Sparta, Wisconsin Bed & Breakfast Inn. Wisconsin's Sparta-Elroy Bike Trail, Amish, Canoeing, Fall Foliage, B&B Romantic Getaway




















Photo Courtesy the City of Sparta, WI

Click on the Pictures for a Larger View

Best of BedandBreakfast.com Award winner, 2009-2010

Best of BedandBreakfast.com Award winner, 2008-2009



National Register of Historic Places



The Elroy Sparta Bike Trail is just one of the many wonderful reasons guests love to spend their vacations and weekend getaways at Franklin Victorian Bed & Breakfast in Sparta, Wisconsin.

Located in the heart of the scenic Hidden Valleys region of Southwest Wisconsin, Sparta offers visitors a myriad of activities and attractions, including kayaking and canoeing on the Kickapoo River, Amish country tours, golfing, horseback riding, and, of course, biking!


» Bike Trails & Backroads » Horseback Riding & Ranches
» Canoe, Kayak & Hike » Amish & Tours
» Golfing & Disc Golfing » Heritage, Leisure, Arts & More!
» Museums & Cranberry Discovery/Marsh Tours » Festivals
» Salons & Spas » Explore La Crosse
» More Things To Do » Winter Activities
» Local Florists


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. For more information, visit www.bikesparta.com.

World's Largest Talking Ben Bikin' Located in Sparta at the corner of S. Water and E. Wisconsin St. This special Ben Bikin' statue is a landmark of Sparta and can be seen by bike or car. He will talk about many exciting area attractions.


PEOPLE & BICYCLE SHUTTLE SERVICE AVAILABLE - 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 prior to stay for shuttle service.

The Franklin Victorian B&B offers secure inside bike storage, and we have bike passes for purchase. We are about one mile from the trail. 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.

See our Weather page for your forecast




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 Web site.

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 wildflowers 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 more bike-friendly roadways.


See our Weather page for your forecast






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 through 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, there are 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.



Canoe, Kayak & Hike

Ellistone Canoe/kayak Rental & Shuttle Service
Canoe the beautiful LaCrosse river from Sparta to Rockland Wisconsin. This canoe or kayak trip will take you through one of the most scenic stretches of the LaCrosse river as it winds its way through historic Monroe and LaCrosse Counties.

Trips can begin from either of two seperate locations in Sparta (Fishermans Park, or Amundson Park). Three seperate trip options ranging from 2-5 hours on average. The three and five hour trips end with your final destination at Rockland boat landing, just minutes from downtown Rockland.

Ellistone Canoe Rentals LLC
Rockland, Wisconsin
608-343-5696 or 608-487-5114
www.ellistonecanoerental.com

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. Photo credits: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 accepted.

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 Web site is 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 Web site.


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.



Amish & Tours

The Innkeepers will be happy to help in planning a local itinerary for you.


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 friendship 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, homemade 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 Web site 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 his fourth book, Amish and Mennonite Snowbirds. Order any of these books from Richard, cost for books is $14.95 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


Sparta's River Run Golf Course
Sparta's River Run Golf Course is just a few blocks from the B&B. 18 Hole Facility, Open to the Public. Par 72. Our Web site is http://www.spartagolf.com

This picturesque golf 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
Fox Hollow Golf Course 608-786-4653
Walsh Golf Center 608-781-0838
Forest Hills Golf Course 608-779-GOLF www.fhlax.com

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




Heritage, Leisure, Arts & More!

Southern Fried Glass
Glass Blowing Studio & Art Gallery
NEW TO SPARTA
Located just off the Sparta-Elroy Bike Trail, Southern Fried Glass has moved from Flordia to Wisconsin! Stop by to check out our new gallery, or just to watch some glass blowing!
Open Saturday/Sunday 9a-3p, Wednesday 5-8p
Just past the bike shop on John St.
For more infomation, contact us at: 608-633-4533
email: sofriedglass@aol.com
www.southernfriedglass.com

Sparta Municipal Swimming Pool
Just a few blocks 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



The Pump House Regional Arts Center- La Crosse, WI
Thank you for your interest in the Pump House public art project, The Herons of La Crosse. We have had a tremendous response from our community, the sponsors, and the artists. The Pump House has worked on this project since 2003 and the warm response is greatly appreciated.

digital map is available here on our website.

