Driftless Area, Wisconsin Travel Guide

Explore the untouched beauty of Wisconsin's Driftless Area, where rolling hills, deep valleys, and charming towns offer an unforgettable experience.

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Driftless Area

The Driftless Area in Wisconsin is a captivating region that escaped the flattening effects of glaciation. This unique landscape is defined by its rolling hills, deep river valleys, and limestone bluffs. Unlike the rest of the Midwest, the Driftless Area offers a distinct topography that is both enchanting and picturesque. Nature lovers will find the Driftless Area to be a haven of outdoor activities. It boasts some of the best hiking and biking trails in the state, with paths that wind through lush forests and along scenic riverbanks. Anglers will delight in the numerous trout streams that crisscross the region, providing ample opportunities for fishing. Cultural enthusiasts will also find much to explore. Quaint towns and villages dot the landscape, each with its own unique charm and history. Local artisans and farmers markets offer a taste of the region's vibrant community and rich heritage. From organic dairy farms to artisanal cheese makers, the Driftless Area is a delight for foodies and craft lovers alike.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Driftless Area.

Pack comfortable hiking shoes; the trails can be rugged and steep.
Visit the local farmers markets for fresh produce and unique artisanal products.
Bring a fishing rod if you enjoy trout fishing; the streams are plentiful.
Plan a visit to the local cheese makers for a taste of the region's specialty cheeses.
Check out the small towns and villages for local festivals and events.

Top City Travel Guides in Driftless Area

The cities of Driftless Area, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Eau Claire

Wisconsin Dells

Madison

Green Bay

Sheboygan

Destinations in Driftless Area

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Devil's Lake State Park

Kettle Moraine State Forest

Ice Age Trail

Explore Driftless Area: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Driftless Area

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Devil's Lake State Park

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Devil's Lake State Park, where stunning cliffs meet crystal-clear waters in Wisconsin's premier outdoor destination.

4.8

The House on the Rock

Explore the mesmerizing House on the Rock, a unique blend of art, architecture, and fantasy nestled in scenic Spring Green, Wisconsin.

4.6

National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

Discover the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, where aquatic wonders and river history come alive in Dubuque, Iowa.

4.7

Cave of the Mounds

Explore the stunning Cave of the Mounds in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin—a breathtaking natural wonder with tours, nature trails, and educational experiences.

4.7

Best landmarks in Driftless Area

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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Devil's Lake State Park

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Devil's Lake State Park, a natural haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers in Wisconsin.

4.8

National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

Explore the rich heritage and vibrant ecosystems of the Mississippi River at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium in Dubuque, Iowa.

4.7

Governor Dodge State Park

Discover the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures at Governor Dodge State Park in Wisconsin, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

4.7

Pikes Peak State Park

Experience breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at Pikes Peak State Park, a natural wonder in Iowa perfect for all nature lovers and adventure seekers.

4.8

Best restaurants in Driftless Area

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Log Cabin Family Restaurant

Experience delicious American cuisine in a cozy log cabin setting at Log Cabin Family Restaurant in Baraboo, Wisconsin.

4.6

Ishnala Supper Club

Experience fine dining at Ishnala Supper Club with stunning lakeside views and exquisite seafood and steak dishes.

4.6

Buzzard Billy's

Discover Buzzard Billy's in La Crosse – where Cajun flavors meet American hospitality for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.6

Bob's Bitchin' BBQ

Experience the best barbecue in Dodgeville at Bob's Bitchin' BBQ – where every bite tells a story.

4.7

Best bars in Driftless Area

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Red Pines Bar & Grill

Experience the charm of Onalaska with delicious food and a warm atmosphere at Red Pines Bar & Grill, a must-visit for every traveler.

4.7

Grumpy Troll Brew Pub

Discover the heart of Mt Horeb at Grumpy Troll Brew Pub, where craft beer meets hearty comfort food in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.3

Hillsboro Brewing Co.

Discover the charm of Hillsboro Brewing Co., a delightful brewpub offering local craft beers and delicious food in the heart of Wisconsin.

4.6

Bodega Brew Pub, Inc.

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill cuisine at Bodega Brew Pub in La Crosse, Wisconsin, where craft beer meets culinary delight.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Driftless Area

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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Bodega Brew Pub, Inc.

Experience the vibrant nightlife of La Crosse at Bodega Brew Pub, where great food, drinks, and live entertainment come together for an unforgettable evening.

4.5

Driftless Glen Distillery

Experience Wisconsin's finest spirits at Driftless Glen Distillery, a charming distillery offering tastings, tours, and a delightful restaurant in Baraboo.

4.7

Old Towne Inn Supper Club

Discover the delightful flavors and warm ambiance of Old Towne Inn Supper Club in Westby, Wisconsin, where fine dining meets local charm.

4.5

The Reef

Experience unforgettable nights filled with music, dancing, and cheers at The Reef, Lake Delton's premier nightlife destination.

4.0

Best shops in Driftless Area

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Pleasant Prairie Premium Outlets

Discover unbeatable deals at Pleasant Prairie Premium Outlets, where fashion and savings come together in a shopper's dream destination.

4.4

Johnson Creek Premium Outlets

Explore great deals and diverse shopping options at Johnson Creek Premium Outlets, the ultimate retail destination in Wisconsin.

4.3

The Outlet Shoppes at Oshkosh

Discover unbeatable deals and a delightful shopping experience at The Outlet Shoppes at Oshkosh, where brand-name fashion meets affordability.

4.2

Cabela's

Cabela's in Prairie du Chien: Your one-stop shop for all things outdoor, from fishing gear to camping essentials and hunting supplies.

4.3

Explore Driftless Area on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Driftless Area, mapped for you.

