For many families across America, Wisconsin Dells is a destination where family-fun, excitement and endless entertainment can be found year after year. Visitors with a passion for amusement parks, beautiful scenery and opportunities to mix and mingle with other travelers take time to mark this trip on the calendar well in advance of a trip to southern Wisconsin. Wisconsin Dells encompasses both the Wisconsin River and Mirror Lake State Park making it a place that can boast of natural beauty right alongside man-made wonders. While for many travelers it would take well over a week to make the most of time in Wisconsin Dells it’s very possible to hit the highlights when you’re on a tight schedule. If you happen to have three days to enjoy here, maximize the experience by adding these excursions and adventures to your timely itinerary.
Day 1: Waterparks
Whether you prefer indoor waterparks or combined outdoor amusement and waterpark experiences, Wisconsin Dells truly has a little something for every fun seeker that comes to town. Make day one all about the water in order to get a taste of the excitement that draws visitors in from near and far. The Mt. Olympus Water and Theme Park is a must-stop destination when you’re here. Save travel time by ending up at a park that combines the best of the water world fun and amusement park rides. Located at 1881 Wisconsin Dells Parkway, Mt. Olympus provides guests with over 27,000 square feet of swimming space, 30 water slides, a lazy river, and 4 islands. Once you’ve taken a dip in one of the many pools, head over to the wooden roller coaster for an upside-down adventure in fun. You’ll be participating in a little piece of history as you loop around upside-down knowing this was the very first wooden roller coaster of its kind on record. The amusement park also includes go-karts, arcades and of course, plenty of rides for little ones as well making this the ideal destination for visitors of all ages.
Day 2: Scenic Tours
Wisconsin Dells sits on a lush landscape that’s made to be enjoyed. While waterparks are fun, missing out on a few of the area’s scenic tours would be missing out on the heart of the natural world that defines this city. Book a spot on a Dells Boat Tour for a wonderful way to experience the Wisconsin River over the course of 2-hours. Guests are invited to sit on the upper deck of their tour boat that provides unsurpassed views of the dynamic landscape that has long-captivated the minds and imaginations of visitors. Dells Boat Tours can be customized to visitor preference with options to book speed boat tours when you’re craving an adrenaline rush, or duck boat tours when you’re looking for some interesting contrast between touring the land and waterways. Those looking to enjoy Wisconsin Dells through a more romantic lens will appreciate the option to book a sunset river tour with dinner and live music included.
Day 3: Museums
While Wisconsin Dells is highly regarded for its sense of fun and beautiful scenery, it’s also a destination packed with rich history, making it a wonderful place for those with a passion for perusing the past. Much of this history is meticulously maintained in the city’s many museums which should definitely be on the to-do list when you’re here. One of the most entertaining museum stops is Circus World in Baraboo. Home to the world-renowned Ringling Brothers Circus from 1884 until 1918, this area is now preserved as a National Landmark Site and treats guests to a comprehensive experience of the great American circus. Come and browse authentic circus wagons alongside a knowledgable guide before enjoying a big top show complete with elephant rides! A vintage carousel stands on-site for guests to take a trip around in 19th-century style. It’s a fun and educational way to take part in a historical and cultural tradition that fascinated crowds long ago and continues to do so today.
For a museum stop that takes you a bit outside of Wisconsin Dells, carve out some time for a visit to Mid-Continent Railway Museum in North Freedom. Between May and October guests are invited to stop by and enjoy the many displays and exhibits that highlight the golden age of railroads that flourished from the late 1800s through 1916. Once you’ve browed, hop onboard a historic train car for a 50-minute ride that provides some beautiful views and an authentic trail culture experience.
Making the Most of Wisconsin Dells
While three days is sure to fly by, making sure to incorporate waterparks, scenic tours and museum stops is a sure way to maximize your time in this beautiful city. With so much to see and do, the long list of unseen landmarks is sure to keep you planning your next visit long before you leave.