Spring is the perfect time to come out of winter hibernation and plan a fun night out together. Whether it’s a rainy April day or the sun is shining in May, there are plenty of local ways to make the season feel special. From dinner and live music to creative classes, scenic trails, and fun evening outings, this guide is full of ideas for making the most of springtime together!
Live Music at the Trempealeau Hotel + Food & Drinks at Lush Wine Bistro
Lush Wine Bistro | Photos taken by La Crosse Local
Follow the river up to Trempealeau, where you can catch live music at the Trempealeau Hotel! Enjoy a performance indoors or out on the spacious lawn depending on the weather. With beautiful views overlooking the train tracks and the Mississippi River, it’s an easy spot to settle in for an afternoon or evening of music. If you’re feeling adventurous, ride your bike along the Great River State Trail to get there! Pair it with a stop at Lush Wine Bistro in Holmen, where you can share small plates, explore the self-pour wine wall, and relax in the open-air space or out on the patio.
Bliss Bowls & Coffee at NOM + artPOP Glass Blowing Class
Grab a bliss bowl or coffee from NOM Sips & Eats and kick off your date with something fresh and fun. Whether you stop at their downtown location or the campus spot, it’s an easy way to enjoy a laid-back spring outing together. Then head to artPOP for a hot shop date night class, where you and your partner can learn the basics of glass blowing and each create your own hand-blown piece to take home.
Self-Guided Downtown Murals Tour + Pizzeria Dolorosa
Take a self-guided murals tour through downtown La Crosse and turn your date night into an art-filled adventure. With colorful murals and creative works tucked throughout the city, it’s a fun way to explore together and see a different side of downtown. Afterward, head to Pizzeria Dolorosa to refuel with one of their delicious sourdough pizzas, where you can choose a red pie, a white pie, or go half and half for an easy shareable dinner.
Tapas at 4 Sisters + Stroll Through the Friendship Gardens
Share a few tapas at 4 Sisters and turn dinner into part of the fun by trying a variety of small plates together. If the spring weather cooperates, grab a spot on the patio for drinks and a beautiful view overlooking Riverside Park and the water. After dinner, take a walk through the Riverside International Friendship Gardens in Riverside Park to see the budding trees and blooming flowers!
Hike in Greens Coulee + Patio Dining at Red Pines
Get active together with a hike through Greens Coulee, where you can climb to the top and take in unique views of the surrounding bluffs. As part of the Mississippi Valley Conservancy, it’s a peaceful spot to enjoy nature and spend time outdoors (especially after a long winter!). After your hike, head to Red Pines Bar & Grill to unwind with great food and views of Lake Onalaska, whether you grab a seat on the patio or relax in the heated outdoor space.
Escape Room + Drinks & Apps at La Cave
Add a fun and challenging twist to date night with an escape room adventure at La Crosse Escape Room! Work together to follow clues, solve puzzles, and crack codes before time runs out. Afterward, wind down at La Cave, a cozy underground space with a speakeasy feel, where you can share apps, sip great drinks, and even have the bartenders craft a custom off-menu cocktail based on what you like.
