Ready for water parks, natural beauty, and nonstop family fun? Head to Wisconsin Dells! Known as the "Waterpark Capital of the World," this Wisconsin hotspot blends thrilling attractions with scenic river bluffs, boat tours, and quirky roadside fun. It's a year-round destination for all ages.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Wisconsin Dells is in the summer (June–August) for full access to outdoor waterparks, river tours, and festivals. Spring and fall offer smaller crowds and pleasant weather, while winter is great for indoor waterparks and snow tubing.
How to Get There
- By Car: Wisconsin Dells is located off I-90/I-94, about 1 hour from Madison, 2 hours from Milwaukee, and 3 hours from Chicago.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Empire Builder line stops at Wisconsin Dells daily, connecting from cities like Milwaukee, Chicago, and Minneapolis.
- By Plane: The closest airport is Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) in Madison, about an hour’s drive away.
Where to Stay
- Kalahari Resorts & Conventions – Massive indoor/outdoor waterpark resort with luxury accommodations and family suites.
- Wilderness Resort – One of the largest waterpark resorts in the U.S., with multiple indoor and outdoor parks and lodging options.
- Black Hawk Motel & Suites – Budget-friendly, retro motel with indoor pool and family-friendly amenities near downtown Dells.
Top Attractions
- Noah’s Ark Waterpark – America’s largest outdoor waterpark with thrill rides, lazy rivers, and kid zones.
- Original Wisconsin Ducks – Classic amphibious vehicle tour that cruises both land and river through scenic Dells rock formations.
- Rick Wilcox Magic Theater – Award-winning live magic and comedy show for the whole family.
- Wisconsin Deer Park – Pet and feed gentle deer and other animals at this family-friendly nature park.
- Downtown Dells – Walkable area with arcades, fudge shops, souvenir stores, and fun themed attractions.
Unique Attractions
⮕ Unwind in Rustic Luxury at Wilderness Resort
Enjoy exciting water attractions or savor affordable family fun in comfortable accommodations.
© Wilderness Resort
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What is Wilderness Resort?
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Wilderness Resort
in Wisconsin Dells is America’s largest waterpark resort,
reserved exclusively for its guests.
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The resort consists of Wilderness Hotel,
Wilderness on the Lake, and Glacier Canyon Lodge.
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What water attractions are available at Wilderness Resort?
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The resort features four indoor waterparks and four outdoor pools,
offering fun for all ages.
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It is home to the largest wave pool in the United States, spanning
13,000 square feet, providing ample space for all visitors.
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What activities are available for toddlers?
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Small children can enjoy small slides and erupting geysers
both indoors and outdoors.
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There are plenty of lounge chairs nearby for parental supervision.
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What options are available for sports enthusiasts?
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Sports-minded guests can head to the indoor pool with basketball nets.
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There are also outdoor pools specifically designed for
basketball and volleyball.
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What thrill rides and relaxation options does the resort offer?
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Thrill seekers can try out exhilarating drop slides.
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Guests looking for relaxation can enjoy:
- A swim-up bar
- Multiple lazy river rides
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An indoor/outdoor hot tub with lovely views of Lake Delton
511 E. Adams Street, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, Phone: 800-867-9453
⮕ Explore Stunning Subterranean Beauty at Cave of the Mounds
Discover unusual underground sights, or explore exciting cave formations nearby.
© Courtesy of fovivafoto - Fotolia.com
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What is the Cave of the Mounds?
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Cave of the Mounds
is a stunning natural limestone cave located near
Wisconsin Dells in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin.
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It was discovered in 1939 by quarry workers and
opened as a tourist attraction in 1940.
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What makes the Cave of the Mounds special?
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The cave features breathtaking mineral formations called
speleothems, which form from mineral deposits on the limestone.
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How can visitors explore the cave?
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Visitors can explore the cave on a guided tour led by
knowledgeable guides.
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Guides explain the cave's features, including:
- Stalagmites
- Stalactites
- Columns and other unique rock formations
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Before the tour, visitors watch an educational video about the cave.
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What additional attractions are available at Cave of the Mounds?
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The site includes a fine gift shop selling rocks and crystals.
