A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Alexandria vs. Wisconsin Dells for Families, Attractions, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Alexandria and Wisconsin Dells. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a historic, charming, and quaint city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a high energy, fun-filled, and lighthearted city. It's also popular because of the hiking, nightlife, and food.

Alexandria and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Vernon
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Alexandria. Although Alexandria and Wisconsin Dells are both popular with visitors, Alexandria has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Alexandria is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Wisconsin Dells is known for its nightlife, resorts, and hiking. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Alexandria and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Alexandria is popular for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. It is also home to Mount Vernon.

How is Alexandria different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Alexandria
Wisconsin Dells

Alexandria is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

Alexandria offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

While most people don't head to Wisconsin Dells specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. 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.


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

Alexandria
Wisconsin Dells

Dining out at restaurants in both Alexandria and Wisconsin Dells can be an enjoyable experience.

Alexandria is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

Wisconsin Dells offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Alexandria
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is great for its evening party scene. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Wisconsin Dells for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alexandria. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

Is Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Alexandria
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Alexandria is not a resort destination.

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

Alexandria is not a resort destination.


Is Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria
Wisconsin Dells

Alexandria is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Wisconsin Dells does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Alexandria is revered around the world. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Wisconsin Dells does not have a historic old town.

Is Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Alexandria
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a good destination for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Wisconsin Dells offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells?

Alexandria
Wisconsin Dells

Alexandria is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Alexandria is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

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 Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Alexandria
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Wisconsin Dells is very family-friendly. 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.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.

Is Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Alexandria
Wisconsin Dells

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

Couples visit Alexandria frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

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 Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria
Wisconsin Dells

Alexandria is a popular place for backpackers. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

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 Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alexandria
Wisconsin Dells

Alexandria is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Alexandria can get you around easily. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

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

Is Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Alexandria
Wisconsin Dells

Alexandria 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 Alexandria on foot is easy. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

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 Alexandria Worth Visiting? and Is Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells. In our opinion, Alexandria has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Alexandria than Wisconsin Dells. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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


  • How many days in Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alexandria 2-4 
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4

One day in Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells?

The historic destination of Alexandria offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

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.


A weekend in Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells?

The city of Alexandria offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

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.

Five days in Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells?

Alexandria is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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.

A week in Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Alexandria. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Alexandria?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Alexandria is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Wisconsin Dells is $142. 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 Alexandria and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alexandria $38
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alexandria $76
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Alexandria and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells? 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 Alexandria


Hotels in Wisconsin Dells


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: Alexandria Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Alexandria 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
    Alexandria -
    Wisconsin Dells $43

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Wisconsin Dells $46

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Alexandria.

  • Old Town Alexandria Tour: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Phantoms of the Potomac Walking Tour: $26
  • American Revolution Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • A Walk in Washington's Footsteps History Tour: $32
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $38
  • Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat: $68
  • Old Town Southern Comfort Food & History Tour: $127
  • Private Tour of George Washington's Mount Vernon: $165
  • Philadelphia Tour from Alexandria by Rail: $329

Tours and Activities in Wisconsin Dells

Here are a few actual costs in Wisconsin Dells for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • City and History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alexandria -
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Alexandria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Alexandria:

  • Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Alexandria Expensive? and Is Wisconsin Dells Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells?

Alexandria has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Wisconsin Dells, 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 Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Wisconsin Dells. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Alexandria is generally a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 79°F (26°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wisconsin Dells. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alexandria this time of the year. In the summer, Alexandria often gets less sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Alexandria gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets more rain in July than Wisconsin Dells. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Alexandria for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Wisconsin Dells in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Alexandria is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the autumn. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Alexandria usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during autumn. Alexandria gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Alexandria during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Alexandria in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Wisconsin Dells for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Wisconsin Dells can be very cold during winter. Alexandria can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Alexandria is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the winter temperatures in Alexandria in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 19°F (-7°C).

In the winter, Alexandria often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wisconsin Dells. Alexandria gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets more rain in January than Wisconsin Dells. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Wisconsin Dells. Most visitors come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Alexandria is generally a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 56°F (14°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wisconsin Dells this time of the year. In Alexandria, it's very sunny this time of the year. Alexandria usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during spring. Alexandria gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Alexandria

Alexandria Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)