Wisconsin Dells Travel Guide

Wisconsin Dells, often referred to as The Waterpark Capital of the World!® is a premier vacation destination located in south-central Wisconsin. This vibrant city is renowned for its plethora of water parks, offering fun and excitement for families and thrill-seekers alike. Beyond the water attractions, Wisconsin Dells boasts stunning natural landscapes, including scenic river tours showcasing the unique sandstone formations along the Wisconsin River. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of entertainment options, from live shows and amusement parks to dining and shopping in the charming downtown area. With its blend of adventure, natural beauty, and family-friendly activities, Wisconsin Dells promises an unforgettable getaway for all ages.

My family and I have visited 3 summers in a row and have made so many core memories as a family. My  husband has made his own core childhood memories in the Dells with his parents and brother while growing up in Sterling, IL. It is a destination that has been around for decades yet never gets old. We have stayed at multiple resorts and eaten all around town, which is why I can finally create a comprehensive guide for you (with some assistance from my friend CHAT GPT) so you and your family can make the most of your trip to Wisconsin Dells.

Where to stay

When planning a trip to Wisconsin Dells, choosing between the top resorts—Kalahari Resort, Great Wolf Lodge, and Wilderness Resort (Glacier Canyon Lodge), all three of which we have stayed at—can be challenging as each offers a unique experience. I’m breaking it down for you so you can choose what works best for your family.

Kalahari Resort: Kalahari is lively and bustling, catering to both families and larger groups. The African-themed décor adds an exotic flair, making it feel like a destination within a destination.

Accommodations: Kalahari offers a variety of rooms, from standard hotel rooms to large suites and villas that can accommodate bigger families or groups. We stayed in a family suite as well as the off site cabins that sit on Lake Delton (my personal favorite). The rooms are well-maintained, modern, and themed with an African motif.

Waterparks: Kalahari has the largest indoor waterpark in Wisconsin Dells, covering 125,000 square feet. It features a wide array of attractions, including thrilling water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and a children’s play area. There is also an outdoor waterpark open seasonally, adding to the expansive water-based activities. We are personally more of the indoor waterpark family =)

Dining: The resort has multiple dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale dining experiences. Highlights include the Double Cut Steakhouse and the Kalahari Family Buffet. There are also plenty of snack bars and cafes within the waterparks.

Activities: Beyond the waterparks, Kalahari offers a full arcade, mini-golf, laser tag, and an indoor theme park featuring a ropes course, climbing walls, and a bowling alley.

Great Wolf Lodge: The atmosphere at Great Wolf Lodge is distinctly family-oriented, with a strong emphasis on younger children. The lodge-themed décor is cozy and inviting, creating a fun and whimsical environment.

Accommodations: Great Wolf Lodge focuses on family-friendly accommodations, offering themed suites like the KidCabin Suite, which includes a mini log cabin inside the room and seriously the coolest thing ever. My kids feel like they have their own little room! The rooms are comfortable and designed with kids in mind, featuring plenty of space and whimsical themes.

Waterparks: The indoor waterpark at Great Wolf Lodge is slightly smaller than Kalahari but is perfectly suited for younger children. It includes a wave pool, several slides, a lazy river, and a large interactive play area. My 7, 6 and 1 year old love Great Wolf Lodge! There is also a smaller outdoor waterpark area open during the warmer months. Again, not our cup of tea!

Dining: Dining options at Great Wolf Lodge are family-focused, with on-site restaurants like Lodge Wood Fired Grill and Hungry As A Wolf offering kid-friendly menus. I will say that there aren’t many vegetarian options within the resort so this gave us an excuse to go try some of the places off resort! The resort also features a sweets shop and ice cream , which are popular with kids (and me).

Activities: Great Wolf Lodge offers a variety of activities tailored to families with young children, including story time, character appearances, and MagiQuest, an interactive adventure game. Plus they have an arcade and bowling alley.

Wilderness Resort (Glacier Canyon Lodge): The Wilderness Resort offers a balanced mix of excitement and relaxation, making it suitable for both families and groups of friends. The expansive layout and variety of activities cater to a wide range of ages and interests.

Accommodations: Wilderness Resort is HUGE, offering multiple lodging options including standard hotel rooms, condos, and cabins. Glacier Canyon Lodge is part of the Wilderness Resort and offers large, rustic-themed suites that are perfect for families and groups. There are tunnels and walkways connecting all the building, but I will warn you, it’s a lot of walking. The accommodations are spacious and often include kitchens or kitchenettes, making them ideal for longer stays.

Waterparks: Wilderness Resort is home to America’s largest waterpark resort, with four indoor and four outdoor waterparks. The variety of attractions ranges from thrilling slides and a wave pool to a lazy river and dedicated kids’ areas. The indoor waterparks are connected by skywalks, which is convenient during colder months.

