A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Wisconsin Dells vs. Sequoia National Park for Hiking, Families, Backpackers, and Couples

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or Sequoia National Park?

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

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Sequoia National Park? 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.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a impressive, magical, and breathtaking national park. The famous beauty of Sequoia National Park is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Sequoia National Park travel costs.

Wisconsin Dells and Sequoia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the General Sherman tree
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Wisconsin Dells or Sequoia National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sequoia National Park. Although Wisconsin Dells and Sequoia National Park are popular destinations, Sequoia National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sequoia National Park is very popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Wisconsin Dells attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, and resorts. Wisconsin Dells is famous for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Sequoia National Park is famous for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. It is also well known for the General Sherman tree.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from Sequoia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sequoia National Park 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 Sequoia National Park?

Wisconsin Dells
Sequoia National Park

Plenty of people visit the reasonable sights and museums in both Wisconsin Dells and Sequoia National Park.

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 Sequoia National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.


Is the Food Better in Wisconsin Dells or Sequoia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Wisconsin Dells
Sequoia National Park

Wisconsin Dells is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Sequoia National Park. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets in the park where you can pick up food. Some options are only open seasonally so check in advance to make sure you understand the options.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Wisconsin Dells
Sequoia National Park

Wisconsin Dells is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Sequoia National Park. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Wisconsin Dells
Sequoia National Park

Wisconsin Dells is a city with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its resorts.

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.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Sequoia National Park offers a few options. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.


Is Wisconsin Dells or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Wisconsin Dells
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Sequoia National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking options range from day hiking to overnight backpacking. The hikes can be easy and accessible or more challenging, but whatever your style, you're sure to be amazed by this spectacular setting. The trails wander through high reaching trees or along steep canyons. Some of the most popular trails include Big Trees Trail, Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, Congress Trail, Tokopah Falls Trail, Hazelwood Nature Trail, Alta Peak Trail, and the High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow.

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 Sequoia National Park?

Wisconsin Dells
Sequoia National Park

Shopping is a popular activity in both Sequoia National Park and Wisconsin Dells.

If you're looking to go shopping, Wisconsin Dells has some nice offerings. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers, as well as gift shops in the area.

Sequoia National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are markets within the park.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Sequoia National Park More Beautiful?

Wisconsin Dells
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park 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 Sequoia National Park is one of the main draws. The spectacular trees tower over you and the setting is simply magical. There are world class hikes and settings that will leave you in awe.

Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Wisconsin Dells or Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Wisconsin Dells
Sequoia National Park

Wisconsin Dells is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sequoia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Wisconsin Dells is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Sequoia National Park is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy driving through the tunnel log and gazing up at the impressive trees. It feels like a fairytale world where even adults can run around and embrace their inner child. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Wisconsin Dells
Sequoia National Park

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

Couples visit Sequoia National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and camping will embrace the opportunity to visit the spectacular national park. There are beautiful romantic hikes and sunset views that will take your breath away.

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 Sequoia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wisconsin Dells
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Sequoia National Park. Backpacking through the park will let you experience places that most visitors don't make it to. This is the best way to truly enjoy the nature, serenity, and beauty of the park.

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 Sequoia National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Wisconsin Dells
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a national park 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 Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.

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

Is Wisconsin Dells or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Wisconsin Dells
Sequoia National Park

Wisconsin Dells and Sequoia National Park 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.

Sequoia National Park is generally not a very walkable city. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.

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

Should I spend more time in Sequoia National Park or Wisconsin Dells?

How long in Wisconsin Dells or Sequoia National Park?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sequoia National Park 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 Sequoia National Park.


  • How many days in Wisconsin Dells or Sequoia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4 
    Sequoia National Park 2-7

One day in Wisconsin Dells or Sequoia National Park?

In Wisconsin Dells, you'll find nightlife and food. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The surreal destination of Sequoia National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It's no surprise that hiking 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 Sequoia National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wisconsin Dells. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

The national park of Sequoia National Park offers . 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 Sequoia National Park?

Wisconsin Dells is a fun place to experience. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sequoia National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This national park 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 Sequoia National Park?

You'll find food and nightlife around the lighthearted destination of Wisconsin Dells. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

The magical national park of Sequoia National Park offers . Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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, Sequoia National Park 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
    Sequoia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Wisconsin Dells $174
    Sequoia National Park $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Wisconsin Dells is $174, while the average daily cost in Sequoia National Park is $152. 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 Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wisconsin Dells $70
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wisconsin Dells $140
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Wisconsin Dells and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Wisconsin Dells or Sequoia National Park? 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 Sequoia National Park


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wisconsin Dells $35
    Sequoia National Park $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Wisconsin Dells or Sequoia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Sequoia National Park 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
    Sequoia National Park $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Wisconsin Dells $46
    Sequoia National Park $31

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 Sequoia National Park

For Sequoia National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Kings Canyon National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon NP Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Audio Tour Self Guide National Park Tour: $20
  • Sequoia National Park Small-Group Tour from Wuksachi Lodge: $283
  • Sequoia National Park Small Group Tour from Three Rivers.: $289
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14
    Sequoia National Park $7.84


When comparing the travel costs between Wisconsin Dells and Sequoia National Park, we can see that Wisconsin Dells 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 Sequoia National Park Expensive?.


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