not locked into a particular style of pizza, like Chicago or New York, you can get what suits your fancy—including a signature wood-fired pizza from Edwardo’s or Buster's Bar & Grill. And the burgers! No matter where you’re staying, you’re not far from a juicy, homemade interpretation of the American classic, complete with an accompanying order of fries, onion rings or Wisconsin’s favorite: cheese curds. Those delectable nuggets of non-aged cheese fresh out of the vat have an affinity for beer batter and hot oil like no other food, and to visit here without tasting this incredible treat would be to ignore the very soul of this dairy-farming, beer-drinking destination. Looking for something a little fancier? Enjoy the top-quality steaks and seafood at the historic Freight House or the expanded gourmet menu and hickory pit at Piggy’s – both La Crosse landmarks – or the elegant newcomer between the two, The Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern. Check out Cajun and Creole specialties with a cold beer at Buzzard Billy’s. Got a craving for traditional Irish, Chinese or Mexican? Soul food or a great breakfast with a Bloody Mary? We’ve got you covered.

14 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

OurLocal Cuisine FAYZE’S RICH TRADITION Located right in the heart of historic downtown La Crosse, Fayze’s has created a tradition of mouthwatering recipes and flavors to suit any style. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner at Fayze’s Restaurant and Bakery. Experience our comfortable, casual atmosphere while catching up with friends or dining with family. Order your favorite cocktails from our full service bar.

4th & Pearl, Downtown La Crosse

Open at 6:30 am Daily

Before you leave, check out our homemade bakery treats and a variety of sourdough breads, along with our signature Talame™ buns! Large group space is available for family reunions, rehearsal dinners, or parties.

Happy Hour 4 - 6 pm Daily

(608) 784-9548 fayzes.com

“You’ll Love Our Buns!”

PIGGY’S RESTAURANT Piggy’s Restaurant is one of the most awarded and unique restaurants in the Seven Rivers region. Fresh seafood, house-smoked specialties and choice steaks make the menu one of a kind. Open nightly for dinner.

THE BLUES LOUNGE

H I S T O R I C

The Blues Lounge with its beautiful antique back bar serves lunch M–F and dinners nightly with casual entrees, including BBQ favorites, sandwiches, salads, appetizers and desserts. Live blues 8-11:30 pm Saturday nights.

In the Historic Pioneer Foundry Building

608-784-4877 • 888-865-9632 501 Front Street Downtown La Crosse piggys.com

Become a friend of Piggy’s on Facebook

RUDY’S DRIVE-IN How do I love Rudy’s Drive-In? Let me count the ways. The smooth, full-bodied root beer, brewed in-house, comes to the car in heavy glass mugs. A triplestack burger with cheese, lettuce and tomato dubbed the Monster, lives up to its name. The soft-serve ice cream comes in wacky flavors like green apple and bubble gum. The carhops wear roller skates, and on Tuesday nights they don poodle skirts, in honor of classic-car night and its 1950s music. Even the surroundings — long sheltering carports that still retain their original mid 1960s looks — are a blast! — Minneapolis Star Tribune,

“A must-see” as featured on Discover Wisconsin.“ For lip-smacking drive-in fare, pull into Rudy’s where cheese curds (it is Wisconsin, after all) are delivered by servers roller-skating to tunes made famous by the likes of Jerry Lee Lewis.” — Rand McNally Atlas “Best of the Great River Road”

Inside Dining Available

rudysdrivein.com

Open 10am to 10pm • 7 days a week March through October (608) 782-2200 Corner of 10th & La Crosse Streets La Crosse, WI

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 15

Dining 4 Sisters Wine Bar & Tapas...........608-782-8213 Ahz Pasta...........................................608-788-7278 Ardie’s Lang Drive Restaurant.........................................608-784-2242 B.A. Burrito........................................608-785-2227 Black River Bar & Grill.......................608-781-7070 Bodega Brew Pub, Inc...................608-782-0677 Boot Hill Pub.....................................608-782-3826 Borgens Café....................................608-634-4003 Burnstad’s..........................................608-372-4040 Buster's Bar & Grill..........................608-782-3236 Buzzard Billy’s Flying Carp Café...608-796-2277 Carlos O’Kelly’s................................608-783-1782 Ciatti’s.................................................608-781-8686 Coney Island.....................................608-782-6314

Courtesy Corp. dba Mc Donald’s............................608-781-8080 Culina Mariana................................608-788-8400 Culvers Family Restaurant...........608-787-5050 Culvers of Onalaska.......................608-781-6777 Dim Sum Tea Shop.........................608-738-1221 Digger’s Sting...................................608-782-3796 Domino’s Pizza.................................608-781-3345 Drugan's Castle Mound................608-526-4144 Dublin Square..................................608-519-2509 Edwardo’s Restaurante di Pizza................................................608-783-7791 Famous Dave’s.................................608-779-4100 Fayze’s.................................................608-784-9548

Fiesta Mexicana.................................608-788-3206 Hackberry's Bistro.............................608-784-5798 Hooters of La Crosse.........................608-782-9464 Howie's on La Crosse........................608-784-7400 Hunan Chinese Restaurant............608-784-7878 Hungry Peddler..................................608-788-1895 King Street Kitchen...........................608-784-9660 La Crosse Pettibone Boat Club..............................................608-457-2829 Lindy's Subs of La Crosse................608-785-7200 Monarch Public House....................608-687-4231

Serving the Best of Authentic New Orleans Style and American Cuisine

Open Tues.- Thurs. 4:00-8:00 pm Fri. 4:00-10:00 pm Sat. Tours Noon- 5:00 pm

16 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

Dining Olive Garden........................................608-783-0090 Oly's Mini Donut Express.................608-780-5137 Outback Steakhouse........................608-781-4329 Pickerman’s Soup & Sandwiches......................................608-782-7087 Piggy’s Restaurant.............................608-784-4877 Pizza Doctors.......................................608-784-0450 Rudy’s Drive-In...................................608-782-2200 Schmidty’s............................................608-788-5110 Stolpa's Stein Haus............................608-788-5110 Stateroom............................................608-785-7666 Subway..................................................608-784-2774 Sullivan’s Supper Club.....................608-534-7775 The Freight House Restaurant............................................608-784-6211

The Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern.....................608-782-5400 The View Restaurant.........................608-519-2669 The Wine Guyz, Inc............................608-782-9463 Three Rivers Lodge...........................608-793-5018 Tom Sawyer's Bar & Grill..................608-519-3130 Trempealeau Hotel...........................608-534-6898

Food/Coffee Cabin Coffee Company...................608-519-3055 People’s Food Cooperative, Inc.................................608-784-5798 Pogy’s.....................................................608-784-2386 Premier Catering................................608-782-0886 Quillin's Food Centers......................608-785-1424 Serves You Right Catering..............608-782-8050 Woodman's Food Market...............608-783-2233

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 17

Nature's Place To Play! Skiing, golfing, hunting, fishing, hiking, bowling, swimming and biking – if you want to be active, we’re here to help. If you’re just looking for peace, quiet and relaxation, there’s plenty of that, too.

Sports & Recreation Whoever wrote the bit about “idle hands” wasn’t hanging out here. With an abundance of natural beauty, woods, water and wildlife, La Crosse offers much in the way of recreation. Sure, you can just relax and take it all in…and there’s no better way to do it than out on the river. Spend a lazy afternoon aboard the traditional paddlewheeler La Crosse Queen—or combine relaxation with education with a professionally-guided eco-tour led by Mississippi Explorer Cruises. If you’re more of a landlubber, enjoy our unparalleled scenic beauty on foot, by bicycle or by car: Hike the Hixon Forest Trails, connecting to Human Powered Trails atop Grandad Bluff; bike the La Crosse River State Trail from La Crosse to Sparta; or drive along the Great River Road (State Highway 35) and take in the breathtaking views of the river and bluffs. Maybe you’re looking for some fast-paced competitive action? In the summer, check out a La Crosse Loggers baseball game, or the NCAA Division III powerhouse UW-La Crosse Eagles take to the gridiron for exciting college football. During racing season, check out one of the best short tracks in the nation for NASCAR-sanctioned fun at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway. Spring through fall, the region is golf heaven, with dozens of fine courses within a few minutes drive. If you think we hibernate during our famous Wisconsin winters, think again: Mount La Crosse is home to some excellent downhill skiing, while Goose Island and Norskedalen offer a great location for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

18 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

AREA PARKS The La Crosse Area features many parks that highlight our area’s unique geographical features. From the rivers to the coulees, to the bluffs, our parks are sure to meet your recreational needs. Copeland Park: On the banks of the Black River, located at the corner of Clinton Street and Copeland Avenue. • Tennis Courts • Basketball Courts • Baseball/Softball Fields • Splash Park • Shelter House • Historic Steam Engine • Site of multiple fishing tournaments (Bassmaster Elite 2012 & 2013) • Home of our La Crosse Loggers! Goose Island County Park and Campground: Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, three miles south of La Crosse on Highway 35. • Water, electric, and primitive camping sites • Seasonal Canoe/Kayak rentals • Boat Launch • Sandy Beach • Shelter Rentals • Walking trails

Grandad Bluff: Located on the top of the bluff overlooking 3 rivers and the city of La Crosse. This bluff view is unparalleled along the Mighty Mississippi River. • Newly Remodeled Overlook (finished in 2012) • Walking trails • Shelter • Restrooms Myrick Park: La Crosse’s oldest park, features everything a family needs to have a fun, explorative day. This large park connects numerous trails, from easy to hard, visit Myrick Park for your next outdoor adventure. Myrick Park is a great place to start a trail run or hike. • Kids Coulee Play Area • Splash Area • EcoPark Adventure Playscapes • Nature Trails • Tennis Courts • Dog Park • Natural Wetlands and Marshes Pettibone Park: Right on the Mississippi River, Pettibone Park features natural play areas, such as beaches and lagoons. • Fishing Piers • Public Beaches • Shelters • Frisbee Golf • Kayak/Canoe Rental

Electric & water hook-ups Restrooms & Showers Laundry 3 Dump Stations Beach Playgrounds Rentals Store Minature Golf Big Rig Friendly Reservations Accepted (608) 788-7018

3 miles South of La Crosse on Hwy 35

www.co.la-crosse.wi.us

LA CROSSE AREA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Greater La Crosse Sports Connection Awards Banquet Date to be announced WI State High School Ski & Snowboard Championships at Mt. La Crosse Feb. 15-17, 2014

Our Mission: “To foster the growth of sporting events which enhance the quality of life in our communities

Jeremiah Burish, Director of Sports Events & Sales

Bike Fest Aug. 29 - Sept. 1, 2014

Between the Bluffs Beer, Wine & Cheese Festival April 26, 2014 WIAA State Track & Field Championships June 6 - 7, 2014

Like Us on Facebook!

Electric & Water Hook-ups Restrooms & Showers Laundry Dump Station Fish Pond Firewood Canoe Landing Big Rig Friendly On State Bike Trail

(608) 786-4011

410 Veterans Memorial Drive | www.lacrosseareasports.com | 608-782-2250 | 800-658-9424

9 miles East of La Crosse on Hwy 16 1 mile West of West Salem

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 19

Riverside Park: The landmark park in La Crosse, Riverside Park is the center of an active community. At the confluence of three rivers, Riverside Park is designed for active lifestyles, and for those that want to just watch the river slowly pass by. • La Crosse Area Convention and Visitors Bureau • Home of two riverboats (La Crosse Queen and Mississippi Explorer Cruises • Riverside International Friendship Gardens • Riverside USA Museum Veterans Memorial Park and Campground: Much like Goose Island Park, Veterans Park is a county park and campground located in West Salem, WI. • Water, electric, and primitive camping sites • Great Kayak/Canoe Launch Site • Ball Fields • Shelter Rentals • Walking trails • Access To La Crosse River State Bike Trail For more information on local parks visit: • www.cityoflacrosse.com/parks • http://www.co.la-crosse.wi.us

BIKE TRAILS The La Crosse area is the destination for bicyclist from across the country. Why? Natural features, beautiful river rides, smooth trails, that’s why. La Crosse boasts more bicycling trails than most, with access to 4 major trails right in the heart of Riverside Park! Abandoned railroad tracks, paved milk

routes, and rugged off-road, shared use trails make La Crosse a bicycling dream! • La Crosse River State Trail • Great River State Trail • Sparta-Elroy State Trail • 400 Wisconsin State Trail For more information go to: bike4trails.com or bicyclelacrosse.com Mountain Bike & Shared Use Trails: Volunteers created over 11 miles of human powered trails on the rim of the city. We have mountain biking trails for the entire family, or for more adventurous spirits you can enjoy heart-pounding descents from high atop scenic bluffs that provide sanctuary for both bird watching and those determined to find the fastest way off spectacular bluffs that were left untouched by glaciers in the Driftless area. www.humanpoweredtrails.com

BOATING Why not start your La Crosse adventure on the Mighty Mississippi River? With endless beaches, pristine water skiing, and spectacular sunsets, the La Crosse area has miles of riverfront to begin your journey. La Crosse has multiple municipal harbors and facilities for overnight boat storage. Additionally, the Riverside Park public docks allow boaters to tie up their boat and explore La Crosse. Within a short walk, land lovers will find our famous restaurants, gift shops, and nightlife, or just enjoy a stroll through the park. Contact the La Crosse Area Convention and Visitors Bureau to plan your next excursion. 1-800-658-9424

CAMPING The greater La Crosse area has several public and private campgrounds to choose from. Some are even accessible by water, such as Goose Island Campground (608-788-7018) and Pettibone Park Resort (800-738-8426), or just find yourself a nice island beach to set up your camp. Other popular campgrounds include Neshonoc Lakeside Camp Resort (888-783-0035), and Veterans Memorial Park in West Salem (608-786-4011). For a complete list of accommodations, visit our website at www.explorelacrosse.com

CANOEING/KAYAKING From the Mississippi River, our scenic bluffs provide a spectacular backdrop as seen from a kayak or canoe coming across our pristine backwaters. The challenge is to momentarily stop paddling, take it all in, before you lose yourself yet again in the heightened efforts of physical activity that can't be replicated anywhere. And yet you remain a few strokes away from the city. Home to 7 rivers, most are able to be paddled during portions of the year. Popular paddle rivers include the La Crosse, Black, Root, Mississippi, and many more. Visit our web site to learn more at www.explorelacrosse.com

FISHING With all this water, there has to be some good fishing, right? Right indeed. The Mississippi River, and all its tributaries host one of the largest collections of freshwater fish in the world! Popular game fish include pan fish, northern and walleye pike, catfish, bass, and perch. Soaking a night crawler at the end of your line should keep you busy all afternoon, but if you are seeking more adventure, try our world-class bass fishing waters. Recent host of the Bassmaster Elite Series fishing tournament and many others, anglers are amazed at how many keeper bass

Your Luxury Summer Cottage Can Float! These deluxe houseboats come with 11/2 or 2 baths, private staterooms, full kitchen with microwave, waterslides and deluxe furnishings. Amenities like air-conditioning, VCR/DVD, gas grill, stereo and more. Vacation packages from $600.

Fun ’N the Sun Houseboat Vacations The Elite Fleet from the Upper Mississippi

(888) 343-5670

Visit our website: www.funsun.com

20 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

Due to a geological effect commonly called the Driftless Area, caused by the lack of a glacier during the ice-age, the greater La Crosse area has miles of fishable trout streams as well. The trout industry is thriving, thanks in part to the public access through the cooperation of many state agencies and private land owners. All fishable properties are posted by the land-owners, so please respect their rights when chasing a rainbow, brook, or brown trout. Trout season runs spring through early fall, check out the Wisconsin DNR website for exact dates.

GOLF With a blend of affordable, public access golf courses, and private country clubs, La Crosse has a golf course that is sure to meet your needs. Nestled in the bluffs and woods,

La Crosse offers a unique experience for golfers. Peering from the t-box, you may have a river view, a view of Grandad Bluff, or view of our abundant wildlife, just be sure to keep your head down and drive it right down the middle!

HUNTING Hunters in the La Crosse area chase squirrels, ducks, geese, deer, turkey, and many more varieties of game. There are more than 20,000 acres of public accessible land, plus Mississippi river access for duck and goose hunters.

WINTER ACTIVITIES Snowy activities include alpine, crosscountry skiing, snow shoeing, and sledding. Many local golf courses offer groomed trails for cross-country skiing, such as Drugan’s Castle Mound, and Forest Hills. The challenging bluffs attract athletes from around the country that are looking for a challenge in the winter, and can provide great training for those training for races or for fitness. Snowmobiling is another popular activity, when the weather permits. Over 600 miles of groomed trails await visitors.

Connecting communities across the state, snowmobiling is a great way to witness all the beauty that winter brings. To request a copy of snowmobiling maps, contact the La Crosse Area Convention and Visitors Bureau at 800-658-9424, or check them out online at www.laxsnowmobile.com

SWIMMING Many local municipalities have recently built or updated their pools, including Holmen, Onalaska, La Crescent, and La Crosse. Indoor pools can be found at the YMCA and some of our local schools, such as UW-La Crosse. In the summer, our river beaches are safe, clean, and have lifeguards. Pettibone Beach is located directly across from Riverside Park and is a local treasure. The Black River Beach has recently undergone improvements, and has outdoor showers and plenty of parking.

Sports & Recreation

they caught in the La Crosse area. At certain times of the year, anglers are routinely pulling trophy northern pike from the waters. If you have a boat, use it, but if you don’t, the La Crosse area has several public fishing areas, such as the popular Riverside and Houska Parks. For a small fee, anglers can fish on several fishing barges (floats). To find out more, visit our web site at www.explorelacrosse.com

TENNIS Tennis is a thriving recreational sport in La Crosse. The city of La Crosse maintains many free public access courts. To find a list of them all, visit www.cityoflacrosse.com

LA CROSSE, WI | MAY 3, 2014

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 21

Sports & Recreation

BIRD WATCHING More than 200 species of birds live in or pass through the La Crosse Area in a typical year, and travelers don’t have to go far to see them. Bald eagles, in fact, have been seen right in Riverside Park near the city’s downtown.

Visit The Upper Mississippi Wildlife Refuge District Visitor Center and Offices at N5727 County Z Road, Onalaska, WI (Brice Prairie)

The Great River Birding Trail passes right through La Crosse County, and bird-watchers find the viewing is great in several nearby sanctuaries, including Myrick Marsh, Hixon Forest, Goose Island County Park and Nelson Park, which are all in or near La Crosse. La Crosse County contains a segment of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, and more than 300 species of birds can be spotted there, or nearby, as they nest here or migrate through.

