Things to do in Wisconsin dells
Introduction
Imagine in a world of roaring rapids, dense forests, and heart pounding slides. Welcome to Wisconsin Dells which is a Midwestern gem that puts together a mix of a natural wonder and an adrenaline junkie’s paradise. Whether you’re after family friendly fun, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure this town has it all. Called the “Waterpark Capital of the World” it is no wonder people from all over the year round pack up to head here. But what you see is only the tip of the iceberg so to speak.
Let’s dive into what makes the Dells a must-visit (and why you’ll want to book your trip ASAP via Expedia or Booking.com ).
Why is Wisconsin Dells So Popular?
Wisconsin Dells’ natural beauty and array of water parks and fun attractions put it on the map. The name “Dells” is from the wonderful sandstone formations which were carved out by glacial meltwater in the Wisconsin River. As the years went by the area transformed into a premier vacation destination which puts out a little bit of everything from outdoor adventure to amusement parks and also great for families.
Top Attractions in Wisconsin Dells
1. Noah’s Ark Waterpark – The Largest Waterpark in the U.S.
If you love water parks, Noah’s Ark Waterpark is a must-visit. With two wave pools, thrilling slides, and a lazy river, it’s the perfect spot for families and adrenaline junkies alike.
2. Wisconsin Deer Park – Get Up Close with Wildlife
At Wisconsin Deer Park, you can feed and interact with friendly deer. It’s a great experience for kids and adults who love animals.
3. Mirror Lake State Park – A Nature Lover’s Paradise
For those who prefer scenic beauty, Mirror Lake State Park offers hiking trails, kayaking, and peaceful lake views.
4. Bigfoot Zipline Tours – Thrill-Seeker’s Dream
If you’re looking for adventure, Bigfoot Zipline Tours provides high-speed ziplining through the treetops.
5. Wisconsin Dells Ghost Boat Tour – A Spooky Experience
Ever wondered how long the Wisconsin Dells ghost boat tour is? It typically lasts about 1.5 hours, taking you through eerie caves and haunted waters.
5. Wisconsin Dells Ghost Boat Tour – A Spooky Experience
Absolutely! There’s plenty for adults to enjoy:
1] Casinos & Nightlife – Try your luck at Ho-Chunk Gaming Casino or enjoy live music at local bars.
2] Scenic Boat Tours – Take a sunset cruise along the Wisconsin River.
3] Fine Dining & Breweries – Savor delicious meals at Field’s at the Wilderness or grab a craft beer at Dells Brewing Co.
Wisconsin Dells vs. Milwaukee: How Close Are They?
Wisconsin Dells is about 120 miles from Milwaukee, making it a 2-hour drive. If you’re flying in, consider booking a transfer service through Kiwitaxi or Gettransfer.com.
Best Time to Visit Wisconsin Dells
| Season | Best For |
|---|---|
|
Summer ( June - August)
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Water Park, outdoor activities
|
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Fall ( Sep - Nov)
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Scenic tours, hiking
|
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Winter (Dec - Feb)
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Indoor water parks, Skiing
|
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Spring ( March - May)
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Fewer crowds, mild weather
|
For the full-blown waterpark experience, summer is your jam. But if you’re leaning towards exploring the natural beauty and enjoying a more relaxed pace (and perhaps better deals on Hotels.com or Booking.com), I’m a big fan of late May or September.
Upper vs. Lower Dells: Which is Better?
Upper Dells – Known for towering cliffs, rock formations, and scenic boat tours.
Lower Dells – Features faster-moving waters, thrilling jet boat rides, and more adventure activities.
If you love nature and photography, Upper Dells is ideal. If you prefer action-packed fun, Lower Dells is the way to go.
How Much is a Day Pass at Wisconsin Dells?
| Attraction | Day Pass Price |
|---|---|
|
Noah’s Ark Waterpark
|
$40 per person
|
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Mt. Olympus water & theme park
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$35 per person
|
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Wisconsin Deer Park
|
$15 per person
|
For discounts, check Expedia or Tiqets.
Is Mt. Olympus the Same as Wisconsin Dells?
No, Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park is one of the many attractions in Wisconsin Dells. It features roller coasters, water slides, and go-kart tracks, making it a great all-in-one destination.
Does Wisconsin Dells Have the Most Water Parks?
Yes! Wisconsin Dells is home to the highest concentration of water parks in the U.S., earning its title as the Waterpark Capital of the World.
Where to Lay Your Head
In the Dells, the options for accommodation ranges from our extensive waterpark resorts (excellent if there are kids along or if you’re a kid on the inside) to lovely motels, cabins, and standard hotels. A little known tip is that one can make use of Hotellook to compare rates across various booking platforms such as Expedia. It is always best to book in advance, especially for summer weekend dates. If you are going for a day trip and require somewhere to store your bags that is conveniently located Radical Storage has locations that are very helpful.
How long is the Wisconsin Dells ghost boat tour?
The popular Dells Ghost Boat tour, which takes you into the spooky, dark, and allegedly haunted canyons of the Lower Dells after sunset, typically lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours. It’s a fun, slightly cheesy, but undeniably atmospheric experience – perfect for an evening activity.
Family Activities Wisconsin Dells:
1] You won’t run out of waterparks to visit like Noah’s Ark (America’s Largest Waterpark), Kalahari Resorts, Wilderness Resort, and Great Wolf Lodge.
2] Theme Parks: Mt. Olympus boasts rollercoasters, go-kart racing, and a waterpark.
3] Animal Attractions – Timbavati Wild Life Park, Wisconsin Deer Park.
4] Interactive Fun Activities – Wizard Quest, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, Tommy Bartlett Show (a classic!) Mini Golf & Go-Karts – Almost everywhere.
Practical Considerations: The Stuff Nobody Tells You
1] Parking: Summer weekends can be challenging. Many resorts offer free parking for guests, but public attractions fill up quickly.
2] Crowds: Peak season means crowds. If you’re not a fan of feeling like you’re in a human sardine can, consider visiting during shoulder seasons.
Luggage: If you’re flying in and need secure storage while exploring, Radical Storage has convenient locations throughout major Wisconsin cities.
4] For flight delays or cancellations (because let’s face it, they happen), Compensair can help you recover compensation for EU flights, while Aviasales offers flexible rebooking options
Conclusion
The Wisconsin Dells is an interesting, lovely and once-in-a-lifetime type of place. It may be known for its waterparks, but there’s so much else to see and do for those who look beyond them. Even though the USA is known for its calm cliffs and exciting innovations, there’s still a lot more to learn here.
If you’re planning a family trip, a romantic break or even going on an adventure or hiking journey by yourself, you’ll find that Wisconsin Dells offers a wide variety of fun activities.
Start planning your unique Dells itinerary with a curated list of tours and activities from Wegotrip, find your perfect base on Booking.com, and get ready to see a side of Wisconsin you never expected. Trust me, it’s worth the trip.