La Crescent Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism

09/03/2026

📸 Throwback Thursday!

Take a trip back to the 1960s with this wonderful photo of the Panorama Motel in La Crescent!

Owned by Caroline & Jerry Hafner, the Panorama Motel was a familiar stop for travelers visiting the area. Today, the property is home to the Mosher Veterans Home in Dresbach.

This historic image comes from the Howard Colvin/La Crosse Tribune Photo Collection, preserved by the La Crosse Public Library Archives.

📸 Photo & historical information provided by the La Crescent Area Historical Society
Learn more about local history: https://lacrescenthistory.org/

What do you remember about the Panorama Motel? Share your memories or stories in the comments! 👇

09/01/2026

We're just over a week away from seeing these riders meet challenging climbs that push limits and technical descents that test their skills!

This one is for the girls! Next time you're in need for a girls trip getaway visit the La Crosse Region and see what all the hype is about! There's so many things to do, whether you're looking for a weekend of relaxation or want to cross off that itinerary, we have it all!

08/31/2026

Get ready to treasure hunt your way through the Root River Valley! 🛍️🍂

The Root River Trail Towns 65-Mile Garage Sale returns Friday & Saturday, September 11–12, with sales stretching through communities across Bluff Country.

There’s no starting or ending point—pick a town, follow the master map, and make your own route as you hunt for bargains, hidden gems and one-of-a-kind finds along the way.

🗺️ New sales will continue to be added to the master map right up until event weekend, so be sure to check back as Sept. 11–12 gets closer.

Make a day (or a weekend) of it: shop the sales, grab a bite, explore our downtowns and enjoy the Root River Valley as summer gives way to fall.

👉 More information and the link to the master sale map can be found at the link in the comments.

08/27/2026

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Step back to the 1960s with this look at the La Crescent-Hokah Times Chief, once located on South Walnut Street, just south of Main Street and connected to the post office.

The newspaper was originally owned by Ralph Kuehn, but at the time this photo was taken, it was owned by Bob Formal. Over the years, this familiar building has seen many transformations. After the newspaper offices, it became Pollack's Furniture Store, followed by Witt's.

Today, the building continues to be a part of downtown La Crescent's story. It's now owned by Nolop Properties, with Corky's Pizza occupying the second doorway and Corky's Event Room located in the third doorway.

It's incredible how one building can tell the story of generations of local businesses and the people who made them part of our community.

💬 Do you remember picking up the Times Chief, shopping at Pollack's or Witt's, or have another memory of this building? We'd love to hear your stories in the comments!

📷 Photo: 1960s | La Crosse Public Library Archives, Howard Colvin/La Crosse Tribune Photo Collection
📸 Photo & Historical Information provided by La Crescent Area Historical Society
https://lacrescenthistory.org/

08/24/2026

Please join us in welcoming Chris Fortsch as the new Executive Director of the La Crescent Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism!

Chris is no stranger to the La Crescent community. She brings years of experience serving our community through her work with the City of La Crescent, along with an extensive history of volunteering and serving local organizations.

Her strong community connections, organizational experience, and passion for La Crescent make her a great fit to lead the Chamber as we continue supporting our members, strengthening local businesses, and promoting the La Crescent area.

We’re excited for this next chapter and all that Chris will bring to the Chamber and our community!

08/20/2026

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Who remembers Joe's Twilight Zone?

Located on the d**e between La Crescent and La Crosse, this local favorite has quite a history. It was originally owned by Joe Strupp, later by Dwayne Schroeder, and eventually by Fletch & Marlene Brewster.

By the time tragedy struck, the restaurant was operating as Sabbatino's Diner. It was destroyed by a fire around 1975, bringing an end to a memorable chapter in our community's history.

Do you have memories of Joe's Twilight Zone or Sabbatino's Diner? We'd love to hear your stories! Share your favorite memories, photos, or family traditions in the comments below. ❤️

La Crosse Public Library Archives, Howard Colvin/La Crosse Tribune Photo Collection

📸PC & Historical Information provided by La Crescent Area Historical Society
https://lacrescenthistory.org/

08/18/2026

Happening Friday!🎉
Please join us for a ribbon-cutting at Do Be Kind!
📅 Friday, August 21st
⏰ 9:30 a.m.
📍 215 S Chestnut St., La Crescent, MN
🎀We’d love to see you there!

08/13/2026

📸 Throwback Thursday | Deep Rock Service Station

This week's takes us back to a familiar stop along the d**e between La Crescent and La Crosse, the Deep Rock Gas Station.

Many longtime residents may remember when Paul Junk owned and managed the station. Listed in the 1965 La Crescent phone book as Don's Deep Rock Service Station, it was located on Highways 14 & 61 and served countless travelers making their way through the Apple Capital of Minnesota.

Back in the days of full-service gas stations, a stop here meant more than just filling your tank; it was a place to catch up with neighbors, get directions, and experience the friendly service that made small-town businesses so special.

Do you remember stopping at Deep Rock? We'd love to hear your stories! Share your memories in the comments below. ⛽🚗