A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Wisconsin Dells vs. Niagara Falls for Families, Nightlife, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or Niagara Falls?

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

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Niagara Falls? 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.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a breathtaking, impressive, and iconic city. The beauty of Niagara Falls is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Niagara Falls travel costs.

Wisconsin Dells and Niagara Falls: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wisconsin Dells or Niagara Falls?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Niagara Falls than Wisconsin Dells, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Niagara Falls is better known for its hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Wisconsin Dells is more popular for its nightlife and resorts. Wisconsin Dells is well known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Niagara Falls is well known for the large volume of water that flows over it. Also, Niagara Falls is famous for the Journey Behind the Falls.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from Niagara Falls?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls?

Plenty of people visit the respectable sights and museums in both Wisconsin Dells and Niagara Falls.

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.

While most people don't head to Niagara Falls specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The Niagara Falls History Museum is one of the best museums in the area. There are also more touristy museums and attractions that you can visit as well. There's also a butterfly conservancy that is worth checking out.

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

Foodies will find both Wisconsin Dells and Niagara Falls 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.

Niagara Falls is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's an iconic Canadian destination so, of course, you should try all things Canadian while you're in town. Maple syrup, poutine, butter tart, and beavertail (fried dough) are all things that should be on your list. Also make sure you sample some of the local game meat.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Niagara Falls Better for Nightlife?

Wisconsin Dells is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Wisconsin Dells has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Niagara Falls. There's a decent concentration of clubs, pubs, and bars around town that keep things fun late into the evening.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Niagara Falls Better for Resorts?

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for its resorts. However, Niagara Falls is not a resort destination.

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.

Niagara Falls is not a resort destination.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Niagara Falls Better for Hiking?

Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls. The nearby area is filled with hiking trails that let you escape into nature and enjoy impressive views.

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 Niagara Falls?

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

Niagara Falls offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find touristy souvenir shops as well as outlets and malls nearby.

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 Niagara Falls More Beautiful?

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

The beauty of Niagara Falls is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's an impressive sight and the Canadian side offers the best views. It's definitely something you should try and see at least once.

Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Niagara Falls Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Wisconsin Dells or Niagara Falls.

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.

Niagara Falls is one of the most popular family destinations. The views and setting are spectacular, and kids will love the boat tours or taking a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car. There's also an indoor waterpark, a butterfly conservatory, and plenty of nature to explore.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Niagara Falls Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Niagara Falls frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The setting has long brought to mind romance, and to this day couples still honeymoon at this iconic destination. There are boat tours, nature trails, luxury hotels, and even wineries to explore.

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 Niagara Falls Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls. There's a hostel or two where you can stay for cheap and meet other travelers.

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

Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system through town.

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

Is Wisconsin Dells or Niagara Falls a more walkable city?

Niagara Falls is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Niagara Falls is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the attractions and close together by the falls, so it's relatively walkable.

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 Niagara Falls Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Niagara Falls or Wisconsin Dells?

How long in Wisconsin Dells or Niagara Falls?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls.

One day in Wisconsin Dells or Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the high energy destination of Wisconsin Dells. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The impressive destination of Niagara Falls offers food and shopping. 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 Niagara Falls?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wisconsin Dells. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The city of Niagara Falls offers shopping and nightlife. 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 Niagara Falls?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lighthearted destination of Wisconsin Dells. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls?

You'll find food and nightlife around the city of Wisconsin Dells. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Niagara Falls. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Wisconsin Dells and Niagara Falls, we can see that Wisconsin Dells is more expensive. And not only is Niagara Falls much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Niagara Falls would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls.

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 Niagara Falls Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Wisconsin Dells or Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Wisconsin Dells and Niagara Falls, 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 Niagara Falls?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Niagara Falls in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Wisconsin Dells and Niagara Falls. The summer months attract visitors to Wisconsin Dells because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Niagara Falls this time of year.

Wisconsin Dells is around the same temperature as Niagara Falls in the summer. The daily temperature in Wisconsin Dells averages around 74°F (24°C) in July, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Niagara Falls this time of the year. In Wisconsin Dells, it's very sunny this time of the year. Wisconsin Dells usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Niagara Falls during summer. Wisconsin Dells gets 309 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Wisconsin Dells usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Wisconsin Dells gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Niagara Falls in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Wisconsin Dells as well as Niagara Falls. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Niagara Falls for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Wisconsin Dells is around the same temperature as Niagara Falls. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Wisconsin Dells in October average around 52°F (11°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Wisconsin Dells often gets more sunshine than Niagara Falls. Wisconsin Dells gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 148 hours of full sun.

Wisconsin Dells usually gets less rain in October than Niagara Falls. Wisconsin Dells gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Niagara Falls in the Winter?

Both Niagara Falls and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Niagara Falls in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Niagara Falls can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Wisconsin Dells. In January, Wisconsin Dells is generally much colder than Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Wisconsin Dells average around 19°F (-7°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around -4°C (26°F).

Wisconsin Dells usually receives more sunshine than Niagara Falls during winter. Wisconsin Dells gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 89 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Wisconsin Dells usually receives less rain than Niagara Falls. Wisconsin Dells gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Niagara Falls in the Spring?

Both Niagara Falls and Wisconsin Dells during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, most visitors come to Niagara Falls for the natural beauty during these months.

Wisconsin Dells is around the same temperature as Niagara Falls in the spring. The daily temperature in Wisconsin Dells averages around 49°F (10°C) in April, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In Niagara Falls, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Wisconsin Dells. In the spring, Wisconsin Dells often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Niagara Falls. Wisconsin Dells gets 208 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 203 hours of full sun.

Wisconsin Dells usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Niagara Falls. Wisconsin Dells gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Niagara Falls and Wisconsin Dells