A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Wisconsin Dells vs. Big Sur for Families, Couples, Hiking, and Food

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur?

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

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur? 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. It's also popular because of the hiking, nightlife, and food. See Wisconsin Dells travel costs.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a scenic, remote, and breathtaking natural area. The famous beauty of Big Sur is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food. See Big Sur travel costs.

Wisconsin Dells and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wisconsin Dells. Although Wisconsin Dells and Big Sur are both popular with visitors, Wisconsin Dells has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wisconsin Dells is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Big Sur is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Big Sur and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. It is also home to Noah's Ark Water Park. Big Sur is popular for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Wisconsin Dells is adequate for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Wisconsin Dells and Big Sur both to be good destinations.

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.

Big Sur is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Wisconsin Dells is great for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur Better for Resorts?

Wisconsin Dells is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

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

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

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

Big Sur is considered a top beach destination. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur 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 Big Sur. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside 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 Big Sur?

Wisconsin Dells is adequate for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

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.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur More Beautiful?

Big Sur is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Big Sur is one of the main draws. The road clings to the cliffs and makes dramatic curves, offering peaks at the striking blue water and breathtaking setting. This is truly one of those special places that feels unreal in its beauty.

Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur Better for Families?

Wisconsin Dells is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

Wisconsin Dells is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Big Sur is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Big Sur makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

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 Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Sur 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 Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

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

Neither Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur offer decent public transit.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Wisconsin Dells is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

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.

Big Sur is not a walkable city. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

For even more information, also check out Is Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Wisconsin Dells?

How long in Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Wisconsin Dells and Big Sur. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Wisconsin Dells than in Big Sur. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Wisconsin Dells, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Big Sur 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 Big Sur.

One day in Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur?

In Wisconsin Dells, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The scenic destination of Big Sur offers food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur?

In Wisconsin Dells, you'll find food and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Wisconsin Dells has to offer.

The natural area of Big Sur offers food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Five days in Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur?

Wisconsin Dells is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Big Sur is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This natural area offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wisconsin Dells. Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Wisconsin Dells. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Big Sur. 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.

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 Big Sur, we can see that Wisconsin Dells is more expensive. And not only is Big Sur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Big Sur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Big Sur 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 Wisconsin Dells would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Wisconsin Dells than you might in Big Sur.

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 Big Sur Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur?

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 Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur in the Summer?

Both Big Sur and Wisconsin Dells during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Big Sur for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Wisconsin Dells is a little warmer than Big Sur. Typically, the summer temperatures in Wisconsin Dells in July average around 74°F (24°C), and Big Sur averages at about 63°F (17°C).

Wisconsin Dells usually gets more rain in July than Big Sur. Wisconsin Dells gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Wisconsin Dells and Big Sur. Many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Big Sur in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Wisconsin Dells is generally cooler than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Wisconsin Dells average around 52°F (11°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, Wisconsin Dells usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Wisconsin Dells gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Wisconsin Dells as well as Big Sur. Many visitors come to Wisconsin Dells in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Big Sur for the cuisine during these months.

Wisconsin Dells can get quite cold in the winter. Wisconsin Dells is much colder than Big Sur in the winter. The daily temperature in Wisconsin Dells averages around 19°F (-7°C) in January, and Big Sur fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Wisconsin Dells usually gets less rain in January than Big Sur. Wisconsin Dells gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Big Sur in the Spring?

Both Big Sur and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Wisconsin Dells is cooler than Big Sur. Typically, the spring temperatures in Wisconsin Dells in April average around 49°F (10°C), and Big Sur averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In April, Wisconsin Dells usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Wisconsin Dells gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Wisconsin Dells