For more information, contact the La Crosse District Office at (608) 779-2399 www.fws.gov/refuge/ Upper_Mississippi_River/ LaCrosse_District

Turkeys prowl the woods and fields near La Crosse, delighting hunters and photographers. Waterfowl, especially ducks, gather by the tens of thousands on the Mississippi River and nearby Lake Onalaska each fall, providing thrills for both bird-watchers and hunters. Tundra swans pass through La Crosse each fall as they make their way from nesting grounds near the Arctic Circle to Chesapeake Bay. They use the Mississippi River Valley as a resting spot before continuing on their 4,000-mile journey. In 2011, the communities of La Crosse and Trempealeau were recognized as part of Bird City Wisconsin.

This is a program that Rewards Communities for creating healthy habitats for birds and people.

EAGLES They are majestic, historically significant, and present in large numbers in the La Crosse area. We are talking about eagles, of course, and watchers get a thrill every time one is spotted soaring on a breeze, or snagging a meal out of a river, or simply perched on a limb alongside a stream. The most spectacular time of the year for eagle enthusiasts is the late fall and early spring, when the birds follow changing ice conditions on the Mississippi River. They like open water, and more than 150 of them have been spotted at one time, scavenging fish from Lake Onalaska and Richmond Bay on La Crosse’s North Side. The area has several nesting pairs of eagles, and they can be spotted along the Mississippi River and its tributaries in the La Crosse area, and sometimes out in the countryside wherever food might be available. Wildlife experts encourage everyone to view eagles from a distance, so as not to startle the birds. They also suggest staying in a vehicle, since it will act as a blind because stepping out of the vehicle may well scare the eagles away.

NOT FEELING WELL?

Turn to one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals. Healthgrades®, 2012-13

ExpressCare treatment for common illnesses (ages 2 and up).

La Crosse

2500 State Road 33

Onalaska

1260 Crossing Meadows Drive

Urgent Care

Emergency Services

Non-life threatening illnesses or minor injuries.

Treatment for all severities of illness or injury, from minor to life threatening.

Onalaska

3111 Gundersen Drive Mon.-Fri., 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Sat. and Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

(608) 775-8650

Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Sat. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sun. 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

(608) 775-5858

Not sure? Call to speak to a Telephone Nurse Advisor at (608) 775-4454 free of charge.

Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, Inc. | Gundersen Clinic, Ltd.

907-3_1113

22 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

La Crosse

1900 South Avenue 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Call 911 or (608) 775-3128

Get In. Get Well. Illness and injury happen at the most inconvenient times. At our Urgent Care locations we can help you get in, get well and get back to your day.

Onalaska

La Crosse

Emergency and Urgent Care Center 800 West Avenue South 6am to midnight, daily, including holidays 608-392-7000

191 Theater Road 5pm – 9pm, Mon. – Fri. 9am – 5pm, Sat., Sun. & most holidays 608-392-5000

Franciscan Healthcare mayoclinichealthsystem.org

Sports & Recreation Black River Express Canoe & Kayak Rental....................................608-488-7017 Cedar Creek Country Club..............608-783-8100 Clements Fishing Barge & Captain Hooks................................608-689-2800 Coulee Region Adventures............608-769-7809 Crooked Creek Canoe, LLC.............608-606-9090 Dabblers & Divers Mississippi River Waterfowl Guide Service................608-498-2735 Drugan’s Castle Mound...................608-526-4144 Fun N’ The Sun Houseboats...........888-343-5670 Human Powered Trails.....................608-785-0000 La Crosse Area Family YMCA.........608-782-9622 La Crosse Country Club...................608-781-5837

La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway................................. 608-786-1525 NASCAR short track racing at its best. Family friendly atmosphere with an outrageous and wacky novelty event each week. Join the fun every Saturday night during the racing season! www.lacrossespeedway.com

La Crosse County Facilities Department.......................608-785-9770 La Crosse Loggers Baseball Club...608-796-9553 La Crosse Pettibone Boat Club.....608-317-0480 Mt. La Crosse.......................................608-788-0044 Pettibone Park Resort, Inc..............608-782-5858 Pla-Mor Lanes.....................................608-784-3043 S & S Houseboat Rentals, Inc.........800-728-0131 Shenanigans........................................608-783-3333 Snowflake Ski & Golf Club..............608-634-3211 Toad's Cove Arena BMX...................608-406-0616 Sunset Bay Marina................... 608-534-6033 Sunset Bay Marina is located on the majestic Mississippi River between La Crosse, WI and Winona, MN in historic Trempealeau, WI. Sunset Bay Marina is a 150 slip marina providing full service to boaters including fuel dock, pump out services, slip rentals, transient dockage, mechanical service, water storage, laundry, bathroom/showers and more. Home of the Nautis Tiki Bar providing beverages, food and music. sunsetbaymarina.us YWCA of La Crosse............................608-781-2783

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 23

NaturesPlaceToPlay.com

4th Annual

2014

Aug. 29 thru Sept. 1 Cameron Park Downtown La Crosse • Daily Featured Rides • Historical Guided Bicycle Tours • Ice Cream & Coffee Rides • Downtown Sound Music Festival • Much More!

Presented By:

Franciscan Healthcare

24 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

800-658-9424 bicyclelacrosse.com

GrandStay Residential Suites Hotel 525 Front Street North, La Crosse

608-796-1615 877-388-7829 grandstayhospitality.com 608-784-4444 800-HOLIDAY holidayinn.com 608-784-6680 800-333-3333 radisson.com/lacrossewi

$70-$299

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites 200 Pearl Street, La Crosse

114

$70-$200

Radisson Hotel 200 Harborview Plaza, La Crosse

169

$70-$299

108

$50-$100

Pets Allowed

$109-$429

Meeting/Convention Space

Shuttle Service

608-782-1000 800-321-2211 marriott.com/LSECY

Handicapped Accessible

Continental Breakfast

$70-$189

Cocktail Lounge

608-785-1110 candlewoodsuites.com/lacrossenorth

Fitness Center

Courtyard by Marriott 500 Front Street, La Crosse

On-Site Restaurant

Bicycle Friendly

DOWNTOWN LA CROSSE - EXIT 3 Candlewood Suites 56 Copeland Ave, La Crosse

Indoor Pool

Price Range

Waterpark

No. rooms

ACCO M M O D AT I O N S

X X

NORTHSIDE LA CROSSE - EXIT 3 Americas Best Value Inn 2622 Rose Street, La Crosse

608-781-3070 americasbestvalueinn.com

Best Western Riverfront Hotel 1835 Rose Street, La Crosse

608-781-7000 877-688-9260 bestwestern.com 608-781-0200 econolodge.com

119 $69.99-$199.99

$50-$150

Howard Johnson 2150 Rose Street, La Crosse

608-781-0400 800-446-4656 hojolacrosse.com

$50-$150

Quality Inn 1830 Rose Street, La Crosse

608-781-1400 800-243-3053

$50-$150

Settle Inn 2110 Rose Street, La Crosse

608-781-5100 800-677-3060 settleinn.com

101

$51-$150

Super 8 Motel 1625 Rose Street, La Crosse

608-781-8880 800-800-8000 super8.com

608-783-1000 800-329-7466 daysinn.com 608-788-1300 welchmotel.com

Econo Lodge 1906 Rose Street, La Crosse

$51-$200

147

$50-$200

$40-$110

$100-$150

NORTHWEST LA CROSSE - EXIT 2 FRENCH ISLAND Days Inn 101 Sky Harbour Drive, La Crosse

SOUTH LA CROSSE - EXIT 3 Welch Motel 3643 Mormon Coulee Rd, La Crosse BED & BREAKFAST/INNS/HOUSES

Bluff View House & The Cottage (two houses) 608-317-4311 751 and 756 22nd St. North, La Crosse BluffViewHouseRental.com Four Gables Bed & Breakfast W5648 Hwy 14-61, La Crosse Wilson School House Inn 4703 HWY 14-61, La Crosse

houses

608-788-7958 bedandbreakfast.com/ listing.aspx?id=602305

$51-$150

608-787-1982 wilsonschoolhouseinn.com

$70-$155

All properties provide internet access. A= Available by request; F= Four Course Gourmet Breakfast; W= Weekdays (M-F)

800-658-9424 â&#x20AC;˘ www.explorelacrosse.com | 25

Our Accommodations are easily accessible by Interstate Highways, Amtrak and the La Crosse County Airport Premier hotels and motels 2,000+ rooms Friendly service with large city ammenities and small town hospitality

Lodging ACCOMMODATIONS We’re glad you made it here…now where are you going to stay? No worries, weary traveler – La Crosse has accommodations for everyone, in every price range. Follow in the footsteps of those adventurous souls who came before – over rugged trails on fur-trading expeditions, down Old Man River, on the run with 1920s gangsters, or via plane, train or automobile like so many modern-day pilgrims in search of all we have to offer. Relaxation, excitement, romance…it’s all here for the living. Experience some of our historic architecture up close and personal at a historic bed-and-breakfast. Treat yourself to a well-appointed stay at a major hotel in the heart of downtown and a short walk from a diverse selection of eateries, watering holes and cultural events. Stay close to I-90 while still enjoying a clean, comfortable room, perhaps a refreshing dip in the pool or waterpark and a taste of our local hospitality.

26 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

FEELING ADVENTUROUS If you’re into the outdoors, pitch a tent or park the RV! If the season’s right, you know a place with this much natural beauty has great camping. Wherever you stay, you’ll find convenience, comfort, good prices and excellent service.

Groups | Motorcoach | Conferences n Full

Service Hotel

n 147

GueSt roomS

n Free “Daybreak ”

continental breakFaSt

n larGe

HeateD inDoor Pool

HeroeS bar & Grill

banquetS witH onSite caterinG

over 5000 Sq. Ft. oF Flexible meetinG SPace

Great location JuSt oFF interState 90, exit 2

n new

SHuttle van

n Free

ParkinG

101 Sky Harbour Drive la croSSe, wi 54603 Ph: 608-783-1000 Fax: 608-783-2948

Email: salEs@dayshotEllacrossE.com

w w w. d ays i n n l a c ro s s e. co m

• Award Winning Hampton Inn-Top 10% • Hilton HHonors® Points & Miles® • Free On the House™ Hot Breakfast • Swimming pool and Hot tub • Clean and Fresh Hampton Bed™ • Free high-speed internet access • 100% Hampton Satisfaction Guarantee™

Hampton Inn La Crosse/Onalaska 308 Hampton Court, Onalaska, WI 54650 Phone: 608.779.5000 www.lacrosseonalaska.hamptoninn.com *Mention this ad to receive 10% off, not valid on special events or with other offers. **Advanced reservations required.

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 27

Affordable Getaways Make You Happy. Reserve One Today!

1-800-HOLIDAY 1sewi@centurytel.net www.holidayinn.com/lacrossewi

LOCATED ONE BLOCK EAST OF THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER IN THE HEART OF HISTORIC DOWNTOWN LA CROSSE; THE HOLIDAY INN & SUITES AND BUSTER’S BAR & GRILL ARE IN WALKING DISTANCE TO SHOPS, NIGHTLIFE, MUSEUMS, ANTIQUE CENTERS AND RIVERSIDE PARK

HOTEL AMENITIES: LOCATED IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN INDOOR/OVERSIZED WHIRLPOOL COMPLIMENTARY SHUTTLE SERVICE COVERED PARKING FREE HI-SPEED INTERNET 500 SQ. FT. MEETING ROOM FITNESS CENTER

GET AWAY FROM THE EVERYDAY

FREE Wi - Fi HISTORIC DOWNTOWN    

Wireless High-Speed Internet Close to attractions, unique specialty shops and nightlife Next to Riverside Park and the beautiful Mississippi River Free gated parking, heated pool, whirlpool, fitness center and Three Rivers Lodge riverview restaurant and bar

RADISSON HOTEL LA CROSSE 200 Harborview Plaza La Crosse, WI 54601 +1 (608) 784-6680 +1 (800) 333-3333 radisson.com/lacrossewi

n n n n n n

Newly Remodeled FREE Local Phone Calls Friendly Service Continental Breakfast Jacuzzi Suites Meeting Room for 12 Guests

Make A Reservation!

(608) 781-0400 (800) 446-4656 2510 Rose St., La Crosse, WI 54601

(Just South of I-90, Exit 3 Next to Pizza Hut)

hojolacrosse.com 28 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

n The Mighty Mississippi In the heart of La Crosse’s historic downtown — COMPLETELY RENOVATED IN 2012 —

■ Featuring

New Courtyard Refreshing Business Lobby

■ New

Courtyard Bistro – Open for Breakfast and Dinner

■ Rooms

Overlooking the Mississippi

■ Indoor

Pool/Jacuzzi and Exercise Room

■ Complimentary

High-Speed Internet

Winner (City of La Crosse) of the Great American Main Street Award

■ We

Proudly Brew Starbucks®Available 24 Hours

■ Meeting/Banquet

Click Lodging availability and make reservations online at explorelacrosse.com

Services Available

Ranked as a 5-Star Quality of Life Metro Area by Expansion Management

For Reservations Call 608-782-1000 Worldwide Reservations Call 800-321-2211 www.marriott.com/LSECY

Downtown on the Mississippi • 500 Front Street, La Crosse, WI 54601

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com |29

Best Western Riverfront Hotel

Off Your Stay Valid Jan. 2014 thru Dec. 2014 Discount available on rack rates only Some restrictions apply.

We invite you to experience our new tropical water park

www.bestwestern.com

1835 Rose Street • La Crosse, WI 54603

877-688-9260 • 608-781-7000

Why check out at 11 when you can play for the day?

Stay Saturday night at rack rate and get

Sunday ½ Price Off! Valid through December 30, 2014. Some restrictions apply.

101 Sky Harbour Dr. | La Crosse, WI 54603

(608)783-1000

10% OFF Best Available Rates

(800) 659-2220 3060 Kinney Coulee Rd. Onalaska, WI 54650

30 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

119 Spacious Rooms ● Indoor Mini Water Park ● Full Service Restaurant & Lounge ● Outside Bar & Grille ● Private Beach & Boat Docks ● Banquet Space for Up to 350 People ●

608-781-7000 | 877-688-9260 1835 Rose Street • La Crosse, WI 54603 | www.bestwestern.com

Lodging Americas Best Value Inn.............. 608-781-3070 AmericInn of West Salem............ 608-786-3340 Baymont Inn & Suites................... 608-783-7191 Best Western Riverfront Hotel... 608-781-7000 Bluff View House & The Cottage........................... 608-317-4311 Don't Just Rent a Room...Rent a House. Two unique, affordable and fully furnished houses. including Free Wi-Fi, Direct TV, Washer/Dryer, coffee, linens, towels and bicycles. Centrally located in La Crosse. Reservations & more details: visit www.BluffViewHouseRental.com or call Barb Janssen.

Brambleberry Bed & Breakfast, LLC.............................. 608-525-8001

Justin Trails Resort......................... 800-488-4521

Cozy Corner Cottages........... 608-781-3792

Lumber Baron Inn......................... 608-781-8938

Come vacation on Lake Onalaska! Fully furnished cabins sleep up to 6 people and include: WIFI, cable TV, a/c, full kitchen, charcoal grill, fire pit, picnic table and lawn chairs. The property has an outdoor in-ground pool, playground, dock and fish cleaning building. Use of a variety of non-motorized boats is included in rental cost and can be launched on site. Pet friendly. www.cozycornercottages.net

Logan Mill Lodging............... 608-634-6228

Four Gables Bed & Breakfast........ 608-788-7958

The historic Ben Logan Feed Mill in downtown Westby, WI has been renovated and is now a vacation rental business with space for 30 people to stay in three 1500 sq ft condos. The conference room seats 48 around tables with space for 48 more in the adjacent garage. Free WIFI. Included with rental is free tours of the maple syrup factory & the restored Milwaukee Road Caboose also owned & operated by Ruth Rupp. Call/Text Ruth at 608-606-2866 or contact her though the web site www.LoganMillLodge.com

Franklin Victorian Bed & Breakfast........................................... 608-366-1427

Microtel Inn..................................... 608-783-0833

Crescent Moon Retreat................ 608-406-0230 Days Inn............................................ 608-783-1000 Econo Lodge................................... 608-781-0200

Neshonoc Campground............. 608-786-1792

Candlewood Suites....................... 608-785-1110

GrandStay Residential Suites Hotel..................................... 608-796-1615

Comfort Inn..................................... 608-781-7500

Hampton Inn – Onalaska............ 608-779-5000

Percheron Paradise Romantic Hideaway..................... 608-366-1212

Courtyard By Marriott.................. 608-782-1000

Hawks View Cottages................... 866-293-0803

Quality Inn....................................... 608-781-1400

Holiday Inn Express - Onalaska.. 608-783-6555

Quiet Valley Cabins....................... 608-452-3341

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites.......... 608-784-4444

Radisson Hotel................................ 608-784-6680

Howard Johnson............................ 608-781-0400

Rainbow Ridge Farms Bed & Breakfast.............................. 608-783-8181

Look What We Have Waiting For You!

Columbia, MO Stoney Creek Inn

Comfort

• 157 sleeping rooms

• 181 guest rooms

Space & Amenities • 11,000 sq. ft. of meeting space • 6,000 sq. ft. multi-functional conference center for groups of 400 • Foyer for registration & exhibits • 7 additional breakout rooms • Varied selection of caterers • FREE hot breakfast • FREE wireless internet • Northwoods Traveler Program

Coming Soon!

A NEW STONEY CREEK INN Coming Soon!

A NEW STONEY CREEK INN Independence, MO (opening 2014)

LaCrosse, WI

Independence, MO 2601 S. Providence Rd. • Columbia, (opening 2014) MO 65203 Phone: 573-442-6400

Reservations: (800) 659-2220 Reservations:

Amenities

• FREE hot breakfast served daily • FREE Wi-Fi • Lumberjack’s Bar • Wilderness Indoor/outdoor swimming pool & spa

Convenience

• Exit 5 off I-90; go south, near Valley View Mall and restaurants • Pet Friendly 3060 S Kinney Coulee Rd. • Onalaska, WI 54650 Phone: 608-781-3060

(800) 659-2220

STONEY CREEK INN: staysci.com STONEY CREEK INN: staysci.com ILLINOIS • Galena • Peoria • Quad Cities • Quincy IOWA • Des Moines • Sioux City • Waukon • Joseph Galena • Peoria Quad Cities • Quincy IOWA • Des Moines • Sioux City MISSOURI • ILLINOIS Columbia • St. WISCONSIN • La•Crosse • Wausau GRAND LODGE WATERPARK RESORT: staygl.com WISCONSIN • Wausau MISSOURI • Columbia • St. Joseph WISCONSIN • La Crosse • Wausau HISTORIC PARK INN: stayhpi.com IOWA • Mason City

GRAND LODGE WATERPARK RESORT: staygl.com WISCONSIN • Wausau HISTORIC PARK INN: stayhpi.com IOWA • Mason City

32 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

• Waukon

Lodging

Lodging The Safe Landing Motel.......608-457-2122

is a family owned and operated motel located in Stoddard Wisconsin on beautiful national Scenic Hwy 35 “The Great River Road”. The motel is nestled between the mighty Mississippi River and the Coulee Region’s spectacular bluffs. We offer 11 clean, comfortable, and affordable motel rooms! What ever your passion is: fishing, hunting, motorcycling, or sightseeing…We are here to accommodate you!

