You’ve probably seen it driving down South Avenue in La Crosse. That modern, four-story building tucked right into the medical campus. Most people assume Gundersen Hotel and Suites is just a place for hospital patients. Basically, a glorified waiting room with beds.
Honestly? That’s not even half the story.
While it’s true the hotel has a literal underground tunnel connecting it to the Gundersen Health System's Founders Building, this isn't some sterile, clinical dormitory. It's actually a high-end boutique stay that gives the big chains downtown a serious run for their money. Whether you’re here for a surgery, a Packers-themed wedding, or just a weekend exploring the Mississippi River bluffs, the vibe here is surprisingly upscale.
The Secret Underground Life
Let's talk about the tunnel first because it’s the coolest (and most practical) part of the architecture. Wisconsin winters are brutal. If you’re visiting a loved one at the hospital or you're a traveling doc, the 100-foot underground concourse is a lifesaver. You can walk from your room to the East Building and then take the overhead skywalk to the main hospital without ever feeling a snowflake.
It's convenient. It’s smart.
But once you’re back in the lobby, the hospital feel totally disappears. They’ve gone for this trendy, colorful décor that feels more like a tech startup than a medical annex. You’ve got a 24/7 soda and coffee fountain in the lobby—which is a massive perk most hotels stopped offering years ago.
Room Types That Actually Make Sense
Most hotels give you two options: two queens or one king. Gundersen Hotel and Suites complicates that in a good way. They have 67 units, and 16 of those are full-blown suites.
- The Standard Studios: These are bigger than your average Marriott room. We’re talking 357 square feet.
- The Superior and Family Suites: These hit about 504 square feet. They come with kitchenettes, stovetops, and full-sized fridges.
If you're staying for a week because of a medical procedure, having a real kitchen matters. Eating takeout in bed gets old after 48 hours. The rooms are designed with these "step-backs" in the floor plan, which basically means the building isn't just a giant rectangle. It cuts down on hallway noise and makes the rooms feel more private.
What's the Catch?
Nothing is perfect. I’ll be real with you: if you’re looking for a rowdy bar scene, this isn't it. There is no on-site bar or lounge. It’s a quiet property. Some guests have mentioned that because it sits right on a main artery of La Crosse, the street-side rooms can pick up some traffic noise. If you’re a light sleeper, ask for a room facing away from South Avenue.
Also, there's no hot tub. You get a nice, heated indoor pool, but no whirlpool. For some people, that’s a dealbreaker. For others, the free breakfast (which actually gets high marks for its variety) makes up for it.
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Ownership and the "Gundersen" Name
Here’s a bit of trivia that surprises people: the hotel isn't actually owned by the hospital. It’s owned by Select La Crosse, LLC and operated by Premier Hotel Properties. They just license the Gundersen name because the partnership makes sense. It’s a "neighborly" business arrangement that’s been running since the place opened in 2017.
Pro Tips for Your Stay
- The View: Try to snag a room on the fourth floor. There’s a banquet room up there with a deck that has killer views of the Mississippi River bluffs.
- Charging: They have an EV charging station in the parking lot. In La Crosse, those can be surprisingly hard to find.
- Pet Policy: They are pet-friendly. Unlike some places that charge a $75 "cleaning fee" that feels like a scam, their pet policy is generally regarded as very fair.
- The "Patient Rate": If you are actually there for medical reasons, call the front desk directly at (608) 793-0200. Don't just book on a third-party site. They offer specific patient and family rates that are significantly lower than the public price.
Why It Matters for La Crosse
La Crosse is a weirdly spread-out city. You have the historic downtown, the "Northside," and the university area. This hotel sits in a sweet spot. You're about 1.1 miles from the La Crosse Center and a quick five-minute drive from the Pearl Street Ice Cream Parlor or the Waterfront Restaurant.
It’s the "quiet" alternative to the downtown hotels where the college crowd might get a bit loud on a Saturday night.
Actionable Next Steps
If you're planning a trip to La Crosse, don't just default to the big names downtown. Check the availability at Gundersen Hotel and Suites, especially if you need a kitchen or want to avoid the noise of the bar districts. If you’re visiting for medical reasons, ensure you have your appointment details ready when you call to secure the discounted rate. For those traveling with pets, always call ahead to confirm the current weight restrictions, as these can change without notice on booking sites.