The southern city of Wisconsin Dells lies in the Wisconsin River region, where you can see glacier-carved sandstone formations.
Founded in 1857, Wisconsin Dells was initially known as Kilbourn City. Before its establishment as Wisconsin Dells, the region was primarily known as a lumbering area. Together with Lake Delton, a nearby village, the city forms what is now known as “The Dells,” a popular tourist destination in the Midwest.
Because of the area’s scenery, vacation properties slowly began to pop up. Not long after, many more tourist attractions and activities were introduced to visitors. This picturesque destination is the perfect escape for travelers who are looking to get away from the city.
Where To Stay
The city is home to numerous hotels, condo timeshares, waterfront lodgings, resorts, and campgrounds.
Aside from those options, we suggest trying out vacation rentals. Not only will you be supporting local entrepreneurs, but you also get to enjoy accommodations that fit your specific needs—often at less the cost of a big chain hotel.
What To Do
Wisconsin Dells is home to lots of enjoyable outdoor activities. Some cater to tourists who love nature-filled experiences, while some are perfect for thrill-seeking individuals. Come with family or friends and enjoy some of these fun activities. Many of which are situated close to outstanding accommodations in the area.
Canyon Creek Riding Stable
Ride through the trails and enjoy the beauty of nature that surrounds you. There’s a petting zoo for children and an old western saloon for adults to enjoy a few drinks in. If horseback riding isn’t your thing, there are walking trails to enjoy as well.
Beaver Springs Fishing Park
Aside from fishing, visitors of the park can also go on a horseback ride and learn about taxidermy. Guests don’t need to bring poles as the park offers rentals for people who are interested in trying their hand at fishing.
Dells Lumberjack Show
Guests who visit from May to September will enjoy the array of offers that come with the Lumberjack Show. Watch as world-class competitors duel it out and showcase their swinging, chopping, log rolling, ax throwing, and speed climbing skills.
Cave Of The Mounds
Our love of the outdoors has brought us to appreciate the many unique formations tourists can see in the Cave of the Mounds. Known colloquially as the “Jewel Box of Wisconsin,” visitors can check out this attraction all year round. Marvel at stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations through a self-guided tour. Millions of years of acidic waters have contributed to the cave formations.
Besides enjoying the trails, visitors can have picnics at designated areas, admire rock gardens, and learn about fossil mining. While self-guided tours are available, we always recommend taking tours from certified guides.
Bigfoot Zipline Tours
We love thrilling outdoor activities. Bigfoot Zipline Tours in Wisconsin tops our list. Strap into a harness and soar amongst the trees.
Adventure seekers can zip at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour through the treetops and over the lake. Bigfoot Zipline Tours offers several platforms of differing heights so that every zipline experience is a new one.
Jet Boat Adventures
Get the feel of a 1200 horsepower engine when you ride one of these 58 passenger jet boats. Speed enthusiasts will find the tours to be ultra-exciting.
Pro tip: sit on the upper deck and feel the winds as you and your friends take a 50-minute tour of the breathtaking Wisconsin River.
Where To Eat
When we find ourselves famished from a day of exciting activities, we head over to one of our favorite restaurants located near the many vacation rentals in the area. Here are a few places we suggest you try out with your family.
High Rock Cafe
Rated as one of TripAdvisor’s best restaurants, the High Rock Cafe specializes in modern American cuisine. Situated in the heart of downtown Wisconsin Dells, this dining establishment is perfect for casual meals. Friends and family will love house specials like steaks, crab cakes, wraps, salads, pasta, and much more.
Buffalo Phil’s
A family favorite, Buffalo Phil’s miniature train system delivers food right to customer tables. Kids and adults alike enjoy the newly added Lego Brick City custom display.
Great for large gatherings, Buffalo Phil’s can easily seat over 500 customers in this multi-level establishment. They serve terrific burgers, pizza, rotisserie chicken, and seafood dishes. This local eatery is located right smack in the center of some of the most interesting vacation rentals in Wisconsin Dells.
Del-Bar
Another casual dining spot, Del-Bar prepares and serves the best prime aged steaks. Loads of diners cannot say enough about the seafood, sandwiches, bowls, and there’s also a kids menu.
Paul Bunyan’s Cook Shanty
A family-owned and operated restaurant since 1958. Enjoy an all-you-can-eat breakfast, Lumberjack style! Or try out their incredibly famous buttermilk donuts after a family-style all-you-can-eat dinner. Paul Bunyan’s Cook Shanty can be found within walking distance of vacation properties.
So, if you’re planning your next holiday with your family, Wisconsin Dells is a midwestern destination you should be considering. Make sure to book an Airbnb before the crowds beat you to it.
