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

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or Yosemite National Park?

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

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Yosemite 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 high energy, fun-filled, and lighthearted city. Other popular activities here include hiking, nightlife, and food. See Wisconsin Dells travel costs.

Yosemite National Park

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

Wisconsin Dells and Yosemite National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to El Capitan
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Yosemite National Park. Although Wisconsin Dells and Yosemite National Park are both popular with visitors, Yosemite National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Yosemite National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Wisconsin Dells is known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Wisconsin Dells is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Yosemite National Park is popular for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. It is also home to El Capitan.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Wisconsin Dells
Yosemite National Park

Wisconsin Dells is a moderate city for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Wisconsin Dells
Yosemite National Park

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Wisconsin Dells area. 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.

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

Wisconsin Dells
Yosemite National Park

Wisconsin Dells is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for nightlife.

Wisconsin Dells offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Yosemite National Park. There are some bars near the park that make a nice spot to grab a drink.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

Wisconsin Dells
Yosemite National Park

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

Yosemite National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

Wisconsin Dells
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

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 Yosemite National Park?

Wisconsin Dells
Yosemite National Park

Wisconsin Dells is a moderate city for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Yosemite National Park More Beautiful?

Wisconsin Dells
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park is one of the main draws. This park has a sense of natural beauty that's hard to find anywhere else in the world. The breathtaking landscapes, surreal waterfalls, and stunning granite rock formations are unlike any other park or setting.

Wisconsin Dells is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Wisconsin Dells or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

Wisconsin Dells
Yosemite National Park

Wisconsin Dells is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Yosemite National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its kid-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.

Yosemite National Park is a very family-friendly destination. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

Wisconsin Dells
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wisconsin Dells
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

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

Wisconsin Dells
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park 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 Yosemite National Park, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

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

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

Wisconsin Dells
Yosemite National Park

Wisconsin Dells and Yosemite National Park both are decent 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.

Yosemite National Park is generally not a very walkable city. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.

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

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

How long in Wisconsin Dells or Yosemite National Park?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park 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 Yosemite National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Wisconsin Dells or Yosemite National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4 
    Yosemite National Park 3-7

One day in Wisconsin Dells or Yosemite National Park?

The city of Wisconsin Dells offers food and nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The breathtaking destination of Yosemite National Park offers . People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Yosemite National Park?

The fun-filled destination of Wisconsin Dells offers nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wisconsin Dells. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Yosemite National Park is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Yosemite National Park?

Wisconsin Dells is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Wisconsin Dells. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

The stunning national park of Yosemite National Park offers . 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.


Which place is cheaper, Yosemite 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
    Yosemite National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Wisconsin Dells $174
    Yosemite National Park $158

The average daily cost (per person) in Wisconsin Dells is $174, while the average daily cost in Yosemite National Park is $158. 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 Yosemite National Park in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Wisconsin Dells or Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 and Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wisconsin Dells $35
    Yosemite National Park $41

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

Prices for flights to both Yosemite 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
    Yosemite National Park $69

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Wisconsin Dells $46
    Yosemite National Park $19

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 Yosemite National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Yosemite National Park are as follows:

  • Yosemite National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yosemite: $20
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Walking Tour: $140
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Hiking Tour: $140
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180
  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Yosemite Winter Highlights Small Group Tour: $200
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $210
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • Private Yosemite Valley Tour & Roosevelt Cookout: $270
  • Yosemite Team Building Adventure Hike: $293
  • Yosemite Family Explorers - Customizable Private Tour: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14
    Yosemite National Park $11


When comparing the travel costs between Wisconsin Dells and Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park Expensive?.