A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isla Mujeres vs. Wisconsin Dells for Resorts, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres 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.

Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a idyllic, relaxing, and laid back island. Isla Mujeres is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Isla Mujeres travel costs.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a lighthearted, high energy, and fun-filled city. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and nightlife. See Wisconsin Dells travel costs.

Isla Mujeres and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Isla Mujeres than Wisconsin Dells, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Isla Mujeres is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Wisconsin Dells is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and hiking. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Isla Mujeres and is known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Isla Mujeres is well known for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. Also, Isla Mujeres is famous for the Underwater Museum of Art.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells?

Isla Mujeres
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a moderate city for its sights and museums. However, Isla Mujeres is a mediocre island for its museums and history.

Wisconsin Dells offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Isla Mujeres. Nobody really heads to this island for the museums.


Is the Food Better in Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isla Mujeres
Wisconsin Dells

Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres. The island has many restaurants, particularly along Hidalgo Street in the Centro area. They typically have a laid back island vibe and serve local seafood or other popular cuisines.

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 Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Isla Mujeres
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its evening party scene.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Isla Mujeres. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but those who spend the night will enjoy hanging out at the beach bars along Playa Norte. Many have a laid back vibe and some have live music or DJs.

Is Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres
Wisconsin Dells

Isla Mujeres is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Isla Mujeres is a great choice. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

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


Is Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Isla Mujeres
Wisconsin Dells

Isla Mujeres is a world-class destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Isla Mujeres a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. There are many great snorkeling and diving areas just off the island. It's easy to arrange tours that will take you to the best spots. Popular areas include Manchones Reef, the Underwater Museum of Art, and Garrafon Natural Park.

Wisconsin Dells is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres
Wisconsin Dells

Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres. The island has spectacular beaches where the white sand meets the blue water. The idyllic setting is the perfect place to relax with a drink or soak up the island vibe. Playa Norte is an award winning beach that has calm water and stunning snorkeling. Playa Centro has many restaurants and bars, and you'll likely see people sunbathing topless. There's a beach club at Playa Albatros as well as hammocks, umbrellas, and recreational activities.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Isla Mujeres
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.

Wisconsin Dells offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells?

Isla Mujeres
Wisconsin Dells

Isla Mujeres is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Isla Mujeres offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for the best opportunities to pick up gifts or souvenirs. You'll find local jewelry, art, and handicrafts.

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 Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells More Beautiful?

Isla Mujeres
Wisconsin Dells

Isla Mujeres is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its beauty.

Isla Mujeres is a beautiful place to visit, too. Beautiful beaches with white sand and blue water make this a beautiful destination. The underwater world is also spectacular to explore.

Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres
Wisconsin Dells

Both Isla Mujeres and Wisconsin Dells are amazing family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Isla Mujeres is very family-friendly. Kids will love the outdoor sports, which include kayaking, surfing, cave exploration, and snorkeling or diving. There are also opportunities to get up close with marine life or spend the day playing at a water park.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Wisconsin Dells is a very family-friendly destination. 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.


Is Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres
Wisconsin Dells

Isla Mujeres is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Isla Mujeres makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a world class honeymoon destination and couples enjoy the white powdery sand beaches, turquoise blue waters, and laid back island vibe. There's diving and snorkeling as well as romantic hotels and wonderful local restaurants.

Wisconsin Dells is a good island 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 Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isla Mujeres
Wisconsin Dells

Isla Mujeres is a great destination for backpackers. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Isla Mujeres is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

Wisconsin Dells is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find campgrounds in the area, but most places are very built up and don't have the natural setting that backpackers appreciate.

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

Isla Mujeres
Wisconsin Dells

Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are two bus routes around the island that are operated by Isleños Bus.

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


Is Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Isla Mujeres
Wisconsin Dells

Isla Mujeres is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Isla Mujeres is a very walkable island. The most walkable part of the island is the North part, which is the town center.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not a very walkable island. 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 Isla Mujeres Worth Visiting? and Is Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Wisconsin Dells due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Isla Mujeres, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wisconsin Dells.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres.


  • How many days in Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isla Mujeres 1-2 
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4

One day in Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells?

The idyllic destination of Isla Mujeres offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Wisconsin Dells, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this fun-filled city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells?

The island of Isla Mujeres offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Wisconsin Dells is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells?

Isla Mujeres is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and nightlife around the lighthearted destination of Wisconsin Dells. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Isla Mujeres. 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 to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Isla Mujeres?

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

  • Isla Mujeres Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Wisconsin Dells Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Isla Mujeres $164
    Wisconsin Dells $174

The average daily cost (per person) in Isla Mujeres is $164, 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 Isla Mujeres and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isla Mujeres $71
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isla Mujeres $142
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Isla Mujeres and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres


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: Isla Mujeres Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isla Mujeres $32
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isla Mujeres

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Isla Mujeres:

  • Punta Sam / Isla Blanca to Cancún Airport (CUN)- Departure Private Transfer: $62
  • Cancun–Ferry Round-Trip + Hotel Transfer: $75
  • Private Transfer: Playa Mujeres to Cancun Airport CUN in SUV: $135

Is it cheaper to fly into Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Isla Mujeres 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
    Isla Mujeres $72
    Wisconsin Dells $74

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isla Mujeres $19
    Wisconsin Dells $46

Tours and Activities in Isla Mujeres

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Isla Mujeres are as follows:

  • Chill at -18°C Isla Mujeres Ice Bar (tickets): $25
  • Excursion Crystal Boat Tour at the Caribbean: $29
  • Tour Isla Mujeres excursion in Collective Transparent Boat: $38
  • Crystal Boat Tour to Isla Mujeres and Reefs: $39
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Adventure at the Underwater Museum: $52
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour Adventure: $53
  • Snorkel Tour at Musa and Manchones Reef: $55
  • Transparent Boat Tour from Isla Mujeres: $60
  • UNDER WATER MUSEUM CANCUN SNORKEL ISLA MUJERES - Experience with Ticket: $65
  • ATV Mangrove Adventure: $65
  • Airboat Adventure: $80
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour: $84

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
    Isla Mujeres $23
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14


When comparing the travel costs between Isla Mujeres and Wisconsin Dells, we can see that Wisconsin Dells is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or Wisconsin Dells?

Isla Mujeres has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres 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.