Why La Crosse is Worth Visiting – City Overview
La Crosse, Wisconsin is an undiscovered gem in the Midwest. This small, beautiful city is located at the confluence of the Mississippi River, the Black River and the La Crosse River and is packed with Midwest charm, history and culture, and surrounded by nature. Whether you’re looking to connect with nature, learn about history, enjoy great food, or just want a serene getaway by the river, La Crosse has something for you.
A City Shaped by the Mississippi River :
La Crosse owes its identity to the Mississippi River. Starting out as a fur trading post, it quickly grew into a river port and lumber business. Most of that history can still be seen around the restored Victorian architecture and the old warehouse district. The riverfront still sees a lot of activity once the weather warms up again. People can see why walking Riverside Park is one of the best activities, with eagles circling overhead and the Mississippi River right in front.
Top Attractions in La Crosse
| Attraction | Type | Highlights |
| Grandad Bluff Park | Nature / Viewpoint | 600-ft bluff with panoramic Mississippi views |
| Riverside Park | Outdoor / Leisure | Riverfront walks, festivals, fireworks |
| La Crosse Oktoberfest | Annual Festival | One of the largest in the USA (late Sept/Oct) |
| Hixon Forest | Hiking / Nature | 6+ miles of trails through woodland bluffs |
| La Crosse Center | Events / Concerts | Major concerts and conventions |
| Pearl Street District | Food / Nightlife | Craft breweries, restaurants, live music |
| Museum of Medical History | History | Unique and fascinating medical heritage museum |
| Isle La Plume | Scenic Island | Quiet nature walks along the river |
| La Crosse Queen Riverboat | River Cruise | Narrated Mississippi sightseeing cruises |
| Cameron Park | Family / Recreation | Splash pad, picnic areas, playground |
A Food & Drink Scene That Surprises
La Crosse offers a surprising food and craft beer scene for a small city. La Crosse’s food and drink are a reflection of their strong German and Scandinavian heritage. City Brewery (one of the largest craft brewers in the U.S.) can be found along with multiple other local breweries. La Crosse boasts many different food spots including authentic supper clubs, local fish fry, farm to table restaurants and busy farmers’ markets. La Crosse’s food scene is notable.
Outdoor Adventures Around Every Corner
Outside of the downtown, the rest of the region around La Crosse is maybe the most beautiful part of the upper midwest. The Great River Road, one of the more scenic drives in the US, goes right through La Crosse. The Driftless Area, unscathed by glaciers, houses some striking geologic features along with amazing trout fishing, hiking, biking, and kayaking.
| Outdoor Activity | Best Season | Location |
| Bluff Hiking | Spring & Fall | Grandad Bluff, Hixon Forest |
| Mississippi Kayaking | Summer | Riverside launch points |
| Bald Eagle Watching | Winter & Spring | Along the river corridor |
| Cycling (Great River Trail) | Spring-Fall | Follows the Mississippi |
| Trout Fishing | Spring-Fall | Coulee Region streams |
| Cross-Country Skiing | Winter | Hixon Forest trails |
La Crosse at a Glance
| Detail | Info |
| State | Wisconsin, USA |
| Population | ~50,000 |
| Location | Western Wisconsin, on the Mississippi River |
| Nearest Major City | Minneapolis (~160 miles north), Madison (~130 miles east) |
| Best Known For | Oktoberfest, bluffs, river scenery, craft beer |
| University | UW-La Crosse, Viterbo University |
| Climate | 4 distinct seasons; warm summers, snowy winters |
| Language | English |
| Time Zone | Central Time (CT) |
Why Take a Train to La Crosse?
Before diving into logistics, let’s talk about why the train is often the best choice for reaching La Crosse.
1. Unbeatable Scenery Along the Mississippi River
La Crosse is one of the many stops on the Amtrak Empire Builder. The tracks run right along the Mississippi River through Wisconsin. This corridor is among the most beautiful in the country. The train has large windows so passengers can view desolate islands, a plethora of eagles, and more. The easy ride also provides a view of many different charming towns along the banks and beautiful limestone rock formations that shoot up along the river.
