La Crosse IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near La Crosse, Indiana.
1. Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum
HISTORIC TRAIN EXPERIENCE
The Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into America's railroad heritage with preserved locomotives and equipment. Guests can explore historic rail cars and learn about the importance of railroads to the development of the region through informative exhibits. The museum also provides exciting excursion train rides that allow visitors to experience rail travel as it once was.
2. Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area
SANDHILL CRANE SANCTUARY
The Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area is renowned for its spectacular seasonal gathering of sandhill cranes, particularly during spring and fall migrations. Visitors can observe thousands of these magnificent birds from a dedicated viewing platform as they congregate in the marshes and fields. Beyond crane watching, the area offers excellent opportunities for hiking, hunting, fishing, and wildlife photography throughout its diverse habitats.
3. Kersting's Cycle Center and Museum
VINTAGE MOTORCYCLE COLLECTION
Kersting's Cycle Center and Museum houses an impressive collection of vintage motorcycles and memorabilia that will delight enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The museum showcases the evolution of motorcycles across different eras with beautifully preserved examples from various manufacturers. Visitors can appreciate the craftsmanship and design innovations while learning about the cultural impact of motorcycles throughout American history.
4. Indiana Dunes State and National Parks
LAKESIDE NATURAL WONDER
Indiana Dunes encompasses both state and national parkland featuring massive sand dunes, diverse ecosystems, and beautiful beaches along Lake Michigan's southern shore. Visitors can explore over 15,000 acres of dunes, oak savannas, swamps, marshes, prairies, and forests through an extensive network of trails, including the challenging climb up Mount Tom. The parks welcome nearly 4 million guests annually who come to enjoy swimming, hiking, bird watching, and camping in this unique natural environment where forest meets shoreline.
5. Kankakee Sands Bison
PRAIRIE WILDLIFE RESTORATION
The Kankakee Sands Bison viewing area offers visitors the rare opportunity to see American bison roaming freely in their restored prairie habitat after a nearly 200-year absence from Indiana. The Nature Conservancy has reintroduced these magnificent animals as part of a comprehensive prairie restoration project spanning two decades. Visitors can observe these iconic creatures from a designated viewing area while learning about the ecological importance of both bison and native prairie ecosystems.
6. Fair Oaks Farms
AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION ADVENTURE
Fair Oaks Farms offers an immersive, interactive experience showcasing modern agricultural practices through various themed adventures focused on dairy cows, pigs, and crops. Visitors can observe farm operations, participate in hands-on activities, and learn about sustainable farming methods in an entertaining and educational environment. The complex also features seasonal attractions like apple picking in fall and the Forest of Lights in winter, as well as dining options including their café serving award-winning cheeses and the farm-to-table Farmhouse Restaurant.
7. Wabash River Scenic Byway
HISTORIC RIVER ROUTE
The Wabash River Scenic Byway follows the picturesque course of Indiana's most iconic river, offering spectacular views and access to numerous recreational opportunities. Travelers can enjoy a leisurely drive through charming river towns, historic sites, and natural areas that showcase the region's cultural and ecological heritage. The route features several parks, overlooks, and trails where visitors can stop to appreciate the river's beauty and importance to the development of the Hoosier State.
8. Garfield Park
HISTORIC URBAN OASIS
Garfield Park is the oldest city park in Indianapolis, featuring beautiful gardens, historic structures, and recreational facilities spread across its verdant grounds. The park's crown jewel is the stunning Garfield Park Conservatory, which houses tropical plants and seasonal floral displays in an elegant glass structure. Visitors can enjoy walking paths, picnic areas, an arts center, and various events held throughout the year in this beloved community space.
9. Turkey Run State Park
RUGGED CANYON ADVENTURE
Turkey Run State Park features dramatic sandstone ravines, prehistoric fossils, and lush forests that create one of Indiana's most distinctive natural landscapes. Hikers can explore challenging trails through deep canyons, across suspension bridges, and alongside clear streams that have carved their way through ancient rock formations. The park's historic accommodations, nature center, and interpretive programs complement the outdoor experience by providing context for the area's geological and cultural significance.
10. Prairie Creek Park
SERENE WATERSIDE RECREATION
Prairie Creek Park surrounds a scenic reservoir, offering diverse recreational activities in a tranquil natural setting away from urban bustle. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and bird watching along the shoreline and in adjacent wetland areas. The park features well-maintained trails, picnic facilities, and camping areas that make it ideal for both day trips and extended outdoor getaways.
11. Chain O' Lakes State Park
CONNECTED WATERWAY WILDERNESS
Chain O' Lakes State Park is centered around a unique system of eight interconnected lakes perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing adventures. Visitors can navigate from one pristine lake to another through scenic channels surrounded by forested hillsides and wetlands teeming with wildlife. The park offers boat rentals, swimming beaches, hiking trails, and year-round camping opportunities in one of Indiana's most distinctive water-based recreational areas.
12. Eagle Aircraft
AVIATION ADVENTURE CENTER
Eagle Aircraft provides exciting aviation experiences for visitors interested in taking to the skies above the La Crosse area. Guests can book scenic flights, discovery lessons, or even begin formal flight training with experienced instructors. The facility offers a unique perspective on Northwest Indiana's landscape that can only be appreciated from the air, making it a memorable adventure for thrill-seekers and aviation enthusiasts.
13. Riverside Park
RIVERFRONT RECREATION AREA
Riverside Park offers peaceful green spaces and recreational facilities along the picturesque waterfront in La Crosse. Visitors can enjoy walking paths, picnic areas, and fishing spots while taking in beautiful river views. The park serves as a community gathering place and hosts various seasonal events and activities throughout the year.
14. Grandad Bluff
PANORAMIC SCENIC OVERLOOK
Grandad Bluff provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Mississippi River Valley and a tri-state area from its elevated vantage point. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque drive to the summit and explore the well-maintained overlook area that includes informational displays about the region's geography and history. The bluff also features sheltered picnic spots where travelers can relax and take in the serene natural beauty of this remarkable geological formation.
15. Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe
SACRED PILGRIMAGE SITE
The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a beautiful religious destination featuring exquisite architecture, sacred art, and peaceful grounds designed for spiritual reflection. Visitors can explore the main church with its ornate interior, walk contemplative paths through landscaped gardens, and visit various devotional areas throughout the property. The shrine also includes a visitor center, gift shop, and café where pilgrims and tourists alike can learn about the site's significance and enjoy refreshments during their visit.