Coulee Region Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Coulee Region with this comprehensive travel guide highlighting the region's must-visit places, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, accommodations, cultural attractions, and essential tips.


Introduction to Coulee Region

Nestled in Southwest Wisconsin, the Coulee Region offers visitors a chance to experience the Midwest’s natural beauty, history, and culture. The region is known for its rugged terrain, stunning bluffs, crystal clear rivers, and small charming towns. The Coulee Region is the ideal destination for travelers seeking outdoor adventures, culture, and family fun.

List of Places to Visit in Coulee Region

If you’re planning a trip to the Coulee Region, here are some places you don’t want to miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. La Crosse County Historical Society - A great place to explore the region’s history, La Crosse County Historical Society operates several museums and exhibits that showcase the historical, economic, and cultural heritage of the Coulee Region.

  2. Great River Road Visitor & Learning Center - Located in the heart of downtown La Crosse, this center is an informative and interactive museum. Visitors can learn about the Great River Road, a scenic byway that runs through Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri.

  3. Dahl Auto Museum - Car enthusiasts will love visiting the Dahl Auto Museum in nearby Onalaska. The museum features classic cars and trucks from the early 1900s through the 1960s.

Natural Attractions of Coulee Region: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Grandad Bluff - One of the best places for panoramic views of the Coulee Region, Grandad Bluff, towers 600 feet above the city of La Crosse. This park offers several hiking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

  2. Effigy Mounds National Monument - A short drive from the Coulee Region, the Effigy Mounds National Monument offers visitors a chance to explore more than 200 prehistoric animal-shaped mounds built by Native Americans.

  3. Mississippi River - The Mississippi River on the eastern edge of the Coulee Region is perfect for fishing, boating, and paddling adventures.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Coulee Region

The Coulee Region features several state parks and trails, including:

  1. Perrot State Park - Located on the eastern bank of the Mississippi River, Perrot State Park offers several hiking trails and is a popular spot for bird-watching.

  2. Great River State Trail - A 24-mile-long trail that runs through three Wisconsin towns: Onalaska, Trempealeau, and Marshland.

  3. Hixon Forest Trails - Located in La Crosse, the Hixon Forest has trails for all levels of hikers and bikers.

Best Things to Do in Coulee Region: Activities and Tours

Here are some top things to do in the Coulee Region:

  1. Visit Apple Orchards and Wineries - The Coulee Region is known for its apples and wine, so make sure to explore the numerous orchards and wineries in the region.

  2. Take a Riverboat Cruise - The Mississippi River is a popular spot for romantic and family-friendly riverboat cruises.

  3. Attend Festivals and Fairs - The Coulee Region hosts several festivals and fairs throughout the year that are a great way to experience the local culture, food, and entertainment.

Week-Long Itinerary for Coulee Region

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for exploring the Coulee Region:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Grandad Bluff and Hixon Forest Trails
Day 2 Tour local wineries and apple orchards
Day 3 Visit La Crosse County Historical Society museums
Day 4 Explore Effigy Mounds National Monument
Day 5 Take a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River
Day 6 Attend a festival or fair
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the region

Food and Drink Scene of Coulee Region

Must-Try Dishes

The Coulee Region has an abundance of restaurants that offer local cuisine, including:

  1. Cheese Curds - These are a Wisconsin staple. They are deep-fried cheese curds and are best served hot.

  2. Bratwurst - Another Wisconsin favorite, bratwurst is a type of sausage traditionally made with pork and beef.

  3. Fish Fry - Made with locally caught fish, a Wisconsin fish fry is a must-try.

Local Beverages

  1. Beer - Wisconsin is home to several microbreweries and craft beers that are worth trying.

  2. Wine - The Coulee Region is home to several wineries that produce high-quality wines made from local grapes.

Where to Stay in Coulee Region: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Coulee Region has many accommodation options for every type of traveler. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  1. Radisson Hotel La Crosse - This hotel is located in the heart of downtown La Crosse and offers luxurious amenities.

  2. Justin Trails Resort - This rustic resort is located on a 200-acre farm and is perfect for travelers seeking a quiet, nature-filled retreat.

  3. Eagles View B&B - This charming bed and breakfast overlooks the Mississippi River and offers cozy rooms and a homey atmosphere.

What to Buy in Coulee Region: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Make sure to bring home some of the following local products as souvenirs from the Coulee Region:

  1. Cheese - Wisconsin is known for its cheese, so make sure to take some back home.

  2. Apples - The Coulee Region is famous for its delicious apples.

  3. Wine - Take home some of the best wine produced locally in the region as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Coulee Region

Wisconsin is known for its friendly and welcoming people. The locals are hard-working, down-to-earth, and proud of their heritage. It’s common to hear “cheeseheads” used as a term of endearment, which is a nickname for Wisconsinites.

Best Time to Visit Coulee Region

The best time to visit the Coulee Region is during the spring and summer months when the region blooms with flowers and outdoor activities are at their best. The fall is also a great time to visit for the stunning foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Coulee Region

Do:

  1. Bring layers - The weather can change quickly, so be prepared with layers.

  2. Try local food and drinks - The Coulee Region is known for its food and drinks, so make sure to try some while you’re there.

  3. Be respectful of local customs and traditions - The locals are friendly and welcoming, so be respectful and open-minded.

Don’t:

  1. Litter - The Coulee Region is a beautiful place, so help keep it that way by not littering.

  2. Ignore safety warnings - While the region is generally safe, always heed local safety warnings and follow the rules.

  3. Over schedule - Make sure to take some time to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Coulee Region.

Safety and Health

Safety in Coulee Region

The Coulee Region is generally a safe place, but visitors should always be aware of their surroundings, especially if out alone at night.

Health in Coulee Region

Visitors should take standard health precautions such as packing sunscreen, bug spray, and any necessary medications. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration during outdoor activities.

Getting to Coulee Region: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Coulee Region

The closest airport to the Coulee Region is La Crosse Regional Airport (LSE).

Bus Stations Near Coulee Region

Greyhound Bus Lines has a station in La Crosse that services many nearby cities.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car and enjoy a scenic drive through the region.

How to Get Around in Coulee Region

The best way to explore the Coulee Region is by car. There are several car rental companies located in the region, and many attractions and parks provide ample parking.

Where to Go Next from Coulee Region: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations to explore after visiting the Coulee Region:

  1. Wisconsin Dells - Known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” it is one of the state’s most popular family destinations.

  2. Minneapolis - A 2-hour drive from La Crosse, this cosmopolitan city offers cultural attractions like the Walker Art Center and a thriving food and drink scene.

Conclusion

The Coulee Region is a hidden gem in the Midwest, offering visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of Wisconsin while experiencing small-town charm and culture. With plenty to see and do, outdoor and indoor activities abound, and visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience in the Coulee Region.



    Sparta
    Tomah