Wisconsin Dells Attractions: Top 10 Not to Miss (2024)

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Are you looking for the best Wisconsin Dells attractions? There are so many great things to choose from!

This activity-filled city is easily one of the best Wisconsin weekend getaways!

Families will have a blast at the many waterparks, mini golf courses, and amusem*nt parks. Adults can spend an evening at one of the breweries or wineries.

If you love nature, Wisconsin Dells is set on the Wisconsin River and is surrounded by parks. There are plenty of chances for hiking and boat tours.

Wisconsin Dells is a lovely city, offering some of the best things to do in Wisconsin. You should not miss out on the chance to explore this beautiful area!

Now, let’s dive into the best things to see in Wisconsin Dells, WI!

Wisconsin Dells Attractions: Top 10 Not to Miss (1)

Wisconsin Dells Riverwalk

The Riverwalk is one of the most scenic attractions in Wisconsin Dells, WI. It is free and open year-round.

This quarter-mile paved path offers views of the river with its sandstone bluffs. Along the way, there are plenty of benches where you can stop to soak in the views.

There are also historical signs to read as you enjoy your walk. Outdoor chess tables give you a pretty place to play a game. You can also bike the Riverwalk.

During Christmas, there are over 70 trees decked out with beautiful lights.

Wisconsin Dells Attractions: Top 10 Not to Miss (2)

Dells of the Wisconsin River State Natural Area

Just north of the city, the Dells of the Wisconsin River State Natural Area is one of the top outdoor attractions in Wisconsin Dells.

Take a boat tour through a 5-mile-long gorge as you admire amazing sandstone cliffs. Some of the cliffs tower over one hundred feet above the water.

Keep an eye out for rare plants and animals as you sail through the scenic landscape. Cliff cudweed, for instance, is only found in two places on earth!

Historically, this waterway was important to Native Americans as well. There is lots of archeological evidence including effigy and burial mounds.

A boat tour here is one of the most popular things to do in Wisconsin Dells!

Wisconsin Dells Attractions: Top 10 Not to Miss (3)

Witches Gulch

In the Upper Dells, Witches Gulch is one of the best places for hiking in Wisconsin. The only way to reach this trail is through a boat tour.

The short, boardwalk trail takes visitors through a narrow canyon. The rugged, moss-covered walls are super cool.

You will feel as if you have stepped into another world as you walk through this Ice Age slot canyon.

The boat ride on the Wisconsin River will also show off other rock formations, including Chimney Rock, Blackhawk’s Profile, Stand Rock, and Romance Cliff.

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Visiting Waterparks Is One Of The Fun Wisconsin Dells Attractions

There are a bunch of awesome Wisconsin Dells waterparks perfect for a summer day of family fun!

Known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” there are over 20 indoor and outdoor waterparks in the area. Many are found at hotels so you can stay and play at the same place.

Whether you want to chill in a lazy river or get an adrenaline rush on water slides, you will find these parks are some of the best attractions in Wisconsin!

Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park features the first rotating water slide in the country, a wave pool with 9-foot waves, a ton of slides for all ages, and an indoor water park.

The theme park side has rollercoasters, multiple go-kart tracks, mini golf, an arcade, and other rides.

Noah’s Ark Waterpark is the largest waterpark in the US with over 80 activities including 51 water slides.

Land of Natura is the largest floating waterpark in America with 150 acres of fun!

Other waterparks in Wisconsin Dells include Kalahari Resort, Chula Vista Resort, and Wilderness Resort. These are some of the best resorts in Wisconsin!

No matter which waterpark you go to, you will enjoy one of the best Wisconsin Dells attractions for families.

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Riverside & Great Northern Railroad

The Riverside & Great Northern Railroad is one of the best tourist attractions in Wisconsin Dells for kids or anyone who loves trains.

Hop aboard a miniature train on a 15-inch gauge railroad. The 3-mile roundtrip journey shows off views of the Wisconsin River and canyons.

There is also a museum with great exhibits about the railroad. The R&GN has an interesting history dating back to the 1940s. It was originally built in Janesville but was moved to Wisconsin Dells in the mid-50s.

You can bring a picnic or buy snacks to enjoy in the picnic area.

In the fall, ride the pumpkin train, pick out a pumpkin, and snap pictures with the fun photo ops.

Breweries and Wineries

If you love tasting local craft beers and wine when you travel, you are in for a treat! Wisconsin Dells is home to some of the best breweries and wineries in Wisconsin.

For somewhere family-friendly, head to Moosejaw Pizza & Dells Brewing Co. Order a yummy pizza or burger and pair it with a Strawberry Lemon-Ale or Imperial Vanilla Cream Ale.

The Bevy Brewery & Winery has a unique self-pour tap wall so you can try a little bit of everything.

Other nearby wineries include Prairie Hawk Winery, Fawn Creek Winery, and Broken Bottle Winery.

