Fun Things to Do in Wisconsin Dells | Family Attractions
Wisconsin Dells, known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World!ยฎ,” offers 107 exciting attractions. This charming city blends natural wonders with man-made marvels. Visitors of all ages will find something to enjoy here.
Wisconsin Dells boasts a diverse range of attractions. These include 17 amusement parks, 20 museums, and 6 world-class waterparks. The massive 70-acre Noah’s Ark is a must-visit waterpark.
Nature enthusiasts can explore 21 scenic tours. A highlight is the 2-mile journey along the beautiful Wisconsin River. These tours showcase the area’s stunning natural beauty.
The Dells is a year-round destination. Summer offers 105 attractions, while 65 remain open in winter. This ensures fun family getaways in any season.
Visitors can enjoy diverse activities here. Options include ziplining through treetops, golfing at 10 courses, or taking ghostly boat tours. The Dells guarantees memorable experiences for everyone.
Explore the Water Parks: A Splashing Good Time
Wisconsin Dells is truly “The Waterpark Capital of the World!ยฎ”. It has the most indoor and outdoor water parks globally. Families flock here for aquatic fun in Wisconsin Dells.
Indoor Water Parks for Year-Round Fun
The Dells has three indoor water parks for endless aquatic adventures. Kalahari Resort boasts Wisconsin’s largest indoor waterpark. The Wild WaterDome at Wilderness Resort covers 70,000 square feet.
It features America’s largest indoor wave pool. Klondike Kavern adds excitement with over 65,000 square feet of water attractions.
Outdoor Water Attractions During the Summer
Summer brings five outdoor water parks to life in Wisconsin Dells. Noah’s Ark, America’s Largest Waterparkยฎ, spans 70 acres. It has thrilling rides like the Black Anaconda and Scorpion’s Tail.
The Lost World outdoor waterpark covers 3.2 acres. Mt. Olympus’ Poseidon’s Rage creates waves up to 9 feet high.
Visit in early June or late August to avoid crowds. Weekdays are less busy. Booking tickets online can save you money.
Visit the Scenic Destinations: Natural Beauty Awaits
Wisconsin Dells offers more than just water parks and entertainment. The area’s stunning natural beauty is perfect for outdoor activities. Let’s explore two picturesque spots that showcase the region’s breathtaking landscapes.
Mirror Lake State Park: Hiking and Nature Walks
Mirror Lake State Park is a hidden gem for nature lovers. With 19 miles of hiking trails, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers trails for all skill levels.
As you hike, you’ll see serene forest views and calm waters. Mirror Lake’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for fishing, swimming, and paddling.
- Fishing in the crystal-clear lake
- Swimming in designated areas
- Canoeing and kayaking on the peaceful waters
The Dells of the Wisconsin River: Gorgeous Views
The Dells of the Wisconsin River is Wisconsin Dells’ crown jewel. Unique sandstone formations, sculpted over thousands of years, create an awe-inspiring landscape. A boat tour is the best way to experience this natural wonder.
The Upper Dells Boat Tour offers a two-hour journey along the river. Boats depart every 30-40 minutes. The tour includes two stops:
- Witches Gulch: A narrow canyon with a 15-minute exploration time
- Stand Rock: Famous for its iconic rock formation
These scenic destinations offer a peaceful contrast to Wisconsin Dells’ bustling entertainment scene. They provide a chance to connect with nature and witness remarkable geological marvels.
| Destination | Highlights | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Mirror Lake State Park | 19 miles of hiking trails, serene lake | Hiking, fishing, swimming, canoeing |
| The Dells of the Wisconsin River | Unique sandstone formations, scenic boat tours | Boat tours, photography, sightseeing |
Thrilling Attractions: Adrenaline-Pumping Activities
Wisconsin Dells offers more than just water parks. It’s a haven for thrill-seekers of all ages. You’ll find heart-pounding adventures that create unforgettable memories.
Ziplining Adventures: Soar Above the Trees
Bigfoot Zipline Tours takes adventure sports to new heights. Seven ziplines span up to 1,400 feet, letting you fly at 40 mph. The longest line stretches 1,397 feet, offering stunning views of Wisconsin’s lush landscape.