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The surrounding park features:
- Walking trails
- Picnic areas
- A rock garden
2975 Cave of the Mounds Road, Blue Mounds, WI 53517, Phone: 608-437-3038
⮕ Ski or Golf Year-Round at Christmas Mountain Village
Experience romantic winter retreats or enjoy affordable skiing and relaxation.
© Christmas Mountain Village
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What is Christmas Mountain Village?
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Christmas Mountain Village
is Wisconsin Dells' premier golf and ski resort.
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The resort offers year-round activities, including golf, skiing, and snow sports.
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What activities are available at Christmas Mountain Village?
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In the warmer months, visitors can enjoy a 27-hole championship golf course.
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In the winter, the resort offers:
- Downhill and cross-country skiing
- Snow tubing
- Snowshoeing
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Novice skiers can take advantage of ski lessons and bunny hills designed for beginners.
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What types of accommodations are available?
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The resort offers a variety of accommodations, including:
- Log cabins
- Villas
- Cottages
- Townhomes
- Campground for outdoor enthusiasts
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What amenities does the resort provide?
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Guests have access to both indoor and outdoor pools.
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Hot tubs are available for relaxation after a chilly day on the slopes.
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A sports bar is located at the top of the hill, offering views of the
golf course and ski slopes.
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Does Christmas Mountain Village host special events?
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Yes, the resort hosts meetings, conferences, and weddings.
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The beautiful backdrop makes it an ideal venue for special events.
S944 Christmas Mountain Road, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, Phone: 608-678-3220
Attractions for Couples
⮕ Cruise the Scenic Waterways on a Dells Boat Tour
Explore exciting river scenery or discover unusual rock formations from easy boat rides.
© Dells Boat Tours
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What is the history of boat tours in Wisconsin Dells?
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Boat tours have been a popular activity in
Wisconsin Dells since the 1850s.
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Early visitors boarded rowboats to explore the
glacier-formed 5-mile gorge and its sandstone formations.
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The rock formations date back to the Cambrian era, approximately
500 million years ago.
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What boat tours are available in Wisconsin Dells?
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Dells Boat Tours
are available for both the upper and lower gorge of the
Wisconsin River.
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The two sections are separated by a dam.
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What makes the upper gorge tour special?
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The upper gorge tour is the more spectacular option.
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It features towering cliffs topped by pine trees and
notable sandstone formations.
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There are two stops on the tour:
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Exploring a cavern known as Witches Gulch.
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Watching a trained dog leap across a gully in the cliff face.
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Are there any special boat tours available?
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Yes, sunset dinner cruises are also offered.
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These cruises include:
- Dinner
- Music
- Spectacular views
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A torch-lit stroll through
Witches Gulch
107 Broadway, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, Phone: 608-254-8555
⮕ Pan for Sparkling Treasures at Dells Mining Co.
Take kids mining for affordable gems, and enjoy exciting family-friendly activities.
© Dells Mining Co.
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What is Dells Mining Co.?
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Dells Mining Co.
is a hands-on adventure activity where visitors can
pan for precious and semi-precious gems from around the world.
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How does the gem panning experience work?
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Visitors purchase a bucket of sand that originates from
Franklin, North Carolina, known as the gem capital of the U.S..
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They then sift through the sand to uncover various
precious and semi-precious stones.
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What types of gems can be found?
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Visitors may discover gems such as:
- Emeralds
- Sapphires
- Amethysts
- Blue topaz
- Garnets
- Tourmaline
- Agate
- Rubies
- And many more!
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Are there guides available to assist with gem panning?
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Friendly assistants are available to help visitors
search for gems and ensure that nothing gets missed.
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They also explain the different gems and their characteristics.
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Can visitors turn their mined gems into jewelry?
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Yes! Visitors have the option of setting their freshly mined gems
in 14 karat gold or sterling silver jewelry.
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Is there a gift shop at Dells Mining Co.?
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Yes, visitors can browse the gift shop for unique souvenirs and jewelry.
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What are the locations and operating seasons of Dells Mining Co.?
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Two locations are available:
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The Broadway store is open all year round.
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The Wisconsin Dells Parkway location operates from
mid-May until mid-September.
1480 Wisconsin Dells Parkway, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, Phone: 608-253-7002
427 Broadway, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, Phone: 608-253-7002
⮕ Make a Splash with Kayaks, Jet Skis & More at Dells Watersports
Go explore exciting lakes or savor quick adventures with easy rentals.
