A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boca Raton vs. Wisconsin Dells for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Boca Raton and Wisconsin Dells. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Boca Raton

Boca Raton is a outdoorsy, relaxed, and luxurious coastal city. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Boca Raton travel costs.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a high energy, fun-filled, and lighthearted city. It's also popular because of the hiking, nightlife, and food. See Wisconsin Dells travel costs.

Boca Raton and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boca Raton. Although Boca Raton and Wisconsin Dells are both popular with visitors, Boca Raton has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Boca Raton and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Boca Raton is popular for its golf courses, outdoor recreational activities, and safe atmosphere. It is also home to Red Reef Park.

How is Boca Raton different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Wisconsin Dells and Boca Raton. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells?

Boca Raton
Wisconsin Dells

Boca Raton is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

Boca Raton offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While most visitors focus on the beaches and outdoor activities in the area, there are also a surprising number of museums that you can visit. On a rainy day head to the Boca Raton Museum of Art or the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum. Sports enthusiasts will like the Sports Immortals Museum and kids will want to check out the Children's Science Explorium.

While most people don't head to Wisconsin Dells specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of art galleries in the area, but most visitors spend the majority of their time at the theme parks and waterparks.


Is the Food Better in Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boca Raton
Wisconsin Dells

Boca Raton is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Boca Raton. You'll find a mix of local and international flavors with both casual and upscale dining available. Reservations are recommended, particularly on weekend nights. For the health-conscious, there's also a nice selection of healthy eateries to choose from.

Wisconsin Dells is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Pizza, pasta, burgers, and steak in a family-friendly atmosphere are the most common options in the area. There are also a few fine dining restaurants as well as pubs and brunch places to choose from.

Is Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Boca Raton
Wisconsin Dells

The vibe at night is superb in both Boca Raton and Wisconsin Dells.

Many people head to Boca Raton for the nightlife scene. You'll find plenty of upscale wine bars, cocktail bars, and live music venues that will keep you entertained late into the evening.

Wisconsin Dells has plenty to do after the sun goes down. In the evening the fun-filled atmosphere takes on a different vibe. There are bars, clubs, casinos, and shows that keep things lively throughout the evening.

Is Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Boca Raton
Wisconsin Dells

Boca Raton is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Boca Raton is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find many luxury beachside resorts that offer all of the amenities, from access to golf course to family-friendly kids clubs.

Wisconsin Dells has a few great resort options. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.


Is Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Boca Raton
Wisconsin Dells

Boca Raton is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Boca Raton has a few good snorkeling spots. Head to the "Aqua Zoo", which is just to the south of Boca Inlet to see stingrays, groupers, and moray eels. Red Reef Park offers excellent snorkeling as well.

Wisconsin Dells is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells Better for Beaches?

Boca Raton
Wisconsin Dells

Boca Raton is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Boca Raton. There's a two mile stretch of beautiful sandy beaches that are all monitored by lifeguards. The beaches offer all of the facilities that you might need such as picnic areas, restrooms, and showers. Many beaches are part of park land and some offer nice snorkeling. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Spanish River Park, Bark Park Dog Beach, Red Reef Beach, and South Beach Park.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Boca Raton
Wisconsin Dells

Hiking trails can be found around both Boca Raton and Wisconsin Dells, and they are good.

Boca Raton offers some nice hiking trails. There's a surprising number of nature parks in the area that have hiking trails, nature walks, and beach paths that are fun to explore.

Wisconsin Dells is a good destination for hiking. Visitors often forget that this was originally a destination for its natural beauty. There are still many hiking trails in the area with some of the favorites found at Mirror Lake State Park, Rocky Arbor State Park, and Chimney Rock Private Park.


Is the Shopping Better in Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells?

Boca Raton
Wisconsin Dells

Boca Raton is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Boca Raton is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's an upscale area, and you'll find no shortage of luxury shopping around town. Popular areas for shopping include Downtown Boca, Mizner Park, and the Town Center at Boca Raton.

Wisconsin Dells has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers, as well as gift shops in the area.

Is Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Boca Raton
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Boca Raton is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Wisconsin Dells is very family-friendly. While it used to be known for its impressive sandstone formations along the Wisconsin River, today it has a more touristy atmosphere with theme parks and amusement parks. It's also become known as the "Water Park Capital of the World", and it won't disappoint. There are both indoor and outdoor waterparks as well as train rides, boat rides, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants.

Boca Raton is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's an upscale area with a family-friendly atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Many of the hotels have kids clubs that will keep the young ones entertained. The area also has nature centers, children's museums, and waterparks that will ensure everyone stays entertained.

Is Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Boca Raton
Wisconsin Dells

Boca Raton is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Boca Raton frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There's an upscale vibe with plenty of nature trails and nice beaches. Many of the hotels offer a touch of luxury that honeymooning couples will appreciate. You can also head to the downtown area for music, events, and museums.

Wisconsin Dells is a good coastal city for couples to visit. There are a number of resorts with spas and romantic atmospheres. There are also wineries and plenty of entertainment options in the area.


