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

Should you visit Marathon or Wisconsin Dells?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Wisconsin Dells, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Marathon

Marathon is a relaxing, quaint, and beautiful island. The beauty of Marathon is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife. See Marathon 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.

Marathon and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Marathon or Wisconsin Dells?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Wisconsin Dells. Although Marathon and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations, Wisconsin Dells has more sights and attractions for tourists. Wisconsin Dells is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Marathon attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Marathon and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. It is also well known for Noah's Ark Water Park. Marathon is famous for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel.

How is Marathon different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Marathon
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is adequate for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Marathon
Wisconsin Dells

Both Marathon and Wisconsin Dells offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Wisconsin Dells. 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 Marathon or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Marathon
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is great for nightlife. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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 Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

Is Marathon or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Marathon
Wisconsin Dells

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

Marathon is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

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


Is Marathon or Wisconsin Dells Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon
Wisconsin Dells

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

Marathon has a few good snorkeling spots. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Wisconsin Dells is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Wisconsin Dells Better for Beaches?

Marathon
Wisconsin Dells

Marathon is a great destination for the beach. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Marathon is considered a top beach destination. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is Marathon or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Marathon
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Wisconsin Dells has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Wisconsin Dells?

Marathon
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is adequate for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Wisconsin Dells is a good destination for shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers, as well as gift shops in the area.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Wisconsin Dells More Beautiful?

Marathon
Wisconsin Dells

Marathon is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Marathon is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Marathon or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Marathon
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Wisconsin Dells is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Marathon is a very kid-friendly island. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.


Is Marathon or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Marathon
Wisconsin Dells

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

Couples visit Marathon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

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

Marathon
Wisconsin Dells

Neither Marathon or Wisconsin Dells offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Wisconsin Dells. There's no real public transportation in the area.

Is Marathon or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Marathon
Wisconsin Dells

Marathon and Wisconsin Dells are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Marathon is generally not a very walkable island. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not very walkable. 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 Marathon Worth Visiting? and Is Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Marathon or Wisconsin Dells. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Marathon due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wisconsin Dells.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wisconsin Dells than Marathon 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 Wisconsin Dells.


  • How many days in Marathon or Wisconsin Dells? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marathon 3-7 
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4

One day in Marathon or Wisconsin Dells?

The relaxing destination of Marathon offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

The city of Wisconsin Dells offers food and nightlife. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Marathon or Wisconsin Dells?

The island of Marathon offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. 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.

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Wisconsin Dells, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marathon or Wisconsin Dells?

Marathon is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Wisconsin Dells is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Marathon or Wisconsin Dells?

The beautiful island of Marathon offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Wisconsin Dells is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Marathon?

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

  • Marathon Prices
    USA Prices
    Wisconsin Dells Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Marathon $195
    Wisconsin Dells $174

The average daily cost (per person) in Marathon is $195, 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 Marathon and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marathon $76
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marathon $152
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Marathon and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Marathon 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 Marathon


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: Marathon Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marathon $47
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Marathon or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Marathon 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
    Marathon $89
    Wisconsin Dells $74

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marathon $27
    Wisconsin Dells $46

Tours and Activities in Marathon

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

  • Rhum Runner Aqua Park Adventure: $38
  • Florida: Sunset Champagne Cruise on the Marathon Mermaid: $82
  • Snorkeling Adventure by Boat at Sombrero Reef: $89
  • Intro to Foilboarding Experience: $214

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
    Marathon $24
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14


When comparing the travel costs between Marathon and Wisconsin Dells, we can see that Marathon 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 Marathon Expensive? and Is Wisconsin Dells Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Marathon or Wisconsin Dells?

Marathon has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Marathon 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 Marathon 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 Marathon or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Wisconsin Dells. Many visitors come to Marathon in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Marathon is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marathon in July average around 84°F (29°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 Marathon this time of the year. In the summer, Marathon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wisconsin Dells. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets more rain in July than Wisconsin Dells. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marathon 84°F (29°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Wisconsin Dells because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Marathon is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 80°F (27°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during autumn. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Marathon. In October, Marathon usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marathon 80°F (27°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Marathon during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Marathon because of the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year.

It's quite cold in Wisconsin Dells in the winter. Marathon is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the winter. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 19°F (-7°C).

It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the winter, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets more rain in January than Wisconsin Dells. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marathon 70°F (21°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Wisconsin Dells. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Marathon this time of year.

In the spring, Marathon is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marathon in April average around 77°F (25°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 Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during spring. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marathon usually receives less rain than Wisconsin Dells. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marathon 77°F (25°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Marathon

Marathon Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)