2. No Traffic, No Stress
Without any obstructions during your travel, taking the train to La Crosse allows you to kick back and enjoy the view even as your companions run frantically to the foot of the terminal to save you money so you can avoid gauge the situation of the parking lots before.
3. More Legroom Than Flying or Busing
Amtrak coach seats have less cramped legroom than economy airline seats, and you won’t be sitting the entire time. You can temporarily get up to walk to the café car, or you can pay to upgrade to a Superliner Roomette for a more private hotel-like experience, especially for the overnight routes.
4. Eco-Friendly Travel
When factoring carbon emissions per passenger mile, trains are much better than cars or planes. If the environment is your concern, take the train.
5. Arrive Refreshed in the Heart of the City
Compared to airports which are almost always located far from city centers, the La Crosse-Tomah Station (and other stops along the way) are right in the downtown area. There is no need for any other transport, just get off the train and enjoy the city.
6. Great for Families and Groups
Traveling together on Amtrak is much more comfortable than cramped SUV travel. All the luggage you want is allowed and there are kids fares. You can all sit together as a group.
Which Trains Go to La Crosse?
La Crosse is served by Amtrak, the national rail passenger service. Specifically, two Amtrak routes stop at or near La Crosse:
The Empire Builder :
This is the primary and most important train for La Crosse travelers. The Empire Builder is one of Amtrak’s most iconic long-distance routes, running between Chicago, Illinois and either Seattle, Washington or Portland, Oregon (the train splits at Spokane).
- Direction East → West: Chicago → Milwaukee → Columbus → Portage → Wisconsin Dells → Tomah → La Crosse → Winona → Red Wing → St. Paul/Minneapolis → (continues west)
- Direction West → East: Seattle/Portland → … → Minneapolis → La Crosse → Tomah → Milwaukee → Chicago
The Empire Builder stops at La Crosse station and also at Tomah station (about 30 miles away), giving travelers two convenient options depending on their destination within the region.
| Feature | Details |
| Train Name | Empire Builder |
| Train Numbers | #7 (westbound), #8 (eastbound) |
| Operator | Amtrak |
| Key Hubs | Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul/Minneapolis, Seattle, Portland |
| La Crosse Stop | Yes (La Crosse Station) |
| Frequency | Once daily in each direction |
| Train Type | Long-distance / Superliner |
| Classes Available | Coach, Business Class, Roomette, Bedroom |
Popular Train Routes to La Crosse From Major US Cities
Here’s a quick-reference table for travelers coming from major U.S. cities:
| Departure City | Route/Train | Approx. Duration | Transfers Required |
| Chicago, IL | Empire Builder | ~4.5 – 5 hours | None (Direct) |
| Milwaukee, WI | Empire Builder | ~3 – 3.5 hours | None (Direct) |
| Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN | Empire Builder | ~2.5 – 3 hours | None (Direct) |
| New York City, NY | Empire Builder via Chicago | ~22 – 26 hours | 1 transfer in Chicago |
| Washington, D.C. | Empire Builder via Chicago | ~24 – 28 hours | 1 transfer in Chicago |
| Detroit, MI | Empire Builder via Chicago | ~8 – 10 hours | 1 transfer in Chicago |
| St. Louis, MO | Empire Builder via Chicago | ~9 – 11 hours | 1 transfer in Chicago |
| Kansas City, MO | Empire Builder via Chicago | ~11 – 13 hours | 1 transfer in Chicago |
| Seattle, WA | Empire Builder | ~45 – 47 hours | None (Direct) |
| Portland, OR | Empire Builder | ~46 – 48 hours | None (Direct) |
| Spokane, WA | Empire Builder | ~35 – 37 hours | None (Direct) |
Note: All travel times are approximate and can vary due to operational delays. Always check current schedules on Amtrak before booking.
