Dining in The Driftless: A Foodie's Guide to Southwest Wisconsin
Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin's Driftless Area, the state's Southwest region offers a culinary adventure as unique as its rolling hills and winding rivers. This 3-day itinerary will take you and your loved ones on a mouthwatering journey through some of the area's tastiest dining destinations. Get ready to savor the flavors of the Driftless while exploring charming towns and hidden gems along the way.Â
Day 1: Sample Fresh Flavors in Viroqua
Breakfast at Wonderstate Coffee
Begin your day at the flagship Wonderstate Coffee in downtown Viroqua. Here, you and your crew can enjoy coffee roasted using 100% solar power along with in-house bakery as well as breakfast and lunch specialties that spotlight local ingredients.
Lunch at The Cheese Corner
Enjoy lunch together at The Cheese Corner. This beloved local favorite serves up hearty sandwiches (best known for their subs) and homemade soups. It's the perfect spot to relax, chat and savor comforting flavors in a cozy setting.
Afternoon Adventure
Spend the afternoon exploring Driftless Books & Music, a sprawling used bookstore that perfectly captures the artsy vibe of Viroqua. Alternatively, nature lovers can venture out to the Kickapoo Valley Reserve for a scenic hike through hardwood forests.
Dinner at Noble Rind Artisan CheeseÂ
Cap your day off with dinner at Noble Rind Artisan Cheese. This artisanal cheese shop offers a curated selection of Wisconsin's finest cheeses. Create your own cheese board to share or try one of their gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. If the weather is warm, take your meal to go and picnic together in nearby Eckhart Park.Â
Where to StayÂ
At the end of the day, rest your head at the charming Viroqua Heritage Inn, two beautifully restored Victorian homes transformed into a boutique hotel. Whether you stay with friends or a special someone, you’ll be rested and ready for more adventures in the morning.Â
Day 2: Taste La Crosse FlavorsÂ
Next, head north to La Crosse, where culinary delights await along the Mississippi River.Â
Breakfast at The Root NoteÂ
Start your day at The Root Note, an artsy and innovative coffee shop that offers tasty breakfast and lunch dishes including sweet and savory crepes. The cafe’s location also makes for a great home base as your group explores the eclectic shops of downtown La Crosse.Â
Mid-Day Fun
Take a scenic cruise with your crew on the La Crosse Queen, a modern-day replica of the grand riverboats that once filled the Mississippi. Enjoy stunning views of the river valley while learning about the area's rich history for a memorable time with friends or family.Â
Dinner at SAGRA Food and WineÂ
End your day at SAGRA Food and Wine in downtown La Crosse. This Italian-inspired eatery offers a delightful dinner menu. Pair your meal with a glass of wine from their thoughtfully curated wine list for a truly memorable evening.
Where to StayÂ
Spend the night at the historic Charmant Hotel, a boutique hotel in a renovated candy factory that received the prestigious One MICHELIN Key 2024 designation by the MICHELIN Guide. Â Â
Day 3: Enjoy Prairie du Sac PleasuresÂ
On your final day, make your way to Prairie du Sac for a relaxing morning and a scenic hike before heading home.Â
Breakfast at The Eagle InnÂ
Kick off your day with breakfast at The Eagle Inn Sauk Prairie in Prairie du Sac. This cozy diner is a local favorite, offering classic breakfast dishes and a warm, inviting atmosphere.Â
Explore Devil’s Lake State ParkÂ
After breakfast, head to Devil's Lake State Park, just a short drive away. Take a hike up the bluffs for stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape, a perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors before continuing your journey.Â
Unwind at Wollersheim Winery & DistilleryÂ
After your outdoor adventure, sit back and relax at the Bistro at Wollersheim Winery & Distillery, open daily from 12 to 3 PM. Stroll the stunning grounds, then savor a glass of wine or a handcrafted spirit while taking in the views from the beautifully manicured hillside.Â
As you wrap up your culinary journey through Southwest Wisconsin, you'll have experienced the rich flavors and warm hospitality that make this region a food lover's paradise. Â
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Publish Date: 02/12/25
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