© Courtesy of corepics - Fotolia.com
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What is Dells Watersports?
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What types of watercraft can visitors rent?
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Visitors can rent a variety of watercraft, including:
- Jet skis
- Ski boats
- Pontoon boats
- Canoes
- Single and double kayaks
- Paddleboards
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Which lakes does Dells Watersports serve?
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The company provides rentals for:
- Lake Delton
- Mirror Lake
- Castle Rock Lake
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Does Dells Watersports offer tours?
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Yes, in addition to rentals, guided tours are available.
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What types of tours are available?
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Visitors can charter a 27-foot pontoon boat, which is
perfect for parties, weddings, and company outings.
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Guided sunrise kayak trips are led by knowledgeable guides who
point out local wildlife and explain the history of the area.
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Early morning paddleboard trips incorporate both
yoga and stretching.
Dells Watersports, 255 South Wisconsin Dells Parkway, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, Phone: 608-254-8702
⮕ Step Into Photography History at H.H. Bennett Studio
Discover unusual photographic history and explore affordable exhibits downtown.
© Courtesy of Aleksandr - Fotolia.com
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What is the H.H. Bennett Studio?
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The
H.H. Bennett Studio
is the oldest business in Wisconsin Dells and the
oldest photographic studio in the United States.
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It was established in 1865 by H.H. Bennett,
a renowned Canadian-born photographer and innovator.
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What are H.H. Bennett’s contributions to photography?
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H.H. Bennett is credited with developing stop-action photography.
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He also invented an ingenious revolving solar darkroom,
which is now housed at the Smithsonian Institution.
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What can visitors see at the H.H. Bennett Studio?
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Visitors can tour Bennett’s old photography lab, which still
contains his original cameras and darkroom equipment.
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The site also features a photography museum with
interesting displays about Bennett's work.
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How did H.H. Bennett impact the tourism industry?
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Bennett’s photographs of Wisconsin Dells were instrumental
in attracting visitors from across the United States and
even from around the world.
215 Broadway, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, Phone: 608-253-3523
Recommended Activities for Families
⮕ Dive Into Fun at the Massive Kalahari Waterparks
Enjoy exciting slides, or explore affordable family attractions all weekend.
© Courtesy of valiza14 - Fotolia.com
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What is Kalahari Waterparks?
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Kalahari Waterparks
is part of the Kalahari Resort & Convention Center.
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It includes both indoor and outdoor waterparks as well as an
indoor theme park.
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What is the Zambezi Outdoor Waterpark?
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The outdoor waterpark is called Zambezi.
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It is open from Memorial Day until Labor Day.
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Attractions include:
- Exciting slides
- Lazy river
- Hot tub
- Swimming pools
- Children’s waterplay area
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What does the indoor waterpark offer?
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The indoor waterpark is open year-round.
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Features include:
- FlowRider for surfing and bodyboarding
- Multiple slides
- Family hot tub
- Swim-up bar
- Lazy river
- Children’s play area
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What attractions are in the indoor theme park?
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The indoor theme park features:
- African-themed carousel
- 6-story Ferris wheel
- Bumper cars
- Mini-golf
- 24-lane bowling alley
- Golf simulator
- Countless arcade games
1305 Kalahari Drive, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, Phone: 608-254-5466
⮕ Ride Through Hidden Wonders with Lost Canyon Tours
Admire unusual canyon scenery or enjoy quick, easy horse-drawn wagon adventures.
© Courtesy of watcherfox - Fotolia.com
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What is Lost Canyon?
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Lost Canyon is the longest and deepest canyon in Wisconsin.
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Since 1956, this family-owned and operated business has been
offering horse-drawn carriage tours through the canyon.
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What is the Lost Canyon Tour?
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The
Lost Canyon Tour
is a half-hour guided experience.
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Visitors ride in a 15-seat carriage drawn by majestic
Percheron horses.
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What will visitors see on the tour?
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The tour starts at the south shore of Lake Delton and winds through the canyon.
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Guests will see:
- Cliff-walled gorges
- Beautiful rock formations
- Stunning natural scenery
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What do the guides talk about?
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Friendly and informative guides provide insights into:
- The history of Lost Canyon
- The geology of the canyon
- The Wisconsin Dells area
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When do Lost Canyon Tours operate?