Go-Kart Racing: Family-Friendly Competition
Go-kart racing provides exciting, kid-friendly fun in Wisconsin Dells. Timber Falls Adventure Park features the Hellcat Roller Coaster, a thrilling 10-story giant. After racing, enjoy mini-golf on one of their four courses.
For an extra adrenaline boost, try the Skyscraper ride. It reaches 160 feet high and spins at 60 mph. This intense attraction generates 4 Gs of force, capping off your day of thrills.
Family-Friendly Activities: Fun for All Ages
Wisconsin Dells offers plenty of kid-friendly activities. From mini-golf to arcades, families can enjoy various attractions. Let’s explore some popular spots that bring joy to everyone.
Miniature Golf: A Family Challenge
Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf provides a swashbuckling experience with five unique courses. You’ll putt through 91 holes with intricate theming and clever obstacles. It’s perfect for friendly family competition outdoors.
Arcade and Game Zones: Indoor Entertainment
Wild Fun Zone is the largest arcade in the Dells. It’s a gamer’s paradise with classic pinball and cutting-edge video games. Families can team up for laser tag or challenge each other to skeeball.
These activities create opportunities for bonding and making memories. They offer a break from water parks and outdoor adventures. Your family trip to Wisconsin Dells will be packed with diverse experiences.
Unique Attractions: Experience Something Different
Wisconsin Dells offers more than just water parks. The area has unique experiences that set it apart. From magical shows to interactive adventures, these attractions provide unforgettable entertainment for all ages.
Rick Wilcox Magic Theater: Mesmerizing Performances
The Rick Wilcox Magic Theater is a standout entertainment option. This intimate venue hosts spellbinding shows blending illusion, comedy, and audience participation. Rick Wilcox’s performances captivate both adults and children alike.
Wizard Quest: An Interactive Adventure Game
Wizard Quest offers a one-of-a-kind adventure in a 30,000-square-foot fantasy world. Visitors complete story-driven quests across four themed realms: fire, water, earth, and air. Teams solve puzzles and unravel mysteries in this unique escape room and role-playing game blend.
| Attraction | Unique Feature | Experience Type |
|---|---|---|
| Rick Wilcox Magic Theater | Intimate venue for close-up magic | Live performance |
| Wizard Quest | 30,000 sq. ft. interactive fantasy world | Adventure game |
These distinctive attractions showcase Wisconsin Dells’ diverse entertainment landscape. Magical wonder and interactive challenges await visitors. These unique experiences promise to create lasting memories for everyone.
Adventure Sports: Embrace the Great Outdoors
Wisconsin Dells offers more than just water parks. It’s a playground for outdoor enthusiasts seeking thrilling experiences. The area boasts a wide range of activities for all skill levels.
Jet Ski Rentals: Ride the Waves of Lake Delton
Lake Delton is perfect for jet ski enthusiasts. Feel the rush of skimming across the water’s surface. Rentals are available for both beginners and experienced riders.
Kayaking Tours: Explore the Waterways
Kayaking tours offer a unique view of the Dells’ famous waterways. Guided trips along the Wisconsin River showcase towering sandstone cliffs and lush forests. The slow pace is ideal for wildlife spotting and photography.
These adventure sports connect you with the area’s natural beauty. They offer a chance to create your own adventure in the Dells. You can explore at your own pace, resulting in truly memorable experiences.
| Activity | Location | Skill Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jet Skiing | Lake Delton | Beginner to Advanced | 30 minutes to 2 hours |
| Kayaking Tours | Wisconsin River | All Levels | 2 to 4 hours |
| Hiking | Mirror Lake State Park | All Levels | Varies (19+ miles of trails) |
| Rock Climbing | Devil’s Lake State Park | Intermediate to Advanced | Half-day to Full-day |
Culinary Delights: Taste the Local Flavors
Wisconsin Dells offers a feast for the senses with nearly 100 eateries. From kid-friendly spots to upscale dining, there’s something for everyone. Exploring local food is a top attraction in Wisconsin Dells.
Family-Friendly Dining Adventures
The area boasts 58 kid-friendly dining spots. Mr. Pancake, a local favorite for over 50 years, serves up delicious fluffy stacks.
Paul Bunyan’s Cook Shanty offers all-you-can-eat breakfast. Enjoy unlimited pancakes, biscuits, and eggs at this hearty spot.
