A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Kennebunkport vs. Wisconsin Dells for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a quaint, character-filled, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Kennebunkport is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Kennebunkport travel costs.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a fun-filled, lighthearted, and high energy city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Wisconsin Dells travel costs.

Kennebunkport and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kennebunkport. Although Kennebunkport and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations, Kennebunkport has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kennebunkport is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Wisconsin Dells attracts visitors for its nightlife. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Kennebunkport and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Kennebunkport is famous for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. It is also well known for Dock Square.

How is Kennebunkport different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kennebunkport
Wisconsin Dells

Kennebunkport is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

Kennebunkport offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.

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 Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kennebunkport
Wisconsin Dells

Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport. Fine dining, seafood restaurants, and local cafes all make this a wonderful town for foodies. The town's famous for its lobster, but you can also try the scallops, crab, or oysters.

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 Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Kennebunkport
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is great for nightlife. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Wisconsin Dells for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kennebunkport. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

Is Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Kennebunkport
Wisconsin Dells

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

Kennebunkport is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

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


Is Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Kennebunkport
Wisconsin Dells

If you're looking to go hiking, Kennebunkport and Wisconsin Dells both have nice trails.

Kennebunkport is a good destination for hiking. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wisconsin Dells. 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 Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells?

Kennebunkport
Wisconsin Dells

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

Kennebunkport is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

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 Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells More Beautiful?

Kennebunkport
Wisconsin Dells

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

Kennebunkport is a beautiful place to visit, too. It's scenic coastline and dramatic lighthouses make this a beautiful area.

Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Kennebunkport
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Kennebunkport is a very kid-friendly town. You can explore the rocks around Mother's Beach or take the kids out on a lobster boat. There's also a lot of history around Dock's Square and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in town.

Is Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Kennebunkport
Wisconsin Dells

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

Couples visit Kennebunkport frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

Wisconsin Dells is a good town 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 Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kennebunkport
Wisconsin Dells

Kennebunkport is a town with a few options for its public transit. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Kennebunkport. During the summer months there's a Shoreline Trolley that connects towns.

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


Is Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Kennebunkport
Wisconsin Dells

Kennebunkport 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.

Kennebunkport is a somewhat walkable place. It's downtown is compact and particularly walkable.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not a very walkable town. 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 Kennebunkport Worth Visiting? and Is Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Kennebunkport?

How long in Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells. In our opinion, Kennebunkport has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Kennebunkport than Wisconsin Dells. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport.


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

One day in Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells?

Kennebunkport is a small town with plenty to do. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the high energy destination of Wisconsin Dells. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells?

Kennebunkport might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wisconsin Dells. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.


Five days in Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lighthearted destination of Wisconsin Dells. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells?

Since Kennebunkport is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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.

You'll find food and nightlife around the city of Wisconsin Dells. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Kennebunkport?

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

  • Kennebunkport Prices
    USA Prices
    Wisconsin Dells Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Kennebunkport $269
    Wisconsin Dells $174

The average daily cost (per person) in Kennebunkport is $269, 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 Kennebunkport and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kennebunkport $124
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kennebunkport $248
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Kennebunkport and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport


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: Kennebunkport Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kennebunkport $49
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Kennebunkport 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
    Kennebunkport $115
    Wisconsin Dells $74

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kennebunkport $21
    Wisconsin Dells $46

Tours and Activities in Kennebunkport

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

  • 90 Minutes Ghost Walking Tour in Kennebunkport: $35
  • Haunted Ghost Walking Tour: $35
  • 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour: $50
  • From Boston: Kennebunkport Day Trip & Optional Trolley Tour: $125
  • Kennebunkport, Maine: Lunchtime Culinary Walking Tour: $150
  • A Tasty Lunchtime Walking Tour: $160

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
    Kennebunkport $31
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kennebunkport and Wisconsin Dells, we can see that Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport Expensive? and Is Wisconsin Dells Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells?

Wisconsin Dells has a larger population, and is about 57% larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Kennebunkport as well as Wisconsin Dells. The summer months attract visitors to Kennebunkport because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year.

In the summer, Kennebunkport is cooler than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kennebunkport in July average around 69°F (20°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 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 Kennebunkport this time of the year. In the summer, Kennebunkport often gets less sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Kennebunkport gets 282 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun.

Kennebunkport usually gets less rain in July than Wisconsin Dells. Kennebunkport gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kennebunkport 69°F (20°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Kennebunkport are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kennebunkport this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Kennebunkport is generally cooler than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Kennebunkport average around 49°F (9°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Kennebunkport usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during autumn. Kennebunkport gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Kennebunkport usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Kennebunkport during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Wisconsin Dells in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Wisconsin Dells can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Kennebunkport. Kennebunkport is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the winter. The daily temperature in Kennebunkport averages around 21°F (-6°C) in January, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 19°F (-7°C).

In the winter, Kennebunkport often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Kennebunkport gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun.

Kennebunkport usually gets more rain in January than Wisconsin Dells. Kennebunkport gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Kennebunkport and Wisconsin Dells. Many visitors come to Kennebunkport in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Kennebunkport is much colder than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kennebunkport in April average around 43°F (6°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 49°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wisconsin Dells this time of the year. In Kennebunkport, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kennebunkport usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wisconsin Dells during spring. Kennebunkport gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kennebunkport usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)


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