Photo Courtesy the City of Sparta, WI
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Bike Trails & Backroads
Elroy-Sparta State Bike Trail
Elroy-Sparta State Trail and was opened in 1967. This is the granddaddy of them all! The Elroy-Sparta Trail was the first rails-to-trails conversion in the country and it is perennially one of the most popular bicycling destinations in the state. Located in the driftless areas, one of the most scenic parts of Wisconsin, the trail is one of the few flat surfaces in a land of narrow valleys and steep wooded bluffs.
Three tunnels are a big part of the trail's appeal. The longest, between Sparta and Norwalk, is more than three-quarters of a mile long. Walking through the tunnels, (you can't ride them), is an adventure in itself. The small towns en-route all have a bike-friendly atmosphere; after all, the trail has made them famous. Bike Trails are surfaced with fine limestone or similar materials. There is no charge for snowmobiling or hiking. Trail passes are required for bikers 16 years of age or older.
World's Largest Talking Ben Bikin' Located in Sparta at the corner of S. Water and E. Wisconsin St. This special Ben Bikin' is a land mark of Sparta and can be seen by bike or car. He will talk about many exciting area attractions.
Wisconsin Biking Video Guide
Please keep in mind this is a general video of the area and trails made by Wisconsin tourisum.
PEOPLE & BICYCLE SHUTTLE SERVICE AVAILABLE - $34. PER COUPLE . We will shuttle your bicycles and YOU and drop you off at Elroy, Kendall, Wilton, or Norwalk all along the Elroy-Sparta State Bike Trail! Then you can enjoy the whole bike trail and wonderful tunnels! Set up with innkeepers for shuttle service.
The Franklin Victorian B&B offers secure inside bike storage and have bike passes for purchase. Ask about Bike Shuttle Service available at The Franklin Victorian B&B.
Safety tip: Flashlights, windbreakers and caps recommended when walking bikes through the tunnels.
The La Crosse River State Trail
The 21.5 mile La Crosse River State Trail follows the winding route of the La Crosse River, taking bicyclists from Onalaska to Sparta. As you pedal the La Crosse River State Trail, you'll enjoy bridges over crystal clear trout streams and picturesque farms. Like the Great River State Trail, the La Crosse River State Trail has a smooth surface that can accommodate both road bicycles and mountain bikes. Part of the trail even runs parallel to an active rail line.
Find more information at the La Crosse River State Trail website.
Recreationalists have approximately 75 miles of biking and hiking between Elroy and Perrot State Park near Trempealeau.
Great River State Trail
Take a pedal down the Mississippi River on the Great River State Trail. Enjoy 24 miles of the most beautiful scenery in the Midwest. The trail traverses along 18 different waterways, crosses over the Black River on a 287-foot former railroad trestle, and follows Lake Onalaska and the BNSF railway. From its trailhead in Onalaska, all the way to Trempealeau, the Great River State Trail is one beautiful landscape after another and is perfect for any type of bicycle. Cross-country skiing starts in Onalaska and continues the entire length of the trail. Snowmobiling is permitted only in designated areas.
On-Road Biking
On-Road Riding Bike Tours - Roadies! Discover what the locals have known for years; the Wisconsin dairy roads make for hundreds (yes, hundreds) of options for road riding in every direction. Sparta "Road Tours Maps" available - Ridgeville Ramble 36.9 miles, Booney Biken 19.1 miles, Up North 26.3 miles of bike friendly tours. They will take you down country lanes where wild flowers grow to the edge of the pavement; through forest that canopy the roadway; perfect for relaxing biking.
We also have the "Wisconsin State Bike Map" here at the B&B for bike friendly roadways.
The Innkeepers will be happy to help in planning a local itinerary for you.
With its extensive system of on-road, and touring trails, Wisconsin is viewed by many insiders as the best Midwestern state for bicycling. If you are in need of a good bicycle to Rent we have a local business that can help you.
Canoe, Kayak & Hike
Ontario, WI / Kickapoo River Canoeing
A paradise for canoeists and outdoor enthusiasts because of its easy access, laid-back pace and beautiful scenery. Renting out canoes for the scenic trip down the Kickapoo River has become a very popular weekend destination. Photos credit:Titanic Canoe Rental
Also...
