The Casino

No Longer In Business

I was disappointed to find this place had closed recently due to safety and health violations - the apartments upstairs and the basement need to be cleaned, among other things such as electrical and plumbing issues before it can reopen. The decor was the main draw of the place, definitely retro and actually kinda cool. The beer selection wasn’t great (and it was even worse during Oktoberfest, when most of the bottle list was not available), but it was always worth stopping in for one. The sign above the bar reads "No Bud, No Coors, get over it". Always liked that. Hope it reopens.

Ok, the only reason to go here is to marvel at the decor and feel like you stepped straight in to the late 50’s. If you like kitsch, this is your place. From the lights to the bathroom, I think nothing has been touched for about 40 years. They had an interesting bottle selection (no taps) and make sure you bring cash. No credit cards are accepted. This place is very unique and I have never seen anything else quite like it.

The casino is the oldest active bar in La Crosse. It very much stays off the radar rarely attracting piles of loud, drunk college kids. This is, in my opinion, a strong point. However the general atmosphere is some what dull, AND The beer selection is nothing to write home to mom about. Although i did enjoy the fact that they do not sell any anheiser-busch rice water(beer0 . If you will be traveling to La Crosse and you want to go to a nice bar go to the Bodega on 3rd St.

Don the owner is such a character and very knowledgeable about beer. Not a big fan of domestic beers of any sort. Some great unique old original art deco touches to the decor. Very good assortment of almost only import bottled beers. Some of the bartenders are pretty cool, but some.... Was my fav bar in La Crosse for many years. Now CLOSED