Let’s take you on a tour of things to do in Prairie Du Chein on your next vacation to give you that wholesome feeling of a well-spent trip.
Prairie du Chien is the County seat of Crawford County in Wisconsin, US, located in the Mississippi River Valley axis.
Prairie du Chien meaning “Dog’s Prairie,” has a population of about 5,605. It is the second oldest city in Wisconsin.
The Town was created in the late 1600s by the earliest French settlers in the person of Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet and was transformed into a city in 1872.
Prairie du Chien, WI, poses a crucial historical relevance to the state, with nine sites on the National Register of Historic Places and five National Historic Landmarks.
Prairie du Chien has numerous sites and facilities that will intrigue visitors, and also you will get to have an educative, relaxing, and fun time in this beautiful city.
Fun Things To Do In Prairie du Chein (WI)
1. Visit Fort Crawford Museum
The Fort Crawford Museum is a historical museum in Prairie du Chien that showcases the history of Prairie du Chien, particularly when Fort Crawford was active in the mid-19th century.
The museum is housed in a restored building that was originally used as a hospital for the fort.
The museum’s exhibits cover a range of topics related to the area’s history, including the fur trade, the Black Hawk War, and the lives of the soldiers and civilians who lived at the fort.
Exhibits about medical practices during the 19th century, as the hospital building was used as a military hospital during its operation, are also found.
The Fort Crawford Museum also hosts special events throughout the year, such as living history reenactments and educational programs for children. The museum is open from May through October and is closed on Mondays.
Address: 717 S Beaumont Rd, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
2. Relax at Dousman Hotel
The Dousman Hotel is a historic hotel built in 1863 and named after its original owner, Hercules L. Dousman, a wealthy fur trader and businessman.
The Dousman Hotel was initially designed as a luxury hotel for wealthy travelers and featured elegant architecture and luxurious furnishings. Over the years, the hotel has hosted many notable guests, including President Ulysses S. Grant, Mark Twain, and Susan B. Anthony.
Today, the Dousman Hotel has been restored to its former glory and is a popular destination for visitors to Prairie du Chien.
The hotel features beautifully appointed rooms and suites, many of which have views of the Mississippi River. The hotel also has a restaurant and bar that serves upscale American cuisine and craft cocktails.
Dousman Hotel is a charming and historic property that offers a unique and memorable stay for guests visiting Prairie du Chien.
Address: 230 N Water St, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
3. Tour the Villa Louis
Villa Louis is a historic estate in Prairie du Chien, WI. The estate was built in 1870 by the prominent local businessman H. Louis Dousman and his wife, Nina.
Today, the estate is a museum that showcases the history and lifestyle of the Dousman family and the Prairie du Chien area during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Visitors to Villa Louis can take a guided tour of the mansion, which includes a look at the Dousman family’s living quarters, servant’s quarters, and kitchen.
Villa Louis also has several outbuildings open to visitors, including a carriage house, ice house, and a gardener’s cottage; the gardens are also open to visitors, with paths and walking trails that wind through the lush grounds.
Do well to stop by, as this is a fun thing to do in Prairie du Chein.
Address: 521 N Villa Louis Rd, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
Also see: 23 Best & Fun Things To Do In Hayward (WI)
Things To Do In Prairie du Chein (WI) at Night
1. Go Bowling at Leisure Time Sportsbar & Bowl
Leisure Time Sportsbar & Bowl is a family-friendly entertainment venue in Prairie du Chien that offers bowling, arcade games, pool tables, and a sports bar, making it a fun destination for individuals and groups of all ages.
Visitors can enjoy traditional bowling or try their hand at cosmic bowling, which features black lights and a fun, party atmosphere.
Bowling leagues are also available for those who want to join a team or compete in tournaments. The Leisure Time Sportsbar & Bowl arcade offers various games, including classics like skeeball and air hockey, as well as newer games and interactive experiences.
The sports bar at Leisure Time Sportsbar & Bowl has a full menu of food and drinks, including burgers, sandwiches, pizza, appetizers, and many varieties of beers, wines, and cocktails.
The sports bar has several big-screen TVs, making it a great place to catch a game or watch a live event. It is a fantastic place to chill the night away alone or with friends.