LaFarge, WI / Kickapoo Valley Reserve has been a favorite among canoeists for many years. The word "Kickapoo" is from the Native American Algonquian language meaning "he who goes here, then there." Translated locally as the "crooked river," it certainly lives up to its name, meandering its way along a 125-mile course that covers only 65 miles "as the crow flies." The shallow, gently flowing river is tame enough for the beginner but challenging enough for the advanced paddler, as well. The upper stretch of the river from Ontario to La Farge is arguably the most beautiful, if not the most accessible for the public to enjoy.
The Reserve offers a variety of recreation and canoeing. http://www.kvr.state.wi.us
Area River Canoeing & Kayaking Adventures
We invite you to enjoy the wildlife and the serenity of The Kickapoo River. Paddle through picturesque marches and hardwood swamps. Watch for muskrats, waterfowl, deer & beaver. Fish for northern pike, walleye, bass & pan fish. Enjoy a swim or picnic anywhere along the way. The current is steady and the bottom is sandy. For more information www.bikesparta.com
Wildcat Mountain State Park
On a steep ridge overlooking the scenic Kickapoo River Valley, Wildcat Mountain State Park offers hiking trails with spectacular views and horseback riding. Canoe the Kickapoo River in your own canoe or rent one in Ontario.
The park's 3,603 acres, mostly wooded, contain 25.8 miles of trails including...
25.8 miles of hiking trails
17.5 miles of trails for snowshoeing
15.0 miles of horse trails
7.0 miles of cross-country ski trails
1.3 miles of interpretive nature trail
0.4 miles of trail accessible for people with disabilities
Wildcat Mountain has a nature center and interpretive program, picnic facilities, and opportunities for bird and wildlife watching and fishing. For more information: 608-337-4775, http://kvr.state.wi.us, or http://www.dnr.state.wi.us
**Calling ahead for canoeing reservations is recommended for weekend trips.
Titanic Canoe Rental - 608-337-4551 Our guests are very happy with their service. Please note they do not take credit cards, cash and checks excepted.
Black River Express Canoe Rental - 608-488-7017
Mr. Duck Canoe Rental - 608-337-4711
Drifty's Canoe Rental - 608-337-4288
Kickapoo Yacht Club - which is half way between Rockton and LaFarge on Highway 131. We rent canoes 7 days a week. We provide shuttle service, paddles, jackets, and friendly service and guidance for our customers. Our website http://www.kikcapooyachtclub.com and our contact numbers are 608-625-4395 and 608-625-2071 for more information or reservations. We do provide shuttle service for those with their own canoes and we do accept credit cards. Email reservations can be made from our website.
Black River Express Canoe & Kayak Rentals
Enjoy a glorious day of canoeing or kayaking on the Black River. The many sandbars along the way will add fun and relaxation to your trip! Shuttles to and from landing included with rental fees.
Located at 301 S. Washington St, Melrose, WI 54642. Corner of US Hwy 108 & 54 (608) 488-7017 call us today to make your reservation.
Scavenger Hunt Weekend
Scavenger Hunt Package
Scavenger Hunt- Is your group ready for the hunt in Sparta? This event is offered year-round to our guests as a fun activity in sunshine, rain, sleet or snow.
You are able to win the grand prize of a "One Night Stay Gift Certificate" at The Franklin Victorian Bed and Breakfast on a future stay & other prizes will be avialable. Then our Scavenger Hunt weekend is just for you!
 After you check in you will attend a “Scavengers' Mixer” to meet the scavengers. During the “Scavengers' Mixer” you’ll be given a list of riddles to solve and a list of participating shops in Sparta. Your first task will be to solve the riddles. After Breakfast in the morning you will hit the streets of Sparta in search of the items of your solved riddles. The person or Team, who finds the most correct items, marks them on their answer form. All of the items you will be looking for can be found at area attractions and do not require a purchase. Return the form in the afternoon will be deemed the winner: A tie breaker will be available because there can be only one Grand Prize winner. The Grand Prize is a Franklin Victorian Bed & Breakfast Gift Certificate to be used on a future visit.
This package includes a two nights stay (for two persons in a room) at The Franklin Victorian B&B with breakfast for two in the mornings, the “Scavengers’ Mixer” in the evening and an afternoon mixer at the Franklin Victorian B&B when the “Best of the Scavengers” will be awarded their prize at Franklin Victorian B&B.
