A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nags Head vs. Wisconsin Dells for Families, Nightlife, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Should I visit Nags Head 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.

Nags Head

And you can't forget about the nightlife and food. See Nags Head 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.

Nags Head and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Wisconsin Dells. Although Nags Head and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations, Wisconsin Dells has more sights and attractions for tourists. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Nags Head and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. It is also well known for Noah's Ark Water Park. Nags Head is famous for

How is Nags Head different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nags Head
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is adequate for its historical sights. However, Nags Head 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.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Nags Head
Wisconsin Dells

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Nags Head and Wisconsin Dells can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Nags Head. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

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 Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Nags Head
Wisconsin Dells

The vibe at night is high quality in both Nags Head and Wisconsin Dells.

Many people head to Nags Head for the nightlife scene. You'll find the widest variety of nightlife options in the Outer Banks here. There are a number of bars and clubs around town where you can enjoy a drink or dance late into the night. During the peak summer months there's often live music at many places.

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 Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Nags Head
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Nags Head is not a resort destination.

Wisconsin Dells has a handful of resorts to choose from. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.

Nags Head is not a resort destination.


Is Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Nags Head
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for hiking. However, Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

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.

Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells?

Nags Head
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is adequate for shopping. However, Nags Head 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.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Nags Head
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Nags Head is a very kid-friendly . It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.


Is Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Nags Head
Wisconsin Dells

With fun activities for couples, both Nags Head and Wisconsin Dells make for a nice place to visit.

Nags Head is a nice destination for couples. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

Wisconsin Dells makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are a number of resorts with spas and romantic atmospheres. There are also wineries and plenty of entertainment options in the area.

Is Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nags Head
Wisconsin Dells

Nags Head is a popular place for backpackers. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nags Head. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

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

Nags Head
Wisconsin Dells

Neither Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Nags Head. There's no real public transit around town, so you'll need to have your own car.

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


Is Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Nags Head
Wisconsin Dells

Nags Head and Wisconsin Dells are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Nags Head is generally not a very walkable . This is one of the least walkable towns in the Outer Banks. You'll need a car to reach most restaurants and other activities in the area.

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.

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Nags Head?

How long in Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nags Head 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 Nags Head.


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

One day in Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells?

The fun-filled destination of Nags Head offers nightlife and food. 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Wisconsin Dells. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells?

The of Nags Head offers food and nightlife. 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.

You'll find food and nightlife around the lighthearted destination of Wisconsin Dells. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells?

Nags Head is a great place to explore. This offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the high energy city of Wisconsin Dells. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells?

The fun-filled of Nags Head offers food and nightlife. 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 popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Nags Head?

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

  • Nags Head Prices
    USA Prices
    Wisconsin Dells Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nags Head $179
    Wisconsin Dells $174

The average daily cost (per person) in Nags Head is $179, 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 Nags Head and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nags Head $80
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nags Head $160
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Nags Head and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Nags Head 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 Nags Head


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: Nags Head Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nags Head $40
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Nags Head 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
    Nags Head $71
    Wisconsin Dells $74

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nags Head $14
    Wisconsin Dells $46

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

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

  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Outer Banks: $17
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • OBX Ghost Tours- The Original Ghost Tour of the Outer Banks: $25
  • OBX Ghost Tours: Lighthouse Wraiths & Dune Shadows: $26
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • Nags Head Kayak Tour: $55
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Stand Up Paddleboard Adventure on the Outer Banks : $65
  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $65

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
    Nags Head $12
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Nags Head

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nags Head:

  • Wine Tasting And Boat Ride: $109


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


Which is Bigger, Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells?

Nags Head has a larger population, and is about 30% larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Nags Head 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 Nags Head 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 Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nags Head as well as Wisconsin Dells. The summer months attract visitors to Nags Head because of 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, Nags Head is around the same temperature as Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nags Head in July average around 78°F (26°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 Nags Head this time of the year. In the summer, Nags Head often gets less sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Nags Head gets 274 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun.

Nags Head receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nags Head usually gets more rain in July than Wisconsin Dells. Nags Head gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

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

In October, Nags Head is generally a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 62°F (16°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. Nags Head usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during autumn. Nags Head gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Nags Head gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Nags Head during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nags Head for 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 Nags Head. Nags Head is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the winter. The daily temperature in Nags Head averages around 41°F (5°C) in January, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 19°F (-7°C).

In the winter, Nags Head often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wisconsin Dells. Nags Head gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. Nags Head usually gets more rain in January than Wisconsin Dells. Nags Head gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nags Head and Wisconsin Dells.

In the spring, Nags Head is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nags Head in April average around 59°F (15°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 Nags Head, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nags Head usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during spring. Nags Head gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Nags Head gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Nags Head

Nags Head Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)