Cities and Towns in La Crosse County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1851, La Crosse County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, La Crosse County was formed from Crawford County. The city of La Crosse is the county seat. With FIPS code of 63, La Crosse County has a population of 120,433 and area of 451.69 square miles (1,170 km²).
List of all cities in La Crosse County, WI alphabetically
- Bangor, WI
- Holmen, WI
- La Crosse, WI
- Mindoro, WI
- Onalaska, WI
- Rockland, WI
- West Salem, WI
Major Cities and Towns in La Crosse County, Wisconsin
La Crosse
- Area: 23.79 square miles
- Population: 52,680 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54601, 54602, 54603
- Latitude and Longitude: 43.8014° N, 91.2396° W
Location and History
La Crosse, the largest city in La Crosse County, is located along the Mississippi River in western Wisconsin. The city was founded in the 1840s as a trading post and quickly developed into a major transportation hub due to its strategic location at the confluence of the Mississippi, Black, and La Crosse Rivers. La Crosse’s early economy was driven by river commerce, logging, and brewing, with the city becoming a regional center for trade and industry. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century further spurred growth, making La Crosse a key economic and cultural hub in the region. Today, La Crosse is known for its historic downtown, vibrant arts scene, and access to outdoor recreation along the river.
Major Schools and Landmarks
La Crosse is home to several higher education institutions, including the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, Viterbo University, and Western Technical College. The city’s key landmarks include the Grandad Bluff, which offers stunning views of the Mississippi River Valley and is a popular hiking destination. The Riverside Park, located along the Mississippi River, hosts various community events and is home to the annual La Crosse Oktoberfest, one of the largest festivals in the Midwest. Another significant site is the historic Hixon House, a preserved Victorian mansion that provides insights into La Crosse’s past. The La Crosse Center, a major event venue, and the vibrant downtown area with its shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions make La Crosse a dynamic city with a rich history and a strong sense of community.
Onalaska
- Area: 10.55 square miles
- Population: 19,979 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54650
- Latitude and Longitude: 43.8844° N, 91.2352° W
Location and History
Onalaska is a city located just north of La Crosse, along the western banks of the Mississippi River. Founded in 1851, Onalaska was named after a Scottish poem that romanticized the northern seas, and its early economy was closely tied to the logging and lumber industries, with the river providing an essential route for transporting timber. Over time, Onalaska evolved from a small lumber town into a thriving suburban community, known for its beautiful river views, excellent schools, and expanding retail sector. The city has grown steadily, with residential neighborhoods, commercial developments, and outdoor recreational areas making it an attractive place to live.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Onalaska is served by the Onalaska School District, with Onalaska High School being the main educational institution. The city is known for its parks and outdoor activities, particularly along Lake Onalaska, a reservoir on the Mississippi River that offers excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and birdwatching. Key landmarks include the Great River State Trail, which provides scenic paths for biking and hiking along the river. The Onalaska Omni Center is a major community facility that hosts sports events, concerts, and other activities. Onalaska’s annual Sunfish Days festival celebrates the community’s connection to the river with parades, fishing tournaments, and family-friendly events. The city’s blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and suburban amenities make it a desirable location for residents and visitors alike.
Holmen
- Area: 7.66 square miles
- Population: 11,487 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54636
- Latitude and Longitude: 43.9633° N, 91.2605° W
Location and History
Holmen is a rapidly growing village located just north of Onalaska and La Crosse. The village was originally settled in the mid-19th century by Norwegian immigrants, and its name reflects this heritage, as “Holmen” is derived from a Norwegian word meaning “small island.” Historically, Holmen was a small farming community, with agriculture playing a central role in its economy. In recent decades, Holmen has experienced significant residential and commercial development, driven by its proximity to La Crosse and the appeal of its suburban lifestyle. The village has managed to maintain its small-town charm while accommodating growth, making it one of the fastest-growing communities in the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Holmen is served by the Holmen School District, with Holmen High School being the primary educational institution. The village is known for its strong community focus and outdoor recreation opportunities, particularly at Halfway Creek Park, which features trails, sports fields, and a community center. The Holmen Area Historical Society preserves the village’s history, with exhibits and events that highlight its Norwegian roots and agricultural past. Each summer, Holmen hosts Kornfest, a popular festival that includes a parade, carnival rides, and corn-themed events that celebrate the village’s agricultural heritage. Holmen’s blend of history, community spirit, and modern amenities makes it a vibrant and appealing place to live.