If your group of 4 to 8 is interested in spending the weekend and participation in the Scavenger Hunt give us a call at 888-594-FVBB. http://www.franklinvictorianbb.com
A two night minimum is required. Special rates apply:
Included amenities
Two nights for two people in the room of your choosing
Evening Social Gathering with snacks & wine
Full Breakfast in the mornings.
AND OF COURSE THE SCAVENGER HUNT WEEKEND!
*Taxes not included.
Amish & Tours
The Innkeepers will be happy to help in planning a local itinerary for you.
Cashton Mercantile - Cashton, Wisconsin
Cashton Mercantile offers Amish tours and handcrafted gifts made by our many Amish friends and other local artisans. Experience hospitality that you can only find in small town America and enjoy the very historical Ocooch Mountain area. Kevin & Patsy Alderson invite you to Cashton, Wisconsin - a unique destination where you can relax and feel like you have stepped back in time to a quieter, simpler life.
All of our products are locally handcrafted. Come to the Cashton Mercantile and see our unique items. Call Kevin & Patsy Alderson for more information, 608-654-5378 or 608-654-5387 or see their website http://www.cashtonmercantile.com
ABC Amish Bus and Auto Tours
"The Heart of Amish Country" ..relax and step back in time to a quieter and simpler life. Cashton offers panoramic views of the hills and valley tours take you through the thriving Amish community. ABC Amish Tours. For reservations call - 888-322-5494
http://www.cashtonmercantile.com/tours.html
Amish Gift Shops & Tour Service
Down A Country Road - Cashton, Wisconsin
Set deep in the heart of southwestern Wisconsin you will find a serene spot nestled in the valley 2 miles east of Cashton, along State hwy 33. Set amongst the gorgeous rolling country side, the Kuderer farm is home to the Village Shops at Down A Country Road.
The Village Shops include "The Amish Shop", "The Little Red Shed", "Emma's Kitchen" & "Country Corner Ice Cream Shoppe".
Down A Country Road will take you back in time to a quieter, simpler way of life.
 As you visit the Kuderer farm you will sense the quiet tranquility of a day in the country. Chuck and Kathy, along with their children, Jenny, Jason, Jeremy and Janessa, a non-Amish family, have established a special friendship with many of the Old Order Amish families that surround the Cashton area. The Gift shops at Down A Country Road reflect that freindship as the Kuderer's work with approximately 45 Amish families that bring their products to sell in the gift shops built on the Kuderer farm by the Amish. You will find a wide variety of Amish made furniture, quilts, rugs, baskets, home made candies, jams and jellies, maple syrup, honey products and so much more! Tours scheduled May through October, advance reservations requested. Call Kathy at 608-654-5318 or see their website www.downacountyroadamish.com for more information.
Inspirations at Dovetail Farm
Inspirations at Dovetail Farm offers, quilting, scrapbooking, beading, and woodworking supplies, including kits, books, and patterns. There are also finished quilts for sale.
The store is located in an Amish made log cabin with a lovely front porch that invites you to take a moment to enjoy the scenery and buggies that drive by. Our Website is http://www.dovetailfarm.com
Richard Dawley - Four Books on Amish
Author Richard Dawley is an eager and respectful observer, who, in his first book, "Amish in Wisconsin" invites the reader to accompany him as he engages the Amish in their various Wisconsin settlements. Richard's Second book is ,"Amish: Journey in Contentment" is an Anecdotal Journal. His third Book is "Amish Assimilation" and soon his fourth book, "Amish Snowbirds". His first two books are out of print. Order from Richard, cost for books is $16.95 plus $3.00 S/H.
Read book reviews for Richard Dawley's "Amish in Wisconsin", "Amish: Journey in Contentment" is an anecdotal journal, & "Amish Assimilation".
Read the press release for Richard Dawley's "Amish Snowbirds".
For more information contact Richard at (262)797-1858. E-mail: dawley@voyager.net
Golfing & Disc Golfing
Sparta & Area Golf Course
2008 Golf Wisconsin Weekend, May 30-June 1, 2008, Special Lodging Discount
City of Sparta Golf Course |
Just a few blocks from the B&B. 18 Hole Facility, Open to the Public. Par 72. Our Website is http://www.spartagolf.com
This picturesque municipal course has been given a three star rating by Golf Digest; making it the most popular in the area.