NYC to La Crosse Train: Schedule, Duration & Ticket Tips
The New York City to La Crosse journey by train is a classic cross-country adventure. While it does require a connection in Chicago, it’s entirely doable – and actually quite enjoyable.
The Route
New York Penn Station → Chicago Union Station → La Crosse
You’ll board either the Lake Shore Limited (Train #49/48) or Cardinal (Train #51/50) from NYC to Chicago, then transfer to the Empire Builder (Train #7) at Chicago Union Station.
Sample Schedule (NYC to La Crosse)
| Segment | Train | Departs | Arrives | Duration |
| New York Penn → Chicago Union | Lake Shore Limited #49 | ~3:40 PM | ~9:50 AM (next day) | ~18 hrs |
| Chicago Union → La Crosse | Empire Builder #7 | ~2:15 PM | ~7:05 PM | ~4.75 hrs |
| Total Journey | ~27 hours |
Ticket Tips for NYC-La Crosse :
- Book early: USA Rail Pass holders and early bookers can find coach fares from $120-$180 one-way for the full NYC-La Crosse journey.
- Allow buffer time in Chicago: Give yourself at least 2-3 hours between trains at Chicago Union Station for connections.
- Upgrade overnight segments: Consider a Roomette from NYC to Chicago for a comfortable overnight experience – you’ll arrive in Chicago rested.
- Check Amtrak Guest Rewards: Points-based upgrades are available for frequent travelers.
La Crosse Train Travel Tips for First-Time Passengers
First time on an Amtrak train? Here are insider tips to make your journey smooth:
Before You Board
- Download the Amtrak app – manage your booking, get real-time alerts, and access mobile tickets.
- Arrive 30 minutes early – especially at busy stations like Chicago or Milwaukee.
- Pack a carry-on bag – bring snacks, a water bottle, headphones, and entertainment for longer routes.
- Charge your devices – most Amtrak Superliner coaches have power outlets at every seat.
On the Train
- Visit the Lounge/Observation Car – on the Empire Builder, the Superliner Lounge Car has panoramic upper-level seating. It’s the best spot for Mississippi River views.
- Café Car meals – Amtrak’s Café Car serves hot and cold food, snacks, and beverages. Dining Car service is available to Roomette/Bedroom passengers.
- Move around freely – unlike planes, you can walk the train, stretch your legs, and change cars whenever you like.
- Talk to the conductor – they’re friendly and full of local knowledge about the towns and landscapes you’re passing through.
On Arrival in La Crosse
- Taxis and rideshares are available outside the station.
- Downtown La Crosse is about 1 mile from the station – a short taxi or rideshare ride.
- Rent a bike – La Crosse has excellent trails along the river for exploring.
Direct and Connecting Train Routes to La Crosse
Understanding whether your journey is direct or requires a connection is important for planning.
Direct Routes (No Transfer)
| Origin City | Train | Notes |
| Chicago, IL | Empire Builder #7 | Most popular direct route |
| Milwaukee, WI | Empire Builder #7 | Easy same-train journey |
| Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN | Empire Builder #8 | Eastbound, very scenic |
| Seattle, WA | Empire Builder #7 | Long but spectacular journey |
| Portland, OR | Empire Builder #7 | Joins Empire Builder at Spokane |
| Spokane, WA | Empire Builder #7 | Pacific Northwest connection |
| Winona, MN | Empire Builder | Small town, direct connection |
Connecting Routes (Transfer Required)
| Origin City | Connection Hub | Transfer Train |
| New York, NY | Chicago Union Station | Lake Shore Limited → Empire Builder |
| Boston, MA | Chicago Union Station | Lake Shore Limited → Empire Builder |
| Washington, D.C. | Chicago Union Station | Capitol Limited → Empire Builder |
| Philadelphia, PA | Chicago Union Station | Capitol Limited → Empire Builder |
| Detroit, MI | Chicago Union Station | Various → Empire Builder |
| St. Louis, MO | Chicago Union Station | Lincoln Service → Empire Builder |
| New Orleans, LA | Chicago Union Station | City of New Orleans → Empire Builder |
| San Francisco, CA | Chicago Union Station | California Zephyr → Empire Builder |
| Denver, CO | Chicago Union Station | California Zephyr → Empire Builder |
Chicago Union Station is the key national hub for all eastern connections to La Crosse. Plan a layover of at least 2-3 hours.