Settle Inn.......................................... 608-781-5100 Spring Hollow Cabin.................... 507-643-6218 Stoney Creek Inn........................... 608-781-3060

Explore

Super 8 Motel................................. 608-781-8880 Trempealeau Hotel....................... 608-534-6898 Welch Motel.................................... 608-788-1300 Westby House Inn................. 608-634-4112 a popular Wisconsin bed and breakfast offering 9 guest rooms with the right levels of History, Comfort, and Hospitality! Private baths. Breakfast included. Complimentary WiFi. Air Conditioned. Knowledgable Concierge. Enjoy Westby's small town Norwegian heritage and shops. Explore bike trails, canoeing, and wineries. Dine the local and organic cusines. Short drive from La Crosse on State Hwy 14/61 -Southeast.

Experience

www.westbyhouse.com

Wilson School House................... 608-787-1982 Wisconsin Country Places.......... 608-487-0547

The League of American Bicyclists bestowed La Crosse a "Silver

Enjoy

Designation Ranking" as a bicycle friendly community.

Reservations: 608-366-1212

Private resort on 200 secluded acres in the hills of western Wisconsin. Luxurious chalets and bungalow. Bask in beautiful surroundings. Fireplaces, whirlpools, waterfall. Indulge. Open year round.

www.percheronparadise.com getaway@percheronparadise.com

Sparta Find out why Sparta is a choice destination at

www.bikesparta.com

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com |33

LA CROSSE’S NEIGHBOR TO THE NORTH

ONALASKA

ON THE BLUFFS • ON THE TRAILS • ON THE WATER

A beau ti

ful vie w for golﬁng !

pp ssissi i M the rs! ring o l p wate Ex k c a B iver eat R r G e g th Bikin tate Trail! S

Your Upper Mississippi River Valley vacation starts in Onalaska, Wisconsin! Whether on the bluffs, on the trails, or on the water, Onalaska Wisconsin is the place to experience the natural beauty of the driftless region. Call 800-873-1901 for your free Visitor Guide, or visit us online at

DiscoverOnalaska.com

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 31

Enjoy history, bluff-top views, outstanding trails and charming river towns along Hwy 35, the Wisconsin Great River Road—Wisconsin’s only designated National Scenic Byway. The Wisconsin Great River Road parallels the Mississippi River for 250 miles from Prescott in the north to Kieler in the south. Along the way, you’ll experience some of the most incredible scenery in the Midwest and 33 unique communities, some of which are the oldest in Wisconsin. You’ll find hiking, bicycling, fishing, boating and paddling in the numerous recreational areas along the byway. Nearly two-thirds of the Wisconsin Great River Road passes along or through protected natural areas, providing endless bird-watching opportunities. Historical markers, museums and visitor centers tell the story of the Wisconsin Great River Road and the people who live and work along the Mississippi River. Scenic overlooks along the Wisconsin Great River Road are some of the best places in North America to see bald eagles. For an unforgettable family road trip, a great getaway or a weeklong vacation, explore the Wisconsin Great River Road. For more information on the Great River Road, contact 1-800-658-9424. 36 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

Cruise the Mississippi

608-784-8523 405 Veterans Memorial Dr. La Crosse, WI 54601 (Boat dock is located west end of State Street, north end of Riverside Park, downtown La Crosse)

www.lacrossequeen.com

Voted Prettiest Drive & the Ultimate Summer Road Trip In The US.

In Western Wisconsin Wisconsin is consistently among the highest-ranked states in the nation with regard to education. It's an integral part of our culture. The importance of a good education begins in preschool and continues through higher education. It is a community-wide dedication.

Viterbo University of La Crosse was named to "The 2013 President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll", recognizing institutions that achieve meaningful, measureable outcomes in the communities they serve.

UW-La Crosse #3 among Midwest Universities for the 13 Year.

The University of WisconsinLa Crosse, founded in 1909, has roots in teacher and physical education. UW-La Crosse got its start as a teachers’ college. UW-L has become more diversified in the past quarter century and boasts an ever-growing athletic national championship tally. It has evolved into one of the top institutions in the UW System — and in the Midwest. UW-L consistently ranks among the top three public universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report and is listed annually in Kiplinger’s Top 100 Best Value institutions nationwide. See more at: www.uwlax.edu

Viterbo University, founded by the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration in 1890, remains committed to its Catholic Franciscan values and its mission to prepare students for faithful service and ethical leadership. Today, Viterbo offers more than 50 majors and programs for traditional undergraduate, adult and graduate students. Over the past 15 years, university enrollment has doubled, nearing 3,200 students. Construction of a new $15.8 million state-of-the-art nursing facility is being completed which follows several other significant construction projects including a new fitness/recreation center and science and technology center. See more at: www.viterbo.edu

Surround yourself with distinction. Surround yourself with UW-La Crosse.

www.uwlax.edu

38 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

Aquinas Catholic Schools (aquinascatholicschools.com)

Western Technical College, founded in 1912, has provided area employers with a capable workforce for nearly a century. Western currently has six locations in western Wisconsin that serve more than 19,000 students annually. Known for providing quality hands-on training, Western offers associate’s degrees and technical diplomas in over 60 programs, including a new transfer degree option — the Associate of Liberal Arts transfer degree — where students can transfer to a 4-year university as a junior. The college also offers shortterm certificates as well as a variety of Lifelong Learning courses. See more at: http://www.westerntc.edu.

School District of La Crosse (lacrosseschools.com) The School District of La Crosse is a composite of city and rural areas contained in approximately 100 square miles. The district is approximately 15 miles long and 7 miles wide. Included within school district boundaries are the City of La Crosse and parts of the Townships of Medary, Shelby, Greenfield, Bergen, Hamburg, Washington and all of the Town of Campbell. The District stretches from County Trunk B in Medary to School Section Road near Stoddard. The western boundary is the Mississippi River and the eastern most point is near St. Joseph’s Ridge. The district has approximately 7,300 students served by: • Twelve elementary schools • Four middle schools • Three high schools, including an alternative, charter high school with campuses at each of the other high schools.

for more than 150 years, have served our community proudly through faith, service, and academic excellence. Today, Aquinas Catholic Schools operates five educational sites in La Crosse and Onalaska. Each school provides excellent educational opportunities, instruction emphasizing faith and virtues, and a vibrant spirit. All schools are nationally accredited and Aquinas High School has been honored as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education. Financial aid and transportation are available. aquinascatholicschools.org 608-784-8585 Aquinas Catholic Area Schools: • Aquinas High School - grades 9-12 • Aquinas Middle School - grades 7-8 • Blessed Sacrament School grades 3-6 • Cathedral School - preschool-grade 2 • St. Patrick School - preschool-grade 6

Providence Academy Independent Schools: 608-784-6167 Providence Academy is an independent, private, classical academy offered in fidelity to the Magisterium of the Catholic Church. Our mission is to assist parents in the intellectual and spiritual formation of their children Pre-K through 12th grades in a fun, faith-filled environment. Our small classes allow our students to learn vast amounts of difficult material more quickly than contemporary education. At Providence, we believe a classical curriculum is the most effective and proven educational philosophy. Come learn how classical education can prepare your student to succeed in a global world and to be leaders in service to God and humanity.

Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Schools (WELS) (wels.net) • First Lutheran School — grades preschool-8 • Immanuel Lutheran School — grades kindergarten-8 • St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran School — grades preschool-8 • Mount Calvary-Grace Lutheran School — grades preschool-8 • Luther High School — grades 9-12

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 39

SOUTHWEST WISCONSIN

A short drive south of La Crosse on scenic Hwy 35

• • • •

Historic Sites & Events River Cruises Unique Shopping & Dining 40+ Lodging Properties

• State Parks • National Monument • Hiking, Boating, Fishing

www.prairieduchien.org Enter the World of Victorian America

Villa Louis

A Meticulously restored Victorian country estate located on the banks of the Mississippi River

www.villalouis.org

Open Daily May - October

608-326-2721

Owned & Operated by the Wisconsin Historical Society

1-800-732-1673 Group Tours Welcome

Prairie Dog Blues Festival

17th Annual

July 25-26

Fort Crawford Museum 717 S. Beaumont Rd., Prairie du Chien

Open Daily May-October 608-326-6960

www.fortcrawfordmuseum.com

St. Feriole Island, Prairie du Chien

2 Stages! 12 Bands!

Order Tickets & Camping

888-567-1567

www.prairiedogblues.com

“The Finest smoked fish in the world”

• Exotic Line of Jerkys & Sausages • Area’s Finest Wisconsin Cheese

608-326-4719

304 S Prairie St Prairie du Chien

Family Fun

• Miniature Golf • Go-Karts • Water Wars • Bumper Cars • Trampoline Basketball • Bumper Boats • Driving Range

Hwy 18, Open 10 am Daily Memorial Day-Labor Day, Prairie du Chien & Weekends in May, Sept. & Oct.

www.prairiefunland.com 608-326-0888

• Quilt Shop • Creative Sewing Center • Candy Store 608-326-4593 100 W Blackhawk Ave, Prairie du Chien www.fencepostfabrics.com

• Over 600 Wines • Wisconsin Beers • Wisconsin Cheese 608-326-2478 • OPEN DAILY Downtown Prairie du Chien

Your Party Starts Here!

Liquor • Beer • Wine • Cheese • Fresh Cheese Curds on Fridays 608-326-7777 • Walk-in beer & wine caves • Huge wine selection & variety of cheeses

37461 Hwy 18, Prairie du Chien

Request your Free 64 page visitor’s guide today!

The Area’s Source for Tourism Information

Prairie du Chien Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Council 1-800-732-1673 www.prairieduchien.org 211 S Main, Prairie du Chien

*****

Regional Tourism Center

Open Daily May 1- Oct 31

Experience

It’s no coincidence that La Crosse was founded as a trading post, for the fabled buildings of Historic Downtown are home to a fabulous variety of shops. Whether you’re after fine jewelry or outdoor adventure, sports or music, novelties or collectables, you’ll find something distinctive and unique from a truly special group of merchants who take pride in their trade. Downtown is only the beginning; a short drive north on Highway 16 leads you to Valley View Mall, anchored by major department store chains and a Barnes & Noble. The area’s largest mall features a food court with selections to entice everyone’s taste buds, as well as dozens of shops from familiar to quirky. Gourmet coffee, fine jewelry, trendy apparel, Macy’s, Sears, JC Penney…this mall’s got it all.

build-a-bear workshop dressbarn kay jewelers texas roadhouse the children’s place visit our play area in center court sponsored by

Then there are the smaller, outdoor shopping centers that have served their respective parts of town for many years: Shelby Mall on the far Southside; Bridgeview Plaza on the far North; the Village Shopping Center and Jackson Plaza along Highway 33 on the Southeast; and the charming Old Towne North, the timeless pride of the North Side. From top-of-the-line to discount stores, major chains to mom-and-pop retailers offering the best personal service, the latest trends to treasured antiques, La Crosse area merchants take great pride in offering a shopping experience that’s second to none.

3800 state road 16 • la crosse, wi 54601 608.781.4700 • myvalleyview.com A Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust® Property PREIT download the MALLS

PREIT® malls app

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 41

Historic Old Towne North can prove to be a very unique and fun shopping experience. Many small businesses that carry a variety of products and items not found elsewhere. Easy curbside parking with lots of old fashion service. Only a few minutes from downtown La Crosse. Come and enjoy what Old Towne North has to offer.

1215 Caledonia Street La Crosse, Wisconsin

608-782-8443

Professional Insurance Agents

800-236-6879

The Jeweller With The Mark of Excellence

Memorials Awards Keepsakes

Mark Jewellers 608-785-0110

1205 Caledonia St. • La Crosse, WI

608-781-7787

1223 Caledonia St. • La Crosse, WI

www.riverbank.biz 1232 Rose St. La Crosse, WI 54603

Olde Towne North Pets

1217 Caledonia St. • La Crosse, WI

42 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

608.789.2386 www.pogrebarestaurant.com 1232 Avon St. • La Crosse, WI

Bangor Rockland Barre Mills

608.784.8900

608.519.5551

Real Charcoal Steaks • Seafood

1226 Caledonia St. • La Crosse, WI

Holmen La Crosse Sparta Stoddard Ferryville De Sota

Wholesome Locally Sourced Food

1225 Caledonia St. • La Crosse, WI

Complete Line of Coins/Supplies

1217 Caledonia St. • La Crosse, WI

Cafe & Coffee Shop

www.lacrosseloggers.com

50 Years Appraisal Experience

www.rootdownyogastudio.com

1119 Caledonia St. • La Crosse, WI

June thru August

608-784-9555

La Crosse's first hot yoga studio offering Power Vinyasa yoga in the tradition of Baron Baptiste, a style of yoga for everyone.

608-782-0155

608-796-9553

Carrier Insurance Agency

1228 Caledonia St. • La Crosse, WI

www.markjewellers.com

For Tickets Call:

"Big Enough To Serve Small Enough To Care"

Caledonia Street Antique Mall

608-784-0316

The area's largest selection of corals, saltwater fish, freshwater fish and plants in the tri-state area.

www.oldetownenorthpets.com 1233 Caledonia St. • La Crosse, WI

(608) 783-9141 bmoharris.com 1300 Rose St. • La Crosse, WI 54603 BMO Harris Bank N.A.

Treasures Await You ... Just Minutes From Downtown La Crosse

Shopping

westbycreamery.com

Take Home County Goodness! TM

Antique Center of La Crosse...............................608-782-6533 Carpet One...........................608-784-9800 Cranberry Country Mall.........................................608-372-7853 Crescent Jewelers..............608-784-9275 Designing Jewelers...........608-782-4499 Dregne’s Scandinavian Gifts........................................608-634-4414 Finnottes Nut & Chocolate Shop..................608-782-3184 Gerhards First Supply Showroom...........................608-791-3685 Great Big Outlet.................608-796-0265 Handmade Natural Beauty Boutique................608-782-7627 Jackson Plaza Shopping Center...............608-386-4537 La Crosse Area Harley Davidson.................608-783-6112 La Crescent Flea Market...................................608-792-8193 La Crosse Clock...................608-782-8200 La Crosse Floral...................608-784-7500 La Crosse Olive Oil.............608-782-6930

Main Street Framing & Crosse Stitchery.............608-782-7008 Monsoor’s Sport Shop.....608-784-0482 Nelson Flag & Display......608-788-2990 Satori Arts.............................608-785-2779 SSE Music..............................608-781-2850 The Company Store..........608-783-6646 The Second Showing.......608-785-1220 TJ’s-Cheddarheads Gift Gallery...........................608-784-8899 Treehouse Gift & Home...608-783-4438 Valley View Mall Management......................608-781-4700 Village Shopping Center....................................608-788-7555 Westby Cooperative Creamery..............................608-634-3181 Wettsteins............................608-784-6868

608-634-3181 615 N. Main St. Westby, WI 54667

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 43

Chicago, 2011

Les Misérables, 2013

Free WiFi Access

The Wind in the Willows, 2013

Your seat is waiting.

Photos by Theresa M. Smerud, Artist & Photographer

Ardie's Restaurant Best Western Riverfront Hotel Bodega Brew Pub Cabin Coffee Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Mainstreet, Inc Flipside Pub & Grill King Street Kitchen Lindy's Subs of La Crosse McDonald's Pettibone Resort & Campground Pickerman's Quality Inn Radisson Hotel Rainbow Ridge B&B Stoney Creek Inn Wilson Schoolhouse Inn

On Golden Pond, 2010

Right on the river at 428 Front Street South. Call or visit us on the web for show info.

w w w. l a c r o s s e c o m m u n i t y t h e a t r e . o r g • 6 0 8 -7 8 4 - 92 92

Weber Center Performing Arts for the

Please note that some businesses reserve free WiFi access for their respective customers. Be sure to check with businesses for details.

Come enjoy a show!

for a schedule of events or more information, please visit us online!

428 Front Street South La Crosse, WI 54601 608-784-9292

44 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

Photo by Roger Grant

www.webercenterfortheperformingarts.org

Arts & Entertainment ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Grand River Singers...............608-438-1567 La Crosse Boy Choir...............608-780-8169 La Crosse Center....................608-789-7400 La Crosse Community Theatre...................................608-784-9292 La Crosse Symphony Orchestra................................608-783-2121 Marcus Theatres.....................608-791-1999 The Marcus LaCrosse Cinema is your premiere entertainment destination, featuring 11 state-of-the-art auditoriums.

Marie W. Heider Center for the Arts.................608-786-1220 Minnesota Marine Art Museum............................507-474-6626 Onalaska OmniCenter...........608-781-9566 Pump House Regional Arts Center.............608-785-1434 River City Waterski Club........608-788-9644 Shenanigans..........................608-783-3333 Weber Center for the Performing Arts.....................608-784-9292 FESTIVALS Between the Bluffs Beer, Wine & Cheese Festival.........800-658-9424 Bicycle Festival.......................608-782-2366 Butterfest...............................608-769-9910 Coon Creek Trout Festival.....608-787-1883 Festival Foods Grandad Half Marathon........................608-789-7593 GardenFest.............................608-781-2783 Great River Folk Festival.......608-784-3033 Irishfest-La Crosse, Inc..........608-785-8153 Oktoberfest USA/ La Crosse Festivals.................608-784-3378 Prairie Dog Blues Festival.........................608-326-0085 Riverfest.................................608-782-6000 Rotary Lights..........................608-784-9993

Cheese isn’t the only thing cultured here. People who live in La Crosse can’t help but be inspired…and they express themselves in a myriad of ways. The arts are alive in this river paradise. There’s always a new art exhibit at the Pump House Regional Arts Center. Check out the local thespians at one of the La Crosse Community Theatre’s quality productions at the newly constructed Weber Center for the Performing Arts. Toland Theatre at the University of La Crosse-Wisconsin and Viterbo University’s Fine Arts Center are often home to excellent theatre productions or concerts as well. Music enthusiasts will be mesmerized by the La Crosse Symphony, one of the finest in the upper Midwest…and what could be finer than to spend a beautiful, summer Wednesday evening at Riverside Park for a free performance at the band shell by the La Crosse Concert Band? If you’re looking for something more up-tempo, La Crosse has a thriving live music scene; nearly every weekend, there’s a live band playing at one of our many clubs. From acoustic folk music to pop country to full-tilt rock and roll. Regional festivals offer fun for residents and visitors of all ages.

