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

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or Aspen?

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

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Aspen? 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.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a high energy, fun-filled, and lighthearted city. Other popular activities here include hiking, nightlife, and food. See Wisconsin Dells travel costs.

Aspen

Aspen is a artsy, outdoorsy, and authentic ski town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of Aspen is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Aspen travel costs.

Wisconsin Dells and Aspen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wisconsin Dells or Aspen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Aspen. Although Wisconsin Dells and Aspen are both popular with visitors, Aspen has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Aspen is more popular for its skiing, food, music, resorts, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Wisconsin Dells is known for its museums and attractions. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Aspen and is known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Aspen is popular for its world-class skiing, many food, film, and music festivals, and its stunning mountain hikes. It is also home to The Maroon Bells.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from Aspen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Wisconsin Dells or Aspen Better for Skiing?

Aspen is a world-class destination for winter skiing. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Aspen should be on your list. Near the town, there are 4 separate ski resorts. In town you'll find Aspen Mountain, which is known for it's black-diamond runs. Aspen Highlands, a couple miles away, has a mix of slopes and is less crowded. Buttermilk attracts many freestyle skiers and Aspen Snowmass is considered one of the best family-friendly ski areas.

Wisconsin Dells is not a skiing destination.

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

Wisconsin Dells is a city with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

Wisconsin Dells offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of art galleries in the area, but most visitors spend the majority of their time at the theme parks and waterparks.

Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Aspen is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Aspen is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The town hosts many food festivals and there is a growing selection of diverse restaurants. In town you'll find cafes and restaurants that cater to both the local crowd and the travelers who flock to the area during peak seasons.

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 Wisconsin Dells or Aspen Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Wisconsin Dells or Aspen has a better nightlife scene.

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.

The nightlife in Aspen has something for everybody. The people in Aspen know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene includes craft beer, live music, and dancing. There's a local vibe, particularly during the off-season times when the tourist crowds are less.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Aspen Better for Music?

Aspen is a great destination for its live music scene. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a live music destination.

Aspen has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. Popular music venues in town include Silver City Mountain Saloon and Belly Up Aspen.

Wisconsin Dells is not a live music destination.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Aspen Better for Resorts?

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

Aspen is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts in the area include The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, and St. Regis Aspen.

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

Is Wisconsin Dells or Aspen Better for Hiking?

Aspen is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Aspen. During the summer and fall seasons, hiking is a great way to explore Aspen's nearby beauty. Popular trails include the Ute Trail, the Lost Man Trail, and the famous Maroon Bells Scenic 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 Wisconsin Dells or Aspen?

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

Aspen is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many great local shops and art galleries where you can pick interesting items or fine art.

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 Wisconsin Dells or Aspen More Beautiful?

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

The beauty of Aspen is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Surrounded by the mountains and set amongst a beautiful natural setting, this town will take your breath away.

Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Aspen Better for Families?

Wisconsin Dells is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Wisconsin Dells is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Aspen offers lots of family activities. Families that enjoy skiing together, hiking, rock climbing, and having adventures will enjoy a visit to this town. Aspen Mountain is not a great option for beginning skiers, but further away, Aspen Snowmass offers good beginner slopes.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Aspen Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Aspen frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Aspen is both a popular ski destination as well as an established town. There are many great restaurants and activities that couples can enjoy and the setting is cute and very scenic, making it a beautiful and romantic destination.

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

Aspen is a popular place for its public transit. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Aspen, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are several shuttle buses around the town.

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

Is Wisconsin Dells or Aspen a more walkable city?

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

Aspen is a very walkable ski town. The town is compact enough that it can be explored on foot. If you're planning to head into the mountains to hike, you'll likely need a car.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not a very walkable city. 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 Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting? and Is Aspen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aspen or Wisconsin Dells?

How long in Wisconsin Dells or Aspen?

In either Wisconsin Dells or Aspen, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Aspen than Wisconsin Dells because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Wisconsin Dells, and 3-5 days is enough time in Aspen.

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

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

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

One day in Wisconsin Dells or Aspen?

In Wisconsin Dells, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this fun-filled destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Aspen 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.

A weekend in Wisconsin Dells or Aspen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wisconsin Dells. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Aspen might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Five days in Wisconsin Dells or Aspen?

Wisconsin Dells is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Wisconsin Dells. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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

A week in Wisconsin Dells or Aspen?

You'll find food and nightlife around the high energy destination of Wisconsin Dells. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Since Aspen 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Wisconsin Dells or Aspen?

Aspen has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Wisconsin Dells and Aspen, 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.