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

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or Sun Valley?

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

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Sun Valley? 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. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking. See Wisconsin Dells travel costs.

Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a outdoorsy, active, and adventurous town. The beauty of Sun Valley is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Sun Valley travel costs.

Wisconsin Dells and Sun Valley: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wisconsin Dells or Sun Valley?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sun Valley. Although Wisconsin Dells and Sun Valley are popular destinations, Sun Valley has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sun Valley is very popular for its skiing, food, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Wisconsin Dells attracts visitors for its nightlife. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Sun Valley and is known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Sun Valley is famous for its ski resorts as well as being the home of Ernest Hemingway. It is also well known for Sawtooth National Recreation Area.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from Sun Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Wisconsin Dells or Sun Valley Better for Skiing?

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

If you're an avid snow skiier, Sun Valley should be on your list. There are plenty of slopes that are accessible by lift as well as backcountry terrain for those who are more adventurous. The ski areas include Bald Mountain, which is next to Ketchum, and Dollar Mountain, by Sun Valley. Bald Mountain is best for advanced skiers and Dollar Mountain has options for beginners and intermediates.

Wisconsin Dells is not a skiing destination.

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

Plenty of people visit the reasonable sights and museums in both Wisconsin Dells and Sun Valley.

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 Sun Valley specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Museums in the area include the Sun Valley Museum of Art and the Wood River Museum of History and Culture.

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

Sun Valley is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Sun Valley. Many restaurants pride themselves in using local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. You'll find everything from cafes and bakeries to sushi, pizza, and Mediterranean.

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.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Sun Valley Better for Nightlife?

Wisconsin Dells is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Sun Valley is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Wisconsin Dells know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Sun Valley has a few options to choose from. It's a low key town with relaxing bars and breweries where you can enjoy a cold drink after a day on the slopes. It's not a party town that's high energy, but there are plenty of places where you can hang out in a mellow setting.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Sun Valley Better for Resorts?

Sun Valley is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Sun Valley is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The most popular place to stay is Sun Valley Lodge, but there are also other small lodges and hotels in the area.

Wisconsin Dells has a few great resort options. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Sun Valley Better for Hiking?

Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley. During the warmer months you'll enjoy miles of hiking trails in the area that take you by fields of wildflowers and to scenic mountain overlooks. White Cloud Trails is a relatively easy 4 mile trail that many visitors enjoy. Baker Lake and Taylor Canyon are also nice options.

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 Sun Valley?

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

Sun Valley offers some nice shopping areas. While most visitors spend their time adventuring outdoors, there are also plenty of shopping options in the area. Whether you need to pick up hiking or ski gear, or you want to browse some local boutiques, you'll find shops that meet your need.

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 Sun Valley More Beautiful?

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

The beauty of Sun Valley is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The resort town is surrounded by impressive mountains and pristine natural beauty.

Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Sun Valley Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Wisconsin Dells or Sun Valley.

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.

Sun Valley is one of the most popular family destinations. During the winter months there's skiing, ice skating, and other winter activities. During the warmer months families will enjoy riding the Roundhouse Express Gondola, hiking through the mountains, or horseback riding.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Sun Valley Better for Couples?

Sun Valley is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Sun Valley makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy winter sports and outdoor activities will love a romantic getaway to the area. There's also a charming downtown area that has great restaurants. In the surrounding countryside there's plenty of spectacular hikes that couples will enjoy as well.

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 Sun Valley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Sun Valley is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in the area and plenty of activities that appeal to the backpacker crowd.

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

Sun Valley is a great destination for its public transit. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Sun Valley can get you to some places easily. There are free shuttle buses that run through Wood River Valley including connections between the Village and Dollar and Bald Mountains. It's also connected to Ketchum and Elkhorn Springs.

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

Is Wisconsin Dells or Sun Valley a more walkable city?

Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley on foot is easy. It's easy to walk to almost anything you need if you stay at a conveniently located hotel.

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 Sun Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sun Valley or Wisconsin Dells?

How long in Wisconsin Dells or Sun Valley?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Sun Valley have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley.

Families should spend more time in Sun Valley than Wisconsin Dells. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Sun Valley, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley.

One day in Wisconsin Dells or Sun Valley?

With food and nightlife around the lighthearted city of Wisconsin Dells, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The adventurous destination of Sun Valley offers skiing and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Sun Valley?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Wisconsin Dells, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

The town of Sun Valley offers nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while 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 Sun Valley?

Wisconsin Dells, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sun Valley is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. This town 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 Sun Valley?

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The adventurous town of Sun Valley offers shopping and skiing. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Wisconsin Dells or Sun Valley?

Wisconsin Dells has a larger population, and is about 67% larger than the population of Sun Valley. When comparing the sizes of Wisconsin Dells and Sun Valley, 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.