La Crosse isn’t just a hub for outdoor adventures and local eats — it’s also home to a vibrant, diverse art scene. From contemporary works to classic pieces, the city’s art galleries showcase a stunning range of creativity, highlighting both local talent and artists from beyond the region. Whether you’re an avid art enthusiast or simply looking for an inspiring way to spend an afternoon, these galleries offer an immersive experience worth exploring. Let’s take a closer look at some must-visit spots where art comes to life in La Crosse!
Pearl Street Gallery
Location: 221 Pearl Street, La Crosse
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 12 PM – 7 PM, Sunday 10 AM – 2 PM
Pearl Street Gallery celebrates La Crosse’s rich cultural heritage by showcasing diverse works of art that reflect the spirit and beauty of the community. With a focus on elevating local artists, the gallery connects visitors to the region’s stories and landscapes through photography, painting, and other expressive mediums.
University of Wisconsin – La Crosse Art Gallery
Location: Corner of 16th and Vine on the UWL campus in La Crosse – Truman T. Lowe Center for the Arts
Hours: Monday – Thursday 1 PM – 8 PM, Friday – Sunday 1 PM – 5 PM. Closed summers and during UWL breaks
The UWL Art Gallery showcases a dynamic mix of artwork from students, faculty, regional, and nationally recognized artists across a variety of mediums. Free and open to the public, the gallery also hosts lectures, demonstrations, and workshops through its Visiting Artist Series, making it a vibrant hub for artistic exploration and education. Check out a virtual preview of the gallery, too!
River City Gallery
Location: 321 Main Street, La Crosse
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10 AM – 5 PM
River City Gallery is a curated cooperative art market that showcases the work of local and regional artists, offering a diverse range of paintings, photography, pottery, jewelry, and more. With a mission to support and uplift the creative community, it’s a welcoming space where art lovers can discover unique, handcrafted pieces.
Satori Arts Gallery
Location: 201 Pearl Street, La Crosse
Hours: Monday – Friday 10 AM – 6 PM, Saturday 10 AM – 5 PM, Sunday 12 PM – 4 PM
Satori Arts, located in Historic Downtown La Crosse, offers an eclectic mix of handcrafted jewelry, fine art, and rare artifacts from around the world. Featuring works by renowned artists like Salvador Dali and Peter Max, alongside unique treasures like dinosaur eggs and Chinese furniture, it’s a gallery unlike any other.
Viterbo University Fine Arts Center
Location: 929 Jackson Street, La Crosse (Gallery is on the 3rd floor of the Fine Arts Center)
Hours: Monday – Friday 9 AM – 4 PM when classes are in session
The Viterbo University Gallery showcases work by students, faculty, and nationally recognized artists and designers throughout the academic year. This spring, the gallery features Kevin Knopp: Drawings and Paintings 2008–2014 from January 20–April 2, with an artist reception and lecture on March 26, and closes the season with the All Student Show and Touchstone Release from April 23–30. Free and open to the public, it’s a welcoming space to experience a wide range of creative expression.
Pump House Regional Arts Center
Location: 119 King Street, La Crosse
Hours: Monday – Friday 9 AM – 5 PM, Tuesday 9 AM – 7 PM, Saturday 12 PM – 4 PM
The Pump House Regional Arts Center, a nonprofit founded in 1977, enriches the La Crosse community through visual, performing, and literary arts. With free gallery admission, diverse programming, and classes for all ages, it’s a vibrant hub where creativity and culture come to life.
Gallery 1802
Location: 1802 State Street, La Crosse
Hours: Thursday – Saturday 10 AM – 4 PM, or by appointment
Gallery 1802 is a thoughtfully curated space where beauty takes center stage, showcasing original works from local, regional, and national artists across painting, sculpture, woodworking, and photography. With cozy seating, soft music, and intimate side rooms for featured artists, it invites visitors to wander, linger, and connect with art in a peaceful, inspiring setting.