Is Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boca Raton
Wisconsin Dells

Boca Raton is a popular place for its public transit. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Boca Raton, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Downtowner is a fleet of free, oversized golf cars that shuttle visitors around town, passing by many top sites such as Mizner Park, Red Reef Park, and the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. There's also a public bus system, Palm Tran, that offers service around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Wisconsin Dells. There's no real public transportation in the area.

Is Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Boca Raton
Wisconsin Dells

Boca Raton is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Boca Raton is a somewhat walkable place. There are some communities within the city that are more walkable than others, particularly East Boca Raton, Royal Palm Place, and Mizner Park. There are also many pedestrian and bike paths around town. Even so, you really must have a car to explore the area in depth.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not a very walkable coastal city. While the downtown area is walkable, you really need a car to access everything that the area has to offer.

For even more information, also check out Is Boca Raton Worth Visiting? and Is Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Boca Raton?

How long in Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Boca Raton due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boca Raton, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wisconsin Dells.

Families should spend more time in Boca Raton than Wisconsin Dells. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Boca Raton, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Boca Raton than Wisconsin Dells. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Boca Raton that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boca Raton than Wisconsin Dells if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Boca Raton.


  • How many days in Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boca Raton 3-5 
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4

One day in Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells?

The posh destination of Boca Raton offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With food and nightlife around the lighthearted city of Wisconsin Dells, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells?

The coastal city of Boca Raton offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Wisconsin Dells, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells?

Boca Raton is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This coastal city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Wisconsin Dells, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Boca Raton. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Boca Raton?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Boca Raton Prices
    USA Prices
    Wisconsin Dells Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Boca Raton $332
    Wisconsin Dells $174

The average daily cost (per person) in Boca Raton is $332, while the average daily cost in Wisconsin Dells is $174. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Boca Raton and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boca Raton $171
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boca Raton $342
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Boca Raton and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Boca Raton


Hotels in Wisconsin Dells


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Boca Raton Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boca Raton $76
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boca Raton

Also for Boca Raton, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Delray Beach Transfer and Fort Lauderdale Airport: $84
  • Private Transfer from West Palm Beach to (FLL) Airport: $115

Is it cheaper to fly into Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Boca Raton change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Boca Raton $117
    Wisconsin Dells $74

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boca Raton

For Boca Raton, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Delray Beach Dinner & Drinks Tour: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boca Raton $28
    Wisconsin Dells $46

Tours and Activities in Boca Raton

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Boca Raton.

  • Delray Beach Food & Drinks Tour: $104
  • Boca Raton Food and Drink Tour: $104
  • Boca Raton to Miami on High Speed Train with City Tour: $150
  • Private Jet Ski Tour with Optional Snorkeling: $250
  • Boca Raton Premium Jet Ski Tour - Optional Snorkeling/Lighthouse: $270
  • 23ft Boat Tour with Snorkeling/Tubing/Island: $535

Tours and Activities in Wisconsin Dells

Here are a few actual costs in Wisconsin Dells for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Haunted History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boca Raton $40
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boca Raton and Wisconsin Dells, we can see that Boca Raton is more expensive. And not only is Wisconsin Dells much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Wisconsin Dells would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Wisconsin Dells and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Boca Raton would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boca Raton than you might in Wisconsin Dells.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Boca Raton Expensive? and Is Wisconsin Dells Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells?

Boca Raton has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Boca Raton and Wisconsin Dells, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Boca Raton as well as Wisconsin Dells. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Boca Raton this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Boca Raton is generally a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Boca Raton average around 82°F (28°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wisconsin Dells. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boca Raton this time of the year. In the summer, Boca Raton often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wisconsin Dells. Boca Raton gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun.

Boca Raton receives a lot of rain in the summer. Boca Raton usually gets more rain in July than Wisconsin Dells. Boca Raton gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Boca Raton 82°F (28°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Boca Raton are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Boca Raton for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Wisconsin Dells in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Boca Raton is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the autumn. The daily temperature in Boca Raton averages around 78°F (25°C) in October, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boca Raton. Boca Raton usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during autumn. Boca Raton gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Boca Raton. In October, Boca Raton usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Boca Raton gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Boca Raton is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Boca Raton 78°F (25°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Boca Raton during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Boca Raton in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Wisconsin Dells for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Wisconsin Dells can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Boca Raton is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the winter temperatures in Boca Raton in January average around 65°F (19°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 19°F (-7°C).

It's quite sunny in Boca Raton. In the winter, Boca Raton often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Boca Raton gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun.

Boca Raton usually gets more rain in January than Wisconsin Dells. Boca Raton gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Boca Raton 65°F (19°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Boca Raton and Wisconsin Dells. Most visitors come to Boca Raton for the beaches during these months.

In April, Boca Raton is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Boca Raton average around 74°F (23°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wisconsin Dells this time of the year. In Boca Raton, it's very sunny this time of the year. Boca Raton usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during spring. Boca Raton gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Boca Raton usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Boca Raton gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Boca Raton.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Boca Raton 74°F (23°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Boca Raton

Boca Raton Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 65°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 66°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (166 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 9.8 inches (250 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 78°F (25°C) 8.7 inches (222 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)