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

Should you visit Austin or Wisconsin Dells?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Austin or Wisconsin Dells, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Austin

Austin is a lively, entrepreneurial, and eccentric city. It's a big city with many activities to entertain visitors, too. This is a very beautiful destination, too. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a fun-filled, lighthearted, and high energy city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Austin and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • 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 food
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Austin or Wisconsin Dells?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Austin. Although Austin and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations, Austin has more sights and attractions for tourists. Austin is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Wisconsin Dells attracts visitors for its resorts and hiking. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Austin and is known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Austin is famous for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. It is also well known for The Texas Capital.

How is Austin different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Austin
Wisconsin Dells

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

Austin offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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 Austin or Wisconsin Dells? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Austin
Wisconsin Dells

Austin is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Austin is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

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 Austin or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Austin
Wisconsin Dells

Austin is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Austin just to party. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

The nightlife in Wisconsin Dells has something for everybody. 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.

Is Austin or Wisconsin Dells Better for Music?

Austin
Wisconsin Dells

Austin is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Austin Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Wisconsin Dells is not a live music destination.


Is Austin or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Austin
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Austin is not a resort destination.

Wisconsin Dells has a handful of resorts to choose from. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.

Austin is not a resort destination.

Is Austin or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Austin
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for hiking.

Wisconsin Dells has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Is the Shopping Better in Austin or Wisconsin Dells?

Austin
Wisconsin Dells

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

Austin offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy 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 Austin or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Austin
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Wisconsin Dells is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Austin or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Austin
Wisconsin Dells

Austin and Wisconsin Dells are both nice to visit as a couple.

Austin is a nice destination for couples. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Wisconsin Dells makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are a number of resorts with spas and romantic atmospheres. There are also wineries and plenty of entertainment options in the area.

Is Austin or Wisconsin Dells Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin
Wisconsin Dells

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

Austin is a great city to visit for backpackers. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

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 Austin or Wisconsin Dells Better for Students?

Austin
Wisconsin Dells

Austin is a great destination for students. However, Wisconsin Dells is not popular with students.

Austin is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

Wisconsin Dells is not popular with students.

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

Austin
Wisconsin Dells

Austin is a city 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 Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

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

Is Austin or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Austin
Wisconsin Dells

Austin and Wisconsin Dells both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Austin is generally not very walkable. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Austin?

How long in Austin or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Austin or Wisconsin Dells. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Wisconsin Dells due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Austin, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wisconsin Dells.

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

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


  • How many days in Austin or Wisconsin Dells? Ideal Length of Stay
    Austin 2-3 
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4

One day in Austin or Wisconsin Dells?

The entrepreneurial destination of Austin offers live music and food. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Wisconsin Dells. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Austin or Wisconsin Dells?

The city of Austin offers food and shopping. 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.

Wisconsin Dells is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Austin or Wisconsin Dells?

Austin is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wisconsin Dells. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Austin or Wisconsin Dells?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Austin. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lighthearted destination of Wisconsin Dells. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Austin?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Austin is $142, 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 Austin and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Austin $56
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Austin $112
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Austin and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Austin 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 Austin


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: Austin Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Austin $47
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Austin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Austin:

  • Austin Airport Group Pickup / Transfer up to 1 hour away.: $150
  • Austin City to Austin-Bergstrom Airport (AUS) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
  • Austin International Airport (AUS) - Private Arrival transfer: $110
  • Austin International Airport (AUS) - Private Round trip transfer: $215
  • Austin-Bergstrom Airport (AUS) to Austin City - Arrival Private Transfer: $48
  • Austin-Bergstrom Airport (AUS) to Austin City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $96
  • Private Transfer Between Airport and Hotels: $80

Is it cheaper to fly into Austin or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Austin 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
    Austin $35
    Wisconsin Dells $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Austin

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Austin.

  • East Austin Food Tour: $44
  • Devour Downtown Austin Walking Food Tour: $80
  • Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour in Austin: $89
  • Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour in Austin: $89
  • Austin South Congress Walking Food Tour for Small Groups: $95
  • Secret Food Tour: $97
  • Austin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • Secret Food Tour of South Congress: $107
  • The Brunch Bus: Food Tour with a Live Band on Board the Bus!: $125
  • Private Guided Food Tour of Austin Neighborhoods: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Austin $28
    Wisconsin Dells $46
Typical Entertainment Prices in Austin

Here are a few typical costs in Austin for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Austin Duck Tour
    $31

Tours and Activities in Austin

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

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Round Rock by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Austin by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Austin,TX: Murder Mystery Detective Experience: $15
  • Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Austin, TX: $15
  • Downtown Austin Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Austin Trails Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Ghosts of Old Georgetown Walking Tour: $22
  • Downtown Austin Haunted History Tour: $24
  • Austin Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Ghost Maker Tour in Georgetown: Adults Only: $25
  • Family-Friendly Ghosts of Austin Tour: $25

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
    Austin $28
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Austin

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Austin:

  • Austin Bar Hunt: Sixth Street Spree: Austin Bar Crawl: $12
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Austin Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Downtown Live Music Pub Crawl: $35
  • Downtown Austin Live Music Pub Crawl: $35
  • Public Pedal Pub Tour in Austin: $39
  • Austin Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $45
  • From Texas Hill Country Brewery & Distillery Shuttle: $65
  • Half-Day Hill Country Brewery and Distillery Shuttle from Austin: $65
  • Private Austin Brewery Tour by Pedicab with All-Inclusive Beer Flight Option: $70
  • 4-Hour Austin Signature Brewery Tour: $100
  • The Brew Bus: Austin Brewery Tour with Live Band: $125


When comparing the travel costs between Austin and Wisconsin Dells, 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 Austin Expensive? and Is Wisconsin Dells Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Austin or Wisconsin Dells?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 280 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Austin 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 Austin or Wisconsin Dells?

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 Austin or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Austin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Austin in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Austin is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the summer temperatures in Austin in July average around 87°F (30°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 74°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Wisconsin Dells. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. Austin usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wisconsin Dells during summer. Austin gets 318 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Austin usually receives less rain than Wisconsin Dells. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Austin 87°F (30°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Austin or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Austin during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Austin for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Wisconsin Dells because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Austin is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 73°F (23°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Austin. In the autumn, Austin often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Austin gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun.

Austin usually gets more rain in October than Wisconsin Dells. Austin gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Austin 73°F (23°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Austin or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Austin and Wisconsin Dells. The winter months attract visitors to Austin because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year.

It's quite cold in Wisconsin Dells in the winter. Austin is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the winter. The daily temperature in Austin averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 19°F (-7°C).

Austin usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during winter. Austin gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Austin usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Austin 51°F (11°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Austin or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Austin as well as Wisconsin Dells. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Austin this time of year.

In the spring, Austin is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the spring temperatures in Austin in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 49°F (10°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wisconsin Dells. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Austin this time of the year. In the spring, Austin often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wisconsin Dells. Austin gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun.

Austin usually gets more rain in April than Wisconsin Dells. Austin gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Austin 71°F (22°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Austin

Austin Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 83°F (29°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 87°F (30°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 87°F (31°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 73°F (23°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2 inches (52 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)