This WI Community Could Become ‘America’s Favorite Small Town’

La Crosse is among 40 finalists in Parade magazine’s “America’s Favorite Small Towns” contest to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

To mark the nation’s Semiquincentennial milestone, the lifestyle and entertainment media company invited towns with populations under 250,000 to compete for the national bragging rights.

The selection of the 40 regional finalists comes after months of community voting. Parade’s editorial board will evaluate each community’s application and announce five regional winners — one each from the West, Southwest, Midwest, Northeast and Southeast — on June 1. The national winner will be named on June 12.

La Crosse, which has a population of roughly 52,000 and sits where the Mississippi meets the Black River, is where you'll find people kayaking, biking, or fishing along the river, before grabbing locally roasted coffee or a bite downtown, Parade magazine writers said.

The magazine also noted the small town is home to the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and Viterbo University, which gives the city a youthful vibe, while local shops and galleries add plenty of personality.

"The city hums with a mix of college energy, outdoor adventure, and small-city charm," Parade magazine writers said.

Parade said the competition spotlights “the places that make America truly special,” whether that’s through history, culture, natural beauty or neighborly spirit.

Parade said the winning town will receive a branded promotional event as part of its 4th of July festivities, including potential celebrity involvement, sponsor giveaways, and national media coverage.