Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Riverside International Friendship Gardens?

The Gardens are a collection of public gardens in La Crosse’s Riverside Park, celebrating the city’s sister-city relationships with communities in China, Germany, France, Russia, Norway, Ireland, Cameroon, and the Ho-Chunk Nation. Each garden reflects the culture of its sister city through plants, sculptures, architectural elements, and water features. It’s a place of beauty and peace that honors the diverse cultures who share our earth.

Where are the Gardens located?

We’re tucked into the northeast side of Riverside Park in downtown La Crosse, right where the Mississippi, Black, and La Crosse rivers converge. The park address is E. Veterans Memorial Drive, La Crosse, WI 54601. Follow the circle road down toward the north end of the park and you’ll find us near the river. (Click here for directions.)

What are your hours?

The Gardens are open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., the same hours as Riverside Park.

How much does it cost to visit?

Admission is completely free. We’re supported by donations, and any gift you’d like to make is warmly welcomed and helps keep the Gardens growing. Click here to donate securely online via PayPal, or mail a check to Riverside International Friendship Gardens, PO Box 3473 La Crosse, WI 54602-3473.

When is the best time to visit?

The Gardens are lovely throughout the growing season, with blooms and water features at their peak in summer. If you’re hoping to see the ponds and waterfalls flowing, plan a visit in the warmer months, as water features are typically turned off in early spring and late fall. Every season offers its own charm, from spring flowers to autumn color.

How long does a visit take?

Most visitors spend about 30 minutes strolling the eight themed gardens. If you’d like to linger by the koi pond, relax to the sound of the waterfalls, or take photos, set aside an hour or more.

Are pets welcome?

Yes, leashed, well-supervised dogs are welcome. We do ask that you keep pets on the designated paths so they don’t disturb the plantings, and please clean up after them.

Do I need to stay on the paths?

Yes, please. We ask all visitors to stay on the garden pathways to protect the plants and displays. Everything, including our scavenger hunt items, can be enjoyed from the paths.

Do you have activities for children?

We do! Printable scavenger hunt maps are available to download from our website and are a favorite with young visitors. All the items can be spotted right from the pathways, making it a fun way for families to explore the gardens together.

Are there picnic areas or restrooms?

The Gardens themselves have benches and quiet corners where you can rest and take in the views, along with picnic tables in the gazebo. The surrounding Riverside Park offers benches throughout the park and restrooms.

Is the La Crosse Queen nearby?

Yes, the La Crosse Queen paddlewheeler terminal is just a short walk away, which makes the Gardens a perfect stop before or after a river cruise, or part of a walking tour along the Mississippi riverfront.

Who takes care of the Gardens?

The Gardens are the result of a unique public-private partnership. The City of La Crosse Parks Department provides the land, technical resources, and maintenance expertise, and the nonprofit Riverside International Friendship Garden Board of Directors provides overall direction and fundraising and coordinates the hands-on care provided by volunteers. Volunteers are the heart of what makes the Gardens beautiful! If you’d like to volunteer, join us May through September on Wednesdays between 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM; email info@riversidegardens.org to be added to our volunteer email list.

How can I support the Gardens?

There are several wonderful ways to help. You can donate or volunteer your time. Every contribution, large or small, helps the Gardens flourish for years to come.

How can I get in touch?

You’re always welcome to reach out with questions, volunteer interest, or ideas. Email info@riversidegardens.org.