Wisconsin Dells: Where Family Fun Meets Natural Wonders

Trying to list the best things to do in Wisconsin Dells feels like attempting to solve a puzzle with too many perfect pieces. This water park capital of the world packs more family fun per square mile than most destinations I’ve visited, and that’s before you even count the natural wonders that made it famous in the first place. From winding river tours through ancient sandstone cliffs to indoor water parks that make you forget it’s winter outside, the Dells has a way of making everyone feel like a kid again.

Over the years, I’ve watched this small Wisconsin town evolve from a simple summer getaway into a year-round playground that somehow keeps its small-town charm intact. Whether you’re racing down water slides, exploring ice-covered caves in winter, or just strolling down the Broadway strip, there’s a distinct magic here that’s hard to put into words.

So I’ve put together this list of 18 must-do activities in Wisconsin Dells – covering everything from the classic boat tours to hidden gems that even some locals might have missed. Consider this your friendly guide to making the most of your time in America’s favorite water park wonderland.

Noah’s Ark Waterpark

When friends ask me about Wisconsin Dells’ best attractions, I always point them to Noah’s Ark Waterpark. Spread across 70 acres in the heart of the Dells, this massive water park is America’s largest, featuring over 50 water slides, two giant wave pools, and multiple lazy rivers. From the steep drops of Scorpion’s Tail to the gentle splash zones for little ones, there’s a water adventure for every comfort level here.

Wisconsin Deer Park

If you’re looking for a unique wildlife experience in Wisconsin Dells, head to Wisconsin Deer Park. Located just off the main strip, this family-friendly park lets you get up close with gentle deer and other animals like goats, llamas, and elk. You can feed the animals right from your hand and walk along the winding paths as dozens of deer roam freely around you.

Original Wisconsin Ducks

If you want to experience Wisconsin Dells from a different angle, hop aboard the Original Wisconsin Ducks. These unique amphibious vehicles, originally used in World War II, take you on an exciting land-and-water adventure through the scenic Wisconsin River and surrounding wilderness. The 8.5-mile journey includes tight canyon passages, winding forest trails, and splashdown entries into the water that never fail to get passengers cheering.

Kalahari Indoor Theme Park

Families visiting Wisconsin Dells often head straight to Kalahari Indoor Theme Park, a massive entertainment complex that brings the excitement of an amusement park indoors. The 125,000-square-foot facility houses everything from thrilling roller coasters and a ropes course to a six-story Ferris wheel and classic carnival games. While many come for the rides, the park also features bowling lanes, mini-golf, and a huge arcade with both modern and retro games. Even on cold Wisconsin winter days or rainy summer afternoons, kids and adults alike can spend hours exploring the various attractions, making it a reliable year-round destination for indoor entertainment.

Mirror Lake State Park

Just 15 minutes from downtown Wisconsin Dells lies Mirror Lake State Park, a peaceful escape from the water parks and tourist attractions. Unlike the bustling atmosphere of the main strip, this 2,200-acre park offers a different side of the Dells experience. The park gets its name from the crystal-clear lake at its center, where the surrounding sandstone bluffs create perfect reflections on the water’s surface. Whether you’re paddling a kayak or hiking the shoreline trails, you’ll find locals and visitors alike seeking out this natural haven. Because of the lake’s no-wake rule, it’s become a favorite spot for families looking to swim, fish, or simply enjoy a quiet afternoon away from the crowds that define the rest of the Dells.

Wilderness Resort

Looking to make a splash in Wisconsin Dells? The Wilderness Resort is America’s largest water park resort, sprawling across 600 acres of family fun in the heart of the waterpark capital of the world. With four indoor and four outdoor water parks, you can float down lazy rivers and zoom down waterslides whether it’s snowing or sunny outside. Beyond the water attractions, you’ll find zip lines soaring through the trees, indoor go-kart tracks, and a massive arcade that keeps kids (and kids at heart) entertained for hours. The resort’s cozy lodges and spacious condos make it easy to turn your water park adventure into an extended family getaway, complete with on-site restaurants serving up comfort food when you need to refuel between rides.

Tommy Bartlett Exploratory

Ever wanted to walk on the moon or defy gravity? At Tommy Bartlett Exploratory in Wisconsin Dells, you can do just that through hands-on science experiments and mind-bending exhibits. This interactive science center, tucked away in the heart of the Dells, lets visitors of all ages play with over 175 activities that bring scientific principles to life. You can test your balance on the high-wire unicycle (safely suspended just feet off the ground), experience what it’s like to be weightless in space, or create giant bubbles that engulf your entire body. It’s especially fun on rainy days when the waterparks aren’t an option, and the indoor exhibits mean you can explore year-round.

Outlets at The Dells

Bargain hunters come to Outlets at The Dells for its collection of name-brand stores offering significant discounts, but this shopping destination can also be considered a family-friendly entertainment spot. The outdoor mall features over 50 stores – including Nike, Coach, and Under Armour – that provide shoppers with deals up to 65% off retail prices. While most visitors come for the shopping deals, the clean, landscaped walkways and seasonal events make it an enjoyable place to spend an afternoon, even if you’re just window shopping or grabbing a bite at one of the casual eateries.

Upper Dells Boat Tours

If you’ve never experienced Wisconsin Dells from the water, the Upper Dells Boat Tours are a must-do activity. Winding through towering sandstone cliffs along the Wisconsin River, these two-hour tours take you past unique rock formations, hidden gorges, and mysterious Stand Rock – where you might catch the famous dog leap demonstration that’s been a tradition since the 1800s.