They would also like to invite you to stop at the course bar & grill for lunch or dinner. They also offer a full service bar.
Located at 1210 E. Montgomery Street.
Call (608) 269-3022
Other Surrounding Area Golf Courses
Coulee Golf Bowl 608-781-1111
Drugan's Castle Mound 608-526-3225
Forest Hill 608-779-4653
Fox Hollow Golf Course 608-786-4653
Walsh Golf Center 608-781-0838
Disc Golf Course
Pettibone Park - La Crosse
An eighteen hole disc golf course has been built for your use and enjoyment with the help of Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center. Special disc can be rented in groups of four with a small deposit, or bring your own equipment. Check it Out! Call the La Crosse Park & Rec for details at 608-789-7533
Horseback Riding & Ranches
Horse Back Riding at Redrock Trail Rides
Redrock is on a 365 acre working dairy farm that has been in the Sullivan family for 100 years. There are 12 miles of ridge & valley trails to ride well broke horses and enjoy breath taking scenery and abundant wildlife. Open year round, with daily trail rides Spring thru Fall, Morning rides begin at 9:30 or 10:00. Rides may also be scheduled for 1:00, 3:00, 5:00 and 7:00 pm. In the Winter, Bobsled rides Enjoy a horse drawn wagon ride during your visit to Sparta. Sleigh Rides are available by reservation only during daylight hours. Pricing: $75.00 groups of 5 or less. $10.00 ea. additional person
Max. 8 people per ride. (Snack stop included in price of ride.)For more information call (608) 823-7865 or 1-888-540-5434.
Covered Wagon rides also a wonderful way to enjoy the horses and beautiful scenery. Located only 12 miles from Sparta along the Elroy-Sparta bike trail. Call Kathie (608) 823-7865 or 1-888-540-5434 for reservations, information and directions.
M&M Ranch & Outfitters
Take a trip back in time at our year-round working/recreational ranch. Guided horseback rides, Canoe rental, Horse-drawn hayrides & winter sleigh rides, Live western & bluegrass entertainment, Saturday night gospel sings, Old-fashioned cane-pole fishing, Mainze maze & pumpkin patch, gift shop, Trail's End Cafe. * Winter activites available cross country skiing, ice skating, snow shoeing, holiday ranch activities.
4494 Jackpot Ave, Sparta 608-486-2722, http://www.mmranchfun.com
Heritage, Leisure, Arts & More!
Sparta Municipal Swimming Pool
Just a few block from the B&B. On a nice hot day, nothing feels better than a cool dip in the pool. Sparta's municipal swimming pool is open daily in the summer. 608-269-5344
Swimming Pool Hours:
1:30 pm-4:30 pm Open Swim
4:30 pm-5:30 pm Lap Swim
5:30 pm-6:30 pm Family Swim
6:30 pm-9 pm Open Swim
Norskedalen - The Norwegian Valley - Nature & Heritage Center.
Norskedalen (which means the Norwegian Valley), is a nature and heritage center dedicated to preserving, interpreting and sharing the natural environment and cultural heritage of the area surrounding Coon Valley in southwest Wisconsin.
Enjoy...hiking on scenic nature trails; fall colors; touring a restored 1890's log pioneer farmstead.
 Viewing exhibits featuring the natural & cultural heritages of our area; browsing in the gift shop; or sitting back and relaxing.
Norskedalen has so much to offer in so many different ways, exploring the natural beauty, regional history and traditional Norwegian heritage of the region.
Located on Cty. Hwy PI, 3 miles north of Coon Valley, WI.
 For more information 608-452-3424 or visit http://www.norskedalen.org
Quilt Corner - Located in Sparta
A friendly place for all you quilting needs, stop in and meet Connie and Crystal.
*Specialize in qualtity cotton fabrics, notions, patterns and books.
*Grace Quilter Machine
*Large selection of Thimbleberries & Kansas Troubles fabrics.
*100% Hand Dyed Wool & Felted Wool
*Classes, Clubs, & much, much more!
Located 2 blocks from the B&B, 219 N. Water,
608-269-1083.
