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

Should you visit Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Baltimore and Wisconsin Dells can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a colorful, historic, and vibrant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a lighthearted, high energy, and fun-filled city. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and nightlife.

Baltimore and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
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 Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Baltimore than Wisconsin Dells, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Baltimore is better known for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Wisconsin Dells is more popular for its resorts and hiking. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Baltimore and is known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Baltimore is well known for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. Also, Baltimore is famous for the National Aquarium.

How is Baltimore different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Baltimore
Wisconsin Dells

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

Baltimore offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is known for its historic ships that are found in the Inner Harbor. There are many other museums around town as well like the American Visionary Art Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Many days can be filled exploring the many art, history, or science museums in the area.

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

Baltimore
Wisconsin Dells

Baltimore 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 Baltimore. The city's location near the Chesapeake Bay means that there are many great local seafood dishes. Blue crab is a regional favorite and is often served as crab soup, crab dip, or crab cakes. You'll find many famous restaurants in the Inner Harbor, but if you want something more local you should check out Little Italy or Fells Point.

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 Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Wisconsin Dells

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Baltimore and Wisconsin Dells.

Baltimore is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's a vibrant city with many night time activities like breweries, night clubs, and cocktail bars. There's even outside the box activities like ballroom dancing or arcade bars.

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.

Is Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Baltimore
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is very good for its resorts. However, Baltimore is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Wisconsin Dells makes a nice vacation spot. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.

Baltimore is not a resort destination.


Is Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Baltimore
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

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.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells?

Baltimore
Wisconsin Dells

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

Baltimore is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is a great way to experience the different neighborhoods around town. For high end shopping head to Harbor East. For a bit more history check out Federal Hill. Hampden is known for its quirky style and Fell's Point is particularly popular with tourists.

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 Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Baltimore
Wisconsin Dells

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

Wisconsin Dells is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Baltimore. The National Aquarium is a highlight for many families. It's an impressive aquarium with dolphins, sharks, puffins, and fish. Also in town is the Port Discovery Children’s Museum which has many interactive exhibits. The Maryland Science Center, the Maryland Zoo, and the many historic ships in the harbor also offer educational opportunities for kids. For something a bit different, check out Urban Pirates in the Inner Harbor.


Is Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Wisconsin Dells

Both Baltimore and Wisconsin Dells are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Baltimore makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most visitors spend the majority of their time around the Inner Harbor. There are restaurants and romantic hotels that are perfect for couples. The city also has many entertainment options and other activities that make for a great date night.

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 Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
Wisconsin Dells

Baltimore 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 Baltimore. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

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

Baltimore
Wisconsin Dells

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

Public transit in Baltimore can get you to some places easily. There are water taxis and a free downtown bus service that's called the Charm City Circulator. MTA also operates a metro and a light rail system.

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


Is Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Wisconsin Dells

Baltimore 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.

Baltimore is a very walkable city. The downtown area is the most walkable part of the city. In particular, the Inner Harbor and Fells Point are particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Baltimore 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 Baltimore, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wisconsin Dells.

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

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


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

One day in Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells?

The historic destination of Baltimore offers nightlife 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Wisconsin Dells. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells?

The city of Baltimore 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.

You'll find food and nightlife around the lighthearted destination of Wisconsin Dells. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells?

Baltimore 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fun-filled city of Wisconsin Dells. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Baltimore. 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 choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Baltimore?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Baltimore is $184, 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 Baltimore and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore 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 Baltimore


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: Baltimore Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

  • Airport Transfer BWI Airport to Baltimore Downtown Area Only: $160
  • Airport Transfer Baltimore/Washington International Airport BWI to Washington,DC: $240
  • BWI Airport: Transfer to Baltimore or Washington DC: $150
  • Baltimore City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $62
  • Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $92
  • Private Transfer to BWI or Washington DC/Airports: $160
  • Departure Private Transfer Baltimore to Baltimore Airport BWI - Business Vehicle: $111
  • Oakland to San Francisco Airport (SFO)-Departure Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $60
  • Private transfer To or Form Bethesda and Dulles International Airport: $209

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Baltimore 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
    Baltimore $46
    Wisconsin Dells $43
Typical Food Prices in Baltimore

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Baltimore:


  • Seafood Dinner (for 2) in Fells Point
    $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Baltimore

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

  • Inner Harbor Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner: $67
  • Federal Hill Food Tour: $71
  • Little Italy and Jonestown Food Tour: $73
  • Fells Point Food Tour in Baltimore: $74
  • Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Christmas Day Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Baltimore Signature Dinner Cruise: $101
  • Baltimore Buffet Dinner/Dance Cruise of the Inner Harbor: $119
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise : $126
  • Baltimore 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise: $194
  • Baltimore New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    Wisconsin Dells $46

Tours and Activities in Baltimore

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

  • Self-guided Waterfall Hiking Tour through Great Falls National Park: $5.00
  • Downtown Baltimore In-App Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Baltimore Orioles Baseball Game Ticket at Oriole Park: $12
  • Historic & Cultural Baltimore Self-Driving Audio Guided Tour: $14
  • Antietam National Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • Historical Baltimore Self-Driving Sightseeing Audio Tour: $17
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Baltimore Ghosts By US Ghost Adventures: $24
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25
  • The Original Fells Point Ghost Walk by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $30
  • Sights and Sips Private City Sightseeing Cruise: $31
  • Inner Harbor Sightseeing Cruise: $31

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
    Baltimore $17
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Baltimore

Also in Baltimore, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Original Fells Point Haunted Pub Tour by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $33
  • Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • From Patapsco Region Wine Tour with Lunch: $175


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Baltimore and Wisconsin Dells, we can see that Baltimore is more expensive. And not only is Wisconsin Dells much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Wisconsin Dells would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Wisconsin Dells 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 Baltimore would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Baltimore than you might in Wisconsin Dells.

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


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 250 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore 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 Baltimore 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 Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Baltimore for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Wisconsin Dells because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Baltimore is around the same temperature as Wisconsin Dells in the summer. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 78°F (25°C) in July, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Wisconsin Dells. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. Baltimore usually receives less sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during summer. Baltimore gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Baltimore. In July, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Baltimore during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year.

In the autumn, Baltimore is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Baltimore in October average around 57°F (14°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In the autumn, Baltimore often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Baltimore gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets more rain in October than Wisconsin Dells. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Wisconsin Dells. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Wisconsin Dells. It's quite cold in Baltimore in the winter. In January, Baltimore is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 32°F (0°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 19°F (-7°C).

Baltimore usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during winter. Baltimore gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Wisconsin Dells. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the activities around the city.

Baltimore is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the spring. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 54°F (12°C) in April, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 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 Baltimore this time of the year. In the spring, Baltimore often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Baltimore gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets more rain in April than Wisconsin Dells. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Baltimore

Baltimore Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)