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Beyond the Waterslides: Wisconsin Dells Has It All

Taking off from the platform at Bigfoot Zipline in Wisconsin Dells

April 1, 1999

Not into Waterparks? There's More to Do in Wisconsin Dells

Are you planning a trip to Wisconsin Dells, but waterparks aren’t your thing? No problem! Wisconsin Dells offers a variety of experiences including dry indoor and outdoor fun, making it the ideal vacation spot for all types of travelers. Let’s dive into the top things to do in Wisconsin Dells beyond waterparks.

Girl on a climbing adventure with Vertical Illusions

Outdoor Adventures

Bigfoot Zipline Tours and Vertical Illusions Zipline, Kayak & Rock Climbing Guided Adventures lets you fly or climb over the beautiful Wisconsin Dells area landscape, giving you an amazing view of the natural surroundings. If you're looking for an outdoor adventure, this is the perfect way to experience the beauty of the area.

Take a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride through a mile-long sandstone canyon, one of the most beautiful natural spots in Wisconsin Dells. Lost Canyon Tours takes you exploring the narrow passages of the canyon, where the guides take the horses through the tight squeeze and pass through spots that have not felt the sun in more than 50,000 years.

For a relaxing way to see the area, take a ride on the Riverside & Great Northern Railway. This charming miniature 15-inch gauge train will take you on a two-mile trip through the unique rock formations and beautiful woods that line the Wisconsin River. It’s a fun way to see the sights and learn about the history of the area. 

Of course, a trip to Wisconsin Dells is not complete without a scenic boat tour. Plan your day on the water with this helpful guide!

Weather-Proof Indoor Activities

At Dells Mining Co.- Wis Dells, kids and adults can pan for real gemstones! Dig through the sand and water to discover natural precious and semi-precious gemstones from all over the world. It’s a fun, hands-on activity that allows everyone to uncover their very own treasure.

Want to step back in time? Capone’s Original Old Time Picture Studio and Totally 80’s lets you dress up in vintage clothing, and take fun, old-fashioned photos. It’s a great way to create lasting memories of your trip.

A themed hallway at Wizard Quest

Tommy Bartlett Exploratory - Interactive Science Center is filled with more than 175 hands-on activities and exhibits, including an authentic Russian Space Station MIR core module and a giant lever where you can lift a 5,000-lb vehicle off the ground. Get lost in the wonders of science, technology, space, and fun!

Escape into a fantasy world at Wizard Quest! Enjoy this interactive game played through  the course of four realms: air, water, earth, and fire. Your goal is to work with fantastical creatures to solve as many quests as you can over the course of your journey. 

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum features many oddities, illusions, and interactive exhibits. In its new location, opened in 2023, there are over 13,000 sq. ft. to explore, with something new around every corner. While there, embark on the Bizarre Safari, discovering peculiar animals all throughout.

Or, unlock the fun in an escape room. With different themes and levels of difficulty, there is something for everyone. For more information on our escape rooms, visit our blog to learn all about escape rooms in Wisconsin Dells.

Resort Attractions

Many of the resorts in Wisconsin Dells offer unique activities for the whole family. Even if you’re not staying at one of these resorts, you can still check out their fun attractions.

Aquavia Lumina is an immersive light and sound experience through a canyon of wonders at Wilderness Hotel & Golf Resort. Follow a mystical deer through a mile-long journey to search for the source. The enchanting pathway is filled with captivating displays, and thousands of luminous lights and lasers, ideal for all ages to enjoy during nightfall.

Tom Foolerys Adventure Park at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions offers a variety of fun-filled attractions, including go-karts, laser tag, and mini-golf. It’s an indoor playground packed with excitement for families and thrill-seekers alike!

Take Flight, Wilderness Aerial Adventure Ride
Soar above Wisconsin Dells and through space and time on the thrilling aerial adventure ride, offering breathtaking views of landscapes throughout the world.. This adrenaline-pumping experience combines flight with scenic vistas, making it perfect for adventure seekers.

Women enjoying the Spa Kalahari salt room

Resorts like Kalahari Resorts & Conventions and Wilderness Hotel & Golf Resort offer rejuvenating spa experiences. At Spa Kalahari & Salon, guests can indulge in soothing treatments, from signature massages to rejuvenating facials, all in a relaxing atmosphere. Sundara Inn & Spa offers a tranquil retreat with luxurious services like hot stone therapies and body wraps, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.

Ho-Chunk Gaming, Wisconsin Dells offers guests a little taste of Las Vegas. Owned by the Ho-Chunk Nation, it has over 1,000 slot machines and 48 table games. It also offers live entertainment and multiple restaurants on-site, so you never have to step away from the fun.

Several Wisconsin Dells resorts have golf courses or access to nearby ones, providing a relaxing day on the links. Cold Water Canyon Golf Course at Chula Vista Resort, Wild Rock Golf Club at the Wilderness, and Trappers Turn Golf Club owned by Kalahari Resorts & Conventions are examples of resorts with great golf facilities. On top of these championship courses, Wisconsin Dells is also home to smaller, family-friendly golf courses.

Plan Your Trip

Wisconsin Dells is much more than just waterparks. From ziplining through the trees to amazing amusement parks to relaxing spas, there are countless things to do here that will make your trip unforgettable. For help planning your next trip, visit the things to do in Wisconsin Dells page for a complete guide to local attractions.

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