An hour or two spent at a museum is one of the best ways to make for a full, thoughtful day. La Crosse County, Wisconsin, has plenty of museums to explore, whether you’re looking for a fun day out with the kids or a quieter reflection of the area’s history. Here are a few of our favorite museum destinations in the area:
1. Children’s Museum of La Crosse
If you want to trick your children into learning through play, head over to the Children’s Museum of La Crosse. This fun destination has been around since 1999, in large part due to the entertaining learning opportunities it offers through its hands-on exhibits. Let your kids run loose in the newsroom exhibit to let them create their own television newscast. Have them operate a safe miniature version of a crane to see what a construction site is like. These a just a couple of the many exhibits that your kids can spend hours exploring and learning in.
2. Hixon House
Transport yourself over 100 years into the past by visiting Hixon House. This expertly maintained home, built in 1858, is fully furnished with Victorian furniture and decor. Take a guided tour of the preserved Hixon House for a unique insight into how La Crosse residents used to live in the early years of the city. Those interested in 19th-century architecture and antique furniture may find the tour particularly fascinating.
3. La Crosse Area Heritage Center
Those who are interested in learning about La Crosse’s history should make their way to the La Crosse Area Heritage Center. This small local museum is a great place to gain insight into the events that made La Crosse into the city it is today. After opening its doors in November 2020, this new museum has become a home to quality exhibits that display artifacts from Hmong immigrants, the early Native Americans that called the area home, storied antiques, and more.
4. Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center
For those who want to learn about the area’s natural environment and the regional cultural history of La Crosse County, the Norskeldealen Nature & Heritage Center is unbeatable. The beautiful property alone is worth the visit, and the learning experiences are just icing on the cake. Explore homesteads, walk the nature trail, and visit the arboretum — there is plenty to do at this nature and heritage center.
5. Onalaska Historical Society Museum
This museum focuses on neighboring Onalaska’s history and has many artifacts to explore. Head to the Onalaska Public Library to visit this museum, which dives deep into the area’s past between the Ice Age and the first railroads in the area. You’ll find Native American weapons and fossils. If you’re interested in archeological finds, the Onalaska Historical Society Museum is certainly worth checking out. Best of all, admission to this museum is free to all visitors.
If you’re traveling through the area, pick the one or two of these museums that piques your interest the most. If you’re lucky enough to call the La Crosse area home, be sure to give each of these destinations a visit to experience some of the city’s best learning experiences.
Image by Kerstin Herrmann from Pixabay | CC BY 0
Connect with us