Dining: The resort offers a broad selection of dining options, from casual to more upscale. The options include Wild Canyon Café, Field’s at the Wilderness, and various snack bars and eateries within the waterparks. There are also several lounges and bars for adult guests.

Activities: Wilderness Resort is known for its extensive range of activities, including an indoor adventure park with a ropes course, laser tag, mini-golf, and an arcade. There’s seriously so much to do and our favorite that we do every trip is Take Flight! Outdoor activities include zip-lining, go-karts, and golf. The resort also features a spa for those looking to relax (not us moms lol)

The Cliff Note Version

Kalahari Resort is ideal if you’re looking for the biggest waterpark and a lively, diverse range of activities. Its African theme adds a unique touch, and it’s well-suited for families and groups looking for both thrill and relaxation. Great Wolf Lodge is the best choice for families with younger children. Its family-focused activities, kid-friendly accommodations and cozy atmosphere make it perfect for a more laid-back and intimate family vacation. Wilderness Resort (Glacier Canyon Lodge) offers the most extensive array of waterparks and activities, making it ideal for longer stays and larger groups who want a mix of adventure and relaxation in a rustic, spacious setting.

Each of these resorts has something special to offer, so your choice will depend on the specific needs and preferences of your group! We have been the Dells 4 times now and each time we have stayed somewhere different to get a new experience. Hoping to continue adding resorts to this list every summer!

Where to eat

If you know me and my family, food is very important to us. Not only are we foodies, but my parents and mother-in-law have dietary needs and restrictions. We have been lucky enough to try over several restaurants in Wisconsin Dells and I am going to share with you my 5 favorites that I have to revisit during each stay.

Sarento’s at the Wilderness @sarentosatthewilderness is our #1 spot in Wisconsin Dells. It is known for its casual, family-friendly atmosphere and its focus on classic Italian cuisine. Sarento’s offers a cozy, traditional Italian restaurant vibe, making it a warm and inviting place for a meal. The restaurant is very family-friendly, with a welcoming atmosphere for guests of all ages. Whether you’re dining with kids or enjoying a quiet dinner, Sarrento’s provides a setting that accommodates various dining needs.

Sarrento’s specializes in traditional Italian cuisine, offering a wide range of dishes from pizzas and pastas to hearty entrees like Chicken Parmesan and Veal Marsala. Their menu is extensive, catering to both simple and more adventurous Italian tastes. The wood-fired pizzas are a highlight, known for their crispy crusts and fresh, flavorful toppings. You can either choose from a list of specialty pizzas or customize your own with a variety of toppings. The pasta dishes are also popular, with options like Spaghetti with Meatballs, Fettuccine Alfredo, and Lasagna being favorites. The portions are generous, and the sauces are rich and well-seasoned. There are plenty of vegetarian-friendly choices, including vegetarian pizzas, pasta primavera, and a variety of salads. They are accommodating to dietary preferences and can modify dishes to suit vegetarian needs.

Whether you’re in the mood for a delicious pizza, a comforting pasta dish, or simply want to enjoy a cozy meal with loved ones, Sarrento’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria delivers a reliable and enjoyable Italian dining experience in Wisconsin Dells.The restaurant has a cozy, welcoming vibe, making it a great spot for families, couples, and groups of friends.

Lake City Social Grill & Bar @lake_city_social_wi_dells is a new spot in town that we got to try on our last day right before we head out and I am so glad we did. The food was phenomenal. I ordered the ahi tuna appetizer, carnitas nachos and rib tips. All were beyond good!

Lake City Social offers a casual, yet trendy atmosphere with a nautical theme that reflects the lakeside lifestyle of the area. The interior is stylish, with a mix of modern and rustic décor that makes it comfortable for both families and groups of friends. The restaurant is spacious, with both indoor seating and a patio area for outdoor dining during the warmer months.

The menu at Lake City Social focuses on American comfort food with a creative twist. You can expect hearty dishes like burgers, steaks, seafood, and pasta. They also offer a variety of appetizers, salads, and craft beers. Lake City Social is a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family. The relaxed vibe, combined with good food and a pleasant setting, makes it a solid choice for those looking for a laid-back dining experience in Wisconsin Dells.

Hot Rocks - Sear. Sizzle. Savor. @eatonhotrocks was the first restaurant we ever went to in Wisconsin Dells and the concept was and still is so exciting to me. Hot Rocks is a unique dining experience in Wisconsin Dells, known for its volcano grill concept. The restaurant’s theme is inspired by the tropics, with a fun, lively, and somewhat adventurous atmosphere.

