Sparta Travel Guide

Complete travel guide to Sparta featuring all the places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to buy, local culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options.


Introduction to Sparta

Welcome to Sparta, a charming city in the heart of Coulee Region, in Southwest Wisconsin. Known for its gorgeous natural landscapes and rich history, Sparta should definitely be on the itinerary of any traveler visiting the region. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Sparta has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Sparta

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Deke Slayton Memorial Space and Bike Museum: A unique attraction that is dedicated to the life and career of Deke Slayton, a member of the original Mercury 7 astronauts, and also showcases an extensive collection of bicycles.
  • The Monroe County Local History Room: This museum features exhibits on the history of Monroe County, including the local Native American tribes, early pioneers, and modern-day developments.
  • The Little Falls Railroad and Doll Museum: This museum features an impressive collection of model trains and dolls that will delight visitors of all ages.

Natural Attractions of Sparta: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Perrot State Park: Located on the Mississippi River, Perrot State Park is known for its stunning views, hiking trails, and cross-country skiing paths.
  • Elroy-Sparta State Bike Trail: This trail is 32 miles long and was the first bike trail to be converted from an abandoned railroad track in the US. It winds through three tunnels, including the famous three-quarters-mile-long “Tunnel Trail,” and is a must for any outdoor enthusiast.
  • Lake Onalaska: A beautiful lake that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sparta

  • Elroy-Sparta State Bike Trail: This 32-mile trail is one of the most popular bike routes in Wisconsin. As mentioned above, it features three tunnels and beautiful scenery.
  • La Crosse River Trail: This trail is 21 miles long and runs through forests, wetlands, and farmland, offering a glimpse of the rural landscape of the region.
  • Great River State Trail: This trail follows the Mississippi River for 24 miles and offers breathtaking river views along with serene countryside scenery.

Best Things to Do in Sparta: Activities and Tours

  • Explore Sparta’s Downtown: The downtown has plenty of charming shops, restaurants, and cafes that are perfect for a leisurely stroll and some shopping.
  • Take a Wine Tour: The area is an up and comer in terms of wine production, and there are plenty of wine tours on offer which will take you to local wineries.
  • Take a Canoe Tour with Coulee Region Adventures: Located in the nearby town of La Crosse, this company offers a variety of outdoor activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and tubing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sparta

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Little Falls Railroad and Doll Museum, Explore Downtown Sparta
Day 2 Hike the trails of Perrot State Park
Day 3 Bike the Elroy-Sparta State Biketrail, Visit a Local Winery
Day 4 Visit the Deke Slayton Memorial Space and Bike Museum
Day 5 Take a canoe tour with Coulee Region Adventures, Visit the Monroe County Local History Room
Day 6 Bike the La Crosse River Trail, Take a Scenic Drive
Day 7 Enjoy a Day at Lake Onalaska

Food and Drink Scene of Sparta

Must-Try Dishes

  • Butter Burger: A local specialty consisting of a beef patty garnished with a dollop of butter. It can be found in many restaurants and diners around Sparta.
  • Cheese Curds: A classic Wisconsin dish, cheese curds are fried chunks of cheese that make a delicious snack or appetizer.
  • Beer Cheese Soup: Another local favorite, this soup is made with beer and cheese and is served hot in many restaurants throughout the region.

Local Beverages

  • Sparta Brew Pub: Located in Downtown Sparta, this brewpub offers a variety of craft beers made on site.
  • Mershon’s Cider: Located in nearby La Crescent, Minnesota, Mershon’s cider is made with local apples and has won numerous awards and accolades.
  • 4e Winery: Located in nearby Alma, this winery offers a variety of wines made from local grapes.

Where to Stay in Sparta: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Best Western Plus Sparta Trail Lodge: Located near the Elroy-Sparta Bike Trail, this hotel offers comfortable accommodation as well as a pool and hot tub.
  • Justin Trails Resort: This resort is located in the nearby town of Sparta and offers cozy, rustic cabins and a variety of outdoor activities such as cross-country skiing and horseback riding.
  • Super 8 by Wyndham Sparta: Located near the Little Falls Railroad and Doll Museum, this hotel offers budget-friendly accommodation with convenient access to many of Sparta’s attractions.