AAddress: 1618 S Marquette Rd, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
2. See a Movie at the Prairie Cinema
The Prairie Cinema is a movie theatre in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, USA. The theatre screens current Hollywood films and offers a variety of concessions, making it a popular destination for families and moviegoers of all ages.
The Prairie Cinema has three theatres with state-of-the-art digital projection and sound systems. The theatres are comfortable and spacious, with stadium-style seating that ensures everyone has a clear screen view.
Prairie Cinema hosts special events throughout the year, such as screenings of classic movies and themed events for holidays like Halloween and Christmas.
The theater offers various snacks and drinks, including popcorn, candy, soda, and hot dogs. They also serve pizza, nachos, and other hot food items.
Address: 1205 Prairie St, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
3. Live Music Event at the Crossing
The Crossing is a popular live music venue located in Prairie du Chien, WI, which hosts many musical acts throughout the year, including local and regional bands and nationally known performers.
The Crossing has a big stage and dance floor, with seating and standing room for hundreds of guests. The venue also has a full bar, serving a variety of beers, wines, and cocktails, as well as a menu of appetizers, sandwiches, and other pub fare.
The atmosphere at The Crossing is casual and welcoming, focusing on providing a fun experience for guests. The venue has a friendly staff and a lively crowd, making it a great place to socialize and enjoy live music.
The Crossing is a must-visit destination for music lovers in Prairie du Chien. Its schedule of live music performances, full bar, and pub fare menu make it a great place to spend an evening with friends or family.
Address: 37868 US-18, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
Things To Do In Prairie du Chein (WI) For Couples
1. Visit Mississippi River Sculpture Park
The Mississippi River Sculpture Park is a public art park that features a variety of sculptures created by local and regional artists, as well as several walking trails and picnic areas.
The sculptures include abstract metal pieces to realistic sculptures made from stone and wood. Many sculptures depict animals and plants in the surrounding natural environment, such as eagles, fish, and flowers.
The walking trails in the park wind through wooded areas and along the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. The trails are well-maintained and provide scenic views of the river and the surrounding landscape.
Several picnic areas are throughout the park, making it a great destination for a romantic picnic with your partner.
Address: 419 5th St, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
2. Visit the Black Angus Steakhouse
Black Angus Steakhouse is a restaurant serving high-quality steaks and other American cuisine. The restaurant is known for its cosy and welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and delicious food.
The menu at Black Angus Steakhouse features a variety of steak cuts, such as ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon, as well as seafood dishes, burgers, salads, and other American classics.
All steaks are hand-cut and cooked to order, ensuring that guests receive a meal that is both delicious and personalized to their liking.
In addition to its main menu, Black Angus Steakhouse also offers daily specials and a selection of desserts, such as cheesecake and apple crisp. The restaurant has a full bar, serving a variety of beers, wines, and cocktails, as well as non-alcoholic beverages.
The atmosphere at Black Angus Steakhouse is warm and inviting, with wood-paneled walls, rustic decor, and comfortable seating making it a popular destination for couples for some reserved private time outings. You will love it here; check it out.
Address: 37640 US-18, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
3. Go Wine Tasting at Eagles Landing Winery
Eagles Landing Winery is a Marquette, Iowa, USA winery across the Mississippi River from Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin.
The winery offers wine tastings and tours of its facility, allowing visitors to taste various award-winning wines and learn about the wine-making process.
At Eagles Landing, guests can sample a wide selection of wines, including reds, whites, and desserts. The winery also produces various fruit wines, such as apple and strawberry, and specialty wines, such as mulled wine and sangria.
The tastings are led by knowledgeable staff who can provide information about each wine and answer guests’ questions.
In addition to wine tastings, Eagles Landing also offers tours of its winery facility, providing visitors with a behind-the-scenes look at the wine-making process.
Guests can learn about the grape varieties used in wine production and the steps involved in fermenting, aging, and bottling the wine.
Address: 127 North St, Marquette, IA 52158, United States
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Superior (WI)
Things To Do In Prairie du Chein (WI) For kids
1. Take Them to Wyalusing State Park
Wyalusing State Park is a beautiful natural area near Prairie du Chien, WI. The park is located on a bluff overlooking the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers, offering visitors stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The park covers over 2,600 acres and features many recreational activities for kids to enjoy. Hiking is a popular activity at Wyalusing State Park, with over 14 miles of trails winding through wooded areas and along the bluffs.
