Favorite Type: Restaurant / Winery / Brewery / Orchard / Farmers' Market

Favorite:

The Monarch Public House

By: John Harrington

Wisconsin’s oldest continuing server, originating in 1894. An ongoing restorative renovation, since 1995, has brought back the beauty of a bygone era. A menu based on old family traditions and locally grown basics is served so “No one leaves here hungry!”
Step back in history and enjoy a relaxing meal, old time craft beers, wines and hand muddled Irish cocktails. S.pend some time touring through eclectic reovation and perhaps sit by one of the comfortable fireplace areas

Favorite:

Foodie Road Trip Itinerary – Explore La Crosse

By: Carey Hegge

Morning
Start in Winona, MN with a stop at Bloedow’s Bakery for legendary donuts.
Head up the Minnesota side of the Great River Road for scenic views, then cross back into Wisconsin once you reach Wabasha.
Midday
Stop at Nelson Cheese Factory (Nelson, WI) for lunch and cheese, wine, or ice cream.
Head back south along the Wisconsin side of the Great River Road before stopping in La Crosse for the rest of the day.
Afternoon
Explore downtown La Crosse, then grab an afternoon treat at The Pearl Ice Cream Parlor.
Evening
Dinner at The Freighthouse (La Crosse) or Sullivan’s Supper Club (Trempealeau) for a classic supper club experience with views.
If it’s Friday, make time for a traditional Wisconsin fish fry at a local supper club.

explorelacrosse.com

Favorite:

Orchards & Country Charm Itinerary – Explore La Crosse

By: Carey Hegge

Morning
Start in La Crosse with a bakery stop at Free Range Exchange.
Head to Ferguson’s Orchards (Galesville) for apple-picking, pumpkins, and seasonal treats.
Midday
Drive to Ecker’s Apple Farm (Trempealeau) to pick more apples or enjoy hard cider.
Stop in Winona for lunch at the Blue Heron Coffeehouse which adjusts their menu based on what is seasonally, locally and organically available.
Afternoon
Drive the Minnesota side of the Great River Road to Southwind Orchards (Dakota) for more apple picking fun and scenic views.
Evening
End the day with dinner at Uno Venti which serves pizza with homemade dough and locally sourced cheeses.
Photo Credit: Travel Wisconsin

explorelacrosse.com

Favorite:

Wittmond Hotel

By: Mary Corbin

Not really on the River Road but in between Illinois and Missouri Rivers .. in a little rivertown called Brussels .. there is an old hotel that serves a great meal family style! Sausage, fried chicken, chicken and dumplings, roast beef, corn, geeen beans and a relish tray to start! It is SO good so if you’re near Pierre Marquette Park you must stop in! It’s just a few miles from the Brussels Ferry. They also have cocktails and deserts! Everything is SO fresh even the meat! No processed food there! You won’t be sorry! 😊

Favorite:

Pulled Off for a Pseudo Sue

By: Thomas Anderson

finally made it out to Toppling Goliath in Decorah while cruising the Great River Road, and yeah, it’s as good as people say. The place is big, clean, and chill, with a nice patio out back and views of the hills around town.

I grabbed a Pseudo Sue, which is hands down one of the best pale ales out there. Super fresh, super smooth, nice citrus kick. Decorah’s not right on the river, but it’s close enough to make it a solid stop. Cool little town, good beer, easy vibes. Would definitely go back.

Favorite:

Bluffs, Brews, and Chill Vibes

By: Thomas Anderson

Potosi Brewing is right along the Great River Road in southwestern Wisconsin, and it’s got a cool old-school vibe. The brewery’s in a restored brick building, and they even have a beer museum inside.

I went straight for the Hazy Bluff IPA. It’s juicy, hazy, and super smooth. After driving the bluff roads between Cassville and Potosi, it hit just right. I grabbed a seat on the patio for a bit and just took it all in. Good beer, solid views, easy place to kick back.