Make an enormous splash on your vacation. If you are to beat the summer heat and satisfy the temperature, then this is the city you need to go to. Titled the Waterpark Capital of the World, Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, is the home of almost 20 different water parks circling around this city. Each is jam-packed with slippery slidey fun suitable for you, kids, and kids-at-heart. Shaped by the currents and curves of the Wisconsin River, this City lies in a region of glacier-carved sandstone formations. Wisconsin also has some of the best resorts. Alternatively, you can also stay at cheap resorts if you’re traveling on a budget. So what are you waiting for? Get in the vacation mood and get ready for some thrilling activities. Use the listings below to find out about the best non-touristy things to do in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin.
1. Explore Witches Gulch
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you’re looking for things to do in places in Wisconsin Dells that are not water parks, then check out Witches Gulch. Nestled in southern Wisconsin, you’ll find a natural wonder in the form of stunning sandstone cliffs. Among them is the mesmerizing Witches Gulch.
These sandstone formations, originating from an ancient lakebed, have been shaped over millions of years. As the landscape transformed, the elements left their mark, sculpting a winding path through the sandstone that now manifests as a deep valley.
Embark on a short hike through the canyon, where you’ll encounter breathtaking moss-covered sights and narrow passageways. The sheer beauty of nature on display will leave you in awe. Access to this hidden gem is exclusively available through the Upper Dells Boat Tours, adding to the adventure and excitement.
Witches Gulch
Address: Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, 53965 United States.
Website: Witches Gulch
2. Take a stroll at the Riverwalk
If you are looking for unique things to do in Wisconsin Dells, experience the magic of the city with a leisurely stroll along the captivating Riverwalk. Discover the beauty of the Wisconsin River and its stunning sandstone bluffs, that have been made accessible to the public after 75 long years. This paved path offers stunning views and invites you to relax and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.
In 2022, a delightful addition was made to enhance the allure of the River Walk - the “Soul of the River” open-air art gallery. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Wisconsin Dells and its profound connection to the Wisconsin River through the lens of talented local photographer Joseph Leute.
Dells Scenic River Walk
Address: 100 Block Broadway Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965.
3. Ride the Hades Wooden Roller Coaster
Ride on the Hades Wooden Roller Coaster at Mt. Olympus. This Roller Coaster is a famous and crazy wooden ride at Mt. Olympus Water and Theme Park in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. It was initially known as Hades before the 360-degree roll was included in 2013. It is the biggest crazy ride in the recreation center.
Mt. Olympus - Hades Wooden Roller Coaster
Address: Mt. Olympus Water and Theme Park - 655 N Frontage Rd, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, USA
Website: Hades Wooden Roller Coaster
Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)
Price: 10 USD advance, 40 USD at the gate
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4. Circus fun in Baraboo
Have fun at the Circus World in Baraboo. You will have an exciting and amazing time with historical and entertaining aspects of this Circus World Museum showcasing the rich culture of the circus itself. There are original circus posters and props displayed to honor the culture and tradition of the circus around the world, here at Baraboo.
Baraboo
Address: 550 Water St, Baraboo, WI 53913, USA
Website: Baraboo
Opening hours: 9am - 4pm (daily)
Price: 4.95 USD
5. Enjoy homemade donuts
Taste the mouthwatering flavors of homemade donuts at Paul Bunyan Restaurant. They serve freshly baked pastries without preservatives. They are also famous for their warm, fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness from the first bite to the last. Choose your own flavors for your freshly baked and served donuts
Paul Bunyan Restaurant
Address: 411 State Hwy 13, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, USA
Website: Paul Bunyan Restaurant
Opening hours: 7am - 8pm (daily)
6. Enjoy a duck boat tour
Go on a duck boat and set sail as you discover nature’s gift to Wisconsin Dells. Discover and avail the sunset cruise and other exciting activities. Ride your jet-boats or take a tour and see the amazing river and sandstone cliffs around. Safety is their number one goal, so there is no need to worry because they will take care of your vacation experience
Dells Ducks
Address: 1550 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, USA
Website:Dells Ducks
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 27.18 USD
7. Horseback riding at Red Ridge Ranch
Ride a horse at Red Ridge Ranch. Found just 20 minutes away from the Wisconsin Dells, you can reach this ranch where you can enjoy fun activities such as the famous pony or horseback riding as well as family fun camp. There are also guided trail hikes which you can enjoy within the ranch. You can be one with nature and experience the fresh air and the beauty of the ranch. You can also take photographs which are essentially Instagram worthy.
