Exploring Wisconsin La Crosse Area 2012

Exploring Wisconsin La Crosse Area 2012

Mississippi Explorer Wildlife Cruise

“Come and explore the Mississippi River as you never have before, from the decks of our Mississippi Explorer riverboats. Our cruises are centered around the amazing diversity and ecology that the Upper Mississippi Nat'l Wildlife and Fish Refuge offers. We take our passengers off the beaten track of the river's main-channel and into the backwaters of the Mississippi - much like a relaxing drive down a scenic country road! Come explore with us and see more than what the main-channel restricted competitors could ever hope to show you.

Jump onboard the Mississippi Explorer riverboat and explore scenic backwater wetland areas away from the busy main-channel of the river. Unreachable by other passenger vessels, we venture into seldom seen side-channels such as: Broken Arrow, Swift Creek, Mormon, and Running Sloughs. We'll explore the outskirts of Goose Island and Target Lake, stop at beaver lodges, lotus fields, and even active bald eagle nests. Now's the time to get outside and see the wide variety of plants and animals that live in the "Upper Miss" wildlife refuge! Our cruises are professionally guided and narrated by qualified and experienced wildlife naturalists and licensed captains. Last, but certainly not least, the boat has an onboard restroom, comfortable seating, a weather-protected cabin, and a very friendly and professional crew!”  We had a great time with the crew out of La Crosse.  They were friendly and knowledgeable.

http://www.mississippiexplorer.com/ports/port-la-crosse.php

Grandad Bluff

“City park located by following Main Street east which becomes Bliss Road as you ascend the bluff. At the top, the entrance is found by turning right on Grandad Bluff Road. The 600-ft high bluff overlooks the city of La Crosse. The view of the Mississippi River Valley includes the three states of Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. Wisconsin Trails readers voted this “the most scenic view in the state”. Features a shelter house, coin-operated binoculars, picnic areas and is the site of the annual Skyrocker`s New Year`s Eve Fireworks Show.”  Go for the incredible view of the Mississippi River Valley and La Crosse.

http://www.explorelacrosse.com/grandad-bluff-la-crosse/

Mary of Angels Chapel

“The Mother House of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, the Chapel of Angels is recognized as one of the most beautiful in the United States. Since August 1st, 1878, at least two Franciscan Sisters have maintained a 24-hour prayer vigil for the Church, community and the world. Featured on Charles Kuralt’s On The Road in 1978.”  This place was incredible to tour!  Well worth the time and quite an experience.

http://www.explorelacrosse.com/saint-rose-convent/

"The interior of the chapel is an architectural and artistic treasure. It is Romanesque in style, with Corinthian pillars and windows of Bavarian stained glass. Altars of Italian marble are decorated with gold bronze, onyx pillars, and inlaid mosaics of Venetian glass and mother of pearl. Visitors will receive a guided tour which highlights the unique features of this exquisite chapel."  It is awe inspiring!

http://www.fspa.org/prayer/maryofangelschapel/index.html

Myrick Hixon EcoPark

“The park’s many acres include or are surrounded by the La Crosse River Marsh, grass prairies, towering limestone bluffs, and the La Crosse River near where it converges with both the Black and Mighty Mississippi Rivers. The EcoPark is a center for education, entertainment, events, and exploration plus serves as a trailhead to hundreds of miles of hiking, biking, running, skiing, and snowshoeing trails.”  Myrick Park is a real jewel in the city!  You never know what you will see as you explore the trails!

http://www.mhecopark.org/

http://www.cityoflacrosse.org/index.aspx?NID=1697

La Crosse Convention & Visitor’s Bureau

http://www.explorelacrosse.com/