Celebrar las Artes Nco txog kev txawj txuj ci

CELEBRATE THE ARTS

SAVE THE DATE JUNE 13-14, 2014 ARTSPIRE LA CROSSE La Crosse, WIs. www.artspirelacrosse.com www.Facebook.com/artspirelacrosse

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 45

ofEvents LA CROSSE AREA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU Call 800-658-9424 or 608-782-2366 for more information. Events subject to change without notice. Please call ahead. www.explorelacrosse.com

FEBRUARY 2014 Feb 1 La Crosse Symphony Orchestra "Songs of the Heart" – 7:30 pm, Viterbo University Fine Arts Center, 900 Viterbo Drive, La Crosse. “How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.....” For February the LSO presents another world premiere: this time, of the Minnesota genius Libby Larsen, and her Sonnets from the Portuguese -- set to Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s immortal love poems. Libby’s chosen soprano soloist, Tracey Engelman, is a new young star from the Minnesota Opera. For more information, call 608-783-2121 or visit www.lacrossesymphony.org Feb 1 Live Music – 8:00 pm – 12:00 am, Black River Bar & Grill. Visit the Best Western Riverfront Hotel each Saturday evening for live music by local and regional artists. Things kick off at 8:00 pm and wrap up at midnight. For more information, call 608-781-7070. Feb 1 First Snowshoe Race at Justin Trails Resort – Visit Justin Trails Resort on February 1st for their first ever Snowshoe Race! For more information, call 608-269-4522 or visit http://justintrails.com

Feb 1-3 & 8-9 The BFG (Big Friendly Giant) – Shows begin at 3:00 pm on February 1, 2, 8, and 9th, and at 7:00 pm on February 1st. The BFG (Big Friendly Giant) brings the fantastical characters of Roald Dahl to life in the positively scrumptious story of a 24-foot tall giant and a young orphan. Performance takes place at the Weber Center for the Performing Arts, 428 Front Street South, La Crosse. For more information, call 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets Feb 1-Mar 29 Postcard, La Crosse - Artist: Kevin Knopp. Kader Gallery Exhibition: January 30, 2014 – March 29, 2014. Reception: February 1, 2014, 5-7 PM.This exhibit consists of a series of large oil paintings by Kevin Knopp that are beautiful in color, execution and spatial description, while simultaneously illuminating often overlooked sites as subjects worthy of art. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse.

Feb 1-Mar 29 Fast Break - Artist: Tom Sheppard. Front Gallery Exhibition: January 30, 2014 – March 29, 2014. Reception: February 1, 2014, 5-7 pm. Tom Sheppard’s “Fast Break” will feature his latest paintings that have been inspired by his most recent student basketball play books. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, La Crosse. Feb 5 Jim Witter’s Coffee House – 7:30 pm, Viterbo University. Jim Witter returns with his all-new show celebrating the folk hits of James Taylor, Gordon Lightfoot, Jim Croce, and more. Enjoy an evening of great music, storytelling, and a nostalgic trip down memory lane as only Witter can provide. For more information, call 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets Feb 6-Mar 1 Holmen Elementary Schools Art Exhibition - Artists: Holmen Elementary School Students. Balcony Gallery Exhibition: February 6, 2014 – March 1, 2014. Reception: February 6, 2014, 4-5:30 pm. The Holmen Elementary Schools Art Exhibit will feature art work created by students in grades K-5 from Holmen’s four elementary schools. Student art work will depict a wide range of subjects in many different media, such as drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, and sculpture. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse. Feb 6-9 La Crosse Boat, Sports, Travel, RV and Hunting Show - This 4 day event has something for everyone including the largest selection of Boats, Pontoons, Docks, Lifts, RV’s, Travel Trailers, Motorcycles, Camping & Hunting Equipment, and resorts. This year join us for a daily stage show featuring a 6 man Acapella group “Street Corner Symphony” as seen on the NBC show “The Sing Off”. Hours are: Thursday, 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, Friday: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm, Saturday: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm, and Sunday: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm. For more information, call 608-789-7400 or visit www.shamrockprod.com. Feb 7 Black River Bar & Grill Comedy Night – 8:30 pm, Black River Bar & Grill at the Best Western Riverfront Hotel. Bust a gut with class act comedians each Friday night! This evening of laughs is brought to you by 95.7 The Rock. Admission is only $8 per person. For more information, call 608-781-7070.

Adult: $9.00 Senior: $8.00 (62+) Youth: $7.00 (7-17) 6 and under: FREE

Enjoy the scenery of La Crosse while relaxing on the air-conditioned trolley bus. The bright red trolley bus is a nostalgic re-creation of another era. Enjoy interesting narration provided by the La Crosse County Historical Society as you tour historic La Crosse. Approximately 1.5 hours.

(608) 782-2366 (800) 658-9424 410 Veterans Memorial Drive • La Crosse, WI 54601 • explorelacrosse.com

46 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

Feb 7 Coulee Region Chill Hockey Game – 7:00 pm, Onalaska Omni Center. Cheer on the Chill as they play the Minnesota Wilderness! For more information and tickets, call 608-782-3252 or visit www.crchill.com Feb 8 Live Music “OZ” – 8:00 pm – 12:00 am, Black River Bar & Grill. Visit the Best Western Riverfront Hotel each Saturday evening for live music by local and regional artists. Things kick off at 8:00 pm and wrap up at midnight. Bring a friend and wear your dancing shoes! For more information, call 608-781-7070. Feb 8 Empty Bowls by Generous Earth Pottery – 11:00 am – 3:00 pm, Best Western Riverfront Hotel. Empty Bowls by Generous Earth Pottery will be held 2/8/14 at the Black River Bar and Grill from

11:00 am-3:00 pm. The cost is $15.00 to pick out a bowl made by a local potter to take home and have unlimited soup donated by local restaurants. All proceeds will be donated to Channel One Regional Food Bank which distributes to local food shelves such as Wafer. For more information, call 608-781-7070.

Feb 15 Coulee Region Chill Hockey Game – 7:00 pm, Onalaska Omni Center. Cheer on the Chill as they play Janesville! For more information and tickets, call 608-782-3252 or visit www.crchill.com

Feb 15 Rock Legends with Billy McCuigan This amazing group pays tribute to rock legends from the '50s through the '80s, including Elvis Feb 8 Coulee Region Chill Hockey Game – Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Rolling Stones, The 7:00 pm, Onalaska Omni Center. Cheer on the Chill Who, Elton John, Tom Petty, U2 and more. This as they play the Minnesota Wilderness! For more unique evening is part rock concert, part rock information and tickets, call 608-782-3252 or visit tribute...and all rock and roll. Time: 7:30 p.m. www.crchill.com For more information, call 608-786-2550 or visit www.heidercenter.org Feb 8 Wellness, Mindfulness, & Yoga Retreat – Justin Trails Resort, Sparta, WI. Relax after the Feb 15 Live Music “Craig Olson Project” – 8:00 holidays at this retreat that is open to the public pm – 12:00 am, Black River Bar & Grill. Visit the and welcomes anyone! For more information, call Best Western Riverfront Hotel each Saturday 608-269-4522 or visit http://justintrails.com evening for live music by local and regional artists. Things kick off at 8:00 pm and wrap up at Feb 8-9 PSALMS FOR ALL SEASONS Chamber midnight. Bring a friend and wear your dancing Chorale Concert – Saturday at 7:30 pm, and shoes! For more information, call 608-781-7070. Sunday at 3:00pm at the Mary of the Angels Chapel, 901 Franciscan Way, La Crosse. For more Feb 15 Pheobe Hunt in Concert - 6:30 pm information, call 608-780-6107 or visit 9:30 pm. Singer/songwriter/instrumentalist www.chamberchorale.org Pheobe Hunt wraps her sultry voice and sincere lyrics around listeners’ souls with each song. Feb 14 Some Enchanted Evening - 7:30 pm For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit 9:30 pm. Join Steven Marking & Friends for “Some www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Enchanted Evening” as they perform the music of Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse. Rogers, Hammerstein, and Hart. This performance makes for a perfect Valentine’s Day date. For Feb 15 Wisconsin Bike Fed Bike Swap – more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit 9:00 am – 3:00 pm at Logan High School, 1450 www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Avon Street, La Crosse. The Wisconsin Bike Fed, Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse. is co-hosting the Second Annual Bike Swap with Logan Bike Works, an after-school program Feb 14 Black River Bar & Grill Comedy where middle school students can learn bicycle Night – 8:30 pm, Black River Bar & Grill at the maintenance skills and bicycle safety and earn a Best Western Riverfront Hotel. Bust a gut with bicycle. Come and shop from a number of area class act comedians each Friday night! This vendors who are selling new and used bikes, evening of laughs is brought to you by 95.7 The parts, clothing or other items related to bicycling. Rock. Admission is only $8 per person. For more Admission is $3 per person, and those under 12 information, call 608-781-7070. are free. For more information, call 608-317-2825, visit www.wisconsinbikefed.org or email Carolyn Feb 14-15 Monster Truck Show - 7:30pm. Dvorak at Carolyn.dvoarak@wisconsinbikefed.org. La Crosse Center. 300 Harborview Plaza. 608-789-7400 www.lacrossecenter.com Feb 20-23 Stansfield Team Dart Tournament La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, 608-789-7400 www.lacrossecenter.com

February 26 thru March 1

Feb 21 Black River Bar & Grill Comedy Night – 8:30 pm, Black River Bar & Grill at the Best Western Riverfront Hotel. Bust a gut with class act comedians each Friday night! This evening of laughs is brought to you by 95.7 The Rock. Admission is only $8 per person. For more information, call 608-781-7070. Feb 21 Coulee Region Chill Hockey Game – 7:00 pm, Onalaska Omni Center. Cheer on the Chill as they play the Minnesota Magicians! For more information and tickets, call 608-782-3252 or visit www.crchill.com Feb 21-23 The Mystery of Edwin Drood – Show begins at 7:30 pm on Feb 21-22, and at 2:00 pm on Feb 23. A musical mystery whodunit where the audience picks the ending. Viterbo Fine Arts Center, 900 Viterbo Drive, La Crosse, WI. For more information, call 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets Feb 22 Live Music “J2 and Sweet Cat” – 8:00 pm – 12:00 am, Black River Bar & Grill. Visit the Best Western Riverfront Hotel each Saturday evening for live music by local and regional artists. Things kick off at 8:00 pm and wrap up at midnight. Bring a friend and wear your dancing shoes! For more information, call 608-781-7070. Feb 22 La Crosse Mardi Gras Costume Ball. The Waterfront Cargill Room. 608-782-3169. www.lacrossemardigras.com Feb 28 Black River Bar & Grill Comedy Night – 8:30 pm, Black River Bar & Grill at the Best Western Riverfront Hotel. Bust a gut with class act comedians each Friday night! This evening of laughs is brought to you by 95.7 The Rock. Admission is only $8 per person. For more information, call 608-781-7070. Feb 28 Coulee Region Chill Hockey Game – 7:00 pm, Onalaska Omni Center. Cheer on the Chill as they play Fairbanks! For more information and tickets, call 608-782-3252 or visit www.crchill.com

La Crosse Center • La Crosse WI

The MOSES Conference draws more than 3,000 people for 60+ workshops, 170+ exhibits, and in-depth pre-conference courses. This celebration of organic food and farming includes activities for children and teens, organic and locally grown meals, film screenings and entertainment. For more information, see:

www.mosesorganic.org

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 47

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

(continued)

Feb 28-Mar 9 Young Frankestien – Performance Times: Feb. 28-March 1 and March 6-8: 7:30pm, and March 2 & 9: 2:00pm. Tickets go on sale beginning Monday, February 24 at 1:00 p.m. (Early season subscriber reservations begin Monday, February 17). A wickedly inspired re-imagining of the Frankenstein legend based on Mel Brooks' classic comedy masterpiece, the story follows bright young Dr. Frankenstein as he attempts to complete his grandfather's masterwork and bring a corpse to life. Toland Theatre, Center for the Arts, UW-La Crosse. For more information call 608-785-6701 or visit www.uwlax.edu/theatre Feb 28-Mar 1 Greater La Crosse Golf Show – The 2014 Golf Show will be held at Stoney Creek Inn, Northwoods Convention Center, 3060 South Kinney Coulee Road, Onalaska, WI 54650. Times: Friday, February 28: 2:00PM - 8:00PM; Saturday, March 1: 9:00AM-5:00PM. Admission: Adults: $5.00, children under 12: $1:00, 2-Day Adult Pass: $8.00. For more information, call 608-793-1956 or email info@lacrossegolfshow.com.

MARCH 2014 Mar 1 Michael Johnson in Concert - 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm. Barcelona-trained guitarist, Michael Johnson is a true showman who loves what he does. Johnson is best known for his 1978 hit song, “Bluer Than Blue.” For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse. Mar 1 Bald Eagle Day in Ferryville, WI. Ferryville Village Hall. 10am-3pm. www.visitferryville.com Mar 1 12th Annual Spring into Gardening Workshop. Presented by the Bluff Country Master Gardeners. 8:30am-3:30pm at the Lunda Center, Western Technical College. www.bluffcountrymastergardeners.org Mar 1 Live Music “Double Take” – 8:00 pm – 12:00 am, Black River Bar & Grill. Visit the Best Western Riverfront Hotel each Saturday evening for live music by local and regional artists. Things kick off at 8:00 pm and wrap up at midnight. Bring a friend and wear your dancing shoes! For more information, call 608-781-7070. Mar 1 Coulee Region Chill Hockey Game – 7:00 pm, Onalaska Omni Center. Cheer on the Chill as they play Fairbanks! For more information and tickets, call 608-782-3252 or visit www.crchill.com Mar 1-Mar 9 Young Frankestien – Performance Times: Feb. 28-March 1 and March 6-8: 7:30pm, and March 2 & 9: 2:00pm. Tickets go on sale beginning Monday, February 24 at 1:00 p.m. A wickedly inspired re-imagining of the Frankenstein legend based on Mel Brooks’ classic comedy masterpiece, the story follows bright young Dr. Frankenstein as he attempts to complete his grandfather’s masterwork and

bring a corpse to life. Toland Theatre, Center for the Arts, UW-La Crosse. For more information call 608-785-6701 or visit www.uwlax.edu/theatre Mar 1-29 Postcard, La Crosse - Artist: Kevin Knopp. Kader Gallery Exhibition: January 30, 2014 – March 29, 2014. Reception: February 1, 2014, 5-7 PM. This exhibit consists of a series of large oil paintings by Kevin Knopp that are beautiful in color, execution and spatial description. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse. Mar 1-29 Fast Break - Artist: Tom Sheppard. Front Gallery Exhibition: January 30, 2014 – March 29, 2014. Reception: February 1, 2014, 5-7 pm. Tom Sheppard’s “Fast Break” will feature his latest paintings that have been inspired by his most recent student basketball play books. The timing of the exhibition has been set to coincide with the conclusion of the high school and collegiate basketball seasons. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, La Crosse. Mar 2 Family Fest – La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza. 608-789-7400 www.lacrossecenter.com Mar 3 Willy Porter in Concert 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm. Willy Porter offers a rich blend of salt and sugar with tracks that move easily from rough-hewn electric edges into soulful irony. With improvisational comedy incorporated into his concerts, he provides a rare glimpse of the humanity that binds us. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse. Mar 6-29 Kids Create! - Artists: Tomah Middle School Students. Balcony Gallery Exhibition: March 6, 2014 – March 29, 2014. Reception: March 6, 2014, 1-3 PM. This exhibition includes a selection of artwork made by 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students from Tomah Middle School. Students will show a variety of artworks made in clay, painting, drawing, bookmaking, and mixed mediums. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse. org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse. Mar 7 Black River Bar & Grill Comedy Night – 8:30 pm, Black River Bar & Grill at the Best Western Riverfront Hotel. Bust a gut with class act comedians each Friday night! This evening of laughs is brought to you by 95.7 The Rock. Admission is only $8 per person. For more information, call 608-781-7070. Mar 7-9 God’s Country Racing Association’s Custom Car Show - La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza. 608-317-6824 or 608-781-9887 www.clubs.hemmings.com/clubsites/gcra/

