Wisconsin Dells, often referred to simply as “The Dells,” is a popular vacation destination in the Midwest known for its scenic beauty, family-friendly attractions, and water parks. With a variety of activities for all ages, the Dells offers something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do in the Wisconsin Dells.
1. Explore the Water Parks
Noah’s Ark Water Park
Noah’s Ark is America’s largest water park, featuring over 80 family activities, including water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. Highlights include the Black Anaconda, a water coaster, and the Scorpion’s Tail, a nearly vertical slide.
Kalahari Resort Waterparks
The Kalahari Resort offers both indoor and outdoor water parks with a variety of slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. The indoor water park is one of the largest in the country, making it a great option year-round.
2. Enjoy Outdoor Activities
Dells Boat Tours
Experience the natural beauty of the Wisconsin Dells with a scenic boat tour. Upper Dells tours take you through narrow gorges and past towering rock formations, while Lower Dells tours showcase wider sections of the river.
Zip Line Adventures
The Dells offer several zip line tours that provide thrilling aerial views of the forests and cliffs. Bigfoot Zipline Tours and Vertical Illusions are popular options that offer various courses for different experience levels.
3. Visit Theme Parks and Amusement Parks
Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park
Mt. Olympus combines a water park with a theme park, offering roller coasters, go-kart tracks, and a variety of water slides. The park’s indoor attractions make it a great destination regardless of the weather.
Timbavati Wildlife Park
Timbavati Wildlife Park features a variety of animal exhibits and interactive experiences. Visitors can feed giraffes, take a safari train ride, and see animals from around the world.
4. Explore Natural Attractions
Devil’s Lake State Park
Located a short drive from the Dells, Devil’s Lake State Park offers stunning scenery, hiking trails, and rock climbing opportunities. The park’s namesake lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and picnicking.
Mirror Lake State Park
Mirror Lake State Park is known for its serene waters and beautiful surroundings. Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking along the park’s trails, or simply relax and take in the natural beauty.
5. Experience Downtown Wisconsin Dells
Riverwalk
Stroll along the scenic Riverwalk in downtown Wisconsin Dells for beautiful views of the Wisconsin River. The Riverwalk features benches, picnic areas, and access points to the river.
Shopping and Dining
Downtown Wisconsin Dells offers a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Browse for unique souvenirs, sample local cuisine, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
6. Family-Friendly Attractions
Wizard Quest
Wizard Quest is an interactive fantasy game where participants explore themed rooms and solve puzzles. It’s a fun and immersive experience for families and groups.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Explore the strange and unusual at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum. The museum features oddities, artifacts, and interactive exhibits that are sure to entertain visitors of all ages.
7. Enjoy Live Entertainment
Tommy Bartlett Show
The Tommy Bartlett Show is a famous water ski and stunt show that has been entertaining visitors for decades. The show features acrobatic water skiing, comedy acts, and impressive stunts.
Palace Theater
The Palace Theater hosts a variety of live performances, including musicals, comedy shows, and concerts. Check the schedule to see what’s playing during your visit.
8. Visit Museums and Educational Attractions
H.H. Bennett Studio
Learn about the history of Wisconsin Dells through the lens of H.H. Bennett, a pioneering photographer who captured the area’s natural beauty. The studio features exhibits on Bennett’s work and the history of photography.
Museum of Historic Torture Devices
For a unique and somewhat macabre experience, visit the Museum of Historic Torture Devices. The museum features exhibits on historical torture methods and devices from different eras.
9. Adventure and Sports Activities
Wilderness Resort
The Wilderness Resort offers a variety of activities, including a ropes course, mini-golf, laser tag, and an indoor climbing wall. The resort’s indoor and outdoor water parks are also popular attractions.
Dells Raceway Park
For those who enjoy motorsports, Dells Raceway Park offers exciting stock car races. The park features a 1/3-mile asphalt track and hosts races throughout the summer.
10. Relax and Unwind
Spas and Wellness Centers
After a day of adventure, relax at one of the Dells’ spas or wellness centers. Sundara Inn & Spa and Spa Del Sol are popular choices offering a range of treatments and relaxation options.
Scenic Overlooks
Take in the beautiful scenery of the Wisconsin Dells from one of the many scenic overlooks. Popular spots include the viewpoints along the Riverwalk and at Devil’s Lake State Park.
Conclusion
Wisconsin Dells offers a diverse range of activities and attractions, making it a perfect destination for families, adventure seekers, and those looking to relax. Whether you’re exploring the thrilling water parks, enjoying the natural beauty of state parks, or experiencing the unique attractions downtown, there’s something for everyone in the Wisconsin Dells.