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

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or Whistler?

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

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Whistler? 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.

Whistler

Whistler is a outdoorsy, charming, and adventurous village. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Whistler travel costs.

Wisconsin Dells and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wisconsin Dells or Whistler?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Whistler. Although Wisconsin Dells and Whistler are popular destinations, Whistler has more sights and attractions for tourists. Wisconsin Dells is famous for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Whistler is famous for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also well known for Cloudraker Skybridge.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Wisconsin Dells or Whistler Better for Skiing?

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

If you're an avid snow skiier, Whistler should be on your list. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Wisconsin Dells is not a skiing destination.

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

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

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 Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

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

Whistler 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 Whistler. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

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 Whistler Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Wisconsin Dells or Whistler has a better nightlife scene.

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.

The nightlife in Whistler has something for everybody. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Whistler Better for Resorts?

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

Whistler is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

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 Whistler Better for Hiking?

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

People visit Whistler specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

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 Whistler?

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

Whistler offers some nice shopping areas. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

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 Whistler More Beautiful?

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

The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Whistler Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Wisconsin Dells or Whistler.

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.

Whistler is one of the most popular family destinations. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Whistler Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Whistler frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

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 Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Whistler is a great village to visit for backpackers. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget 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 Whistler Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Whistler is a village 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 Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

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

Is Wisconsin Dells or Whistler a more walkable city?

Whistler is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Whistler is a very walkable village. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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 Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Wisconsin Dells?

How long in Wisconsin Dells or Whistler?

In either Wisconsin Dells or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Whistler than Wisconsin Dells because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Wisconsin Dells, and 3-5 days is enough time in Whistler.

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

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

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

One day in Wisconsin Dells or Whistler?

The city of Wisconsin Dells offers food and nightlife. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The charming destination of Whistler offers skiing and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Whistler?

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Wisconsin Dells, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

The village of Whistler 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 Whistler?

Wisconsin Dells is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Whistler is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This village 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 Whistler?

Wisconsin Dells is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Whistler. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

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

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 Whistler Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Wisconsin Dells or Whistler?

Whistler has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Wisconsin Dells and Whistler, 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 Whistler?

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 Whistler in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Wisconsin Dells and Whistler. Many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Whistler in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Wisconsin Dells is generally a little warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Wisconsin Dells average around 74°F (24°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Whistler 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 Whistler during summer. Wisconsin Dells gets 309 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Wisconsin Dells usually receives more rain than Whistler. Wisconsin Dells gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Whistler in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Wisconsin Dells as well as Whistler. Many visitors come to Wisconsin Dells in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Whistler for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Wisconsin Dells is around the same temperature as Whistler in the autumn. The daily temperature in Wisconsin Dells averages around 52°F (11°C) in October, and Whistler fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Wisconsin Dells often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Wisconsin Dells gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Wisconsin Dells usually gets less rain in October than Whistler. Wisconsin Dells gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Whistler in the Winter?

Both Whistler and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Wisconsin Dells for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Whistler because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Whistler can be very cold. Wisconsin Dells can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Wisconsin Dells is much colder than Whistler. Typically, the winter temperatures in Wisconsin Dells in January average around 19°F (-7°C), and Whistler averages at about 4°C (40°F).

Wisconsin Dells usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during winter. Wisconsin Dells gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. In January, Wisconsin Dells usually receives less rain than Whistler. Wisconsin Dells gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Whistler in the Spring?

Both Whistler and Wisconsin Dells during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

In April, Wisconsin Dells is generally around the same temperature as Whistler. Daily temperatures in Wisconsin Dells average around 49°F (10°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Wisconsin Dells. In the spring, Wisconsin Dells often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Wisconsin Dells gets 208 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun.

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Wisconsin Dells usually gets less rain in April than Whistler. Wisconsin Dells gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Wisconsin Dells