The trails offer scenic views of the river valleys below and opportunities to see various wildlife. Camping is also available at Wyalusing State Park, with over 100 campsites for visitors.
The campsites are well-maintained and include amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to nearby restrooms and showers.
Wyalusing State Park includes fishing, boating, and swimming. The park has several boat launches, fishing piers, and a swimming beach on the Wisconsin River, and the kids will surely love it here.
Address: 13081 State Park Ln. Bagley, WI 53801.
2. Let Them Play at Wabash River Front
Prairie Du Chien Indoor Pool is an Olympic size swimming pool. The pool is used for several programs, such as swimming lessons and Water Aerobics.
They are designed with safety features such as shallow water depths, gradual entry and exit, and non-slip surfaces to help prevent accidents and injuries while the children are having fun.
Indoor Pools also have additional features like water slides, splash pads, and interactive water features to provide kids with a fun and entertaining experience.
Address: 1401 E Wells St, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
3. Boat Tour of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is home to diverse wildlife and ecosystems, including wetlands, floodplains, and forests. It is also a popular destination for recreation, with activities such as boating, fishing, and birdwatching attracting millions of visitors annually.
A boat cruise in Mississippi Explorer Cruises would be fun, as they offer a full riverboat cruise through the wild and lovely backwaters of the Mississippi River’s Wildlife Refuge.
Their unique tours will carry you near the stunning backwater riverbanks, beaver lodges, eagles nest, turtle logs, water lilies, and blooming lotus.
The Mississippi Explorer Cruises features live music, and the captain and lead musician is entertaining and tell good stories; the kids will learn about other histories during the boat cruise. It is a very exciting experience.
Address: Wisconsin 54601, USA
Indoor Activities To Do In Prairie du Chein (WI) For Adults
1. Stop at Yoga Loft
The Yoga Loft in Prairie du Chien offers a variety of yoga classes for students of all levels, including Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, Restorative, and Gentle Yoga.
In addition to regular yoga classes, the Yoga Loft also hosts workshops, special events, and retreats throughout the year.
The studio’s instructors are trained and experienced in guiding students through their yoga practice, offering modifications and adjustments to help students deepen their practice and avoid injury.
The Yoga Loft in Prairie du Chien has a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere and aims to provide a peaceful and supportive space for students to connect with their bodies and minds.
Address 721 Cardinal Ln Suite 203, Green Bay, WI 54313, United States
2. Shop at the Market on Blackhawk
The Market on Blackhawk is a boutique grocery store filled with locally sourced and organic foods, including fresh produce, meat, dairy, baked goods, and pantry staples.
The market strongly focuses on sustainability and community and works with local farmers and producers to source high-quality, fresh, organic foods. They also have a selection of natural and organic health and beauty products and household and cleaning supplies.
The Market at Blackhawk has a café and deli that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu features sandwiches, salads, soups, and hot entrees made with locally sourced ingredients. The café also offers a selection of coffee, tea, smoothies, and juices.
Address: 109 E Blackhawk Ave, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
3. Visit Diary Queen Grill & Chill
Dairy Queen Grill and Chill is a fast-food restaurant specializing in soft-serve ice cream and other frozen treats. It was founded in 1940.
In addition to its famous ice cream, Dairy Queen Grill and Chill offers a range of menu items, including burgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, salads, and sides like french fries and onion rings.
The restaurant also offers a variety of beverages, including soft drinks, shakes, and the famous Blizzard, a soft-serve ice cream treat blended with candy or other mix-ins.
Dairy Queen Grill and Chill locations often have a distinctive “Grill and Chill” design, modern interior, and outdoor patio seating. Some locations also offer drive-thru service for quick and convenient ordering.
Address: 1212 S Marquette Rd, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Hudson (WI)
Romantic Things To Do In Prairie du Chein (WI)
1. Dine at Waterfront Restaurant
The Waterfront Restaurant is located in La Crosse, Wisconsin, USA. It is situated along the Mississippi River and offers beautiful views of the water and surrounding landscape.