Business Class vs Coach on La Crosse Trains
The Empire Builder offers multiple travel classes. Here’s how they compare:
Coach Class
The most affordable option and perfectly comfortable for most travelers.
- Reclining seats with leg rests
- Generous legroom (more than economy flights)
- Power outlets at seats
- Access to Café Car
- Overhead storage
- Carry-on bags included
Best for: Budget travelers, short to medium trips (Chicago-La Crosse, Milwaukee-La Crosse)
Business Class
Available on select segments, offering a slightly more premium experience.
- Reserved seating in a dedicated car
- Priority boarding
- At-seat meal service on some routes
- More spacious seats
Note: Business Class is primarily available on short-distance Amtrak routes. On the long-distance Empire Builder, the main “premium” upgrade is Sleeping Car service.
Sleeping Car (Roomette / Bedroom)
For overnight or long-distance journeys, Amtrak’s Sleeping Cars offer a private cabin experience.
| Feature | Roomette | Bedroom |
| Occupancy | 1-2 passengers | 1-3 passengers |
| Beds | 2 fold-down berths | 2 lower beds + 1 upper |
| Private Bathroom | Shared in car | En-suite toilet & shower |
| Meals Included | Yes (Dining Car) | Yes (Dining Car) |
| Storage | Limited | More storage |
| Price Premium | Moderate | High |
Best for: NYC-La Crosse, Seattle-La Crosse, or any overnight journey where you want privacy and comfort.
La Crosse Train Station: Everything You Need to Know About La Crosse-Tomah Station
La Crosse Amtrak Station
The La Crosse Amtrak Station is a historic and functional station that serves as the primary rail gateway to this Wisconsin city.
| Feature | Details |
| Station Name | La Crosse Amtrak Station |
| Address | 601 St. Andrew St, La Crosse, WI 54601 |
| Phone | (800) USA-RAIL |
| Ticket Office | Yes (staffed) |
| Waiting Room | Yes |
| Restrooms | Yes |
| Parking | Free surface lot available |
| Accessibility | ADA accessible, wheelchair ramp |
| Baggage | Checked baggage service available |
| Nearby Amenities | Within 1-2 miles of downtown hotels, restaurants |
Tomah Amtrak Station (Alternate)
If your destination is in the Tomah/Sparta/Viterbo area, the Tomah Amtrak Station (about 30 miles from La Crosse) is also served by the Empire Builder.
Both stations are served by the Empire Builder once daily in each direction.
Getting From the Station to Downtown La Crosse
- Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Usually available; ~5 min ride, ~$8-$12
- Taxi: Available outside station
- La Crosse Transit: City buses run nearby routes
- Walking: Downtown is approximately 1 mile from the station
- Bike: Rental options available near downtown
How to Book Train Tickets to La Crosse: Step-by-Step Guide
Booking your Amtrak ticket to La Crosse is straightforward. Here’s how to do it:
Amtrak Website (Recommended)
- Go to Amtrak.com
- Enter your departure city and type “La Crosse, WI” as the destination
- Select your travel date(s) – one-way or round trip
- Choose the number of passengers (adults, children, seniors)
- Browse available trains and times – you’ll see the Empire Builder listed
- Select your class – Coach, Business Class, or Sleeping Car
- Review fare options – Saver, Value, Flexible (prices vary)
- Create or log into your Amtrak account
- Enter passenger details and payment information
- Confirm your booking – you’ll receive an email confirmation with your e-ticket
Amtrak Mobile App
Download the Amtrak app (iOS/Android). The process is identical to the website, but with the added benefit of mobile ticketing, live train tracking, and push notifications for delays.
