River Cruises, Heritage Valleys & Hometown Finds in Southwest Wisconsin
Itinerary Summary
This three-day Wisconsin adventure travels from the Mississippi River bluffs to rolling countryside farms, blending history, scenic beauty, and local flavor. Start in Potosi with a visit to the National Brewery Museum and a hearty lunch before continuing north to La Crosse for sweeping bluff-top views, a river cruise aboard the La Crosse Queen, and, during the holidays, the dazzling Rotary Lights display. Day two offers an immersive experience at Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center, where Norwegian immigrant history lives on through preserved buildings and serene wooded landscapes, followed by a taste of “cranberry country” in Tomah.
Day 1 – Potosi, La Crosse
Arrive in the charming river town of Potosi, Wisconsin, nestled along the Mississippi River. Step inside the National Brewery Museum for a guided look at America’s brewing heritage, followed by time to browse the gift shop and enjoy river views. A group lunch at the Potosi Brewery Restaurant offers classic comfort food with a historic backdrop.
Travel north along the Mississippi to La Crosse, where rolling bluffs and river scenery set thetone for your stay. Visit Grandad Bluff for sweeping panoramic views of the river valley, then enjoy a scenic and relaxing cruise on the Mississippi River aboard the La Crosse Queen. Enjoy arelaxing dinner at a riverfront restaurant before checking into your La Crosse-area hotel.
During the holidays, visit the Rotary Lights display at Riverside Park with over 3 million lights. Enjoy s’mores near the giant snowman!
Day 2 – Coon Valley, Tomah
After breakfast, depart for the scenic countryside to visit Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center, one of Wisconsin’s most authentic Norwegian heritage sites. A guided tour introduces the story of early settlers through preserved log homes, a historic church, and beautiful wooded trails. The peaceful valley setting offers a true step back in time.
Following lunch featuring regional or Scandinavian-inspired fare, travel east to Tomah, Wisconsin, known as the “Gateway to Cranberry Country.” Enjoy a visit to the Cranberry Discovery Center for locally made treats, gifts, and Wisconsin products.
Day 3 – Tomah
This morning highlights the agricultural and hometown charm of Tomah. Visit the Tomah Area Historical Museum to explore exhibits showcasing railroads, cranberry farming, and early settlement life. Including the Frank King exhibit, who was a resident of Tomah and created the “Gasoline Alley,” the second-longest-running comic strip in the US.
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