48 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

Mar 8 The Manhattan Dolls – Sentimental Journey - Celebrate the timeless classics of the 1930s and 1940s! The Manhattan Dolls perform a spectacular blend or ballads, boogie woogie and blues, and deliver a stirring tribute to America's brave men and women in the military. Time: 7:30 p.m. Heider Center for the Arts, 405 East Hamlin Street, West Salem. For more information, call 608-786-2550 or visit www.heidercenter.org Mar 8 La Crosse Symphony Orchestra "The Spanish Style" – 7:30 pm, Viterbo University Fine Arts Center, 900 Viterbo Drive, La Crosse. Fresh from her triumph with the Wisconsin Philharmonic, the elegant and amazing Maria Bachmann makes her debut with the La Crosse Symphony in a musical tour of Spain that’s sure to be one of the sell-out concerts of the year. For more information, call 608-783-2121 or visit www.lacrossesymphony.org Mar 8 Coulee Region Chill Hockey Game – 7:00 pm, Onalaska Omni Center. Cheer on the Chill as they play the Minnesota Magicians! For more information and tickets, call 608-782-3252 or visit www.crchill.com Mar 8 Live Music “OZ” – 8:00 pm – 12:00 am, Black River Bar & Grill. Visit the Best Western Riverfront Hotel each Saturday evening for live music by local and regional artists. Things kick off at 8:00 pm and wrap up at midnight. Bring a friend and wear your dancing shoes! For more information, call 608-781-7070. Mar 8 Norskedalen’s Rummage Sale - Shop for donated items at discount prices! Norskedalen Nature and Heritage Center, N455 O Ophus Road, Coon Valley. 608-452-3424, www.norskedalen.org Mar 11 All City Orchestra Festival – La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza. For more information, call 608-789-7400 or visit www.lacrossecenter.com Mar 12 The Complete World of Sports Abridged – 7:30 pm, Viterbo University. From the earliest cavemen playing “Neanderthal in the Middle” to your own kid’s soccer practice, the entire history of athletic competition will be regurgitated in a Tour de France of physical theatre at a level of sophistication and pathos that only the RSC can muster. Viterbo Fine Arts Center, 900 Viterbo Drive, La Crosse, WI. For more information, call 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets Mar 14 Black River Bar & Grill Comedy Night – 8:30 pm, Black River Bar & Grill at the Best Western Riverfront Hotel. Bust a gut with class act comedians each Friday night! This evening of laughs is brought to you by 95.7 The Rock. Admission is only $8 per person. For more information, call 608-781-7070. Mar 14-15 Show Choir Competition - La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza. 608-789-7400, www.lacrossecenter.com Mar 14-29 Backwards and in Heels - March 14 & 15, 21 & 22, 28 & 29, 2014 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm. Join us this March for the original Pump House production Backwards and in Heels, your ladies night out event of the season! Once again,

we’ll supply the Cosmos. “Sure he (Fred Astaire) was great, but don’t forget Ginger Rodgers did everything he did…backwards and in high heels!” -Robert Thaves. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King St., La Crosse. www.thepumphouse.org. Mar 15 Live Music “J2 and Sweet Cat” – 8:00 pm – 12:00 am, Black River Bar & Grill. Visit the Best Western Riverfront Hotel each Saturday evening for live music by local and regional artists. Things kick off at 8:00 pm and wrap up at midnight. Bring a friend and wear your dancing shoes! For more information, call 608-781-7070. Mar 15 Wine and Beer Maker’s Brew Ha & Potluck – Justin Trails Resort, Sparta. Bring a dish to pass and enjoy samples of wine and beer that you make. We’ll enjoy tasting, eating and good times! For more information, call 608-269-4522 or visit justintrails.com Mar 15 Irishfest St. Patrick’s Day Parade – 12:00 pm, Downtown La Crosse near Main Street. Mar 15-16 La Crosse and Three Rivers Model Railroad Train Show - La Crosse Center. 300 Harborview Plaza. 608-789-7400 www.lacrossecenter.com Mar 21 Black River Bar & Grill Comedy Night – 8:30 pm, Black River Bar & Grill at the Best Western Riverfront Hotel. Bust a gut with class act comedians each Friday night! This evening of laughs is brought to you by 95.7 The Rock. Admission is only $8 per person. For more information, call 608-781-7070. Mar 21 Women of Ireland – 7:30 pm, Viterbo University. Women of Ireland features some of the best female performers within the Irish musical tradition performing alongside with world-class musicians, singers and dancers. Viterbo Fine Arts Center, 900 Viterbo Drive, La Crosse, WI. For more information, call 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets Mar 21-23 La Crosse Area Home and Builders Show - Founded in 1980, the Greater La Crosse Home & Builders Show is held annually in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Visitors to the show can see the latest products and services displayed by exhibitors to assist them in building and improving their home and yard. La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, La Crosse. 608-789-7400, www.lacrossecenter.com Mar 22 Live Music “Craig Olson Project” – 8:00 pm – 12:00 am, Black River Bar & Grill. Visit the Best Western Riverfront Hotel each Saturday evening for live music by local and regional artists. Things kick off at 8:00 pm and wrap up at midnight. Bring a friend and wear your dancing shoes! For more information, call 608-781-7070. Mar 22 Coulee Region Chill Hockey Game – 7:00 pm, Onalaska Omni Center. Cheer on the Chill as they play the Minnesota Wilderness! For more information and tickets, call 608-782-3252 or visit www.crchill.com

Mar 22 Maple Syrup Fest. 10am-2pm. Join a naturalist and head into the sugar bush to tap a tree and collect maple sap. Gather around the evaporator to watch this boiling sap turn into liquid gold! Activities, crafts and a tasty treat as we celebrate the coming of spring. Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center, 28097 Goodview Drive, Lansboro, MN. 507-467-2437

Coulee Kids Choir and the Apple Annies, as they celebrate 2014 with this musical extravaganza. Tickets are $20/Main Floor, $17/Lower Balcony, and $14/Upper Balcony. Viterbo Fine Arts Center, 900 Viterbo Drive, La Crosse, WI. For more information, call 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets

Mar 23 Dallas Children’s Theater presents Stuart Little – 3:00 pm, Viterbo University. Stuart Little tells the story of a most unusual mouse who happens to be born into an ordinary New York City family. For more information, call 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets

APRIL 2014

Mar 27 Author talk, Wheel Fever: How Wisconsin Became a Great Bicycling State5:30 pm at the Cleary Alumni Center, UWLa Crosse. The authors of a new history book from the Wisconsin Historical Society Press, published in 2013, will offer a talk about the early history of bicycling in the state. Book signing and reception to follow. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Professor James Longhurst at 608-785-8344, or email jlonghurst@uwlax.edu. Mar 27 Coulee Region Chill Hockey Game – 7:00 pm, Onalaska Omni Center. Cheer on the Chill as they play the Minnesota Magicians! For more information and tickets, call 608-782-3252 or visit www.crchill.com

Apr 1 Paul Taylor 2 Dance Company – 7:30 pm, Viterbo University. Paul Taylor established the Paul Taylor 2 Dance Company in 1993 to ensure that his works could be seen by audiences all over the world. For more information, call 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets Apr 3-5 Gallantry and II Signor Deluso – Shows begin at 7:30 pm. In Gallantry, a paradoy of soap opera, watch a dramatic battle of good and evil unfold as renowned surgeon Dr. Gregg unveils his love for his nurse, Lola, who is already engaged to Donald Hopewell from the cashier’s office at the same hospital. Viterbo Fine Arts Center, 900 Viterbo Drive, La Crosse, WI. For more information, call 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse. Apr 3-6 Stansfield Team Pool Tournament La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza. 608-789-7400 www.lacrossecenter.com

Mar 28 Black River Bar & Grill Comedy Night – 8:30 pm, Black River Bar & Grill at the Best Western Riverfront Hotel. Bust a gut with class act comedians each Friday night! This evening of laughs is brought to you by 95.7 The Rock. Admission is only $8 per person. For more information, call 608-781-7070.

Apr 4 Black River Bar & Grill Comedy Night – 8:30 pm, Black River Bar & Grill at the Best Western Riverfront Hotel. Bust a gut with class act comedians each Friday night! This evening of laughs is brought to you by 95.7 The Rock. Admission is only $8 per person. For more information, call 608-781-7070.

Mar 28 Coulee Region Chill Hockey Game – 7:00 pm, Onalaska Omni Center. Cheer on the Chill as they play the Minnesota Wilderness! For more information and tickets, call 608-782-3252 or visit www.crchill.com

Apr 4-6 & 11-13 Arms and the Man – Shows begin at 7:30 pm on April 4, 5, 11, 12, and at 2:00 pm on April 6 and 13. Comedy! Romance! Chocolate! British director Trevor Walker brings a cast of colorful characters and Shavian wit to life with George Bernard Shaw’s most popular and broadly comic play. Tickets are $20 for all levels. Weber Center for the Performing Arts, 428 Front Street South, La Crosse, WI. For more information, call 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets

Mar 28-29 Kinesis Dance Theatre – Performances begin at 7:30 pm. Tickets are available at the door only. General seating. (Early season subscriber Reservations begin Monday, March 24). Toland Theatre, Center for the Arts, UW-La Crosse. For more information, call 608-785-6701 or visit www.uwlax.edu/theatre Mar 28-30 Mind Altering Tattoo Show – La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, La Crosse. For more information call 608-789-7400 or visit www.lacrossecenter.com Mar 29 Live Music “Good Times” – 8:00 pm – 12:00 am, Black River Bar & Grill. Visit the Best Western Riverfront Hotel each Saturday evening for live music by local and regional artists. Things kick off at 8:00 pm and wrap up at midnight. Bring a friend and wear your dancing shoes! For more information, call 608-781-7070. Mar 30 Celebration 2014 – 7:30 pm, Viterbo University. Platinum Edition’s annual variety show has something for everyone, from Broadway to pop to jazz and more. Join Viterbo’s own show choir and their special guests, including the

Apr 5 La Crosse Symphony Orchestra Season Finale – 7:30 pm, Viterbo University Fine Arts Center, 900 Viterbo Drive, La Crosse. Join us as we end another spectacular season -celebrating the young talent of two of our Rising Stars competition winners, and the amazing contributions of two of our Conductor Wannabes! For more information, call 608-783-2121 or visit www.lacrossesymphony.org Apr 5 Live Music – 8:00 pm – 12:00 am, Black River Bar & Grill. Visit the Best Western Riverfront Hotel each Saturday evening for live music by local and regional artists. Things kick off at 8:00 pm and wrap up at midnight. Bring a friend and wear your dancing shoes! For more information, call 608-781-7070.

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 49

CALENDAR OF EVENTS (continued)

Apr 5 Women's Fund Spring Fling–11:00 am – 1:30 pm Cargill Room, The Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern La Crosse. Enjoy an afternoon dedicated to celebrating women! Luncheon, fashion show, silent auction and door prizes. Apr 6 Clara and Louise II – 3:00 pm, Viterbo University. Piano trios by Louise Farrenc with vocal selections by Clara Schumann. $16 general admission. Viterbo Fine Arts Center, 900 Viterbo Drive, La Crosse, WI. For more information, call 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets Apr 10 Harlem Globetrotters – La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, La Crosse. For more information and tickets, call 608-789-7400 or visit www.lacrossecenter.com Apr 10-12 Pass the Taters - 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm. This whacky family returns ‘home’, to the Pump House, for a dreaded holiday meal. Audience ideas create the zany characters’ family secrets that will unfold during the holiday gathering, putting the ‘fun’ in ‘dysFUNctional family.’ Don’t miss out on a big slice of improvisational comedy served a la mode! For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse. Apr 10-19 La Crosse and Aquinas Schools Art Exhibits - The School District of La Crosse High School Art Exhibition - Artists: Central and Logan High School Students. Kader Gallery: April 10, 2014 – April 19, 2014. Reception: April 11, 2014, 5-7 pm. A rich culmination of works by students from both Logan and Central High Schools is celebrated in this exhibition. Aquinas Catholic Schools K-12 Art Exhibition - Artists: Aquinas Students K-12. Front Gallery and Balcony Gallery: April 10, 2014 – April 19, 2014. Reception: April 11, 2014, 5-7 pm. Aquinas Catholic School K-12 students display their talents with an imaginative collection of selected works in paint, print, plaster, and much more. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse. Apr 11 Black River Bar & Grill Comedy Night – 8:30 pm, Black River Bar & Grill at the Best Western Riverfront Hotel. Bust a gut with class act comedians each Friday night! This evening of laughs is brought to you by 95.7 The Rock. Admission is only $8 per person. For more information, call 608-781-7070. Apr 11 Welcome Spring: Chamber Chorale Concert – 7:30 pm, Holmen Lutheran Church, 228 Morris Street, Holmen, WI. The La Crosse Chamber Chorale April concerts, presented on Palm Sunday weekend, include Weelkes’s “Hosanna to the Son of David,” Palestrina’s famous setting of “Stabat Mater Dolorosa,” and “The Wise Thief” from Grechaninov’s Passion Week. For more information call 608-780-6107 or visit www.chamberchorale.org

Apr 11 Spring Fling. Visit your favorite Downtown businesses during their extended hours to discover new spring trends, products,fashions, foods and fun! Enjoy refreshments, savings and events! lacrossedowntown.com Apr 12 A Place for Us – Cantus Vocal Ensemble – 7:30 pm, Viterbo University. Acclaimed as “the premier men’s vocal ensemble in the United States” (Fanfare), Cantus is known worldwide for its trademark warmth and blend and its engaging performances of music ranging from the Renaissance to the 21st century. Tickets are $35/ Main Floor, $31/Lower Balcony, and $26/Upper Balcony. Viterbo Fine Arts Center, 900 Viterbo Drive, La Crosse, WI. For more information, call 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets April 12 Annual La Crosse Public Library Edible Book Fest. South Community Library. 1307 South 16th Street, La Crosse. 608-789-7103 www.lacrosselibrary.org/branches/south.asp Apr 12 The Great Alphabet Adventure– Performance Times: 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. To purchase ticket by phone, please call 608-785-8522 beginning Monday, April 7, 2014. After a rainy day at school, Alex comes home excited to play video games, but suddenly the power goes out leaving a book as his only entertainment. Zora, a new girl next door is determined to go on an adventure. Frederick Theatre, Morris Hall, UW-La Crosse. For more information call 608-785-6701 or visit www.uwlax. edu/theatre Apr 12 Live Music “OZ” – 8:00 pm – 12:00 am, Black River Bar & Grill. Visit the Best Western Riverfront Hotel each Saturday evening for live music by local and regional artists. Things kick off at 8:00 pm and wrap up at midnight. Bring a friend and wear your dancing shoes! For more information, call 608-781-7070. Apr 13 Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed – 3:00 pm, Viterbo University. Going shopping…baking cakes…sitting in trees… JUMPING ON BEDS! In this zany play, five frisky sibling monkeys get into all kinds of mischief as they try to bake a surprise birthday cake, go shopping for clothes, have a picnic, climb a tree and so much more. Featuring colorful costumes, music, and fun, each of the monkeys displays their own unique style while driving Mama Monkey crazy. Viterbo Fine Arts Center, 900 Viterbo Drive, La Crosse, WI. For more information, call 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets Apr 13 Welcome Spring: Chamber Chorale Concert – 3:00 pm, First Presbyterian Church, West Avenue and Cass Street, La Crosse. The La Crosse Chamber Chorale April concerts, presented on Palm Sunday weekend, include Weelkes’s “Hosanna to the Son of David,” Palestrina’s famous setting of “Stabat Mater Dolorosa,” and “The Wise Thief” from Grechaninov’s Passion Week. For more information call 608-780-6107 or visit chamberchorale.org.

50 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

Apr 18 Black River Bar & Grill Comedy Night – 8:30 pm, Black River Bar & Grill at the Best Western Riverfront Hotel. Bust a gut with class act comedians each Friday night! This evening of laughs is brought to you by 95.7 The Rock. Admission is only $8 per person. For more information, call 608-781-7070. Apr 21-22 STOMP – 7:30 pm, Viterbo University. STOMP is explosive, inventive, provocative, witty, and utterly unique – an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation uses everything but conventional percussion instruments – matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps – to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. Viterbo Fine Arts Center, 900 Viterbo Drive, La Crosse, WI. For more information, call 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets Apr 24 World’s Largest Office Party - La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza. 608-789-7400 www.worldslargestofficeparty.com Apr 25 Johnsmith with Dan Sebranek Music from the heart! These Heider Center favorites return for a magical evening of musical storytelling. Johnsmith's well-crafted songs and earthy voice and singer-songwriter Dan Sebranek's versatile acoustic blend of folk, jazz, bluegrass and swing deliver a dynamite package of quality original music. Time: 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $18 all ages, general admission. Heider Center for the Arts, 405 East Hamlin Street, West Salem. For more information, call 608-786-2550 or visit www.heidercenter.org Apr 25 Black River Bar & Grill Comedy Night – 8:30 pm, Black River Bar & Grill at the Best Western Riverfront Hotel. Bust a gut with class act comedians each Friday night! This evening of laughs is brought to you by 95.7 The Rock. Admission is only $8 per person. For more information, call 608-781-7070. Apr 25-May 4 The Metal Children – Performance Times: April 25-26 & May 1-3: 7:30pm, and April 27 & May 4: 2:00pm. Tickets go on sale beginning Monday, April 21 at 1:00 p.m. In small-town America, a young adult novel about teen pregnancy is banned by the local school board, igniting a fierce and violent debate over abortion, religious beliefs, and modern feminism. Toland Theatre, Center for the Arts, UW-La Crosse. For more information call 608-785-6701 or visit www.uwlax.edu/theatre Apr 26 Between the Bluffs Beer, Wine, and Cheese Festival – An afternoon of unlimited sampling featuring the country’s best craft breweries! Grounds open from 2-6 pm, with early VIP entrance at 12:30 pm. Located at the South Oktoberfest Grounds. This is an annual fundraiser for the La Crosse Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, benefitting additional local non-profit groups. For more information, call 800-658-9424 or visit www.betweenthebluffsbeerfest.com. Apr 26 Annual Multiple Sclerosis Walk La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza. 608-789-7400 www.lacrossecenter.com

Apr 26 Hotel California – The Original Tribute to the Eagles – 7:30 pm, Viterbo University. As the original tribute to the Eagles, Hotel California prides itself on creating the illusion that you are listening to the actual Eagles. Viterbo Fine Arts Center, 900 Viterbo Drive, La Crosse, WI. For more information, call 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets Apr 26 Western Technical College Graduation – La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, La Crosse. 608-789-7400, www.lacrossecenter.com Apr 26 Lung Bustin' Justin 5K Trail Race – Justin Trails Resort, Sparta. The 2nd Annual Event, featuring challenging, steep hills and great fun! To register and for more information, call 608-269-4522 or visit justintrails.com Apr 26 La Crosse Speedway Frostbuster Races – Gates open at 6:00 pm, qualifying begins at 6:15 pm, and the first race begins at 7:30 pm. Featuring racing action by Late Models, Sportsmen, and Thunderstox. For more information, call 608-786-1525 or visit www.lacrossespeedway.com. Apr 27 Earth Fair 2014 – 11:00 am – 5:00 pm at Myrick Hixon EcoPark. Enjoy children’s activities, live music, and tons of fun for the whole family! For more information, call 608-784-0440 or visit www.earthfairlacrosse.org Apr 28 Missoula Children’s Theatre Auditions for K-12 Students - Time: 4:00 pm. Place: Marie W. Heider Center for the Arts, 405 East Hamlin Street, West Salem, WI 54669. For more information, call 608-786-2550 or visit www.heidercenter.org