Phone Booking
Call 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245) to speak with an Amtrak agent. Useful if you have special needs or complex multi-city itineraries.
Amtrak Ticket Counter
You can purchase tickets at staffed Amtrak stations like Chicago Union Station or Milwaukee. However, online booking is recommended for the best fares and seat selection.
Pro Tip: Fare Types Explained
| Fare Type | Flexibility | Price | Best For |
| Saver | Non-refundable | Lowest | Planned travel, budget-conscious |
| Value | Partial refund | Mid-range | Most travelers |
| Flexible | Fully refundable | Highest | Uncertain plans |
| Business/Sleeper | Varies | Premium | Comfort-focused travelers |
La Crosse Train Ticket Price: How Much Does It Cost & How to Save Money
Typical Ticket Prices (One-Way, Coach Class)
| Route | Low Season | Peak Season |
| Chicago → La Crosse | $28 – $55 | $55 – $95 |
| Milwaukee → La Crosse | $22 – $45 | $45 – $75 |
| Minneapolis → La Crosse | $22 – $40 | $40 – $68 |
| New York → La Crosse (via Chicago) | $115 – $185 | $185 – $290 |
| Washington D.C. → La Crosse | $120 – $195 | $195 – $310 |
| Seattle → La Crosse | $145 – $230 | $230 – $380 |
Prices are estimates and vary widely based on booking time, fare class, and demand. Always check Amtrak.com for current fares.
How to Save Money on La Crosse Train Tickets
1. Book Early Amtrak offers “Saver” fares” on long-haul routes that are in high demand. To get the best deals, purchase tickets 14-30 or more days ahead of time.
2. Travel Off-Peak You can save 20-40% on traveling if you fly mid-week (Tuesday to Thursday) or during some off-peak travel months (traveling outside of June to August).
3. Amtrak Guest Rewards Sign up for free. Earn points on every trip and redeem for free travel, upgrades, and companion tickets.
4. Discounts Available
- Children (2-12): 50% off adult fares
- Seniors (65+): 10% discount
- Military: 10% discount
- AAA Members: Up to 10% off
- Student Advantage cardholders: Discounts available
- Groups (6+ passengers): Group discounts available; call Amtrak
5. USA Rail Pass Amtrak’s USA Rail Pass can be an excellent value for you since it covers many segments of your La Crosse journey if you’re traveling multiple cities.
6. Watch for Amtrak Sales Amtrak runs frequent flash sales centered around national holidays. You can sign up for their emails to find out about these sales.
Best Time to Visit La Crosse by Train: Seasonal Travel Tips
La Crosse is beautiful year-round, but each season offers a distinct experience:
Spring
- Wildflowers bloom on the bluffs
- Migratory birds and eagles along the Mississippi
- Mild temperatures (45°C – 70°C)
- Train tip: Lower fares, uncrowded trains, ideal window-watching weather
Summer
- Warm, sunny weather (70°C – 90°C)
- La Crosse Oktoberfest preparations begin in late August
- Outdoor festivals, river activities, hiking
- Train tip: Book 3-6 weeks ahead; trains fill up fast; fares at highest
Fall
- Best time for the Mississippi bluffs – fall foliage is absolutely stunning from the train
- La Crosse Oktoberfest (one of the largest in the U.S.) in late September/October
- Temperatures: 45°C – 68°C
- Train tip: Book early for October Oktoberfest weekends; extremely popular
Winter
- Snow-covered bluffs and frozen river are beautiful
- Cross-country skiing and ice fishing
- Lower crowds and cheaper fares
- Train tip: Check for potential winter delays; dress warmly and enjoy the cozy train atmosphere
| Season | Weather | Crowd Level | Fare Level | Best For |
| Spring | Mild | Low-Medium | Low-Medium | Nature, birdwatching |
| Summer | Warm-Hot | High | High | Outdoor activities, families |
| Fall | Cool-Crisp | Medium-High | Medium-High | Foliage, Oktoberfest |
| Winter | Cold-Snowy | Low | Low | Budget travel, solitude |
Train vs Bus vs Car to La Crosse: Which Is the Best Way to Travel?
