Located right on the banks of the Mississippi River, along the state line between Minnesota and Wisconsin, the city of La Crosse, WI has a population of over 50,000 and is not far from several interesting destinations that can be visited as part of day trips or weekend escapes. Whether you are looking for the culture, bustle, and nightlife of Minneapolis or some beautiful landscapes in a state park, these are some excellent places for a visit with friends or family.
1. Minneapolis, MN
The most populous city in the state of Minnesota is located a little over two hours away from downtown La Crosse by car, driving along routes US-52 S and I-90 E. Minneapolis boasts a population of more than three and a half million in its expansive metropolitan area, and is known for its past as a major timber market in the area, as well as its vibrant cultural life, its excellent gastronomy, and its exciting nightlife.
Once you make your way to Minneapolis, the first thing you should do is find a parking spot close to the downtown area. From here, you can explore most of the city’s attractions and must-see spots on foot. Start your tour with a walk along Central Minneapolis, checking out the Fifth Street Towers, the Minneapolis City Hall, and other famous sites before crossing the Mississippi River to the twin city of St. Paul.
2. Buckhorn State Park, WI
Located on a small peninsula on Castle Rock Lake, the Buckhorn State Park boasts an area of a little under 7,000 acres and is an excellent day trip destination for water sports enthusiasts and visitors looking for a place to enjoy different activities, including hiking, camping, and mountain biking. This place is located right along the shores of Castle Rock Lake, which is home to enormous specimens of muskellunge and other fish species.
In order to access the Buckhorn State Park, visitors need to have an annual vehicle admission sticker or purchase a daily pass at the entrance of the park. This place is located just 70 miles east of downtown La Crosse, making it possible to reach it in a little over an hour by car, driving along route I-90 E. Once in the area, make sure to check out its hiking trails and Castle Rock Lake’s shoreline.
3. Madison, WI
The capital city of the state of Wisconsin is a great urban day trip destination for La Crosse residents wanting to check out some historical monuments, famous landmarks, and good restaurants. Getting to the city takes a little over two hours by car from La Cross, driving along route I-90 E. Once here, some of the places you should not miss include the Wisconsin State Capitol, the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Olbrich Botanical Gardens.
If you are looking for a new set of wheels to go on exciting road trips and adventures with your family or friends, visit us at Pischke Motors Nissan and check out the variety of new and used vehicles we have available for you.
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