November in the Driftless
When the Crowds Slow Down, the Fun Doesn't
November brings a different kind of beauty to the Driftless. The fall crowds begin to fade, the holidays start popping up in our river towns, and there's still plenty to explore. Spend the day shopping, dining, discovering local events or enjoying the outdoors—then come back to Driftless Destinations for games, good food and time together.
Holiday Craft & Gift Fair — Prairie du Chien
Saturday, November 14 | 9 AM–2 PM
Kick off the holiday season with a little shopping in Prairie du Chien. The Holiday Craft & Gift Fair at Hoffman Hall brings together more than 50 vendors, along with music throughout the day. It's a fun stop for finding gifts, browsing local vendors and getting into the holiday spirit.
Voices from the Kitchen: Lamplight Servants Tours — Villa Louis
Friday, November 6 | Evening Tours
Experience Villa Louis after dark with a special lamplight tour that shares the stories of the servants who lived and worked in the historic estate. It's a unique way to experience one of Prairie du Chien's best-known historic sites—and something a little different for a November getaway.
Take Me Home: The Music of John Denver — Prairie du Chien
Friday, November 13 | 7 PM
Spend an evening enjoying the music of John Denver at the Prairie du Chien Area Arts Center. National touring performer Jim Curry brings Denver's familiar songs to the stage in Take Me Home: The Music of John Denver—a fun addition to a November weekend in the Driftless.
Sip & Shop in McGregor and Marquette
Spend an evening enjoying the music of John Denver at the Prairie du Chien Area Arts Center. National touring performer Jim Curry brings Denver's familiar songs to the stage in Take Me Home: The Music of John Denver—a fun addition to a November weekend in the Driftless.
Take in the Views at Pikes Peak State Park
Cool November days can be perfect for exploring Pikes Peak State Park. Bundle up, walk the trails and take in the Mississippi River and bluff views without the busy fall-color crowds. Even a quick stop at the overlooks makes an easy addition to a day exploring McGregor and Marquette.
Holiday Shopping in the River Towns
November is the perfect time to get a head start on holiday shopping. Browse the locally owned shops and boutiques in McGregor and Prairie du Chien for antiques, home décor, specialty foods and one-of-a-kind gifts. On Small Business Saturday, November 28, Paper Moon in McGregor adds a little extra fun with its annual Kitty-Cocktails & Cheeseballscelebration.
If you're up for a scenic drive, Decorah also gets into the holiday spirit with its Holiday Open House November 13–15and Peppermint Walk November 20–22, with shops and restaurants throughout downtown joining in the festivities.
Try Your Luck at Bally’s Casino in Marquette
Looking for something to do when the November weather sends you indoors? Bally’s Casino in Marquette offers gaming, dining and entertainment just minutes from Driftless Destinations. It’s an easy option for an adults’ getaway, couples’ weekend or a night out with friends—and you don’t have to travel far from the house.
Warm Up with Local Food & Drinks
A chilly November day is a good excuse to slow down and enjoy some of the Driftless area's local flavors. Grab a bite in McGregor or Prairie du Chien, stop for a glass of locally made wine, or find a cozy spot to linger over dinner. With restaurants, wineries and small-town favorites on both sides of the Mississippi, you can make an afternoon—or an entire evening—out of eating and drinking your way around the area.
Catch Live Music & Local Entertainment
November evenings don’t have to mean turning in early. Check the local calendars for live music, performances and special events happening around McGregor, Marquette and Prairie du Chien. From a band at a local venue to a show at the Prairie du Chien Area Arts Center, there’s often something happening after dinner—making it easy to turn a day of exploring into a full night out.
When the Weather Says Stay Inside
Not every November day is made for hiking—and that's okay. Spend a slower afternoon browsing shops and antiques, visit a local winery, try your luck at the casino, or grab coffee and explore the river towns at your own pace. Sometimes the best Driftless days are the ones without a schedule.
Winter Nights at Driftless Destinations
When the temperatures drop, some of the best memories happen without leaving the house. Challenge each other to a game of pool or darts, pull out the cards and board games, make something good in the kitchen, or settle in for a movie night. There’s room to spread out, but plenty of space to gather together—which is exactly what Driftless Destinations was made for.
November Is Just the Beginning
Not every November day is made for hiking—and that's okay. Spend a slower afternoon browsing shops and antiques, visit a local winery, try your luck at the casino, or grab coffee and explore the river towns at your own pace. Sometimes the best Driftless days are the ones without a schedule.
Your Driftless Getaway Doesn’t Have an Off-Season
The Driftless may move at a slower pace as fall turns to winter, but that doesn’t mean there’s less to enjoy. Come for a November event, a little holiday shopping, a night out, or simply an excuse to get away with the people you love. Explore during the day, then come back to Driftless Destinations and make yourself at home.
The Driftless is waiting—and we’d love to be your home base while you explore it.