MACS Macaroni and Cheese Shop offers over a dozen unique mac and cheese variations. It’s a cheesy paradise that even picky eaters will love.
Grown-Up Tastes and Tasting Experiences
Wisconsin Dells has 12 breweries, wineries, and distilleries. Moosejaw Pizza & Dells Brewing Co. offers dining with an in-house brewery.
The Del-Bar serves prime aged steaks and fresh seafood in an elegant setting. It’s perfect for a fancy night out.
Wollersheim Winery & Distillery is known for its award-winning wines. Don’t miss this spot if you’re a wine lover.
With 44 bars and lounges, there are plenty of places to relax. Wisconsin Dells caters to all tastes and budgets.
Seasonal Events: Celebrate Year-Round Festivities
Wisconsin Dells offers more than water parks and natural beauty. The city hosts exciting events throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy diverse activities in every season.
Summer Festivals: Enjoy Music and Food
Wisconsin Dells entertainment peaks in summer. Elm Street Plaza hosts about 30 seasonal events annually. Summer nights feature 15 different music acts performing various genres.
Food lovers can enjoy local flavors at the weekly Farmers’ Market. Over 20 local vendors and crafters showcase their products there.
Beer fans should check out the Dells On Tap Weekend. It features more than 50 seasonal microbrews from Midwest breweries.
The Dells Rare Barrel Affair gathers nearly 100 Wisconsin brewers. They offer rare and barrel-aged beers for tasting.
Wine enthusiasts can look forward to the Spring and Fall Wine Walks. Samples are available at about 10 downtown stops.
Winter Activities: Ice Sculpture Festivals
Wisconsin Dells becomes a winter wonderland as temperatures drop. The Tree of Light features over 10,000 lights on a 55-foot silver maple.
More than 70 decorated trees line the Scenic River Walk. Nights of Lights at Mt. Olympus offers a magical half-mile walk.
The display features over two million bulbs from November 24 to January 1. The Christmas in the Dells Dinner Show serves a four-course feast through December 31.
Families can enjoy the Santa Express, a 7-mile ride. It operates on select dates in November and December.
Wisconsin Dells proves it’s a year-round destination for family fun. Visitors can find festive cheer in every season.
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Wisconsin Dells?
The best time to visit Wisconsin Dells varies based on your interests. Summer is perfect for outdoor water parks and activities. Winter offers unique experiences like ice sculpture festivals. Spring and fall provide nature enjoyment with fewer crowds.
Are there any free attractions in Wisconsin Dells?
Wisconsin Dells offers several free attractions. You can hike trails at Mirror Lake State Park or explore downtown. The H.H. Bennett Studio is another free option. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Wisconsin River at no cost.
What are some popular indoor activities for rainy days?
Rainy days in Wisconsin Dells offer plenty of indoor fun. You can splash at indoor water parks or visit arcades and game zones. The Rick Wilcox Magic Theater provides entertaining shows. Wizard Quest offers an immersive adventure experience.
Various museums, like Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, are also great rainy-day options.
Are there any adult-only attractions in Wisconsin Dells?
Wisconsin Dells has adult-friendly attractions despite its family focus. Local breweries and wineries offer tastings for grown-ups. Resorts provide relaxing spa treatments for adults. Try your luck at Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells casino.
The area also boasts various bars and clubs for nightlife entertainment.
What adventure sports can I try in Wisconsin Dells?
Wisconsin Dells is an adventure sports paradise. You can go ziplining or jet skiing on Lake Delton. Kayaking tours on the Wisconsin River offer a thrilling experience. ATV tours and horseback riding are available for land-based excitement.
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, try skydiving in Wisconsin Dells.
Are the water parks in Wisconsin Dells open year-round?
Many indoor water parks in Wisconsin Dells operate year-round. Resorts like Kalahari, Great Wolf Lodge, and Wilderness Resort offer indoor aquatic fun. These parks provide water adventures regardless of outside weather conditions.
What unique attractions should I not miss in Wisconsin Dells?
Wisconsin Dells has several must-see unique attractions. The Original Wisconsin Ducks amphibious vehicle tours are a classic experience. Take the Lost Canyon Tour by horse-drawn wagon for scenic views. Visit Tommy Bartlett Exploratory for hands-on fun.
Don’t miss the Upper Dells Boat Tour to see famous rock formations.