MAY 2014 May 1-4 The Metal Children – Performance Times: April 25-26 & May 1-3: 7:30pm, and April 27 & May 4: 2:00pm. Tickets go on sale beginning Monday, April 21 at 1:00 p.m. (Early season subscriber reservations begin Monday, April 14). In small-town America, a young adult novel about teen pregnancy is banned by the local school board, igniting a fierce and violent debate over abortion, religious beliefs, and modern feminism. Toland Theatre, Center for the Arts, UW-La Crosse. For more information call 608-785-6701 or visit www.uwlax.edu/theatre May 2 Black River Bar & Grill Comedy Night – 8:30 pm, Black River Bar & Grill at the Best Western Riverfront Hotel. Bust a gut with class act comedians each Friday night! This evening of laughs is brought to you by 95.7 The Rock. Admission is only $8 per person. For more information, call 608-781-7070. May 2-3 Festival Foods Grandad Half Marathon - This is a two-day celebration that gives area residents and visitors from across the country an opportunity to enjoy outdoor events amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of Grandad Bluff and the Mississippi River Valley. The wide range of activities--from a half marathon to a 5-kilometer run/walk, youth events and cycling events--offers challenges to both experienced and novice athletes. Proceeds from the Festival Foods Grandad Half Marathon are donated to

the St. Clare Health Mission, Youth Enrichment Association, and Special Recreation of La Crosse. 608-789-7304, festivalfoodsgrandadhalf.com May 2-Jun 6 Downtown Walk Around The Downtown Walk-Around is an event to increase awareness of downtown businesses and to promote a healthy lifestyle. Anyone may participate in the program by obtaining a Downtown Walk-Around card and walking into participating businesses to receive a stamp. Once the card is filled you are eligible to win fabulous downtown prizes after the culmination of the event. Kickoff is at 5:00 p.m. May 3rd at Cameron Park. For more information, call 608-784-0440 or visit www.lacrossedowntown.com May 2-Jun 28 La Crosse Compassion Project - Artists: La Crosse Area School District Students. Kader, Front and Balcony Galleries Exhibition: May 2, 2014 – June 28, 2014. Reception: To Be Announced. The La Crosse Compassion Project is a community art project involving over 6,000 La Crosse School District K-12 art students. In fall 2013, participating students received a 6-inchby-6-inch art panel to draw or paint their idea of compassion. The project aspires to teach the practice of compassion through the use of art and writing. Collectively, more than 6,000 art panels will be installed in the Pump House Regional Arts Center galleries, on view for the public, May 2 – June 28, 2014. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse. May 3 Missoula Children’s Theatre –“Beauty Lou and The Country Beast” - A truck from Missoula Children's Theatre (MCT) arrives in West Salem with everything required to mount a fullscale musical — except the cast. And just five days later, MCT staff and kids from the community will present two outstanding performances of Beauty Lou and The Country Beast, produced by Missoula Children’s Theatre. Time: 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Tickets: General Admission - $6. Heider Center for the Arts, 405 East Hamlin Street, West Salem. For more information, call 608-786-2550 or visit www.heidercenter.org May 3 Norskedalen’s May Membership Madness - Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center, N455 O Ophus Road, Coon Valley. 608-452-3424, www.norskedalen.org May 5-6 Circus – La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, La Crosse. Enjoy performing elephants, clowns, tricks and more! For tickets and more information, call 608-789-7400 or visit www.lacrossecenter.com May 9 Black River Bar & Grill Comedy Night – 8:30 pm, Black River Bar & Grill at the Best Western Riverfront Hotel. Bust a gut with class act comedians each Friday night! This evening of laughs is brought to you by 95.7 The Rock. Admission is only $8 per person. For more information, call 608-781-7070. May 9 La Crosse Speedway Monster Energy Drink Street Drags – Practice begins at 6:45pm, Brackets at 7:30pm. Race your own car in sideby-side drag racing! Featuring over 15 different brackets. Other activities include Burnout

Contest, Shine N’ Show Contest, and Jumpstart Motorcycle Ride Experience! La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, N4985 County Road M, West Salem, WI 54669. 608-786-1525, www.lacrossespeedway.com May 10 Viterbo University Graduation – La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, La Crosse. 608-789-7400, www.lacrossecenter.com May 10 Weinerfest. Oktoberfest Grounds 2pm-midnight. www.wienerfestlacrosse.com May 11 University of Wisconsin La Crosse Graduation - La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, La Crosse. 10am and 2pm. 608-789-7400, www.lacrossecenter.com May 15-18 Chicago & North Western Historical Society Meet – Days Hotel, La Crosse. The C&NWHS is a non-profit organization which works to maintain the history of the Chicago & North Western Railroad, which served La Crosse from 1871 to 1987. Each year a four day "Meet" visits a city that was formerly on the North Western Line. Information about the organization and the meet may be obtained at www.cnwhs.org/. May 16 Black River Bar & Grill Comedy Night – 8:30 pm, Black River Bar & Grill at the Best Western Riverfront Hotel. Bust a gut with class act comedians each Friday night! This evening of laughs is brought to you by 95.7 The Rock. Admission is only $8 per person. For more information, call 608-781-7070. May 16-18 Syttende Mai Festival – Located in Westby, WI. This Norwegian festival celebrates the “17th of May.” Arts & crafts fair and smorgasbord. For more information, call 866-493-7829 or visit http://www.westbysyttendemai.com/. May 17 La Crosse Speedway Races – Gates open at 6:00 pm, qualifying begins at 6:15 pm, and the first race begins at 7:30 pm. Featuring racing action by Late Models, Sportsmen, and Thunderstox. For more information, call 608-786-1525 or visit www.lacrossespeedway.com. May 17 Trempealeau Hotel’s Reggae Fest. 2-11pm. Jamaican music, indoor/outdoor bars, arts & crafts. 608-534-6898. www.trempealeauhotel.com May 18 Apple Blossom Bike Tour – Registration at 7:00am, Ride begins at 8:30am. Great scenic loops starting with a big climb out of La Crescent along the scenic APPLE BLOSSOM DRIVE. If the timing is right, you will be greeted with blossoming apple trees in the area’s many orchards. After riding along one of the few blufftop roads that overlook the Mississippi River, you descend into the Pine Creek Valley (one of the area’s many fine trout streams) for the rolling ride back to La Crescent. Those opting for the longer route stay on top of the bluff longer and descend into the Root River Valley before turning at Hokah

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 51

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

(continued)

for another big climb and more great bluff-top riding before descending into Brownsville for the return along the Mississippi River Valley to La Crescent, MN. More information: www.appleblossomtour.org

May 30-Jun 1 June Dairy Days – This annual event is held at the West Salem Village Park. Featuring rides, food, entertainment, fireworks and fun! For more information, visit www.junedairydays.com.

May 18 War Eagle Day in Riverside Park. Explore the history of this sunken treasure. 608-782-1980. www.lchsweb.org

May 30-Jun 1 Gundersen Cup – This annual soccer tournament is held at the Fields for Kids, 2500 Hauser Street, La Crosse. For more information, contact David Amborn at 608-3174712 or email djamborn@gundersenhealth.org. Visit www.gundersenhealth.org/foundation

May 18 Rverside Family Fun Fair Celebrating National Tourism Week. Noon-4pm, Riverside Park. Food, games, exhibits, & more! 800-658-9424 explorelacrosse.com May 23 Black River Bar & Grill Comedy Night – 8:30 pm, Black River Bar & Grill at the Best Western Riverfront Hotel. Bust a gut with class act comedians each Friday night! This evening of laughs is brought to you by 95.7 The Rock. Admission is only $8 per person. For more information, call 608-781-7070. May 23 Central High School Graduation La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, 608-789-7400, www.lacrossecenter.com May 24 Holmen High School & Logan High School Graduations - La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza. 608-789-7400, www.lacrossecenter.com May 27 La Crosse Loggers vs. Wisconsin Woodchucks Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. May 28 La Crosse Loggers vs. Wisconsin Woodchucks Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com.

May 31 La Crosse Loggers vs. Green Bay Bullfrogs Baseball Game – 6:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. May 31 La Crosse Speedway Races – Gates open at 6:00 pm, qualifying begins at 6:15 pm, and the first race begins at 7:30 pm. Featuring racing action by Late Models, Sportsmen, and Thunderstox. For more information, call 608-7861525 or visit www.lacrossespeedway.com. May 31-Jun 1 YWCA GardenFest- 9:00 am 4:00 pm, South Oktoberfest Grounds. Bringing gardeners and suppliers together! For more information, call 608-781-2783 or visit www.ywcagardenfest.com. May 31-June 1 Deke Slayton Airfest-La Crosse Municipal Airport. Featuring the United States Navy Blue Angels. www.airfest.com

JUNE 2014 Jun 1 La Crosse Loggers vs. Green Bay Bullfrogs Baseball Game – 5:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com.

Jun 1-28 La Crosse Compassion Project Featuring Artists: La Crosse Area School District Students. Kader, Front and Balcony Galleries Exhibition: May 2, 2014 – June 28, 2014. Reception: To Be Announced. The La Crosse Compassion Project is a community art project involving over 6,000 La Crosse School District K-12 art students. In fall 2013, participating students received a 6-inch-by-6-inch art panel to draw or paint their idea of compassion. The project aspires to teach the practice of compassion through the use of art and writing. Collectively, more than 6,000 art panels will be installed in the Pump House Regional Arts Center galleries, on view for the public, May 2 – June 28, 2014. Beginning in May 2014, site visitors will be able to view high-resolution images of the completed art panels online, along with a brief artist description. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse. Jun 2 La Crosse Loggers vs. Wisconsin Woodchucks Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jun 3 La Crosse Loggers vs. Wisconsin Woodchucks Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jun 5-8 Butterfest Celebration-Sparta Featuring a carnival, live music, quilt show, classic car show, and parade on Sunday. For more information, call 800-354-2453 or visit www.spartabutterfest.com. Jun 6 La Crosse Loggers vs. Kenosha King Fish Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com.

Celebrate the “4th” at Riverfest in La Crosse Riverfest 2014 welcomes you and your family to Riverside Park on the Mississippi River. A family festival offering continuous entertainment, children’s activities, great food and the La Crosse Jaycees fireworks. Join us for this 4-day celebration over the 4th of July. Riverfest, Inc . • P.O. Box 1745 • La Crosse,WI 54601 (608) 782-6000 • Fax (608) 784-1580

www.riverfestlacrosse.com 52 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

2014 July 2–July 5 at Riverside Park on the Mississippi

Jun 6-7 WIAA State Track & Field Championships – Veterans Memorial Field Sports Complex, UW-La Crosse. The best athletes from across the state will compete in La Crosse at the annual WIAA State Track & Field Championships! This high-energy event is open to the public. Admission fees apply. For more information, visit www.wiaawi.org Jun 7 La Crosse Loggers vs. Kenosha King Fish Baseball Game – 6:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jun 7 La Crosse Speedway Races – Gates open at 6:00 pm, qualifying begins at 6:15 pm, and the first race begins at 7:30 pm. Featuring racing action by Late Models, Sportsmen, and Thunderstox. For more information, call 608-7861525 or visit www.lacrossespeedway.com. Jun 8 La Crosse Loggers vs. Wisconsin Rapids Rafters Baseball Game – 5:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jun 9 La Crosse Loggers vs. Wisconsin Rapids Rafters Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jun 10 Celebrate Life Cancer Survivors Picnic La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, 608-789-7400, www.lacrossecenter.com

Jun 11 “Concerts in the Park” La Crosse Concert Band Performance - Join the La Crosse Concert Band for their 97th season of free summer concerts in Riverside Park, featuring the finest area musicians presenting traditional band music for your listening pleasure. Enjoy the unique riverfront setting on the Mighty Mississippi! Concerts begin at 7:30pm, with a rain location at Central High School. For more information, call 608-784-7555 or visit www.lacrosseconcertband.org.

Jun 13 La Crosse Speedway Monster Energy Drink Street Drags – Practice begins at 6:45pm, Brackets at 7:30pm. Race your own car in side-by-side drag racing! Featuring over 15 different brackets. Other activities include Burnout Contest, Shine N’ Show Contest, and Jumpstart Motorcycle Ride Experience! La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, N4985 County Road M, West Salem, WI 54669. 608-786-1525, lacrossespeedway.com

Jun 12 Crescent Printing Golf Outing – 1:30 pm Shotgun Start. Nine Holes at Drugan’s Castle Mound. $50 per golfer, $200.00 perteam. Contacts: Monica Oliver, 608-791-5066. Brenda Maier, 608- 791-5054. E-mail: moliver@crescentprinting.com. Website: www.crescentprinting.com. Nine hole, best ball tournament with all proceeds to benefit the Children’s Miracle Network.

Jun 14 Freedom Fest Air Show & Veterans Memorial Ride – For more information, call 608-779-9994 or freedomfestlacrosse.com.

Jun 12 La Crosse Loggers vs. Battle Creek Bombers Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jun 13 La Crosse Loggers vs. Battle Creek Bombers Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com.

Jun 13-14 Artspire La Crosse Performances, visual arts, demonstrations and activities for children. artspirelacrosse.com

Jun 14 La Crosse Speedway Smash-O-Rama! – The fun begins at 7:30pm. Featuring Monster Truck Madness, Thunderstox, Hornets, Figure-8 Race and much more thrills, stunts and fun! La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, N4985 County Road M, West Salem, WI 54669. 608-786-1525, www.lacrossespeedway.com Jun 18 “Concerts in the Park” La Crosse Concert Band Performance - Join the La Crosse Concert Band for their 97th season of free summer concerts in Riverside Park, featuring the finest area musicians presenting traditional band music for your listening pleasure. Enjoy the unique

Join Us!

April 26, 2014

at the Oktoberfest Grounds

BEER • WINE • CHEESE FESTIVAL

Join us Saturday, April 26th, 2014. Must be 21 or older to attend, no exceptions Tickets include 2 souvenier tasting glasses. Beer,Wine, and cheese samples will be available from over 70 vendors.Vote for the best of show in each category. Tickets go on sale March 14th • 2014

Live Music • Food Pavillion & More!

betweenthebluffsbeerfest.com

800.658.9424 800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 53

CALENDAR OF EVENTS (continued)

riverfront setting on the Mighty Mississippi! Concerts begin at 7:30pm, with a rain location at Central High School. For more information, call 608-784-7555 or visit www.lacrosseconcertband.org. Jun 18 La Crosse Loggers vs. Alexandria Blue Anchors Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jun 19 Festival Foods Wine & Beer Tasting – 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm, at the Cargill Room, Riverside Center South, 328 Front Street, La Crosse. Festival Foods invites you to its everpopular Wine & Beer Tasting event to benefit Steppin’ Out in Pink,Thursday, June 19, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Festival Foods and Gundersen Medical Foundation are pleased to present this 7th annual event at a beautiful venue along the river—the Cargill Room at Riverside Center South, 332 Front Street, La Crosse. Tickets can be purchased at all Festival Foods locations— La Crosse - Copeland, La Crosse - Village Onalaska, and Holmen. You can also purchase tickets at Gundersen Medical Foundation, 3rd floor of the Clinic in La Crosse, Gundersen Credit Union or online at www.steppinoutinpink.org . Questions? Contact Steppin’ Out in Pink at 608-775-7465 or steppinout@gundersenhealth.org. Jun 19 La Crosse Loggers vs. Alexandria Blue Anchors Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jun 20 La Crosse Loggers vs. Kalamazoo Growlers Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jun 21 La Crosse Loggers vs. Kalamazoo Growlers Baseball Game – 6:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jun 21 La Crosse Speedway Races – Gates open at 6:00 pm, qualifying begins at 6:15 pm, and the first race begins at 7:30 pm. Featuring racing action by Late Models, Sportsmen, and Thunderstox. For more information, call 608-786-1525 or visit www.lacrossespeedway.com. Jun 21-22 Norskedalen’s Midsummer Fest - 608-452-3424 www.norskedalen.org Scandinavian-style celebration with fun, food and festivities for the whole family. Sat 8am-6:30pm and Sun 10am-4pm the grounds are filled with old-time demonstrations, Norwegian arts and crafts, wagon rides, children’s activities and delicious food. Norskedalen Nature and Heritage Center, 3 miles north of Coon Valley on Hwy PI.

Jun 22 Handbell Musicians of America Area 7 Festival Concert –1:30 pm. Hundreds of Handbell Musicians unite to create beautiful music at the La Crosse Convention Center. A free will offering will be collected and given to WAFER a La Crosse area charity. JoBeth Ranfranz, Area 7 Festival Chair. 612-859-0423 www.areaviiagehr.org Jun 25 La Crosse Area Day at Miller Park Enjoy this bus trip to Miller Park and watch the Milwaukee Brewers take on the Washington Nationals! Tickets are $80/person and include transportation and tailgate party. 608-782-2366 www.lacrosseareaday.com Jun 25 “Concerts in the Park” La Crosse Concert Band Performance - Join the La Crosse Concert Band for their 97th season of free summer concerts in Riverside Park, featuring the finest area musicians presenting traditional band music for your listening pleasure. Enjoy the unique riverfront setting on the Mighty Mississippi! Concerts begin at 7:30pm, with a rain location at Central High School. For more information, call 608-784-7555 or visit www.lacrosseconcertband.org. Jun 26 La Crosse Loggers vs. Wisconsin Rapids Rafters Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jun 27 La Crosse Loggers vs. Wisconsin Rapids Rafters Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jun 28 La Crosse Speedway Races – Gates open at 6:00 pm, qualifying begins at 6:15 pm, and the first race begins at 7:30 pm. Featuring racing action by Late Models, Sportsmen, and Thunderstox. For more information, call 608-786-1525 or visit www.lacrossespeedway.com. Jun 30 La Crosse Loggers vs. Madison Mallards Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com.

JULY Jul 2 La Crosse Loggers vs. Green Bay Bullfrogs Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jul 3 Walk a Mile in Her Shoes – 6:00 pm, Riverside Park. "Walk a Mile in Her Shoes®," is a march against domestic violence. Men are challenged to put on high heel shoes and walk a mile around Riverside Park. Women can be "Sole Sisters" and show support by walking alongside the men. For details and to register, go to www.walkamilelacrosse.org or contact David Amborn, co-chair of the walk, at 608-775-4712.

