Onalaska WisconsinATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Onalaska, Wisconsin.
1. Great River State Trail
SCENIC BIKING ADVENTURE
The Great River State Trail serves as a primary trailhead in Onalaska, offering 101 miles of interconnecting state trails for hiking, biking, and outdoor adventures. During warmer months, visitors can enjoy cycling through picturesque landscapes, while winter transforms the trail into a paradise for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The trail provides excellent facilities including showers and locker rooms for cyclists at the Great River Landing.
2. Lost Island Wine
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Lost Island Wine offers visitors a delightful wine tasting experience in Onalaska. Guests can sample locally produced wines in a charming setting that showcases the region's viticultural talents. The winery provides a perfect stop for those exploring Onalaska's attractions and looking to relax with a glass of Wisconsin wine.
3. Sunny The Sunfish
ICONIC LAKE OVERLOOK
Sunny The Sunfish is a beloved local sculpture and scenic overlook perched above Lake Onalaska, offering spectacular views of the water and surrounding landscapes. Located along the Great River Road (Hwy 35) just north of downtown Onalaska, this attraction has become a popular photo spot for visitors. The overlook allows visitors to soak in the multifaceted hues over Lake Onalaska while capturing a memorable picture with the whimsical fish sculpture.
4. Greens Coulee Park
FAMILY RECREATION AREA
Greens Coulee Park provides Onalaska residents and visitors with a versatile outdoor recreation space for family enjoyment. The park features various amenities for different activities, making it suitable for visitors of all ages throughout the year. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the green spaces and walking opportunities available at this community gathering spot.
5. Skeleton Brew
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Skeleton Brew offers craft beer enthusiasts a unique tasting experience in Onalaska. Visitors can sample a variety of locally brewed beers in a welcoming atmosphere that showcases the region's brewing creativity. The brewery serves as an excellent stop for those looking to unwind and enjoy quality craft beverages while exploring the area.
6. Great River Landing
RECREATIONAL GATEWAY HUB
Great River Landing in Onalaska serves as a comprehensive hub for outdoor recreation and trail access with excellent amenities for visitors. The landing offers beautiful views of Lake Onalaska and the surrounding natural areas, making it a scenic destination in its own right. Facilities include showers and locker rooms specifically designed for bicyclists enjoying the extensive interconnecting trail systems that span 101 miles throughout the region.
7. Lake Onalaska
YEAR-ROUND WATER RECREATION
Lake Onalaska is a 7,700-acre pool of the Mississippi River offering diverse recreational opportunities throughout all seasons. In summer, visitors enjoy paddling, boating, and fishing on its expansive waters, while winter transforms the lake into a popular ice fishing destination. The lake serves as a defining natural feature of Onalaska, gracing the eastern shore of the city and providing stunning views from various vantage points.
8. Grandad Bluff
BREATHTAKING TRI-STATE VIEWS
Grandad Bluff stands 600 feet high, offering what Wisconsin Trails readers voted as 'the most scenic view in the state' with panoramic vistas of the Mississippi River Valley spanning Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. This iconic landmark has become both a destination for thousands of visitors and a symbol of the beautiful Coulee Region. The park features amenities including a shelter house, coin-operated binoculars, picnic areas, and hosts the annual Skyrocker's New Year's Eve Fireworks Show.
9. Apple Blossom Scenic Drive
SPRING BLOSSOMING BEAUTY
Apple Blossom Scenic Drive offers a spectacular 17-mile route showcasing rolling hills covered in blossoming apple trees, with early to mid-May being the peak season for this natural display. Visitors can bike or drive along bluff-top roads that provide breathtaking overlooks of the Mississippi River and La Crosse before descending into the Pine Creek Valley. The route begins and ends in La Crescent, Minnesota, making it a perfect spring excursion for nature lovers and photographers.
10. Mushroom Rock
UNIQUE GEOLOGICAL FORMATION
Mushroom Rock is an unusual natural geological formation in Onalaska that tells a story of eons of erosion, creating a distinctive mushroom-shaped appearance. This hiking highlight can be found along a local trail, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's fascinating geological history. Nature enthusiasts and photographers will appreciate this hidden gem that showcases the unique natural features of the Driftless Region.
11. La Crosse Trailhead
CYCLING GATEWAY POINT
La Crosse Trailhead serves as an important access point to the region's extensive network of cycling trails that connect throughout the area. The trailhead provides convenient facilities including parking and flush restrooms for trail users. Cyclists can begin their journey here to explore the interconnected trail system that offers scenic routes throughout La Crosse County.
12. Onalaska Overlook
PANORAMIC VALLEY VIEWS
The Onalaska Overlook treats visitors to a panoramic vista of Onalaska, Wisconsin, and the sprawling Mississippi River Valley beyond. From this vantage point, outdoor enthusiasts can appreciate the natural beauty of the Driftless Region with its unique topography untouched by glaciers. The overlook provides an excellent opportunity for photography, particularly during sunrise and sunset when the valley is bathed in golden light.
13. Treehouse Gift Shop
UNIQUE LOCAL SOUVENIRS
Treehouse Gift Shop in Onalaska offers visitors a charming selection of locally-made items, souvenirs, and gifts to commemorate their trip to the region. The shop features unique merchandise that celebrates the cultural and natural heritage of Onalaska and the surrounding Driftless Area. Visitors can browse through a variety of handcrafted goods, specialty foods, and Wisconsin-themed items while supporting local artisans and businesses.
14. Onalaska Omni Center
COMMUNITY RECREATION COMPLEX
The Onalaska Omni Center serves as a multi-purpose community facility offering recreational, cultural, and event spaces for residents and visitors alike. The center hosts various activities throughout the year, from sporting events and fitness programs to community gatherings and cultural exhibitions. With its diverse amenities and programming, the Omni Center represents an important hub for community life and visitor engagement in Onalaska.
15. Lake Onalaska Waterfront Park
RIVERSIDE RELAXATION SPOT
Lake Onalaska Waterfront Park provides visitors with direct access to the beautiful shores of Lake Onalaska, perfect for picnicking, fishing, and enjoying waterfront views. The park offers relaxing green spaces where families can gather while watching boats and wildlife on the expansive 7,700-acre lake. Amenities include picnic areas, shoreline access, and peaceful settings for enjoying the natural beauty that defines Onalaska's connection to the Mississippi River ecosystem.