Red Ridge Ranch
Address: W4881 Wisconsin 82(Near Dells, Mauston, WI 53948, United States
Website: Red Ridge Ranch
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 28.00 USD
8. Indulging in Wisconsin Dells' bow fishing
Try bow fishing at Wisconsin River and enjoy the delicious fish while experiencing such activities. You’ll enjoy fishing aboard boats and.stroll on the gorgeous Lake Michigan for quality fish aboard Sheboygan, Wisconsin’s all-time largest charter fishing fleet. The activity is safe and it has all the safety records and requirements as well as training to ensure quality satisfaction and enjoyment.
Fishing at Winconsin Dells' River
Address: 676 South Pier Drive Sheboygan, WI 53081
9. Exciting mini golf adventure
Experience the Mini Golf course at Timber Falls Adventure Golf. Enjoy the golf course with the exciting courses that will entertain almost all of the ages. The courses are challenging and that lets the golfers think of tactics for winning. It is just minutes away from the beautiful downtown of Wisconsin. Enjoy the 72-hole golf adventure now!
Timber Falls Adventure Golf
Address: 1000 Stand Rock Rd, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, USA
Website: Timber Falls Adventure Golf
Opening hours: 9am - 10pm (daily)
Price: 3.50 USD - 9 USD
10. Visit the Tommy Bartlett Exploratory Museum
Explore Tommy Bartlett Exploratory Museum. With 175 fun-filled interactive activities to cater to kids and kids at heart, this is the place to be if you want to visit a Science Exploratory Museum. One of the most exciting Wisconsin Dells attractions reborn in 2018, this is the place to be for fun and hands-on family activities. Feel the Russian and fun-filled space station and other science stuff. Indulge and be blown away by the exploratory machines and activities in this museum.
Tommy Bartlett Exploratory Museum
Address: 560 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy North Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965608-254-2525
Website: Tommy Bartlett Exploratory Museum
Opening hours: 9am - 9pm (daily)
Price: 15 USD
11. Old-fashioned lumberjack show
Participate in the Dells Lumberjack Show available for all the ages, featuring comedy and entertainment, and watch the old-fashioned lumberjacks show off their skills. Watch the lumberjacks compete in ax throwing, crosscut sawing, and speed climbing as well as some family-friendly comedy. Enjoy multiple shows as lumberjacks entertain you with their unique and special skills in the form of carving and cutting. There are multiple daily showtimes making it easy to fit into your vacation schedule. What are you waiting for? Book now and take part in this event.
Dells Lumberjack Show
Address: 411 State Hwy 13, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, United States
Website: Dells Lumberjack Show
12. Thrilling and mind-bending puzzles (from USD 30.0)
Solve a puzzle and add some thrill to your vacation while you take part in the puzzle Wisconsin Dells Puzzling Adventure. Gather up your vacation friends and take on this thrilling puzzle adventure. The puzzle is a two-hour walking adventure, with the use of your smartphones as a map. So what are you waiting for? Spice up your vacation and take part in this mind-bending puzzling adventure.
Wisconsin Dells Puzzling Adventure
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Fun-filled vacation in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
There are a lot of fun things to do while in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. Prepare your cameras and set your to-do list and all aboard to Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. The listing above should let your mind decide on the next destination you would want to go. You can also book a stay at a gorgeous cabin with a hot tub in the city.
Frequently asked questions about non-touristy things to do in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
1. Which unique activities in Wisconsin Dells can families with kids enjoy?
Families exploring with children can take a stroll on the river walk, ride the Hades Wooden Roller Coaster, have fun watching the circus in Baraboo, indulge in some homemade donuts, and go on a duck boat tour.
2. What outdoor recreational activities are available for adults at Wisconsin Dells?
Adults can enjoy mini golf adventures, horseback riding at Red Ridge Ranch, a duck boat tour, and explore Witches Gulch. Wisconsin has a lot more to offer than water parks. For your next adventure, do not miss out on these activities.
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