54 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

Jul 3 La Crosse Speedway Star Spangled Spectacular! – Featuring Late Models, Sportsmen, Thunderstox, plus a HUGE FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA! Special event pricing applies. La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, N4985 County Road M, West Salem, WI 54669. 608-786-1525, www.lacrossespeedway.com. Jul 3 La Crosse Loggers vs. Green Bay Bullfrogs Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jul 2-5 Riverfest - Riverside Park. River activities including River City Water Ski Shows, top name entertainment and continuous events. Fireworks, food, beverages, crafts, and music. 608-782-6000. www.riverfestlacrosse.com. Jul 5 Big Blue Dragon Boat Races –Join us for the 2nd annual Big Blue Dragon Boat race sponsored by Mayo Clinic Health Systems Franciscan Healthcare as we celebrate breast cancer survivors. All procedes from race benefit the Center for Breast Care at Mayo Clinic Health System - Franciscan Healthcare in La Crosse. Area women served by programs on breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and survivorship will benefit from the funds raised. For more information, please contact Sandy Bissen at 608-392-9466 or via email at bissen.cassandra@mayo.edu. Jul 5 La Crosse Speedway Races – Gates open at 6:00 pm, qualifying begins at 6:15 pm, and the first race begins at 7:30 pm. Featuring racing action by Late Models, Sportsmen, and Thunderstox. For more information, call 608-786-1525 or visit lacrossespeedway.com. Jul 6 Norskedalen’s Art Fair on the Farm & Ice Cream Social - 608-452-3424 Free admission for the day to our open-air museum. Stroll the grounds and visit with families who lived in the various log homes, play lawn games, enjoy a live auction of antiques and other items. Half mile west of Coon Valley, WI. 10am-4pm, Skumsrud Heritage Farm, just outside of Coon Valley on Hwy 14/61 www.norskedalen.org Jul 6 La Crosse Loggers vs. Battle Creek Bombers Baseball Game – 5:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jul 7 La Crosse Loggers vs. Battle Creek Bombers Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jul 9 “Concerts in the Park” La Crosse Concert Band Performance - Join the La Crosse Concert Band for their 97th season of free summer concerts in Riverside Park. Enjoy the unique riverfront setting on the Mighty Mississippi! Concerts begin at 7:30pm, with a rain location at Central High School. For more information, call 608-784-7555 or visit www.lacrosseconcertband.org. Jul 11 La Crosse Speedway Monster Energy Drink Street Drags – Practice begins at 6:45pm, Brackets at 7:30pm. Race your own car in side-by-side drag racing! Featuring over

15 different brackets. Other activities include Burnout Contest, Shine N’ Show Contest, and Jumpstart Motorcycle Ride Experience! La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, N4985 County Road M, West Salem, WI 54669. 608-786-1525, www.lacrossespeedway.com Jul 11-13 Trempealeau Catfish Days. Catfish sandwiches, food, music, flea market, arts & crafts. 608-534-6335 www.trempealeau.net Jul 12 Ice Cream Social at the Hixon House On the corner of 7th & Badger streets. Music, games and family fun. Free admission. 608-782-1980 www.lchsweb.org Jul 12 La Crosse Loggers vs. Kenosha King Fish Baseball Game – 6:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jul 12 La Crosse Speedway Races – Gates open at 6:00 pm, qualifying begins at 6:15 pm, and the first race begins at 7:30 pm. Featuring racing action by Late Models, Sportsmen, and Thunderstox. For more information, call 608-786-1525 or visit www.lacrossespeedway.com. Jul 13 La Crosse Loggers vs. Kenosha King Fish Baseball Game – 5:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com.

Jul 16-Sep 6 Musings - Artist: Jill Rippe. Front Gallery Exhibition: July 16, 2014 – September 6, 2014. Reception: July 18, 2014, 5-7 PM. Jill believes a completed work of art is a pause in the stream of ideas that flow through an artist’s mind. ”Musings” is about that flow – representing drawings and sculptures before and after her creation of the “4 Muses” design etched in brick on the Weber Center for the Performing Arts building. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse. Jul 19 La Crosse Loggers vs. Lakeshore Chinooks Baseball Game – 6:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jul 19 La Crosse Speedway Races – Gates open at 6:00 pm, qualifying begins at 6:15 pm, and the first race begins at 7:30 pm. Featuring racing action by Late Models, Sportsmen, and Thunderstox. For more information, call 608-786-1525 or visit lacrossespeedway.com. Jul 19 Drums for Peace – Justin Trails Resort, Sparta. Enjoy a Community Drum Circle, facilitated by Jeff Cozy. This event featuresdrumming with people of all ages from beginners to experienced players. The main bbjective: Share rhythm and form a collective voice as we drum together and have fun. For more information, call 608-269-4522 or visit http://justintrails.com

Jul 16 “Concerts in the Park” La Crosse Concert Band Performance - Join the La Crosse Concert Band for their 97th season of free summer concerts in Riverside Park. Enjoy the unique riverfront setting on the Mighty Mississippi! Concerts begin at 7:30pm, with a rain location at Central High School. For more information, call 608-784-7555 or visit www.lacrosseconcertband.org.

July 19 Rail Fair Copeland Park – 10am-5pm. Railroad show, flea market, swap meet and tours. $5.00 admission. 608-781-9383. www.4000foundation.com

Jul 16-20 La Crosse Interstate Fair West Salem. Family fun, 4-H exhibits, music, food, auto races & carnival rides. Free admission. 608-788-5506

Jul 20 St. Elias Mediterranean Festival – 12:00 pm-5:00 pm. It will be a wonderful afternoon with delicious food, fun and entertainment. Admission is free. Location to be determined. 608-782-8641 www.stelias-lacrosse.org

Jul 16-Sep 9 Doubletake: Save the eARTh Sale - The Pump House offers two ways to ‘go green’ with the annual Doubletake: Save the eARTh Art Sale. First, bring in your long-loved original art pieces that have become storage items and donate them to the Pump House. Second, visit the gallery and find “new” treasures for your home or office. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse. Jul 16-Sep 6 With New Eyes - Artist: Jeff Rennicke. Kader Gallery Exhibition: July 16, 2014 – September 6, 2014. Reception: July 18, 2014, 5-7 PM. “With New Eyes” features the work of Jeff Rennicke, former writer for National Geographic Traveler and Reader’s Digest. He encourages the viewer, through beauty and creativity, to “have new eyes” rather than see new landscapes. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse.

Jul 20 La Crosse Loggers vs. Lakeshore Chinooks Baseball Game – 5:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com.

Jul 23 “Concerts in the Park” La Crosse Concert Band Performance - Join the La Crosse Concert Band for their 97th season of free summer concerts in Riverside Park. Enjoy the unique riverfront setting on the Mighty Mississippi! Concerts begin at 7:30pm, with a rain location at Central High School. For more information, call 608-784-7555 or visit www.lacrosseconcertband.org. Jul 24-26 Krazy Daze! - Eye popping, sidewalk savings! Deals start at 8 a.m. Come downtown and dance the night away. We close off the 100 block of King Street for music, dancing, food and fun! For more information, call 608-784-0440 or visit www.lacrossedowntown.com

Jul 26 Gundersen Health System Wellness Fest – La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, La Crosse. Gundersen is proud to announce Wellness Fest 2014! This will be a special day where we create a multi-generational community wellness event. The event will also feature a "Kids Corner" where parents can interact and play with their children. For more information, contact Shayna Schertz at 608-775-3885 or email slschert@gundluth.org Jul 26 La Crosse Loggers vs. Willmar Stingers Baseball Game – 6:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jul 26 La Crosse Speedway Races – Gates open at 6:00 pm, qualifying begins at 6:15 pm, and the first race begins at 7:30 pm. Featuring racing action by Late Models, Sportsmen, and Thunderstox. For more information, call 608-786-1525 or visit www.lacrossespeedway.com. Jul 26-27 AAUW Art Fair on the GreenUW-La Crosse Campus, 16th & State Streets. Over 100 artists of all mediums in this juried show. All proceeds go to local scholarships. $4 for both days. Saturday 10-5, Sunday 10-4. For more information, call 608-788-7439 or email pstaupe@centurytel.net Jul 27 La Crosse Loggers vs. Willmar Stingers Baseball Game – 5:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Jul 30 “Concerts in the Park” La Crosse Concert Band Performance - Join the La Crosse Concert Band for their 97th season of free summer concerts in Riverside ParkEnjoy the unique riverfront setting on the Mighty Mississippi! Concerts begin at 7:30pm, with a rain location at Central High School. For more information, call 608-784-7555 or visit www.lacrosseconcertband.org. Jul 30 La Crosse Loggers vs. Madison Mallards Baseball Game – 12:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com.

AUGUST Aug 1-Sep 6 With New Eyes - Artist: Jeff Rennicke. Kader Gallery Exhibition: July 16, 2014 – September 6, 2014. Reception: July 18, 2014, 5-7 PM. “With New Eyes” features the work of Jeff Rennicke, former writer for National Geographic Traveler and Reader’s Digest. He encourages the viewer, through beauty and creativity, to “have new eyes” rather than see new landscapes. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse.

Jul 25-26 Prairie Dog Blues Fest – Regional, national and international blues bands. 888-567-1567 www.prairiedogblues.com

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 55

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

(continued

Aug 1-Sep 9 Doubletake: Save the eARTh Sale - The Pump House offers two ways to ‘go green’ with the annual Doubletake: Save the eARTh Art Sale. First, bring in your long-loved original art pieces that have become storage items and donate them to the Pump House. Second, visit the gallery and find “new” treasures for your home or office. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse. Aug 2 La Crosse Loggers vs. Madison Mallards Baseball Game – 6:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Aug 2 La Crosse Speedway Races – Gates open at 6:00 pm, qualifying begins at 6:15 pm, and the first race begins at 7:30 pm. Featuring racing action by Late Models, Sportsmen, and Thunderstox. In addition to tonight’s races, don’t miss the TRAILER RACE OF DESTRUCTION! For more information, call 608-786-1525 or visit www.lacrossespeedway.com. Aug 3 La Crosse Loggers vs. Madison Mallards Baseball Game – 5:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Aug 4 La Crosse Loggers vs. Kalamazoo Growlers Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Aug 6 Riverfest Commodore Golf Outing – 12:00 pm. Trempealeau Mt. Golf Club. $100.00 per golfer - $400.00 per team. Contacts: Mark Schneider, 608-788-8510; Larry Lee, 608-788-0225; Roger Bjorge, 608-783-2750. E-mail:rbjorge@ centurytel.net. Website: www.riverfestlacrosse. com. 18 Hole Best Ball tournament to benefit the Commodore Foundation and the charities it supports. Aug 6 La Crosse Loggers vs. Kalamazoo Growlers Baseball Game – 7:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Aug 8 La Crosse Speedway Monster Energy Drink Street Drags – Practice begins at 6:45pm, Brackets at 7:30pm. Race your own car in side-by-side drag racing! Featuring over 15 different brackets. Other activities include Burnout Contest, Shine N’ Show Contest, and Jumpstart Motorcycle Ride Experience! La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, N4985 County Road M, West Salem, WI 54669. 608-786-1525, www.lacrossespeedway.com Aug 8-10 Irishfest- Held annually at the Southside Oktoberfest grounds. Celebrating Irish heritage and featuring entertainers and Irish dance shows, a Wee Folks area, tea garden, cultural tent, market, and food vendors. For more information, visit www.irishfestlax.org. Aug 9 La Crosse Loggers vs. Lakeshore Chinooks Baseball Game – 6:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com.

Aug 9 La Crosse Speedway Races – Gates open at 6:00 pm, qualifying begins at 6:15 pm, and the first race begins at 7:30 pm. Featuring racing action by Late Models, Sportsmen, and Thunderstox. For more information, call 608-786-1525 or visit www.lacrossespeedway.com. Aug 10 La Crosse Loggers vs. Lakeshore Chinooks Baseball Game – 5:05 pm, Copeland Park. For more information and tickets, call 608-796-9553 or visit www.lacrosseloggers.com. Aug 15-17 Kornfest- Located in Holmen, this annual festival features fireworks on Friday, parade on Saturday, fresh corn on the cob, music, carnival, tractor pulls, water fights, car show and swap meet. For more information, call 608-526-4444 or visit www.holmenwi.com. Aug 16 La Crosse Speedway Races – Gates open at 6:00 pm, qualifying begins at 6:15 pm, and the first race begins at 7:30 pm. Featuring racing action by Late Models, Sportsmen, and Thunderstox. For more information, call 608-786-1525 or visit www.lacrossespeedway.com. August 22-24 Great River Folk Fest – Traditional and contemporary folk music, crafts, children’s activities and dance. 608-784-3033 greatriverfolkfest.org Aug 23 Uff da Open Golf Tournament Norskedalen Nature and Heritage Center, N455 O Ophus Road, Coon Valley. 608-452-3424, www.norskedalen.org Aug 23 La Crosse Speedway Final Weekly Race of the Season – Gates open at 6:00 pm, qualifying begins at 6:15 pm, and the first race begins at 7:30 pm. Featuring racing action by Late Models, Sportsmen, and Thunderstox. For more information, call 608-786-1525 or visit www.lacrossespeedway.com. Aug 29-Sep 1 La Crosse Area Labor Day Weekend Bicycle Festival - Celebrate bicycling in the Driftless Region of Wisconsin! This FREE festival features daily roads ranging 30-100 miles, guided local tours, birding tours, ice cream rides, coffee rides and much more! For more information, call 800-658-9424 or visit www.bicyclelacrosse.com.

SEPTEMBER Sep 1-6 With New Eyes - Artist: Jeff Rennicke. Kader Gallery Exhibition: July 16, 2014 – September 6, 2014. Reception: July 18, 2014, 5-7 PM. “With New Eyes” features the work of Jeff Rennicke, former writer for National Geographic Traveler and Reader’s Digest. He encourages the viewer, through beauty and creativity, to “have new eyes” rather than see new landscapes. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse.

56 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

American Queen:

Mon. July 21.............noon- 5:00 pm Fri. July 25.........8:00 am-1:00 pm Thurs. Aug. 7.............. noon- 5:00 pm Mon. Aug, 11 .......... 8:00 am-1:00 pm Thurs. Aug. 21 ........... noon-5:00 pm Mon. Aug. 25 .......... 8:00 am-1:00 pm Thurs. Sept. 18 ............. noon-5:00 pm Mon. Sept. 22 .......... 8:00 am-1:00 pm Thur. Oct. 2 ............... noon-5:00 pm Mon. Oct. 6 ................ 8:00-1:00 pm

Queen of the Mississippi:

Thur. July 10 ...... 8:00 am-4:00 pm Mon. July 14 ..... 8:00 am-4:00 pm Thur. Aug. 7 ...... 8:00 am-4:00 pm Mon. Aug. 11 ..... 8:00 am-4:00 pm Thur. Aug. 21 ...... 8:00 am-4:00 pm Mon. Aug. 25 ...... 8:00 am-4:00 pm Thur Oct. 2 ....... 8:00 am-4:00 pm Mon. Oct. 6 ........ 8:00 am-4:00 pm Thur. Oct. 16 ........ 8:00 am-4:00 pm Mon. Oct. 20 ........ 8:00 am-4:00 pm Boats dock at Mississippi River Levee Riverside Park • Downtown La Crosse Schedule is subject to change, please call ahead. The La Crosse Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

800-658-9424 www.explorelacrosse.com

Sep 1-9 Doubletake: Save the eARTh Sale The Pump House offers two ways to ‘go green’ with the annual Doubletake: Save the eARTh Art Sale. First, bring in your long-loved original art pieces that have become storage items and donate them to the Pump House. Second, visit the gallery and find “new” treasures for your home or office. For more information, call 608-785-1434 or visit www.thepumphouse.org. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse. Sept 5 Norskedalen’s “Twilight Tour” - 3 miles north of Coon Valley on Hwy PI. 608-452-3424 Reservations Required. www.norskedalen.org Historical characters came to life as visitors follow a lantern carrying guide. Sep 5-6 La Crosse Storytelling Festival – The original Wisconsin Storytelling Festival! Fun for all ages. Includes 2 storytelling stages with national, regional and local tellers, historic, scary, personal, and humorous stories, a children's area, musicians, full menu including a pig roast and vegetarian options, book store, silent auction, juggler, magician, caricaturist, face painting. Friday night is Ghost Story night and Saturday night is Adult Cabaret night. Hours: September 5 from 6:00-9:30 pm; September 6 from 12:00-9:30 pm. For more information, call 608-797-2807 or visit www.lacrossestoryfest.com. Sep 5-7 Elvis Explosion- at the La Crosse Center. Show begins on Friday at 7:00pm, Saturday at 2:30pm and 7:00pm with finals on Sunday at 1:00pm. 608-785-7464 www.eenonline.com Sep 6 Steppin’ Out in Pink - 9am-12:30pm. Gundersen Lutheran, 1900 South Avenue, La Crosse. Walk for local breast cancer research. 5 miles walk and family fun event. *shopping *raffles *door prizes *entertainment www.steppinoutinpink.org Sep 6 EVE OF DESTRUCTION at the La Crosse Speedway – 7:00 pm. You won’t want to miss this eventful evening of excitement! Special features include the Green Mamba Jet Car, Trailer Race of Destruction, Monster Trucks, and much more! This event features special pricing; call for more information. 608-786-1525 or visit www.lacrossespeedway.com.

Sep 10 Suicide Summit – La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, La Crosse. For more information, call 608-789-7400 or visit www.lacrossecenter.com Sep 12 La Crosse Speedway Monster Energy Drink Street Drags – Practice begins at 6:45pm, Brackets at 7:30pm. Race your own car in side-by-side drag racing! Featuring over 15 different brackets. Other activities include Burnout Contest, Shine N’ Show Contest, and Jumpstart Motorcycle Ride Experience! La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, N4985 County Road M, West Salem, WI 54669. 608-786-1525, www.lacrossespeedway.com Sep 13 Discover the Silent City at Oak Grove Cemetery. 1407 La Crosse Street, La Crosse. Costumed guides lead tours while re-enactors present stories taken from historical records. www.lchsweb.org Sep 18-21 APPLEFEST – Abnet Field, 520 South 14th Street, La Crescent, MN. Celebrating its 65th anniversary in 2013, Applefest is the La Crescent community event honoring the apple harvest in the Apple Capital of Minnesota. A fun-filled weekend, Applefest has something for everyone – entertainment, refreshments, a carnival, classic car show, Arts & Crafts Fair, a Flea Market, Pancake Breakfast, and Apple Orchard Tours and Apple Pie Sales + more. The weekend culminates with the King Apple Parade on Sunday afternoon. For more information, call 507-895-2800, email info@ applefestusa.com, or visit www.applefestusa.com. Sep 20 Norskedalen’s Threshing Bee 608-452-3424 www.norskedalen.org 10am-5pm Threshing Bee in an authentic pioneer setting complete with a wide variety of demonstrations of farm and home skills. Children’s activities, horse drawn wagon rides and other animals on the farm, and don’t forget to make reservations for the mouth-watering, rib-sticking threshing dinner. 3 miles north of Coon Valley on Hwy PI. Sep 21 Western Wisconsin Country Music Association - Country & Western Dancing – 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm, Justin Trails Resort, Sparta. The Association travels to various locations within

our region, dancing. For more information, call 608-269-4522 or visit justintrails.com Sep 25-28 OKTOBERFEST - Celebrating the best of Midwest festivals here in La Crosse! This German heritage celebration offers something for everyone! Fest goers will enjoy a variety of family activities, including the Torchlight Parade and Maple Leaf Parade, carnival rides, ethnic foods, authentic German entertainment, national entertainers as well as local and regional country, pop, blues and rock groups and children’s acts. For more information, contact 608-784-3378 or visit oktoberfestusa.com. Sep 26 Oktoberfest Festmaster’s Ball La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, 608-789-7400, www.lacrossecenter.com. Sep 26-28 Warrens Cranberry Festival Warrens, WI 608-378-4200. www.cranfest.com.

