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

Should you visit Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a laid back, scenic, and relaxing island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Saint Simons is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and food. See Saint Simons travel costs.

Wisconsin Dells

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

Saint Simons and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • 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 Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Saint Simons. Although Saint Simons and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations, Saint Simons has more sights and attractions for tourists. Saint Simons is very popular for its food, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Wisconsin Dells attracts visitors for its nightlife. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Saint Simons and is known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Saint Simons is famous for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. It is also well known for East Beach.

How is Saint Simons different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Saint Simons
Wisconsin Dells

Both Saint Simons and Wisconsin Dells have reasonable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Saint Simons offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.

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 Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Simons
Wisconsin Dells

Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

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 Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a great destination for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Wisconsin Dells know how to have a good time. 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.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Wisconsin Dells

Saint Simons and Wisconsin Dells offer a relatively similar set of nice luxury resort options.

Saint Simons has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

With a selection of resorts, Wisconsin Dells makes a nice vacation spot. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.


Is Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Wisconsin Dells

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

Saint Simons is considered a top beach destination. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Wisconsin Dells

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

Saint Simons is a good destination for hiking. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

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 Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells?

Saint Simons
Wisconsin Dells

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

Saint Simons is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

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 Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells More Beautiful?

Saint Simons
Wisconsin Dells

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

Saint Simons is a beautiful place to visit, too. Beautiful beaches and live oaks with Spanish moss give the island a southern charm.

Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Saint Simons is very family-friendly. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Is Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Wisconsin Dells

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

Couples visit Saint Simons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

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

Saint Simons
Wisconsin Dells

Neither Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

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

Is Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Wisconsin Dells

Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

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 Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons.


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

One day in Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells?

Saint Simons is a small town with plenty to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

In Wisconsin Dells, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this high energy 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 Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells?

Saint Simons might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells?

Saint Simons is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 high energy 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 Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells?

Since Saint Simons is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Saint Simons?

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

  • Saint Simons Prices
    USA Prices
    Wisconsin Dells Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Simons $211
    Wisconsin Dells $174

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Simons is $211, 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 Saint Simons and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Simons $100
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Simons $200
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Saint Simons and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons


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: Saint Simons Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Saint Simons 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
    Saint Simons $83
    Wisconsin Dells $74

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Simons $16
    Wisconsin Dells $46

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
    Saint Simons $60
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14


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


Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells?

Saint Simons has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, 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, Saint Simons is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Simons in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 74°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Wisconsin Dells. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually receives less sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during summer. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Saint Simons. In July, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Saint Simons during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Saint Simons is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 70°F (21°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the autumn, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets more rain in October than Wisconsin Dells. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Simons 70°F (21°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Wisconsin Dells. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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. Saint Simons is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 19°F (-7°C).

Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during winter. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Simons 53°F (12°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Wisconsin Dells. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Saint Simons is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Simons in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 49°F (10°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wisconsin Dells. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Simons this time of the year. In the spring, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets more rain in April than Wisconsin Dells. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Simons 68°F (20°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Saint Simons

Saint Simons Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)


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