Train
| Pros | Cons |
| Scenic Mississippi River views | Once-daily service (limited flexibility) |
| Comfortable seating, café car | Can be delayed (long-distance trains) |
| No driving stress | Limited departure cities |
| Eco-friendly | Longer overall journey time vs car for short trips |
| Arrive near downtown | – |
Best for: Travelers from Chicago, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, or anyone doing a longer scenic journey.
Bus
| Pros | Cons |
| Often cheapest option | Less comfortable than train |
| More departure cities/times | Bus stops may not be central |
| Flexible schedule | No café car or dining |
| More stops, longer journey |
Best for: Ultra-budget travelers with time to spare.
Car
| Pros | Cons |
| Maximum flexibility | Traffic, especially around Chicago |
| Can carry more luggage | Parking costs in La Crosse |
| Fastest for short distances | Fatigue on long drives |
| – | Fuel costs, tolls |
Best for: Travelers from nearby towns or those needing maximum flexibility in La Crosse.
Side-by-Side Summary
| Factor | Train | Bus | Car |
| Comfort | Excellent | Poor | Average |
| Scenery | Excellent | Poor | Average |
| Cost | Average | Excellent | Average |
| Flexibility | Poor | Average | Excellent |
| Eco-Friendly | Excellent | Good | Poor |
| Stress-Free | Excellent | Average | Poor |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Amtrak go directly to La Crosse, Wisconsin?
Yes! Amtrak’s Empire Builder (trains #7 and #8) stops directly at La Crosse Amtrak Station once daily in each direction. Travelers from Chicago, Milwaukee, and Minneapolis can board without any transfers.
2. How long does the train from Chicago to La Crosse take?
The Empire Builder takes approximately 4.5 to 5 hours from Chicago Union Station to La Crosse. This can vary slightly depending on any operational delays along the route.
3. How much does a train ticket from Chicago to La Crosse cost?
Coach class tickets typically range from $28 to $55 during off-peak periods and $55 to $95 during peak summer months. Booking early will almost always secure the lowest available fare.
4. What is the La Crosse Amtrak station address?
The La Crosse Amtrak Station is located at 601 St. Andrew Street, La Crosse, WI 54601. It has a staffed ticket counter, waiting room, restrooms, and free parking.
5. Can I travel from New York City to La Crosse by train?
Yes. You’ll take the Lake Shore Limited from New York Penn Station to Chicago Union Station, then transfer to the Empire Builder heading west to La Crosse. Total journey time is approximately 24-27 hours. It’s an epic rail adventure!
6. Is there a train from Minneapolis to La Crosse?
Yes. The Empire Builder #8 (eastbound) departs from St. Paul/Minneapolis and reaches La Crosse in approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. It’s a beautiful journey through the Mississippi River valley.
7. What classes are available on trains to La Crosse?
The Empire Builder offers Coach Class, Business Class (on select segments), Roomette (private sleeping cabin for 1-2), and Bedroom (larger private cabin with en-suite bathroom). Sleeping Car fares include all meals in the Dining Car.
8. How early should I arrive at the La Crosse Amtrak station before my train?
Amtrak recommends arriving at least 30 minutes before departure. For large stations like Chicago where you may need to transfer, arriving 45-60 minutes early is advisable.
9. Is the Amtrak Empire Builder often delayed?
Long-distance trains like the Empire Builder can experience delays, as they share tracks with freight trains which have priority. The Chicago-La Crosse segment is generally more reliable than the western portions of the route. Always check the Amtrak app for real-time status.
10. Are there discounts available on Amtrak trains to La Crosse?
Yes! Amtrak offers discounts for children (50% off), seniors 65+ (10% off), military personnel (10% off), AAA members, and groups of 6+. The Amtrak Guest Rewards loyalty program also offers points toward free travel. Booking Saver fares well in advance is the #1 way to save money.