West Salem
- Area: 2.74 square miles
- Population: 5,163 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54669
- Latitude and Longitude: 43.8997° N, 91.0836° W
Location and History
West Salem is a village located east of La Crosse, along the banks of the La Crosse River. The village was founded in 1851 by Thomas Leonard, who named it after his hometown of Salem, Massachusetts. West Salem developed as an agricultural and milling community, with the river providing power for early mills and transportation for goods. The village is also known as the home of Hamlin Garland, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author who wrote extensively about life in the Midwest. Over the years, West Salem has retained its small-town atmosphere while benefiting from its proximity to La Crosse and the amenities of the larger metropolitan area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
West Salem is served by the West Salem School District, with West Salem High School being the main educational institution. The village is home to several landmarks, including the Hamlin Garland Homestead, a National Historic Landmark that preserves the home and legacy of the famous author. The West Salem Historical Society also maintains a museum that showcases the village’s history and cultural heritage. Lake Neshonoc, located nearby, is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking, with several parks and recreational areas offering outdoor activities. The annual June Dairy Days festival is a major community event that celebrates the region’s dairy farming heritage with parades, fairs, and family-friendly entertainment. West Salem’s rich history, strong sense of community, and scenic location make it a charming and desirable place to live.
Bangor
- Area: 0.78 square miles
- Population: 1,499 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54614
- Latitude and Longitude: 43.8933° N, 90.9871° W
Location and History
Bangor is a small village located in the eastern part of La Crosse County, along the La Crosse River. The village was established in 1855 and was named after Bangor, Maine, by settlers who hailed from the northeastern United States. Bangor developed as a railroad town, with its location along the Milwaukee Road railway line contributing to its growth as a regional center for agriculture and trade. Over the years, Bangor has maintained its rural character and small-town charm, with a strong emphasis on community and preserving its historical heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bangor is served by the Bangor School District, with Bangor High School being the primary educational institution. The village is known for its well-preserved historic downtown, which features several buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Key landmarks in Bangor include the Bangor Opera House, a historic venue that hosts community events and performances, and the La Crosse River Trail, which offers scenic routes for biking, hiking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. The village park provides recreational facilities for sports and picnics, and the annual Bangor Fun Daze festival brings residents together for parades, games, and family-friendly activities. Bangor’s rich history, rural setting, and close-knit community make it a welcoming place to live and visit.
La Crescent
- Area: 3.15 square miles
- Population: 4,896 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 55947
- Latitude and Longitude: 43.8260° N, 91.3045° W
Location and History
La Crescent is a city located across the Mississippi River from La Crosse, in southeastern Minnesota. Though not technically within La Crosse County, it is often considered part of the greater La Crosse metropolitan area due to its close proximity and economic ties to La Crosse. La Crescent was founded in the 1850s and quickly became known as the “Apple Capital of Minnesota” due to its thriving apple orchards. The city’s fertile soil and favorable climate made it an ideal location for fruit farming, and apples remain an important part of La Crescent’s identity today. The city has grown steadily over the years, with residential and commercial developments enhancing its appeal as a suburban community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
La Crescent is served by the La Crescent-Hokah School District, with La Crescent High School being the main educational institution. The city is home to several key landmarks, including the Apple Blossom Scenic Drive, which offers stunning views of the Mississippi River Valley and the surrounding bluffs. The La Crescent Applefest, held each September, is a major community event that celebrates the city’s apple-growing heritage with parades, apple-themed activities, and live entertainment. Veterans Park, located along the river, provides recreational facilities and scenic views of the Mississippi River. The city’s strong connection to its agricultural roots, combined with its suburban amenities, makes La Crescent a desirable place to live for those who work in La Crosse or seek a peaceful community close to nature.