The main attraction at Hot Rocks is the “cook your own” concept where diners are given hot volcanic rocks at the table to cook their own meats and seafood. This allows for a personalized dining experience where you can cook your meal to your preferred level of doneness. The menu includes a variety of meats, seafood, and sides, all designed to be cooked on the hot rocks. Popular choices include steak, shrimp, and chicken, accompanied by dipping sauces and sides like fries, vegetables, and

Hot Rocks is a fun and interactive dining option in Wisconsin Dells, offering something a bit different from the usual restaurant experience. It’s especially popular with families and groups looking for a memorable meal.

Bella Goose Coffee @bellagoosecoffee is my go to coffee spot and i never leave without a little merch and lavender syrup to take home. Bella Goose Coffee offers a warm, inviting atmosphere that combines a cozy coffee shop vibe with a modern aesthetic. The space is designed for comfort, with plenty of seating options, including cozy corners for relaxing and more communal tables for socializing or working.

Bella Goose Coffee is well-known for its high-quality coffee, including a variety of espresso-based drinks, pour-overs, and cold brews. The coffee is made from carefully sourced beans, and the baristas are skilled in creating a perfect cup. In addition to coffee, they offer a selection of teas, smoothies, and light bites like pastries, breakfast items, and sandwiches. I had the matcha bowl and it was SO

Bella Goose Coffee is a top choice for coffee lovers in Wisconsin Dells. Whether you’re looking for a quick caffeine fix or a place to relax with a book or some work, it offers a pleasant, welcoming experience with great coffee and snacks. A little tip— if there is a line at the original location, go to the downtown location— it’s got mostly the same options, but less seating and less of a crowd!

WHat to do

This list can honestly go on forever, but here are the Dells activities that you shouldn’t skip.

1. Wisconsin Deer Park

A unique petting zoo where you can walk among and feed a variety of deer, including white-tailed deer, as well as other animals like goats, llamas, and peacocks. It’s a great educational and interactive experience for kids and adults alike. The park offers a close-up encounter with wildlife, providing a memorable experience for the whole family.

2. Tommy Bartlett Exploratory

An interactive science and technology museum featuring over 175 hands-on exhibits. Highlights include a Russian space station MIR core module, a giant lever, and a virtual sports center. It’s educational and fun, offering a perfect indoor activity that engages kids’ curiosity and creativity.

3. Timber Falls Adventure Park

This adventure park offers a variety of attractions, including miniature golf, a roller coaster, and a log flume ride. The miniature golf course is particularly popular, with 72 holes set in a scenic environment. It’s a great way to enjoy some outdoor fun with the family, especially for those who enjoy friendly competition.

4. Rick Wilcox Magic Theater

A family-friendly magic show performed by Rick Wilcox, known for its entertaining blend of comedy, illusion, and magic. The theater offers an intimate setting where every seat has a good view. The show is highly engaging and fun for all ages, making it a fantastic option for an evening out with the family. It was the highlight of this last trip.

5. The Original Wisconsin Ducks

A classic Wisconsin Dells experience, the Duck Tours are amphibious vehicle tours that take you on an adventure through both land and water. The tours explore scenic trails through forests, sandstone cliffs, and splash down into the Wisconsin River and Lake Delton.The Duck Tours are a unique and exciting way to see the natural beauty of the Dells. The tour guides are known for their entertaining and informative narration, making it a fun and memorable experience for the entire family. Kids especially love the thrill of the vehicle transitioning from land to water. The Duck Tours are a must-do for anyone visiting Wisconsin Dells, offering a mix of history, humor, and breathtaking scenery that can’t be missed.

6. Timbavati Wildlife Park

Timbavati Wildlife Park is a family-friendly zoo and wildlife park offering up-close encounters with over 400 animals from around the world. The park features interactive exhibits where you can feed giraffes, pet kangaroos, and even take a safari train ride to see animals like zebras, camels, and ostriches in a more natural setting. Timbavati provides an educational and engaging experience for animal lovers of all ages. The park is designed to be interactive, making it a hit with kids who can enjoy hands-on experiences and learn about wildlife conservation. It’s an ideal outing for families looking to explore wildlife without leaving the Dells area.

7. Take Flight

Take Flight is an immersive flying theater experience located at the Wilderness Resort. This attraction simulates the feeling of flying over some of America’s most stunning landscapes and landmarks (kind of like Soaring Over California at Disney, but better) The experience combines motion seats, wind, mist, and scents to create a fully immersive adventure that makes you feel like you’re soaring through the air. Take Flight offers a thrilling yet family-friendly experience that’s suitable for all ages. It’s a unique way to see breathtaking views without leaving the ground. The combination of visual effects and motion makes it an exciting and memorable activity, especially for those interested in adventure but preferring to stay dry.

I hope this helps you plan a super fun trip to Wisconsin Dells with your family! It’s great in winter too for those indoor water parks! Have a great time and make sure to follow @mamajotes on socials for more family fun!