A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Wisconsin Dells vs. El Paso for Families, Nightlife, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or El Paso?

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

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or El Paso? 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 fun-filled, lighthearted, and high energy city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Wisconsin Dells travel costs.

El Paso

El Paso is a low-key, undiscovered, and laid-back city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See El Paso travel costs.

Wisconsin Dells and El Paso: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Wisconsin Dells or El Paso?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Wisconsin Dells. Although Wisconsin Dells and El Paso are popular destinations, Wisconsin Dells has more sights and attractions for tourists. Wisconsin Dells is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, and hiking, while El Paso attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and shopping. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than El Paso and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. It is also well known for Noah's Ark Water Park. El Paso is famous for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from El Paso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between El Paso 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 El Paso?

Wisconsin Dells
El Paso

El Paso is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

El Paso offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visitors can learn about local art, culture, and history at the El Paso Museum of Art, the El Paso Museum of History, the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Museum, and the Eduardo Pedregón Memorial Veterans Museum.

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 Wisconsin Dells or El Paso? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Wisconsin Dells
El Paso

Foodies will find both Wisconsin Dells and El Paso both to be nice 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.

El Paso is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Mexican food and barbecue are popular around town but you'll also find burgers, pizza, and other American favorites.

Is Wisconsin Dells or El Paso Better for Nightlife?

Wisconsin Dells
El Paso

Wisconsin Dells is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Wisconsin Dells has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

El Paso has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges around town where you can enjoy a fun night out.

Is Wisconsin Dells or El Paso Better for Resorts?

Wisconsin Dells
El Paso

Wisconsin Dells is very good for its luxury resorts. However, El Paso 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.

El Paso is not a resort destination.


Is Wisconsin Dells or El Paso Better for Hiking?

Wisconsin Dells
El Paso

Wisconsin Dells is very good for its hiking trails. However, El Paso is not a hiking destination.

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.

El Paso is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Wisconsin Dells or El Paso?

Wisconsin Dells
El Paso

El Paso is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its shopping areas.

El Paso offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of malls and outlet centers around town. One of the most well known is Bassett Place, but other options include Cielo Vista Mall and the Fountains at Farah.

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 El Paso Better for Families?

Wisconsin Dells
El Paso

Wisconsin Dells is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in El Paso. There are adventure parks, playgrounds, outdoor centers and nature activities that families can enjoy.


Is Wisconsin Dells or El Paso Better for Couples?

Wisconsin Dells
El Paso

Wisconsin Dells is very good for romance. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Wisconsin Dells is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of resorts with spas and romantic atmospheres. There are also wineries and plenty of entertainment options in the area.

Most people don't think of El Paso as a couple's destination. Couples can enjoy dinner and a show or taking a romantic drive up to the overlook.

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

Wisconsin Dells
El Paso

El Paso is a city 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 El Paso. While there are some bus routes in town, you shouldn't rely on them and must have a private vehicle to efficiently visit the city.

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

Is Wisconsin Dells or El Paso a more walkable city?

Wisconsin Dells
El Paso

Wisconsin Dells and El Paso both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

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.

El Paso is generally not a very walkable city. You really need a car to get around town.


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

Should I spend more time in El Paso or Wisconsin Dells?

How long in Wisconsin Dells or El Paso?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Wisconsin Dells or El Paso to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Wisconsin Dells than El Paso because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Wisconsin Dells, and 1-2 days is enough time in El Paso.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in El Paso 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 El Paso.


  • How many days in Wisconsin Dells or El Paso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4 
    El Paso 1-2

One day in Wisconsin Dells or El Paso?

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 low-key destination of El Paso offers nightlife and food. 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 El Paso?

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 city of El Paso offers food and shopping. 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 El Paso?

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.

El Paso is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Wisconsin Dells or El Paso?

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 museums and nightlife when visiting El Paso. 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.


Which place is cheaper, El Paso 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
    El Paso Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Wisconsin Dells $174
    El Paso $200

The average daily cost (per person) in Wisconsin Dells is $174, while the average daily cost in El Paso is $200. 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 El Paso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wisconsin Dells $70
    El Paso $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wisconsin Dells $140
    El Paso $162
Compare Hotels in Wisconsin Dells and El Paso

Looking for a hotel in Wisconsin Dells or El Paso? 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 El Paso


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 El Paso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wisconsin Dells $35
    El Paso $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in El Paso

Also for El Paso, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • El Paso Airport (ELP) to Truth or Consequences Arrival Transfer: $293
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Arrival Private Transfer : $67
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $134
  • El Paso to El Paso International Airport (ELP) - Departure Private Transfer: $67
  • Round Trip Transfer to Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta: $100

Is it cheaper to fly into Wisconsin Dells or El Paso?

Prices for flights to both El Paso 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
    El Paso $93

Typical Food Prices in El Paso

For El Paso, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Rudy's BBQ (family of 4)
    $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in El Paso

For El Paso, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Organ Mountains Sunset Dinner Trip: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Wisconsin Dells $46
    El Paso $27

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 El Paso

For El Paso, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Wraiths of the West Texas Wind: El Paso Ghost Tour: $24
  • Wraiths of the West Texas Wind: El Paso Ghost Tour: $26
  • Texas and New Mexico Bundle 4 day Self Guided National Park Tours: $40
  • El Paso Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $102
  • Private Downtown City Sightseeing Tour of Juarez Mexico: $120
  • Colorado Springs: Pikes Peak Jeep Tour: $130
  • Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Jeep Tour: $190
  • UTV Adventure Tour / Rental: $275

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14
    El Paso $27


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


Which is Bigger, Wisconsin Dells or El Paso?

El Paso has a larger population, and is about 230 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Wisconsin Dells and El Paso, 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.