Throughout the project please keep in mind that some Herons may be "on tour." Please contact the Pump House if you have questions regarding this (for example, "Great River Spirit Bird" appeared with Bill Miller during his performance at Viterbo with the La Crosse Symphony Orchestra).

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 Web site for calendar of events and other information. http://www.thepumphouse.org

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 your quilting needs, stop in and meet Connie and Crystal.
*Specialize in quality 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.


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 & Cranberry Discovery/Marsh Tours

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 Wisconsin'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




Cranberry Marsh Tours & Harvest Day
Arpin Cranberry Company of Warrens, WI. Owners Bob and Jacki Lundt have recently begun offering tours of their marsh to leisure travelers.
Click here to download a brochure
608-387-0466

Glacial Lake Cranberries, Wisconsin Rapids, are who offer tours to leisure travelers.
Click here to download a brochure
608-887-4164

Wetherby Cranberry Company, Warrens, also offer tours to motor coach groups. In addition, the Wetherby marsh holds a public harvest day annually on the first Saturday of October.
Click here to download a brochure


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




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 attendees. We recommend making lodging reservations months ahead of time. Shuttle Buses are available and the way to Go!

September 24-26, 2010, 7 a.m. to Dusk
September 23-24-25, 2011

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






Salons & Spas

A Healthy Touch
Massage Therapy & Bodywork, LLC
110 E. 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

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



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 where 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




Island Girl Cruises
Sleek excursion vessel with viewing deck. Docked mid-May through 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.


Myrick Hixon Eco-Park & La Crosse River Marsh Nature Center
Myrick Hixon EcoPark welcomes you to our world of environmental education, hiking, birding, prairie restoration, live indigenous animal exhibits, and many wonderful community events. Myrick Hixon EcoPark (MHEP) is a non-profit organization whose vision is to achieve community understanding of, and respect for nature, and to protect the environment for future generations.

Our mission is to create a unique destination with dynamic educational programming, interactive displays, and live animal exhibits that will advance the appreciation and conservation of our natural resources.
We are located at:
789 Myrick Park Dr
LaCrosse WI 54601
OPEN HOURS:
Monday-Friday 9:00-4:00 p.m.
Phone (608) 784-0303
http://www.mhecopark.org



Valleyview Mall in La Crosse/Onalaska
Just 20 minutes away. http://www.myvalleyview.com





More Things To Do

Grand National Tractor & Truck Pull
The Grand National Tractor & Truck Pull is held in nearby Tomah, WI.

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 608-654-5411 & PASTURE PRIDE NATURAL CHEESE 608-654-7444:
Over 40 varieties of cheese made fresh at these factory outlets, OLD COUNTRY CHEESE on Hwy D off Hwy 33 or PASTURE PRIDE NATURAL on Hwy 27, Cashton. Watch cheese being made! Try a baked bread cheese. Cheese gift boxes, Amish crafts, candy, & maple syrup available.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.





Winter Activities

Whitetail Ridge...the place for winter family fun!
  • Whitetail Ridge: Fort McCoy/Whitetail snow tubing promotion. We have a 2 hour tubing sessions for 2 adults FREE ($20) value. FREE WITH TWO NIGHTS LODGING AT FVBB. Promotion will will run from "DECEMBER OPENING DAY" to March 1 or close for the season, which ever comes first. Please mention this promotion with your reservation. 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 too 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

    See our Weather page for your forecast






    Local Florists

    Local Florists
    Sparta Floral and Greenhouse 608-269-4141
    The Greenery 608-269-2544





    We have so many things to do and see we can not list them all on our Web site. I have highlighted a few activities and attractions 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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