To visit multiple wineries, Dells Trolley Tours offers winery tours. This is one of the most fun activities in Wisconsin Dells for couples and friends.

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Rocky Arbor State Park Is One OF The Best Wisconsin Dells Attractions

The 144-acre Rocky Arbor State Park is a beautiful place to immerse yourself in nature.

Walk the 1-mile trail among pine trees and sandstone bluffs. Look for deer, chipmunks, and other wildlife. This is a wonderful place to visit during fall in Wisconsin.

There is also a picnic area and a playground for the kids.

This is also a great choice for camping in Wisconsin. The campground has 89 sites nestled among shady trees. There are showers, modern toilets, vault toilets, and water spigots. Some sites have electric hookups.

The park is one of the top Wisconsin Dells tourist attractions for nature lovers.

The Del-Bar

If you are looking for the best places to eat in Wisconsin Dells, plan on stopping by the Del-Bar.

This supper club has been a staple Wisconsin Dells’ restaurant since it opened in 1943. It has been owned and operated by the same family for three generations.

Interestingly, the building was designed by James Dresser, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. Admire the Prairie-style architecture inside and out.

The Del-Bar is best known for its steaks, but you can also order seafood, salads, and more. For dessert, there is tiramisu, cheesecake, crème brûlée, and more.

Whether for food or architecture, this is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin!

Wisconsin Dells Attractions: Top 10 Not to Miss (7)

Ripley’s Believe It Or Not

For one of the best family things to do in the Wisconsin Dells that are not water parks, check out Ripley’s Believe It or Not.

With three floors of eleven galleries, you never know what you will find next around the corner. There is a huge collection of eclectic art and oddities.

Discover strange animals on the Bizarre Safari or embark on the Wizard Quest!

This odditorium is easily one of the top indoor attractions in Wisconsin Dells!

Wisconsin Dells Attractions: Top 10 Not to Miss (8)

Mirror Lake State Park

For another of the best state parks in Wisconsin, plan on exploring the 2,200-acre Mirror Lake State Park.

The centerpiece of the park is the beautiful Mirror Lake which creates an amazing reflection of the surrounding trees.

You will have an epic lake day here! There are boats, canoes, and kayaks available for rent in the summer. There is also a swimming beach.

The park also has over 19 miles of trails. They range in difficulty and length. The shortest is a quarter mile while the longest is three miles. Wander through the trees with views of the lake and rock outcroppings.

Other things to do in the park include picnicking, biking, a playground, sand volleyball. If you visit Wisconsin in winter, you can try cross-country skiing.

There are also three campgrounds with a total of 152 sites.

For a unique stay, book a night at the Seth Peterson Cottage which was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1958.

Wisconsin Dells Attractions: Top 10 Not to Miss (9)

Where to Stay in Wisconsin Dells

There are a ton of great resorts and hotels in Wisconsin Dells. Whether you are planning a family vacation or a romantic getaway in Wisconsin, there is an option for you!

Wherever you stay, you will be close to all the best attractions at the Wisconsin Dells!

Affordable Hotel with Pool: Amber’s Inn and Suites. Check Rates: Booking.com

Affordable Hotel on Lake Delton with Multiple Pools: Aloha Beach Resort. Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range Resort: Bluegreen Vacations Odyssey Dells Resort. Check Rates: Booking.com

Wisconsin Dells Attractions: Top 10 Not to Miss (10)

Packing List When Visiting Attractions In The Wisconsin Dells

If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to the Wisconsin Dells, here are sometips on how to pack lightly.

Aconcealed travel pouchmay be one of the most important items you bring along when spending time at any Wisconsin Dells attractions.

It isalwaysimportantto protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

Thisunisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch islightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

You can place it under your clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with RFID protection, as I do, theseRFID sleeves arethe perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet.

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider anexternalcharging battery.

ThisAnker high-speed phone charging batteryisthe exact oneI carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone as I have. And wow is it fast!

My daughter gifted me with thisFugeTek selfie stick and tripodsetup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking photos during your London activities.

You will want to bring your ownrefillable water bottlewith you.

I never leave home on a trip without myBobble filtration bottle.The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

The replaceable carbon filter ensures clean drinking water when you want it.

Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottlewould work well for you. Would not take up much space at all.

You will want abackpack or daypackwith you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc…. No matter the time of day or evening.

Thisfoldable water-resistant backpackwould be great.

It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Hopefully, you have discovered the best attractions in the Wisconsin Dells for your next Midwest vacation! It is clearly one of the most popular Wisconsin tourist destinations!

Next, check out the best Wisconsin road trips!

Wisconsin Dells Attractions: Top 10 Not to Miss (2024)

FAQs

How to spend a day in Wisconsin Dells? ›

Top Attractions in Wisconsin Dells
  1. Noah's Ark Water Park. 2,947. Water Parks. ...
  2. Rick Wilcox Magic Theater. 1,614. Theaters. ...
  3. Witches Gulch. 621. Nature & Wildlife Areas. ...
  4. Wisconsin Deer Park. 1,471. Zoos. ...
  5. Timbavati Wildlife Park. 1,128. Zoos. ...
  6. Kalahari Indoor Waterpark. 1,128. ...
  7. Wilderness Territory. 554. ...
  8. Tommy Bartlett Exploratory. 546.

