La Crosse Center

La Crosse Center is the beating heart of cultural and business life in the city of La Crosse. As a multi-functional sports and entertainment complex and a modern convention center, this USA destination attracts thousands of visitors with its scale and variety of events. Originally opened in 1980, the complex underwent a major renovation in 2021, setting a new standard for modern architecture and sustainability in Wisconsin.

The building impresses with its specs: it offers over 11,000 square meters (120,000 sq. ft.) of flexible space. The main arena can accommodate up to 8,000 spectators, making it an ideal venue for top-tier concerts and sports competitions. One of the complex's highlights is its terrace, which offers breathtaking views of the majestic Mississippi River.

Special attention during the latest renovation was paid to sustainability: solar panels are installed on the roof, and the internal climate control systems operate with maximum energy efficiency. Located in a historic riverside district, the La Crosse Center harmoniously blends business professionalism with a festive atmosphere.

To contact the complex administration or inquire about event details, you can use the official communication channels. The center staff is always ready to assist with venue bookings or purchasing tickets for upcoming shows.

A visit to the La Crosse Center is always a kaleidoscope of emotions. Depending on the schedule, you might find yourself at an exciting sports match, a massive rock concert, a circus performance, or an elegant ice show. The main arena is designed to provide excellent views and high-quality sound from any point in the venue.

If you are visiting for business or an exhibition, the spacious North Hall and South Exhibit Hall are at your disposal. For special occasions, the magnificent Riverside Ballroom offers nearly 1,200 square meters of space. Its panoramic windows look directly out over the Mississippi River, creating a unique backdrop for weddings or corporate events.

Don't forget to head up to the new rooftop terrace. It is one of the best spots in the city to simply relax, enjoying the fresh river breeze and views of downtown La Crosse. Thanks to its modern equipment and thoughtful layout, it is just as engaging for conference participants as it is for tourists looking for a dose of inspiration.

The La Crosse Center is located at 300 Harborview Plaza, in the heart of the business district, right on the scenic banks of the Mississippi River. Thanks to its central location in the historic Harborview Plaza district, the complex is easy to find—it is one of the architectural landmarks in this part of the city.

For those traveling by car, the building's exact coordinates are 43.8118242°N, 91.2555227°W. Parking zones are available around the center and on its grounds, which is convenient for visitors attending major exhibitions or evening concerts. If you are staying at one of the downtown hotels, the arena is within walking distance, allowing you to enjoy views of the river.

Public transport users can take local La Crosse bus routes that run regularly through the downtown streets. Taxis are also readily available from any point in the city; the ride from major transport hubs takes only a few minutes.

The history of this massive facility began in the mid-1970s. At that time, the old city hall (Mary E. Sawyer Auditorium) could no longer handle the influx of visitors or the requirements of modern shows. Mayor Pat Zielke initiated the construction of a new arena, choosing a strategically important location: the Harborview Plaza area, which had been cleared after the devastating flood of 1965.

Construction began in 1978 after city residents supported the project in a referendum. Initial investments totaled about $10 million, part of which was provided by the federal government. The grand opening took place in 1980, and since then, the La Crosse Center has become the main attraction for cultural and business events in the region.

Over time, the complex has been expanded several times. In 2000, a $14 million renovation added new exhibition halls. However, the most impressive stage of the update was the massive 2019–2021 renovation costing $42 million. Despite the global challenges of that time, the project was completed on schedule, transforming the center into an ultra-modern space with solar panels and panoramic terraces.

When planning a visit to the La Crosse Center, you should consider the purpose of your trip. If you simply want to view the building's architecture and enjoy the panorama of the Mississippi River from the modern rooftop terrace, 1 to 2 hours will be sufficient.

For those attending a specific event—whether a world-class concert, a sports match, or a major trade show—the duration of stay is typically 2 to 4 hours or more. It is recommended to arrive early to comfortably pass through security and find your seats or explore the exhibits.

The La Crosse Center administrative office operates on a standard schedule: Monday to Friday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The office is closed for general visits on Saturday and Sunday.

It is important to note that the complex's operating hours during concerts, sports games, or exhibitions depend on the specific event schedule. Doors typically open for spectators 1–2 hours before the start of the show. It is recommended to check the start time of the event you are interested in on the center's official website in advance.

A stroll around the La Crosse Center is a great way to get a feel for the city's character. Since the complex is located on the waterfront, most interesting spots are within walking distance and offer views of the mighty Mississippi.

Here you can find historical monuments, cozy parks for relaxation, and scenic walking trails that connect the urban area with the natural landscapes of the river valley.