La Crosse Community Theatre
2007-2008 Season
Mame- Sept 7-9, 13-16, 20-23
The Mousetrap- Oct. 19-21, 25-28, Nov. 1-4
A Christmas Carol- Dec. 7-9, 14-16
Lend me a Tenor- Jan. 18-20, 24-27 Jan. 31-Feb. 3
The Boys Next Door- Feb. 29-March 2,
March 6-9, 13-16
The Sound of Music- April 25-27 May 1-4, 8-11
Robin Hood- June 13-15, 20-22
Box Office 608-784-9292 Hours 11 am to 5 pm M-F
http://www.lacrossecommunitytheatre.org
The Pump House Regioal Arts Center- La Crosse, WI
The Pump House Regional Arts Center is a nonprofit organization which provides information and services to artists, arts organizations and the community; which maintains the historic Pump House; and which provides art outreach to the seven-county Tri-State region.
The Pump House contains four art galleries and the 140-seat Dayton Theatre.
See their website for calendar of events and other infomation. http://www.thepumphouse.org
Pine View Recreation Area
Located at Fort McCoy - Sparta, WI. Also, Pine View Recreation area is just a few miles from The Franklin Victorian B&B.
Activities:
18 Hole mini golf course Fishing Volleyball court Horseshoe CanoesHiking trails Paddle boatsSwimming beach Playgrounds Paintball
Fort Mc Coy, Sparta, WI
Phone:(608) 388-2407
Have you ever dreamed of touring an army base but were afraid of recruiters? Have you ever wanted to relive those Army days without the KP? How about having your picture taken next to a tank? Take a guided tour of Fort Mc Coy! A driving tour and History Brochure is available by contacting Public Affairs office at telephone number listed above.
Photo Credit: Fort McCoy
Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe
The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe is nestled alongside a Wisconsin bluff in La Crosse, Wisconsin. It is a place of prayer, meditation and pilgrimage. A full-service Pilgrim Center provides a restaurant and religious gift shop sure to welcome you away from the busy world. An orientation film is available, Promise Yourself; Visit the Shrine.
Open Daily from 9-4 p.m. 608-782-5440.
http://www.guadalupeshring.org
Museums & Discovery
Deke Slayton Memorial Space & Bicycle Museum
The museum was founded in March 1999 by a core group of residents who wanted to honor Deke Slayton's memory in his hometown of Sparta, WI and to commemorate the county's rich bicycling heritage.
The museum is a progression from the earliest patented bicycles to the Wright brothers bicycle shop, the Wright Flyer and into Outer Space. All ages love the bicycle museum and space suit display!
For more information visit http://www.dekeslayton.com.
Monroe County Local History Room & Museum
The Monroe County Local History Room & Museum tells the story of men and women who lived and worked in Monroe County through interactive exhibits and engaging displays. Photographs, documents, memorabilia and historic artifacts record Monroe County life in all its periods. The Research Room welcomes all those interested in genealogy and the history of Monroe County.
Its documentary archive is the most complete source of county historical information in the area. Free admission. 200 West Main St.
Phone: (608) 269-8680
Photo Credit: Bessie Kmiecik
Wisconsin Cranberry Discovery Center
Catch the aroma of cranberries...at the Wisconsin Cranberry Discovery Center as you see, touch and taste Wisconin's No. 1 fruit crop.
The Discovery Center's, 4,800-square foot exhibit hall details the history of the state's cranberry industry, from the days when Native Americans gathered fruit in the wild to today's unique growing and harvesting methods.
 Come visit....
204 Main Street, PO Box 187
Warrens, WI 54666 (608) 378-4878
http://www.discovercranberries.com
The Wegner Grotto: A Grassroots Art Environment
The Paul and Matilda Wegner Grotto - a grassroots art environment - is located near Cataract, north of Sparta. The Grotto is a fantastic sculpture garden of concrete structures decorated with thousands of glittering glass shards. The Grotto is located off Hwy. 27, west on Hwy. 71. Free admission (but donations are appreciated). Open Memorial Day through Labor Day with closing ceremonies at 6:00 p.m. on the Monday of Labor Day. Photo Credit: Bessie Kmiecik
Salons & Spas
For The Health Of It Day Spa
108 W. Main St.
Sparta, WI 54656 / 608-269-1321
e-mail: ahealthytouch@centurytel.net
Offering: Massage Therapy, Aesthetics, Nail Technician
- Swedish Massage
- Trigger Point
- Neuromuscular Therapy
- Deep Tissue Massage
- & More!