OCTOBER Oct 2-5 La Crosse Speedway Oktoberfest Races - The Annual Oktoberfest Race Weekend* - Featuring 18 different divisions of racing action and excitement. Special event pricing applies. For more information, call 608-786-1525 or visit lacrossespeedway.com. Oct 4 Polka for Parkinson’s – This fundraiser will be held at the Moose Lodge on Ward Avenue in La Crosse. For more information, contact David Amborn at 608-317-4712, email djamborn@ gundersenhealth.org, or visit www. gundersenhealth.org/foundation Oct 4 Dinner at the Depot – 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, 31994 County Road 1 (Apple Blossom Drive). The Chamber of Commerce and Merchants Bank sponsor a pig roast at the historic La Crescent Depot, now located atop Apple Blossom Drive. Wagon rides, live music, beautiful views from the top of the bluffs create a magical event for the whole family. For more information, call 507-895-2800, email LaCrescent.chamber@acegroup.cc, or visit www.lacrescentmn.com.

The Midwest’s Largest German Fall Festival La Crosse Festivals, Inc. #1 Oktoberfest Strasse P.O. Box 1716 La Crosse, WI 54602-1716 (608) 784-FEST (3378) Fax (608) 782-2098

The fall festival delivering family fun! With the best of family activities including the Grande Maple Leaf Parade and the fantastic illuminated Torchlight Parade. You’ll find carnival rides, ethnic foods, authentic German entertainment, national & local and children’s acts. Rated in the top 10 Oktoberfests by USA Today in September 2000. Featured in Sept./Oct. 2005 edition of Midwest Living.

Sept. 25-28 2014

www.oktoberfestusa.com

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 57

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

(continued)

Oct 11 La Crosse Speedway Monster Energy Drink Street Drags Bracket Nationals – Practice begins at 6:45pm, Brackets at 7:30pm. Race your own car in side-by-side drag racing! Featuring over 15 different brackets. Other activities include Burnout Contest, Shine N’ Show Contest, and Jumpstart Motorcycle Ride Experience! La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, N4985 County Road M, West Salem, WI 54669. 608-786-1525, www.lacrossespeedway.com Oct 11 Downtown Mainstreet Historic Downtown Day. Premier family event showcasing downtown. 608-784-0440 www.lacrossedowntown.com Oct 11-12 Norskedalen’s Civil War Heritage Weekend - 608-452-3424 www.norskedalen.org 10am-5pm Experience life during the Civil War as Company B 2nd WI Civil War Re-Enactors and other units bring history alive. Stroll the grounds and see the daily life of the soldiers and the families. At 1pm watch the battle unfold. 3 miles north of Coon Valley on Hwy PI. Oct 23-25 Norskedalen Ghoulees in the Coulees - 608-452-3424 www.norskedalen.org Reservations REQUIRED. Call after Labor Day. Unforgettable haunted hike through the woods. Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center, N455 O Ophus Road, Coon Valley, WI 54623. Oct 25 Norskedalen’s Pumpkin Walk - Enjoy a no-scare walk through the woods viewing the 400 jack-o-lanterns carved and lit by Norskedalen volunteers! This evening is especially nice for young families, scaredy cats and those that don’t need the heart-pounding thrill of goblins. Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center, N455 O Ophus Road, Coon Valley, WI 54623. 608-452-3424 www.norskedalen.org

Oct 25 Trick or Treating – Downtown La Crosse.

NOVEMBER Nov 7-8 Championship Bull Riding & Bull Fighting Extravaganza - La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza. 608-789-7400 www.lacrossecenter.com Nov 7 Holiday Open House Downtown La Crosse. Nov 20-23 Holiday Fair & Craft Show - La Crosse Center 608-789-7400 www.lacrossecenter.com Thu:Noon-9 Fri:Noon-9 Sat:9-6 Sun:11-3 Nov 27 La Crosse Community Thanksgiving Dinner - An Interfaith endeavor put on by volunteers for all people of the Coulee Region at the La Crosse Center; An expression and an action of celebrating community and giving thanks for the blessings we have; An inclusive event where everyone is invited to enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner at no cost and share the day with others; An experience that brings diverse people together promoting awareness, understanding and community building; and Made possible through the generosity of caring individuals, students, organizations, churches, businesses foundations & artists; A celebration of all that is good about community life in the Coulee Region. For more information, call 608-782-4483 or visit www.lacrossecenter.com. Nov 27 Festival Foods Turkey Trot - Stay active and healthy this Thanksgiving by participating in the 5 mile run or the 2 mile walk. Event starts at La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza. For more information, call 608-789-7400 or visit www.lacrossecenter.com

Nov 28-Dec 31 Rotary Holiday Lights- More than TWO MILLION lights illuminate La Crosse’s Riverside Park from 5-10 daily. Among the splendor is a 140-foot Christmas tree, and animated light displays fill the park. Live nativity presentation on weekends until Christmas. Santa is here until Christmas Eve. For more information, call 800-658-9424 or visit www.rotarylights.org.

DECEMBER Dec 1-31 Rotary Holiday Lights Continue! www.rotarylights.org Dec 6-7 Norskedalen’s Old Fashioned Christmas - 608-452-3424 www.norskedalen.org 10am-4pm. Timeless sounds, smells and traditions of old. Activities and delicious holiday treats throughout the beautifully decorated buildings and grounds. 3 miles north of Coon Valley on Hwy PI. Dec 14 UW-L Graduation – La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, La Crosse. 608-789-7400, www.lacrossecenter.com Dec 29-30 Bi-State Wrestling Tournament – La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, La Crosse. 608-789-7400. www.lacrossecenter.com Dec 31 Happy NOON Year from the Children’s Museum! - Welcome the new year a little early with a noisy countdown to noon! Activities included with Museum admission. Children’ Museum, 207 5th Ave S, La Crosse, WI. 608-784-2652, www.funmuseum.org Dec 31 Skyrockers New Year’s Eve Fireworks Display - From atop Grandad Bluff since 1929, this is the longest running community sponsored fireworks display in the U.S. Show times are 6pm and Midnight. www.skyrockers.org

A MILLION MISSISSIPPI REFLECTIONS

Admission is FREE.

2014

608.784.9993 800.658.9424

Santa is here ’til Christmas Eve!

Donation of cash or can goods are requested. Food donations benefit local food pantries.

A Absolute Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning..........................608-788-6350 Advanced Business Systems............608-781-5440 Aramark Uniform Services, Inc.......608-781-2700 Associated Bank...................................608-796-4436 AVS Group..............................................608-787-1010 Band Box Cleaners and Laundry, Inc..................................608-372-5642 Best Kept Portables.............................608-317-4232 Bluff Country Brine, LLC....................608-498-0222 Carrier Insurance.................................608-784-6879 Cary Specialized Services.................608-519-3335 CenturyLink...........................................608-796-7480 Charter Communications.................608-783-8126 Citizens State Bank..............................608-785-2265 Clason Pontiac Buick GMC, Inc.......608-788-7246 Com Was, LLC........................................888-525-7229 Commerical AV Systems, LLC..........608-781-2210 Community Creations Inc.................614-460-3656 Community Credit Union.................608-779-2400 Computer Sign Engraving................ 608-788 3547 Coulee Bank...........................................608-784-9550 Crescent Printing.................................608-781-1050 Culligan Water Conditioning of La Crosse................608-781-2500 Curtis Printing.......................................608-784-2684 Dairyland Power Cooperative.........608-787-1247 Davy Engineering................................608-782-3130 Designz...................................................608-782-6701 Don’s Towing & Repair.......................608-784-5872 Edwards Investments.........................608-785-1770 Fairway Media.......................................608-784-8200 Fifth Ave Awards..................................608-782-3410 First Student/First Transit..................608-781-3880 Gerrard-Hoeschler Realtors.............608-796-1615 Hawkins, Ash & CPA's..........................608-784-7737 Identity Works.......................................608-786-3700 Image World/Monogram Express....608-788-8585 Intech.........................................................507-452-2658 JFK Associates.........................................866-787-5771 JFHerman Design..................................608-784-7450 Johns, Flaherty & Collins S.C............608-784-5678 Kwik Trip Stores....................................608-781-8988 La Crosse Area Jazz Society.............608-791-1190 La Crosse Beverage, LLC....................608-781-2400 La Crosse County UW-Extension....608-785-9593 La Crosse Graphics..............................608-788-2500 La Crosse Hmong Mutual Assistance Association............................................608-781-5744 La Crosse Sign Company..................608-781-1450 La Crosse Tent & Awning...................608-781-1946 Logistics Health, Inc............................608-782-0404 Main Street Title, Inc...........................608-784-2848 Marine Credit Union...........................608-784-7329 Merchants Bank...................................608-779-8200 Midwest Coca-Cola of La Crosse.................................................608-784-3139 National Association for Hearing Impaired................................608-785-1660 Noelke Distributors, Inc.....................608-785-0984 Park Bank................................................608-782-2265

Pepsi-Cola of La Crosse.....................608-785-0450 Plesha Photo Arts................................608-782-1150 Poellinger’s............................................608-785-1234 Preferred Distributors........................608-269-3177 Reinhart Companies...........................608-782-4999 River Bank...............................................608-788-6300 River City Chiropractic.......................608-406-2488 Ron Hammes Refrigeration Inc..................................608-788-3110 S & S Distributing.................................608-269-5071 SagePoint Financial, River Ins. Svs...608-788-2200 Schomburg Refrigeration Company, Inc........................................608-781-6614 Signature Chiropractic & Massage..............................................608-785-7778 Sir Speedy Printing.............................608-783-6440 Sniffit........................................................608-787-2587 Sleeping Giant Studio, LLC...............608-788-9977 Stansfield Vending..............................608-782-7181 State Bank Financial...........................608-784-4600 Supreme Graphics...............................608-788-1733 Synergy Leadership Group..............608-785-1520 Terry Tobin Graphic Design Studio........................................608-269-1682 Trim Design............................................608-782-7233 The Big Event Company....................608-783-3333 Tom’s Tent Rental, Inc.........................608-788-6607 Trane Company....................................608-787-2000 Tri State Business Machines.............608-781-2100 The UPS Store.......................................608-782-6966 US Bank La Crosse...............................608-791-7201 WalzCraft................................................608-781-6355 Welcome Celebrations Newcomers Greeting Service.........608-519-1893 Wells Fargo Bank..................................608-784-7000 Westland Insurance............................608-343-5120 Wisconsin Insurance Center............608-781-6733 Xcel Energy............................................608-789-3673 Yellow Book...........................................608-354-5767 Zeman Graphic Design, SDG...........906-221-1955

CHURCHES Cathedral of St. Joseph the Workman........................................608-782-0322 Living Waters Bible Camp.................608-634-4373

CONVENTION SPEAKERS Brian Udermann...................................608-785-8181 Dr. Jack Curtis, Speaker......................608-780-1772 Fred Kusch, JFK Associates...............866-787-5771 JDLake Communications....................608-792-3419 Jon Fields, Ph. D., Speaker................608-788-8932 Ken Visger, Speaker.............................507-894-4715 Michael Scott........................................608-519-1061 Patty Henrickson, Speaker...............800-557-2889 Ralph Heath, Rick Kyte, Speaker...............................608-796-3704 Steve Czys..............................................608-781-4959 Synergy Leadership Group..............608-785-1520 Roger Fish, Speaker............................608-786-2873 Sara M. Slayton, Speaker...................608-787-2807 Stu Robert Shaw..................................608-784-1821 Tom Thibodeau, Speaker..................608-787-5061

HEALTHCARE Allergy Associates of La Crosse, Ltd........................................608-782-2027 Eupraxia..................................................608-781-4959 Gundersen Health System.....................................................608-782-7300 Mayo Clinic Health SystemFranciscan Healthcare .....................608-785-0940 River City Chiropractic.......................608-456-2488 Signature Chiropractic & Massage Center................................608-785-7778

Members

BUSINESS AND SERVICES

MEDIA La Crosse Radio Group......................608-782-8335 La Crosse Tribune................................608-782-2400 La Crosse Visitor Publishing.............608-784-3999 Midwest Family Radio........................608-782-1230 News Channel 8 WKBT TV.................608-782-4678 WXOW News 19...................................507-895-9969

ORGANIZATIONS Chamber of Westby............................608-634-4011 Coulee Region RSVP...........................608-785-0500 Downtown Mainstreet, Inc..............608-784-0440 Friends of McGilvray Road...............608-782-1753 Galesville Area Chamber of Commerce........................................608-582-2868 La Crescent Chamber of Commerce........................................507-895-2800 La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce.....................608-784-4880 La Crosse Area Development Corp. (LADCO).......................................608-784-5488 La Crosse Area Restaurant Association............................................608-317-8438 La Crosse County & City Tavern League..............................608-782-9342 La Crosse County Historical Society.................................608-782-1980 Mississippi Valley Conservancy..........................................608-784-3606 New Glarus Chamber.........................608-527-2095 North La Crosse Business Association..........................608-792-6877 Onalaska Tourism Commission...........................................608-781-9570 Prairie du Chien Chamber of Commerce........................................608-326-8555 Riverfront, Inc.......................................608-784-9450 Town of Campbell...............................608-783-0050 Trempealeau Chamber......................608-534-6524

TRANSPORTATION Badger Coaches, Inc...........................608-255-1511 Colgan Air Services.............................608-783-8359 Go Carefree Shuttle............................800-280-9270 La Crosse Municipal Airport............608-789-7464 Lamers Buslines, Inc...........................608-781-8177 Ready Bus Lines...................................507-895-2349 Travel Leaders.......................................608-784-9820

800-658-9424 • www.explorelacrosse.com | 59

God’s Country. Two words are all it takes to describe the La Crosse area. The bluffs hold the city in their hands, while the Mississippi, Black and La Crosse rivers provide nourishment and growth to the community. You could travel the world over, and be hard pressed to find a community as beautiful as La Crosse. Being able to experience all four seasons in this natural grandeur is enough in itself. Add the “small town” feel to the advance in technology, healthcare and education and our cup overflows with opportunity. La Crosse is home to two nationally renowned healthcare systems, Mayo Clinic Health SystemFranciscan Healthcare employs approximately 3,000 people, and Gundersen Lutheran Healthcare (the largest employer in the area) with approximately 5,000 employees. In addition, the La Crosse Medical Health Science Consortium is located here. The consortium acts as an education and training facility for

students as well as allied health professionals. The consortium also provides research opportunities and assists in the technological advances in the area. Population: Wisconsin (2012) .........................................5,726,398 La Crosse County (2012) .............................116,461 La Crosse City (2012) .......................................51,647 Realtors/Rental: Apartment ConNeXTion Rental Guide ........................................ 608-785-7368 Gerrard-Hoeschler Realtors.............. 608-782-2300 Electric: Xcel Energy........................................... 800-895-4999 Dairyland Power................................. 608-788-4000 Riverland Energy Cooperative....... 800-411-9115 Natural Gas: Xcel Energy........................................... 800-895-4999 Midwest Natural Gas......................... 608-781-1011 Water & Sewer: City of La Crosse.................................. 608-789-7536

Telephone/Cable: CenturyLink.......................................... 608-796-5000 Charter Communications................ 888-438-2427

TRANSPORTATION Located on French Island (Town of Campbell), the La Crosse Municipal Airport services air traffic passengers in the greater La Crosse area. Delta and American Airlines have daily flights out of the airport. Both of these carriers provide direct flights to and from Minneapolis, Chicago and Milwaukee. When booking your flight, enter LSE as the airport identifier code. With a short walk to the parking lot and a friendly, hometown staff, you will enjoy your flight in and out of La Crosse. Delta, delta.com................................ 800-225-2525 American Airlines, aa.com............ 800-433-7300 Private air service Colgan Air Service........................... 608-783-8359 Car rental service available at airport: Alamo..................................................... 608-781-5624 Avis......................................................... 608-781-7700 Hertz....................................................... 608-781-7550 National................................................ 608-781-5678 Amtrak’s Empire Builder is located at 601 St. Andrew St. in La Crosse and makes two daily stops with links to the Twin Cities, Milwaukee and Chicago, amtrak.com....................................... 1-800-872-7245 Interstate Highway 90 runs east/west right through the area with four exits to La Crosse. Exit 2 — Airport, Town of Campbell Exit 3 — Hwy. 35 & 53S – Old Towne North and Historic Downtown La Crosse Exit 4 — Hwy 157 & 53N Exit 5 — Hwy 16

MEDIA Newspapers: La Crosse Tribune Radio: FM Stations: WLSU 88.9 WHLA 90.3 WIZM 93.3 KHTW 94.7 WQRV 95.7 WCOW 97.1 KQYB 98.3 WKBH 100.1 KQEG 102.7 WLXR 104.9 WFBZ 105.5 WQCC 106.3

60 | www.explorelacrosse.com • 800-658-9424

AM Stations: WKTY 580 WKLJ 1290 WIZM 1410 WLFN 1490 WKBH 1570 Television: WXOW - (ABC) WKBT - (CBS) WEAU - (NBC) WLAX - (FOX) KQEG - (UPN)

M E ET ON THE M I SSI SSI PP I

Voted "Most helpful CVB in Wisconsin", by Midwest meeting planners in Wisconsin Meetings Resource Guide.

• 100,000 square foot Convention Center on the Mississippi and located in the center of historic Downtown La Crosse • Premier hotels and motels with 2,000 plus rooms • Spacious, convenient and affordable meeting spaces

Convention Services The Convention Services Department is committed to making your job easier and your conference a success by providing full-service planning assistance. Registration, visitor information, referral services, development and planning as well as media and promotion are some of the services we provide. Passkey® powered by GroupMax® is available to planners with a website customized to your event, offering online hotel reservations for your guests in your contracted block as well as mobile web booking, live event tracking with event dashboards and reports. Our Speaker’s Bureau includes La Crosse based speakers who appear at events nationally and internationally. Our services are free to groups that utilize a minimum of 50 sleeping rooms on a given night.

• Historic setting • Attractive winter rates • Spouse/guest programs • Golf courses • Hiking and biking trails • Great venue for reunions, car and motorcycle clubs

800-658-9424

Sports With multiple state-of-the-art sport complexes, any tournament can make its home here. The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, Viterbo University, Western Technical College, and the La Crosse Center provide multi-sport complexes and an abundance of collegiate playing fields with a variety of surfaces. Annually, La Crosse hosts a multitude of regional and national events; some of which include fishing, baseball, softball, and wrestling tournaments, as well as the WIAA State Track and Field Championships.

www.explorelacrosse.com • 410 Veterans Memorial Drive • La Crosse, WI 54601

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

LA CROSSE, WI PERMIT NO. 126

410 Veterans Memorial Drive La Crosse, WI 54601

Sept. 25-28 • 2014