A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Wisconsin Dells vs. Fairbanks for Families, Hiking, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks?

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

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks? 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.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a Arctic, unique, and outdoorsy city. The famous beauty of Fairbanks is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and hiking. See Fairbanks travel costs.

Wisconsin Dells and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wisconsin Dells. Although Wisconsin Dells and Fairbanks are both popular with visitors, Wisconsin Dells has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wisconsin Dells is more popular for its food, nightlife, and resorts, while Fairbanks is known for its skiing, museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Fairbanks and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. It is also home to Noah's Ark Water Park. Fairbanks is popular for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a skiing destination.

Fairbanks is a fun local destination for snow skiers. The closest ski areas are the ski resorts of Fort Wainwright/Birch Hill, Moose Mountain and Skiland. The area also has dog mushing, snowshoeing, sledding, tubing and sleigh riding.

Wisconsin Dells is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Fairbanks offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city is mostly known for its outdoor activities, but you can also visit the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center, the Aurora Ice Museum, Fountainhead Auto Museum, the Museum of the North, and Pioneer Park.

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 Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for its restaurants. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Fairbanks offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Food can be expensive and of varying quality, but many restaurants use local meats and seafood. There's a surprising number of international restaurants in town as well. Also make sure you try the local specialties like reindeer sausage, Yukon gold potatoes, and Alaskan salmon.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Wisconsin Dells is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fairbanks. You will find some bars around town, but for the most part, the city stays quiet at night.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Fairbanks 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.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks. While the town serves as a gateway to the Arctic and all that it has to offer, there are also hiking trails both in town and nearby. There are trails that connect the city's historic sites as well as day hikes that start at the edge of town.

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 Fairbanks?

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

Fairbanks offers some nice shopping areas. There are interesting local shops and boutiques that sell native Alaskan handmade items. You'll find "Made in Alaska" merchandise at many boutiques and souvenir shops. There are also larger retailers available in case you forgot clothing or other items at home.

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 Fairbanks More Beautiful?

Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks is one of the main draws. The city offers access to Alaska's interior, as well as the Arctic. The scenery is spectacular and the wildlife is abundant. Fairbanks is also the best place in Alaska to see the Northern Lights. They are best seen between the months of August and April.

Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Wisconsin Dells is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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 kid-friendly things to do in Fairbanks. Kids who enjoy searching for wildlife, playing in the snow, and exploring nature will love a visit to Fairbanks. Make sure you visit the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as well as Pioneer Park.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Wisconsin Dells and Fairbanks make for a good place to visit.

Wisconsin Dells makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are a number of resorts with spas and romantic atmospheres. There are also wineries and plenty of entertainment options in the area.

Fairbanks is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy hiking and nature will love a visit here. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, Fairbanks is your best destination in Alaska. Try to visit sometime between August to April for the best chance of enjoying the lights.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is a great destination for backpackers. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Fairbanks is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are many outdoor recreation areas where backpackers can explore. Alaska, and Fairbanks in particular, can have very harsh conditions, so unless you know what you're doing, it's best to take a guide.

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

Neither Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks. There is a public bus system that connects the downtown area with the shopping areas and the university. However, you really can't rely on it to explore the region and you should have your own vehicle.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Wisconsin Dells is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options 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.

Fairbanks is not a walkable city. The city was built for cars and there are very few walkable areas around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Wisconsin Dells?

How long in Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks. In our opinion, Fairbanks has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks. 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.

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

One day in Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks?

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Wisconsin Dells. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The unique destination of Fairbanks offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in 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.

A weekend in Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks?

You'll find food and nightlife around the high energy destination of Wisconsin Dells. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The city of Fairbanks offers museums and shopping. 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 Fairbanks?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lighthearted city of Wisconsin Dells. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Fairbanks is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Fairbanks?

Wisconsin Dells is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Fairbanks. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Fairbanks, we can see that Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Wisconsin Dells and Fairbanks, 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 Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks?

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 Fairbanks in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Wisconsin Dells as well as Fairbanks. The summer months attract visitors to Wisconsin Dells because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fairbanks this time of year.

In the summer, Wisconsin Dells is a little warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the summer temperatures in Wisconsin Dells in July average around 74°F (24°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 64°F (18°C).

Wisconsin Dells usually gets more rain in July than Fairbanks. Wisconsin Dells gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

Both Fairbanks and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Fairbanks. In October, Wisconsin Dells is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Wisconsin Dells average around 52°F (11°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

In October, Wisconsin Dells usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Wisconsin Dells gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and Wisconsin Dells during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Fairbanks in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Fairbanks can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Wisconsin Dells. Wisconsin Dells is much warmer than Fairbanks in the winter. The daily temperature in Wisconsin Dells averages around 19°F (-7°C) in January, and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

Wisconsin Dells usually gets more rain in January than Fairbanks. Wisconsin Dells gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Fairbanks in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Wisconsin Dells and Fairbanks. Furthermore, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the natural beauty during these months.

Fairbanks can be very cold during spring. In the spring, Wisconsin Dells is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the spring temperatures in Wisconsin Dells in April average around 49°F (10°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 32°F (0°C).

In April, Wisconsin Dells usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Wisconsin Dells gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Wisconsin Dells