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Tours run from mid-April through October.
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Is there a gift shop?
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Yes, a small gift shop is located at the tour’s starting point.
720 Canyon Road, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, Phone: 608-254-8757
⮕ If You Want Nonstop Thrills, Then Head to Mount Olympus Park
Experience exciting rides, or discover affordable family thrills at this unusual attraction.
© Astarot/stock.adobe.com
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What is Mount Olympus Park?
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Mount Olympus Park
is America’s largest theme park and water park resort.
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It is a Greek-themed resort offering a variety of
rides, attractions, and water activities.
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How is Mount Olympus Park structured?
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The park is divided into four separate sections, each offering
different thrills and excitement.
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What activities are available for children?
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Younger children will enjoy rides such as the
Kiddies’ Train.
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Older kids and thrill-seekers can experience exciting attractions
like the Turbo Go-Kart Track.
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Is there something for the whole family?
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Yes, the park features rides and activities suited for
all ages and thrill levels.
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What does the water park offer?
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The water park provides water fun for everyone,
from relaxing experiences to thrilling water slides.
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How much time is needed to explore Mount Olympus Park?
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With so much to see and do, visitors are recommended to spend
more than one day to fully experience the park.
Mount Olympus Park, 655 N. Frontage Road, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965,
800 800 4997
Where to Eat
- Ishnala Supper Club – Iconic lakefront dining in the woods with classic supper club fare and stunning views.
- MACS - Macaroni and Cheese Shop – Creative and cheesy comfort food served fast and fresh—great for families.
- High Rock Café – Eclectic menu featuring fresh, modern American cuisine and great downtown views.
Local Events
- Automotion Classic Car Show (May) – Thousands of classic cars, live entertainment, and family fun at this popular spring event.
- Wo-Zha-Wa Days Fall Festival (September) – City-wide celebration with an arts and crafts fair, carnival rides, and a big parade.
- Holiday Train Stop (December) – Canadian Pacific holiday train with lights, live music, and community cheer.
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Wisconsin Dells
- Baraboo (20 min) – Visit the Circus World Museum, explore Devil’s Lake State Park, or stroll Baraboo’s historic square.
- Mirror Lake State Park (10–15 min) – Paddle calm waters, hike scenic trails, and enjoy peaceful forest views.
- Lake Delton (10 min) – Enjoy more waterpark fun, lake activities, and waterfront dining.
- International Crane Foundation (20 min) – Learn about and see all 15 crane species in one serene conservation center.
- New Lisbon (30 min) – Quiet countryside town with antique shops and a relaxed small-town feel.
FAQ
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Where is Wisconsin Dells located?
- Wisconsin Dells is a city in southern Wisconsin that has been a popular Midwestern tourist destination since the 1850s.
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What attractions can visitors find in Wisconsin Dells?
- The city and its surrounding area have many great resorts, golf courses, and other fun activities.
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What activities can visitors enjoy in Wisconsin Dells?
- Some of the best things to do include visiting museums, waterparks, and lakes, as well as enjoying mini-golf, horseback riding, and zip-lining.
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What are the best things to do in Wisconsin Dells?
- Here are the best things to do on your trip.
At a Glance
Best Time to Visit |
Places to Stay |
Tips for Visiting |
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and blooming landscapes. |
Black Hawk Motel & Suites – Affordable and family-friendly with indoor and outdoor pools. |
Explore Mirror Lake State Park – Hike scenic trails and enjoy peaceful lake views. |
Summer (June-August) – Peak season, warm weather, and ideal for waterparks. |
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions – A top-rated resort with one of the largest indoor waterparks. |
Visit Noah’s Ark Waterpark – America’s largest waterpark with thrilling slides and wave pools. |
Fall (September-November) – Cool temperatures, beautiful foliage, and fewer crowds. |
Great Wolf Lodge – Family-friendly accommodations with an indoor waterpark. |
Take a scenic boat tour on the Wisconsin River – Experience the stunning rock formations and fall colors. |
Winter (December-February) – Cold weather, festive activities, and indoor attractions. |
Wilderness Resort – A massive indoor and outdoor waterpark resort. |
Enjoy indoor waterparks and spas – Escape the cold with year-round swimming and relaxation. |
Map:
Plan Your Trip