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

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or Breckenridge?

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

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Breckenridge? 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 lighthearted, high energy, and fun-filled city. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and nightlife. See Wisconsin Dells travel costs.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a scenic, nature-filled, and charming ski resort. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of Breckenridge is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Breckenridge travel costs.

Wisconsin Dells and Breckenridge: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Wisconsin Dells or Breckenridge?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Breckenridge than Wisconsin Dells, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Breckenridge is better known for its skiing, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Wisconsin Dells is more popular for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Breckenridge and is known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Breckenridge is well known for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. Also, Breckenridge is famous for The Family-Friendly Ski Resort.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from Breckenridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Wisconsin Dells or Breckenridge Better for Skiing?

Wisconsin Dells
Breckenridge

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

If you're an avid snow skiier, Breckenridge should be on your list. This is one of the most recognizable ski destinations in the world. It has diverse terrain that is good for all levels including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. The resort also has the tallest chairlift in North America.

Wisconsin Dells is not a skiing destination.


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

Wisconsin Dells
Breckenridge

Wisconsin Dells is a moderate city for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge 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.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Wisconsin Dells
Breckenridge

Foodies will find both Wisconsin Dells and Breckenridge both to be notable 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.

Breckenridge is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a number of restaurants around town serving everything from casual to fine dining. There are bistros, pubs, and luxury options where you can enjoy international or local dishes including elk and buffalo.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Breckenridge Better for Nightlife?

Wisconsin Dells
Breckenridge

Wisconsin Dells is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its evening party scene.

Wisconsin Dells offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Breckenridge. The town comes to life in the winter and there are plenty of bars, breweries, and a wide selection of craft beer that you can try. Live music also brings the town to life in the evening.


Is Wisconsin Dells or Breckenridge Better for Resorts?

Wisconsin Dells
Breckenridge

Wisconsin Dells and Breckenridge offer a relatively similar set of notable luxury resort options.

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.

Breckenridge has a few great resort options. The resorts often have pools or hot tubs where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Many have condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Breckenridge Better for its Old Town?

Wisconsin Dells
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a popular place for its old town. However, Wisconsin Dells does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Breckenridge to see the old town. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Wisconsin Dells does not have a historic old town.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Breckenridge Better for Hiking?

Wisconsin Dells
Breckenridge

If you're looking to go hiking, Wisconsin Dells and Breckenridge both have notable trails.

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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Breckenridge. During the summer months there are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby, but you'll likely need a car to reach most trailheads. Popular trails include Hoosier Pass Loop, Blue Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch.


Is the Shopping Better in Wisconsin Dells or Breckenridge?

Wisconsin Dells
Breckenridge

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

Breckenridge is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

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 Breckenridge More Beautiful?

Wisconsin Dells
Breckenridge

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

The beauty of Breckenridge is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The beautiful mountains make a great backdrop for one of the area's best ski resorts.

Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Breckenridge Better for Families?

Wisconsin Dells
Breckenridge

Wisconsin Dells is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Breckenridge. It is a fun, family-friendly ski resort town with skiing for all levels. There are lessons for kids starting at the age of three, and slopes that are perfect for all skill levels. The town also has ice skating, sledding, and white water rafting.


Is Wisconsin Dells or Breckenridge Better for Couples?

Wisconsin Dells
Breckenridge

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

Couples visit Breckenridge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

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 Breckenridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wisconsin Dells
Breckenridge

Breckenridge 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 Breckenridge. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

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 Breckenridge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Wisconsin Dells
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a ski resort with a few options for its public transit. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Breckenridge. There is a free shuttle service around town.

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


Is Wisconsin Dells or Breckenridge a more walkable city?

Wisconsin Dells
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Breckenridge on foot is easy. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

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 Breckenridge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Breckenridge or Wisconsin Dells?

How long in Wisconsin Dells or Breckenridge?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Breckenridge have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Breckenridge than in Wisconsin Dells. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Wisconsin Dells, and 3-7 days is enough time in Breckenridge.

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

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


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

One day in Wisconsin Dells or Breckenridge?

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.

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. 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 Breckenridge?

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.

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do 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 Breckenridge?

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.

Breckenridge is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. This ski resort 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 Breckenridge?

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.

Breckenridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. 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.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Breckenridge or Wisconsin Dells?

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

  • Wisconsin Dells Prices
    USA Prices
    Breckenridge Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Wisconsin Dells $174
    Breckenridge $301

The average daily cost (per person) in Wisconsin Dells is $174, while the average daily cost in Breckenridge is $301. 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 Wisconsin Dells and Breckenridge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wisconsin Dells $70
    Breckenridge $143
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wisconsin Dells $140
    Breckenridge $286
Compare Hotels in Wisconsin Dells and Breckenridge

Looking for a hotel in Wisconsin Dells or Breckenridge? 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 Wisconsin Dells


Hotels in Breckenridge


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: Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices and Breckenridge Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wisconsin Dells $35
    Breckenridge $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Wisconsin Dells or Breckenridge?

Prices for flights to both Breckenridge and Wisconsin Dells 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
    Wisconsin Dells $74
    Breckenridge $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Wisconsin Dells $46
    Breckenridge $82

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

Tours and Activities in Breckenridge

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Breckenridge are as follows:

  • Breckenridge Downtown Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour : $7.75
  • Smartphone Driving Tour b/w Breckenridge & Denver: $12
  • Self-Guided Breckenridge Scavenger Hunt: Breckenridge Adventure: $12
  • Breckenridge Tours - Strange but True: $33
  • Breckenridge Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Breckenridge Tours - Ghostly Tales : $35
  • Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more: $47
  • Astronomy Tour in Breckenridge : $59
  • Island Kayak Tour Experience in Frisco: $65
  • Half-Day Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling: $94
  • Ridden-Fall Foliage EBike Guided Tour of Breckenridge: $95
  • Self Guided Ebike Tour of Breckenridge Lake Loop: $108

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14
    Breckenridge $38

Sample the Local Flavors in Breckenridge

Also in Breckenridge, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ridden-Fall Foliage Breckenridge Fat Bike Beer & Distillery Tour: $85
  • Ridden-Breckenridge Fat Bike Beer and Distillery Tour: $85


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


Which is Bigger, Wisconsin Dells or Breckenridge?

Breckenridge has a larger population, and is about 16% larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Wisconsin Dells and Breckenridge, 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.