Driftless Area Essentials

The Driftless Area in Wisconsin is accessible by various modes of transportation. The nearest major airports are Dane County Regional Airport in Madison, Wisconsin, and La Crosse Regional Airport in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Both airports offer rental car services. If driving, the Driftless Area is well-connected by major highways such as I-90, US-14, and US-61. For those preferring public transport, Greyhound and Amtrak services are available to cities like Madison and La Crosse, from where you can rent a car or take a local bus to your destination.
Once in the Driftless Area, it is easiest to get around by car. The region's rolling hills and scenic byways make for a pleasant drive. Local bus services are limited, so renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the area at your own pace. Biking is also a popular option, especially on the area's many dedicated bike trails. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available but less prevalent in rural areas.
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, some smaller establishments in rural areas may only accept cash, so it is advisable to carry some cash with you. ATMs are available in most towns and cities within the Driftless Area.
The Driftless Area is generally safe for tourists. Standard precautions like locking your car, keeping an eye on personal belongings, and avoiding poorly lit areas at night are advisable. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists. Most communities in the Driftless Area are small and close-knit, contributing to a generally secure environment.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Hospitals and medical facilities are available in larger towns like Madison, La Crosse, and Prairie du Chien. For non-emergency health issues, there are numerous clinics and pharmacies throughout the region. It is recommended to carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Layers are recommended as the weather can change quickly. Don't wear overly flashy or revealing clothing in rural areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, particularly in areas with Amish communities. Avoid taking photographs of Amish people without permission. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful on public transport. Don't expect frequent or late-night bus services in rural areas. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile or a friendly 'hello.' Handshakes are common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like cheese curds and regional wines. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience the Driftless Area like a local, visit farmers' markets and local festivals, which often feature regional produce and crafts. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and proud of their heritage. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the numerous state parks and nature reserves, such as Devil's Lake State Park and Governor Dodge State Park. For a unique experience, take a scenic drive along the Great River Road National Scenic Byway, which offers stunning views of the Mississippi River.

When is the best time to visit Driftless Area?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Driftless Area

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Driftless Area. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [Hau-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [See yah lay-ter]
- YesYep
  [Yep]
- NoNope
  [Nope]
- Please/You're welcomeSure thing
  [Shur thing]
- Thank youThanks a lot
  [Thangs a lot]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [Par-don mee]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [Hows it goin?]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [Good. Yoo?]
- Do you speak English?Do ya speak English?
  [Doo yah speak English?]
- I don't understandI don’t get it
  [I don’t get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [Can I see the men-yoo?]
- I don't eat meatI’m a vegetarian
  [I’m a vege-tar-ian]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the check?
  [Can I get the chek?]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [Get lost!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [Get a doc-tor!]
- I'm lostI’m lost
  [I’m lost]
- I'm illI’m not feeling well
  [I’m not feelin wel]
- I'd like to buy...I want to buy...
  [I want to buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [Just brow-zing]
- How much is it?What’s the price?
  [What’s the prize?]
- That's too expensiveThat’s kinda pricey
  [That’s kinda pry-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya give me a deal?
  [Can yah give me a deel?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt’s one o’clock
  [It’s one o-clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [Mornin]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Aft-ernoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Eve-ning]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [To-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [To-mor-row]
- 1One
  [Wun]
- 2Two
  [Too]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [For]
- 5Five
  [Fiv]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Sev-en]
- 8Eight
  [Ait]
- 9Nine
  [Nin]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where’s the...?
  [Where’s the...?]
- What's the address?What’s the address?
  [What’s the ad-dress?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out?
  [Can you point it out?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [When's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...
  [A tik-it to...]

History of Driftless Area

Unlike the rest of the Midwest, which was flattened by glacial activity during the last Ice Age, the Driftless Area in Wisconsin escaped the glaciation, leaving behind a unique landscape of deeply carved river valleys, rugged hills, and limestone bluffs. This distinctive topography was formed over millions of years by the erosive action of rivers and streams.
The Driftless Area has been home to various Native American tribes for thousands of years, including the Ho-Chunk, Sauk, and Meskwaki peoples. Effigy mounds, ceremonial earthworks in the shapes of animals and humans, are prominent in the region and serve as a testament to the area's rich Native American cultural heritage.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, European fur traders and explorers, such as Jean Nicolet and Father Jacques Marquette, began to traverse the Driftless Area. The fur trade became a significant economic activity, with the French establishing trading posts and forming alliances with local Native American tribes.
During the early 19th century, the Driftless Area experienced a lead mining boom. Settlers flocked to the region, particularly around the towns of Mineral Point and Dodgeville. The mining industry attracted a diverse population, including Cornish miners who brought with them their distinctive cultural traditions and cuisine.
In 1832, the Driftless Area was a focal point of the Black Hawk War, a conflict between the United States and Native American tribes led by Black Hawk. The war ended with the defeat of Black Hawk and the forced removal of Native Americans from the area, opening the land for increased European settlement.
Following the Black Hawk War, settlers began to establish farms throughout the Driftless Area. The region's fertile soil and favorable climate made it ideal for agriculture. Dairy farming became particularly prominent, and Wisconsin soon earned its reputation as 'America's Dairyland.'
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as the environmental impacts of deforestation and over-farming became apparent, conservation efforts began to take root in the Driftless Area. Influential figures like Aldo Leopold championed the cause, leading to the establishment of protected areas and the promotion of sustainable land use practices.
Today, the Driftless Area is known for its vibrant cultural scene and emphasis on environmental stewardship. The region attracts artists, musicians, and outdoor enthusiasts. Festivals celebrating local heritage, organic farms, and nature preserves draw visitors year-round, making the Driftless Area a unique and cherished destination.