Located in Wisconsin’s scenic Driftless Region, the Sparta area offers visitors a wide variety of outdoor recreation, local attractions, and family-friendly activities. Guests staying at Whiskey Creek Family RV Park are just minutes from scenic bike trails, local museums, small-town shopping, and the rolling countryside of the Driftless Region.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or a relaxing afternoon exploring the area, there are plenty of things to see and do near Sparta.

La Crosse River State Trail (Sparta Area)

The La Crosse River State Trail follows the scenic La Crosse River for more than 20 miles, connecting Sparta to Onalaska through wetlands, forests, and farmland.

Website: Little La Crosse River Access

Bicyclists riding the La Crosse River State Trail near Sparta Wisconsin
Cyclists entering one of the historic tunnels on the Elroy Sparta State Trail near Sparta Wisconsin

Elroy–Sparta State Trail

One of Wisconsin’s most famous biking destinations, the Elroy–Sparta State Trail stretches more than 30 miles through the rolling hills of the Driftless Region. The trail is well known for its historic railroad tunnels, scenic countryside views, and peaceful riding conditions. Families enjoy biking, walking, and exploring the tunnels while experiencing one of the most unique trail systems in the Midwest.

Website: Elroy–Sparta State Trail

Deke Slayton Memorial Space & Bicycle Museum

Sparta is known as the “Bicycling Capital of America,” and the Deke Slayton Memorial Space & Bicycle Museum celebrates both the town’s cycling history and the legacy of astronaut Deke Slayton, a Sparta native and one of NASA’s original Mercury Seven astronauts. The museum features exhibits on space exploration, early bicycles, and the region’s cycling culture.

Website: Deke Slayton Memorial Space & Bicycle Museum

Entrance to the Deke Slayton Memorial Space and Bicycle Museum in Sparta Wisconsin
World's Largest Bicyclist statue in Sparta Wisconsin along the bike trail

The World’s Largest Bicyclist

Located along the bike trail in Sparta, the World’s Largest Bicyclist statue is a fun photo stop for visitors. The statue celebrates Sparta’s long connection to cycling and outdoor recreation and has become one of the town’s most recognizable landmarks.

Downtown Sparta

Spend some time exploring historic downtown Sparta, where you’ll find locally owned shops, restaurants, and welcoming small-town charm. Visitors often enjoy browsing boutiques, stopping for lunch, or grabbing ice cream before continuing their outdoor adventures.
Downtown Sparta Wisconsin shops restaurants and cafes along Main Street
FAST Fiberglass Mold Graveyard in Sparta Wisconsin with large fiberglass molds and statues

FAST Fiberglass Mold Graveyard

One of the more unusual attractions near Sparta is the FAST Fiberglass Mold Graveyard. This outdoor display features giant fiberglass molds used to create roadside statues and advertising figures. Visitors can walk among the colorful molds and learn about Sparta’s fiberglass manufacturing history.

Whitetail Ridge Ski Area

Located just outside Sparta, Whitetail Ridge Ski Area offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing during the winter months, making it a popular cold-weather destination for visitors to the area. The ski area provides family-friendly slopes and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular cold-weather destination for visitors to the Sparta area.

Website: Whitetail Ridge Ski Area

Skiers and snowboarders at Whitetail Ridge Ski Area near Sparta Wisconsin
Mississippi River overlook view from Perrot State Park near Trempealeau Wisconsin

Perrot State Park

Located about 40 minutes from Sparta, Perrot State Park sits where the Trempealeau and Mississippi Rivers meet. The park offers beautiful hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

One of the most popular hikes is Brady’s Bluff, which provides stunning views of the Mississippi River Valley. Families often visit for picnicking, hiking, and nature exploration.

Website: Perrot State Park

Wildcat Mountain State Park

Located about 45 minutes southeast of Sparta, Wildcat Mountain State Park offers some of the most dramatic scenery in the Driftless Region. Visitors can hike along ridges overlooking the Kickapoo River Valley and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding hills.

Website: Wildcat Mountain State Park

Wildcat Mountain State Park overlook of the Kickapoo River Valley in Wisconsin
Norskedalen Nature and Heritage Center historic buildings and gardens near Coon Valley Wisconsin

Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center

Located near Coon Valley, about 30 minutes from Sparta, Norskedalen is a unique nature and cultural center celebrating the Norwegian heritage of the region.

Visitors can explore hiking trails, wildlife habitats, historic buildings, and cultural exhibits. Families especially enjoy the peaceful setting and educational programs.

Website: Norskedalen

Explore the Driftless Region

The Sparta area sits in the heart of Wisconsin’s beautiful Driftless Region, known for its rolling hills, scenic valleys, and endless outdoor recreation opportunities. From biking and kayaking to museums and small-town shopping, visitors staying at Whiskey Creek Family RV Park will find plenty of ways to explore and enjoy the surrounding area.