Janell, Sally, Heidi & Brooke would be glad to help you.
Shades Body Studio etc.
3 types of Tanning, Aqua Massage, Body Wraps, Skin care & More! Plaza 16 West - 622 Industrial Dr.
Sparta 608.269.8282
email: shadesbodystudio@centurytel.net
The Body Temple
Advance Reflexology & Meridian Therapy and Massage Therapist, Massage by Brooke. 101 S. Water St.Sparta Just two blocks from the B&B. Call for an appointment, 608.269.1909
email: thebodytemple@centurytel.net
Metropolitan Salon & Day Spa
600 North Third Street, Suite 103,
Sampson Galleria
La Crosse, WI 54601 608.784.6441
http://www.metropolitanspa.com
The Ultimate Salon
An AVEDA Concept Salon
720 Cass St
La Crosse, WI 608.782.8720
http://www.theultimatesalon.com
Sue Kolves Salon & Day Spa
230 Main
Onalaska, WI 608.784.2363
More Things To Do
The Innkeepers will be happy to help in planning a local itinerary for you.
We have so many things to do and see we can not list them all on our website. I have highlighted a few of main interest but there is a lot more. Please contact us if there is an activity that interests you and you would like more information about.
THE LITTLE FALLS DOLL & RAILROAD
Located in two separate buildings, the Doll Museum contains hundreds of dolls from the 1800s to the present. The Railroad Museum displays many railroad items, a 1,000+ book library and a Milwaukee Steel Bay Window Caboose. There is a large picnic shelter with tables and grills, swings for the children and an outdoor train running on a very erratic schedule. Open from 1 April to 31 October. Noon-5 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Admission $5, seniors $4.
http://www.raildoll.org
OLD COUNTRY CHEESE & PASTURE PRIDE:
Over 40 varieties of cheese made fresh at these factory outlets, on Hwy D just 7 miles from Westby, WI or south of Sparta. Watch cheese being made! Try a baked bread cheese. Cheese gift boxes, Amish crafts, candy, & maple syrup available.888-320-9469 http://www.oldcountrycheese.com
GREAT RIVER ROAD: The Great River Road in Wisconsin goes from Prescott south to Prairie Du Chien, Cassville, Tenneyson and the Illinois state border. Much of it is etched at the base of bluffs and adjacent to the river and is one of seven suggested American Drives to take according to Reader’s Digest.
http://www.wigreatriverroad.org
WILDWOMAN'S: Antique-Vintage-Retro. Located in an historic building in Wilton, WI. The heart of the Elroy-Sparta Bike Trail. Apparel, accessories, hats, feathers, furs and more! An out of the Ordinary Experience. 608-435-6217
e-mail: wildwomans@centurytel.net for more info.
VALLEYVIEW MALL IN LA CROSSE, Just 20 minutes away. http://www.myvalleyview.com
NASCAR Stock Car Auto Racing
Great Fun! Every Saturday Night in West Salem
608-786-1525 http://www.raildolllacrossesppedway.com
BURNSTAD'S EUROPEAN VILLAGE & CAFE - Located in Tomah, Wisconsin, at 701 E.Clifton St, a step inside Burnstad's European Village excites even the most worldly travelers. Amid the ambiance of authentic European architecture, brick walkways meander through a quaint collection of specialty clothing and gift shops.
Explore La Crosse
Grandad Bluff
Accessible from Hwy 33 and Hwy F. Grandad Bluff, which can be seen off of Losey Blvd. and Main ST on La Crosse's east side, is the area's tallest bluff at 540 ft. It is the site of a public park whre one can view a panoramic vista of La Crosse, the Mississippi Rive and three states and it's open year round during park hours. The land was donated by the Joseph and Irene Hixon family in 1912. It has been voted one of the most scenic views.
Walking Tour Of The La Crosse Downtown Commercial Historic District
Self-guided Historic Walking Tour.
Maps available at the La Crosse Visitors Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, hotels, and various businesses. Tour map includes historic descriptions of 20 buildings in the District which are considered the most historic, architecturally and/or culturally significant to the area.
Hixon House In La Crosse
Restored to its turn of the century elegance in 2005, this National Historic Landmark, the Hixon House, represents an architectural & historic treasure.