The menu at The Waterfront Restaurant features a range of American cuisine focusing on fresh, local ingredients. They offer a variety of dishes, including seafood, steak, pasta, and salads. The restaurant also has a full bar with a selection of wines, beers, and cocktails.
The Waterfront Restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating options, with large windows and a patio overlooking the river. The restaurant is known for its upscale atmosphere and romantic ambiance, making it a popular destination for special occasions or a night out.
Address: 113 S Main St, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
2. Visit Saint Feriole Island
Saint Feriole Island Prairie is a nature preserve in Prairie du Chien that has restored the prairie ecosystem home to various plant and animal species native to the area.
The island in the Mississippi River was once used as farmland and degraded over time. In the 1990s, a group of local volunteers and organizations began a restoration project to return the island to its natural state as a prairie.
Today, Saint Feriole Island Prairie features walking trails that wind through the tall grasses and wildflowers of the restored prairie. Visitors can see a variety of plant and animal species, including butterflies, birds, and small mammals.
The island is also home to the Villa Louis Historic Site, a restored 19th-century estate that offers tours and educational programs about Wisconsin’s history and culture.
Address: Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, USA
3. St. Feriole Island Memorial Gardens
St. Feriole Island Memorial Gardens is a Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, USA, public park. It is situated on St. Feriole Island, a small island in the Mississippi River, and close to the Villa Louis Historic Site.
The gardens feature a variety of landscaped areas, including a formal garden with a fountain, a rock garden, and a pergola-covered walkway. The park also has a playground, picnic areas, and a boat launch to access the river.
The St. Feriole Island Memorial Gardens were created in honor of Prairie du Chien residents who have served in the military. The park includes a memorial wall with plaques honoring local veterans and a series of monuments and statues paying tribute to different military branches.
St. Feriole Island Memorial Gardens offer a unique glimpse into the history and culture of Prairie du Chien and its residents.
Address: N 4th Street and Fisher St, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
Free Things To Do In Prairie du Chein (WI)
1. Visit Riviere Park
La Riviere Park is a public park located in Prairie du Chien, situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, and offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors.
La Riviere Park features a variety of amenities for visitors, including a boat launch, picnic areas, and a playground. The park also has walking trails that wind through the woods and along the river, providing opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities.
The park includes a monument to Father Marquette, a French Jesuit missionary who is believed to have visited the area in the 17th century.
A historic monument also honoring the Civilian Conservation Corps, a New Deal-era program that helped build parks and other public works projects across the United States.
La Riviere Park is a popular destination for locals and visitors, offering a unique combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities. It is fun to visit here.
Address: Vineyard Coulee Road, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
2. Attend Prairie Dog Blues Fest
The Prairie Dog Blues Fest is an annual Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, USA, music festival. It is a two-day event in late July or early August each year, featuring a lineup of local and national blues musicians.
The festival is named after the endangered black-tailed prairie dog, which is native to the area and is featured prominently in the festival’s logo.
In addition to the live music, the festival also offers food and beverage, arts and crafts, and various other activities for attendees of all ages.
The Prairie Dog Blues Fest has been held annually since 1997 and has become a popular destination for blues fans nationwide. It is held at St. Feriole Island Park, a scenic riverside park in Prairie du Chien.
It is organized by a nonprofit organization that promotes the blues and supports local musicians.
Address: 318 S Wacouta Ave, Prairie Du Chien, Wisconsin, 53821, United States
3. Stop at the Prairie Villa Rendezvous
Prairie Villa Rendezvous is an annual living history event in Prairie du Chien which is usually held on the grounds of the historic Villa Louis estate.
The event brings back the fur-trading journey from the early 1800s. It features historical demonstrations and activities, such as blacksmithing, leatherworking, candle-making, and cooking over open fires.
There are also period-correct campsites and traders’ tents, where visitors can learn about the history of the fur trade and the people who participated in it. It also features traditional music, dance performances, and various food and beverage vendors.
The event is typically held over a weekend in late August or early September and is a popular attraction. If you want to experience the history of the city, then take advantage of this event. It has over 200 vendors and is free to the public.
Address: 521 N Villa Louis Rd, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Bayfield (WI)
Cheap Things To Do In Prairie du Chein (WI)
1. Check out Mac’s Stuff
The Mac’s Stuff is one amazing place to stop in Prairie du Chein.
