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Whether you’re a thrill seeker or simply looking for a new destination for your next family getaway, you can never go wrong with hitting a water park. And perhaps no place captures the spirit of summer like Wisconsin Dells. Tucked along the Wisconsin River, this city is known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World!®”—and for good reason. Even though it’s only twenty square miles, it’s home to over two hundred waterslides and welcomes over five million visitors annually. But this summer playground is far more than just a place to slip and slide, as the nickname suggests. Equal parts natural wonder, family-friendly fun, and small-town charm, this Midwest gem is a destination that delivers excitement at every turn.
Dive into the fun
When it comes to summer fun by the pool, the choices in the Dells are truly unmatched. Take Noah’s Ark Waterpark, for instance. It’s the largest in the country and features over seventy acres of attractions, including more than fifty slides, two giant wave pools, and kid-friendly areas designed to keep families entertained all day long. Its signature rides, like the Scorpion’s Tail, Black Anaconda, and Raja (the world’s largest king cobra slide), are guaranteed to thrill even the boldest adventurers.
Then you have places like the Kalahari Resorts & Conventions and the Wilderness Resorts, which push the experience even further. Both offer indoor and outdoor water parks, so the fun continues no matter the weather. Between lazy rivers, surf simulators, hot tubs, and sprawling play zones, there’s no shortage of offerings for visitors both young and old. And because these resorts also feature additional amenities like arcades, spas, and on-site dining, they’re destinations in themselves—perfect for those who want convenience paired with endless activity. Whether you’re racing down slides or lounging poolside, the water park scene here truly defines summer in the Midwest.
Cruise the Wisconsin River
Beyond the chlorinated activities, Wisconsin Dells is known for its natural beauty, particularly the dramatic sandstone cliffs carved thousands of years ago by glacial meltwater. Today, boat tours are the best way to experience the grand formations up close, while scenic sunset cruises take visitors along quiet stretches of the Wisconsin River, gliding past towering cliffs like Stand Rock and Witches Gulch. These spots are steeped in history. Stand Rock, for instance, became iconic after Henry Hamilton Bennett captured his son taking a daring leap across its gap in the 1800s, an image that helped put the Dells on the map as a tourist destination.
For those craving more adrenaline, jet boat rides add speed, spins, and plenty of splashes to the journey. Or attempt a more daring event and book a Ghost Boat excursion, which is touted as the Dells’ “scariest and most intense attraction.” Embark on an after-dark water ride before stepping into the long-abandoned Cold Water Canyon. Newly installed sounds, lights, and storytelling make this an immersive experience that’s guaranteed to get your heart racing.
Adventure on land
While water is a major draw, Wisconsin Dells’ surrounding landscapes invite plenty of exploration on dry ground. Just a short drive away is Devil’s Lake State Park, one of the state’s most beloved outdoor escapes. Its rugged quartzite bluffs rise nearly 500 feet above a 360-acre lake, making the hiking trails here some of the most scenic in the Midwest. Visitors can also relax on sandy beaches, picnic beneath oaks and pines, and more.
Back in the Dells, you can trade in your hiking boots for many different kinds of adventures. Timbavati Wildlife Park gives you the chance to encounter giraffes, kangaroos, and other exotic animals, while attractions like Tom Foolerys Adventure Park and BigFoot Zipline let your inner child escape. There’s a seemingly endless supply of other offerings, including mini golf, go-kart tracks, and outdoor amusement parks, scattered throughout the area, ensuring that there’s always something to do when the sun is shining.
And after a day packed with activity, downtown Wisconsin Dells offers a more leisurely pace. The streets are lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions that capture the quirky, family-friendly spirit of the town. As you walk the area, snack on homemade fudge and browse souvenir shops before stepping into an escape room or taking a family picture at Capone’s Original Old Time Picture Studio. There are numerous entertainment options as well, from the sleight-of-hand brilliance at the Rick Wilcox Magic Theater to the interactive science exhibits at the Tommy Bartlett Exploratory, a must-see that has delighted visitors for decades.
Indulge in delicious cuisine
No trip to the Dells is complete without indulging in its culinary staples. This is Wisconsin, after all, so expect cheese curds on menus across the city. Pair them with a crisp craft beer from a local brewery, and you’ve got a true taste of the region. For a quintessential Midwestern experience, book a table at one of the area’s supper clubs, including Ishanala and House of Embers. Picture eating prime rib and drinking the state’s signature cocktail, a brandy old-fashioned, in a setting that feels equal parts nostalgic and inviting.
For more casual dining experiences, diners, taverns, and food stands scattered across town serve everything from burgers to fried fish to pizza and so much more, ensuring that there’s no shortage of hearty options for hungry travelers. Many of the resorts also feature on-site restaurants, making them the perfect choice for families who don’t want to stray too far after a full day of activity. But if you’re up for venturing into the city, you’ll have the opportunity to sample both local favorites and hidden gems.
At its heart, Wisconsin Dells is a place of contrasts that’s equal parts kitschy and breathtaking and adrenaline-fueled and laid-back. One day you might be racing down a waterslide, the next quietly watching the sunset paint the river cliffs in golden hues. That balance of modern thrills and timeless beauty is what has kept people returning year after year.
For more info, visit wisdells.com
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