Call 608-782-1980 for more information.
Tour season; May through October http://www.lchsweb.org
City Brewery In La Crosse
Enjoy a 60-minute tour of the local brewery that encompasses a look into the history of this important part of La Crosse as well as showing you one of the most modern Brewhouses in the US! Tours are at noon, 1, 2, and 3pm Thurs-Sat in April, May, Oct, Nov & Dec. Tours June-Oct 14 Mon-Sat. 1111 S. 3rd St., La Crosse; 608-785-4283; http://www.citybrewery.com
Island Girl Cruises
Sleek excursion vessel with viewing deck. Docked mid-May thru mid-October. at Bikini Yacht Club next to South Bay Marina on Hwy. 14-61 between La Crosse and La Crescent. Sightseeing and meal cruises offered daily. Stop in at the B.Y.C. shop for nautical souvenirs. 608-784-0556.
Historic Riverside Park, River Levee And Riverwalk
Created by the world famous architect John Nolan, beautiful Riverside Park is located at the confluence of the 3 rivers, Mississippi, La Crosse & Black Rivers. View the paddlewheelers on the historic levee & enjoy a walk on the Riverwalk. At the park entrance see the historic marker where Nathan Myrick built the first cabin in La Crosse in 1842.
Hixon Forest & La Crosse River Marsh Nature Center
Off Hwy. 16 just north of La Crosse St. & Losey Blvd. in La Crosse. Interactive exhibits the whole family can enjoy, wooded bluffs, 13 miles of free hiking and skiing trails, summer Butterfly Garden, Hunt for eggs, observe caterpillars, search for pupae, and watch the butterflies soar! naturalists available, 608-784-0303, www.hixonforest.org
Valleyview Mall In La Crosse
Just 20 minutes away. http://www.myvalleyview.com
Festivals
Warrens Cranberry Festival
The Largest Cranberry Festival in the World! 1250 Booths and More Than Three Miles of Booth
Frontage. Come join the fun! Cranberry Tours Sat. Only; Parade Sunday; Arts & Crafts, flea Market, Farm Market, Ethnic Foods, Cranberry Products All Weekend. 100,000 attendances. Recommended to make lodging reservations months ahead of time. Free Shuttle Buses are available!
35th Annual Warrens Cranberry Festival "Military Salute". "The Moving Wall" Vietnam Veteran Memorial will be on display Thur. throught Monday Oct. 1st.
September 26,27,28, 2008
September 25,26,27, 2009
7 a.m. to Dusk
Web site features an interactive information center, recipes, contest rules, festival history, maps and much more! For more information 608-378-4200 http://www.cranfest.com
Florists
Local Florists
Sparta Floral and Greenhouse 608-269-4141
The Greenery 608-269-2544
Winter Activities
Whitetail Ridge...the place for winter family fun!
FREE WINTER SKIING AND TUBING SPECIAL SEE SPECIALS PAGE.
Downhill Skiing/Snowboarding - Whitetail Ridge: has four ski slopes that challenges skiers of all ages, from the novice to the experienced. http://www.mccoymwr.com 608-388-4498 or 608-388-3517.
 Mount La Crosse Ski Area: Downhill skiing and snowboarding, chair lifts, tows, races, rentals, instructions and runs for all ability levels, http://www.mtlacrosse.com,608-788-0044.
 Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing - Five miles of trails wind through 300 acres of forest on Fort McCoy. The abundant wildlife often make an appearance along the beautiful trails. Equipment Rental is available at Whitetail Ridge/Fort McCoy. Wildcat Mountain State Park at Ontario, Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge north of Trempealeau, Norskedalen at Coon Valley, are also wonderful places for cross-country skiing & snowshoeing.
 Snow Tubing - Is not just for Kids...Adults to can enjoy, Two tubing hill! Sliding down the 800' long slope on a large inner tube is part of the thrills. Tubing area has its own tow rope so the ride up is just as fun!
All located in one of the most scenic areas of Fort McCoy in Sparta, Wisconsin.
For Information call the B&B or see http://www.mccoymwr.com 608-388-4498 or 608-388-3517
We have so many things to do and see we can not list them all on our website. I have highlighted a few of main interest but there is a lot more. Please contact us if there is an activity that interests you and you would like more information about.
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