It is located in Prairie du Chien, Marquette, MacGregor, and neighboring regions and is a major in gifts and collectibles.
Many items are available here, including race cars, Star Wars collectibles, movies, crystal glass, jewelry, raging jackets, toys, and blue glass.
Items are fair, and everyone is assured of finding something they can afford. Weddings, anniversaries, and birthdays have their unique item, and you can find them here.
This would be a nice spot to stop by to get some on-the-budget shopping, as a vacation isn’t complete with some shopping.
Address: 37434 US-18, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
2. Visit Villa Louis Carriage Classic
The Villa Louis Carriage Classic is an annual Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, USA, event showcasing various horse-drawn carriages and carts.
The event is typically held over a weekend in late summer or early fall. It includes various activities, such as carriage rides, carriage driving competitions, and historical reenactments, as the racers drive with beautiful carriages, the region’s finest horses, and special costumes in the arena or obstacle classes.
The Villa Louis Carriage Classic is named after Villa Louis, a historic mansion in Prairie du Chien that was once the home of the Dousman family, a prominent fur trading family in the 19th century. The mansion is now a museum and is open to the public for tours.
Address: 521 N Villa Louis Rd, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
3. Explore Prairie Fun Land
The Prairie Fun Land was created in 2006 and is a great family entertainment center in southwestern Wisconsin. Also known as Family Fun Land, it has many facilities to select from.
Children will surely love this place as it features a miniature 18-hole golf course, basketball jump shots, bumper cars, water wars, a Go-Kart track, an arcade, and a driving range, which gives them lots of opportunities to explore other fun, etc., and they are special packages mid-week.
This is one of the most efficient places in Prairie du Chien to host a party or group outings and is open from May till after Labor Day Weekend.
Address: 515 E Paquette St, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
Cool Places To Visit In Prairie du Chein (WI)
1. Valley Fish & Cheese
Valley Fish and Cheese specialize in selling fresh fish, seafood, and cheese from Wisconsin and other regions.
The store offers a wide selection of products, including smoked salmon, trout, whitefish, cod, herring, shrimp, crab legs, lobster, and more. They also offer a variety of cheeses, including cheddar, Colby, gouda, blue cheese, and many others.
In addition to its retail store, Valley Fish and Cheese also offers wholesale services to restaurants and other businesses in the area.
Valley Fish and Cheese has served customers for over 40 years and is known for its high-quality products and friendly customer service. A great place to stop by for some fresh food, do well to visit.
Address: 304 S Prairie St, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
2. Winneshiek Bar and Grill
The Winneshiek Bar and Grill was established in 1936 and is a great relaxation spot to cool off after a long day. The Grill has been in different locations and shared with different owners since its inception.
Blair Dillman manages Winneshiek Bar and Grill. The Grill serves unique beer with mouth-watering lunch and dinner ranging from nachos to burgers to cheese curds to wings, sandwiches, and onion rings.
They also have a children-friendly menu for kids to eat out of various food. Check it out on your next trip.
Address: 32785 Co Rd K, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
3. The Planted Tree Gallery & Gifts
The Planted Tree Gallery & Gifts is a downtown Menomonie, Wisconsin, retail store. Planted Tree was introduced in 2012 and is owned and operated by Teresa Champion.
They offer many unique and handcrafted items, including pottery, jewelry, paintings, sculptures, home decor, candles, and other gifts.
The store specializes in showcasing the work of local artists and artisans. Many of its products are made by artists from the surrounding community, with over 40 works on display.
They also offer workshops and classes throughout the year, allowing customers to learn new skills and create handmade items.
Address: 109 W Blackhawk Ave, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821, United States
Also see: 23 Best & Fun Things To Do In Racine (WI)
Conclusion
Prairie du Chien has much to offer tourists despite being a small city. It is loaded with many activities that will make your stay memorable. From parks to numerous eateries and dine-ins, art galleries, movie cinemas, and a whole lot of others,
Why would you want to go in blind and not make the most of your vacation? Pin this post as your guide, as we have detailed in this article the most exciting things to do in Prairie du Chein on arrival to help you get acquainted fast.
Let us know all about your trip in the comments below. And don’t forget to share as well.
Happy travels!