What to Buy in Sparta: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cheese: Wisconsin is known for its cheese, and you’ll find plenty of varieties in Sparta. Make sure to try some of the local artisan cheeses, which are made in small batches and have a distinctive flavor.
  • Antiques and Collectibles: You’ll find many antique shops in the historic downtown area which offer a wide selection of collectibles, vintage furniture, and home decor.
  • Crafts and Artwork: Local artists and craftspeople have their work available in galleries and shops throughout town, featuring pottery, sculpture, jewelry, and more.

Local Culture and Customs of Sparta

Wisconsin, and Sparta especially, is known for its friendly and welcoming locals. The area has a rich farming history and is steeped in Midwestern traditions. You’ll find that the locals are proud of their heritage and are eager to share their love of the region with visitors. Make sure to take time to chat with them and learn about the region’s unique historical and cultural background.

Best Time to Visit Sparta

The best time to visit Sparta is during the summer months, from June through August, when the weather is warm and sunny, making it the perfect time for exploring the many outdoor activities and attractions in the area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sparta

Do:

  • Do try some of the local foods and drinks, especially the cheese and beer.
  • Do take time to get to know the locals, who are known for their friendly and welcoming attitudes.
  • Do explore the many outdoor activities and natural attractions in the region.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave trash in the outdoors areas.
  • Don’t forget to dress appropriately for the weather, which can be changeable, especially in the spring and fall months.
  • Don’t forget to bring cash, as some local shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sparta

Sparta is a safe city that is welcoming to all visitors. However, as with any destination, visitors should exercise common sense and take basic precautions to ensure their safety, such as locking their car and paying attention to their surroundings while exploring the city.

Health in Sparta

Visitors to Sparta should be aware of the dangers of tick-borne illnesses, which are prevalent in the region. It is important to take precautions such as wearing long-sleeved clothing and using insect repellent when engaging in outdoor activities.

Getting to Sparta: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sparta

The closest major airport to Sparta is the La Crosse Regional Airport, which is approximately 30 miles away. The airport offers flights to major US cities such as Minneapolis and Chicago.

Bus Stations Near Sparta

The nearest bus station is located in nearby Tomah, approximately 12 miles away. Greyhound and Megabus both offer services to Tomah from other major cities in the region.

Other Options

Travelers who prefer to drive can rent a car from one of the many rental agencies at the La Crosse Regional Airport or in nearby towns. Additionally, Amtrak offers daily train services to nearby Tomah which could be an option for train enthusiasts or travelers who prefer this mode of transport.

How to Get Around in Sparta

The easiest way to get around Sparta is by car. Rental cars are available at the La Crosse Regional Airport and in nearby towns such as Tomah. There is no public transportation system in Sparta but taxis and ride-hail services such as Uber and Lyft are available. Visitors who come for the Elroy-Sparta Bike Trail (and others alike) can apply to shuttle services that offer transport from their lodging to the starting point, especially when they plan on a long-haul trip.

Where to Go Next from Sparta: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • La Crosse, Wisconsin: Located just a few miles from Sparta, La Crosse is a charming city known for its artsy scene, thriving food and drink scene, and ample outdoor activities.
  • Wisconsin Dells: Known as the “waterpark capital of the world,” Wisconsin Dells is located a little over an hour’s drive from Sparta and is a perfect destination for families with children.
  • Winona, Minnesota: Winona is located on the Mississippi River and is known for its arts community and beautiful natural surroundings. It is just 45 minutes from Sparta by car.

Conclusion

Sparta is a hidden gem in the Coulee Region of Southwest Wisconsin, and with its rich history, natural beauty, and charming downtown district, it’s a destination worth exploring. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff or simply a traveler looking for a peaceful getaway, Sparta has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Add Sparta to your to-do list today!

One of three railroad tunnels along the Elroy-Sparta Bike Trail One of three railroad tunnels along the Elroy-Sparta Bike Trail