What is Wisconsin Dells most known for? ›

Named after the beautiful sandstone formations along the Wisconsin River, Wisconsin Dells is known as the Water Park Capital of the World.

What is there to do besides water parks in Wisconsin Dells? ›

Dells of the Wisconsin River State Natural Area

It's not a visit to Wisconsin Dells without seeing the actual dells. This state natural area protects five miles of that scenery along the Wisconsin River, including towering sandstone cliffs, rock formations and narrow canyons.

How much does top secret cost in Wisconsin Dells? ›

Come discover what we have uncovered in Wisconsin Dells. Our archaeological dig is open to the public year round! Top Secret daily passes can only be purchased at the Main Ticket Booth at Top Secret. The price for each daily pass is $5 plus tax per adult or child.

What is the best month to go to Wisconsin Dells? ›

On average there are three months where Wisconsin Dells receives the most visitors going on a Wisconsin Dells, WI vacation. These are March, July, and October in that order. Those months represent the peak of the three seasons where this Midwest destination offers its best attractions.

What is the difference between Upper Dells and Lower Dells? ›

The most famous section of the Wisconsin River is in the Wisconsin Dells area. This is commonly divided into 'Lower Dells' (below the Kilbourn Dam) and 'Upper Dells' (above the Kilbourn Dam). And in the Upper Dells you can kind of divide that in half…. this review will be about that upstream half.

What's the big deal about Wisconsin Dells? ›

"Wisconsin Dells is the waterpark capital of the world. Families can stay for two weeks and still never ride all the slides." "Wisconsin Dells is a city unlike any other in Wisconsin.

Why do people go to the Wisconsin Dells? ›

The Wisconsin Dells is “The Waterpark Capital of the World®” for good reason having America's largest outdoor water park (Noah's Ark), the country's largest indoor/outdoor combination waterpark (The Wilderness Resort) and the state's largest indoor waterpark (Kalahari Resorts & Conventions).

How much money do you need for Wisconsin Dells? ›

Most visitors spend between $430 and $1,989 for a one week trip to Wisconsin Dells, with the average being $996. This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels.

Which is more scenic upper or lower Dells? ›

We really recommend doing both the upper and lower but if you're looking for just a good half-day trip, the upper dells has the edge on the formations, bluffs and nooks and crannies (and they're more concentrated).

What makes Wisconsin Dells unique? ›

Wisconsin Dells has more waterparks of every size per capita than anywhere else in the world. Thus, “The Waterpark Capital of the World!®” official claim to fame, made even more impressive when you consider the community is a little less than 20 square miles and with just 6,000 permanent residents.

How many days do you need in Wisconsin Dells? ›

Your three days in Wisconsin Dells will leave you deliciously exhausted and thoroughly entertained. Call us today and have our experienced staff help you plan your next vacation to Wisconsin Dells by sharing some of the best things to do in Wisconsin Dells this weekend! The area is great during any season!

What is the mystery spot in Wisconsin Dells? ›

A popular side trip for visitors to nearby Wisconsin Dells, the Wonder Spot was advertised as a place "where the laws of natural gravity seem to be repealed." Visitors walked down a ravine into a cabin, where seemingly no one could stand up straight, water flowed backwards, and chairs could be balanced on two legs.

How much is the upside down house in Wisconsin Dells? ›

Somehow, someway the White house has been turned upside down and no, Trump had nothing to do with it. It only costs five dollars a person to walk through rooms with furniture on the ceiling and down dark corridors representing the secret tunnels of the WH.

What is the Wisconsin Dells Strip? ›

Charming, historic, and entertaining shopping strip

In downtown Wisconsin Dells, you can stroll along bustling Broadway and meander down side streets to find a huge variety of stores selling gifts, jewelry, and clothing.

How much is a day pass at Wisconsin Dells? ›

Day passes may be available for purchase based upon availability for a price of $49.99; please call to learn if day passes are available on dates you wish to visit. To ensure you have reserved access to the waterpark, it is recommended to purchase an overnight stay or package.

Can you go to Wisconsin Dells without staying there? ›

Not staying at the resort, but still want to play? You're in luck. We offer LIMITED day passes that grant admission to the Indoor & Outdoor Waterpark at Kalahari Resorts - Wisconsin Dells. Book your passes online and guarantee your admission.

How do you get around Wisconsin Dells without a car? ›

But any way you arrive, there are three ways to move around town here: the bus, a cab, or on foot. The Metro Transit is cheap and covers most of the town. The other good news is many of the attractions are within a short distance of each other, so even a leisurely stroll will get you to many places of interest.

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