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Writer's pictureSamantha Buschman

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin Travel Guide

If you live in the state of Wisconsin, I'm sure you are familiar with Wisconsin Dells. Wisconsin Dells is located approximately 2 hours north west of Milwaukee and 1 hour north west of Madison. Known as the "Waterpark Capital of the World," the Dells is home to a variety of waterparks, amusement parks, and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy thrilling water rides, go-karting, mini-golf, zip-lining, and much more. The area also features scenic natural attractions such as the Wisconsin River, which runs through the town and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. If you have not visited The Dells recently, consider a weekend trip - you definitely will not be bored!


SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS


There are several (several) hotels, resorts, cabins, and other places to sleep in Wisconsin Dells. What you decide to book should really depend on the experience you are looking for. Because the weather was still questionable, we did not see a need to book a hotel with outdoor water activities.



We were lucky enough to be provided a stay at Springhill Suites by Marriott. This hotel is very close to all things downtown Dells which made it the perfect location for us. The hotel itself is extremely clean both in the lobby area and the room itself. The room had plenty of space and they serve free breakfast in the morning! It was perfect for the weekend.


THINGS TO DO


Although it has been years, I have visited Wisconsin Dells a handful of times already. I have enjoyed several Wisconsin Dells activities including mini golf, roller coasters, deer park petting zoo, indoor and outdoor water parks, museums, shopping, and more.



This trip was Kailagh's first time in Wisconsin Dells so I wanted to make sure we did some of the *key* tourist-y things. First up on that list was a Wisconsin Dells Original Duck Tour! The Original Wisconsin Ducks offers a one-of-a-kind tour that takes visitors through the stunning natural beauty of the Wisconsin River and the surrounding wilderness. The tour is conducted on specialized amphibious vehicles, known as "ducks," that are capable of navigating both on land and in water. The tour is half on-land and half in-water and covers over 6 miles of scenic landscape, including pristine sandstone formations and majestic trees. Our tour guide, Jenna, was extremely informative and entertaining.



Another fun adventure we were gifted was a museum tour of Ripley's Believe it or Not. Ripley's Believe it or Not is a popular tourist attraction that showcases bizarre and unusual exhibits from around the world. The museum features over 300 interactive exhibits and artifacts that range from shrunken heads to a two-headed calf. We had a great time trying to find all of the hidden passageways throughout the tour. This unique museum is perfect for families, friends, and anyone who loves to explore the strange and unexpected.


FOOD & DRINK


deep fried cheese curds with ranch dressing sandbar in wisconsin dells wisconsin

While in Wisconsin Dells, we obviously had to go on a hunt for some good cheese curds. The first stop we made was at Sandbar, located right in downtown Wisconsin Dells. The Sandbar has been around for more than 60 years and there are over 100 beers on tap! We enjoyed an order of cheese curds and a couple drinks to start off our day.



Next, we visited B-Lux. B-Lux is known for their milkshakes and burgers, but their cheese curds are delicious as well. We ordered a few appetizers to share in addition to our boozy milkshakes. The atmosphere is very fun and inviting and the menu of food to choose from is extensive. They use Ellsworth Creamery cheese in their deep fried curds - you know they're going to be good.



Another spot I know Kailagh NEEDED to visit was Nig's Bar. Taking a "Swig at Nig's" is an ICONIC move in Wisconsin Dells. Kailagh loves dive bars (much like myself), so I knew that she would enjoy this stop. We took in all of the fun decorations, played a few slot machines, and enjoyed our Swig with tourists and locals alike.



In my opinion, there is only one spot for breakfast in Wisconsin Dells and that is at Paul Bunyan's Cook Shanty. Paul Bunyan's is a classic restaurant that has been serving up hearty meals for over 60 years. The restaurant features rustic, woodsy decorations, complete with a towering 25-foot tall statue of Paul Bunyan himself. Currently, they are only serving breakfast, but that's the best meal of the day. Food is served all-you-can-eat family style brought right to your table. Paul Bunyan's is a beloved institution in Wisconsin Dells and a must-visit for anyone looking for a good meal in a fun and unique atmosphere.

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