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

Should you visit Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort 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.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a character-filled, southern, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Wisconsin Dells

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

Beaufort and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • 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 walkable


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Beaufort. Although Beaufort and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations, Beaufort has more sights and attractions for tourists. Beaufort is very popular for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Wisconsin Dells attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, and hiking. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Beaufort and is known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Beaufort is famous for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. It is also well known for Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

How is Beaufort different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Beaufort
Wisconsin Dells

Beaufort is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

Beaufort offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.

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

Beaufort
Wisconsin Dells

Beaufort 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 Beaufort. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

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 Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is notable for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Wisconsin Dells has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Beaufort
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Beaufort 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.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.


Is Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Wisconsin Dells

Beaufort is a popular place for the beache. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Beaufort is a good option for a beach vacation. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Wisconsin Dells

Beaufort is a great destination for its old town. However, Wisconsin Dells does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Beaufort. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Wisconsin Dells does not have a historic old town.

Is Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Beaufort
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

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.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells?

Beaufort
Wisconsin Dells

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

Beaufort offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

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 Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Beaufort
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is renowned for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town 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.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.

Is Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Wisconsin Dells

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

Couples visit Beaufort frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

Wisconsin Dells is a good town 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 Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beaufort
Wisconsin Dells

Neither Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.

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

Is Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Wisconsin Dells

Beaufort 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.

Beaufort is a very walkable town. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not a very walkable town. 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 Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Beaufort 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, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wisconsin Dells.

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


  • How many days in Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4

One day in Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells?

Beaufort is a small town with plenty to do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The city of Wisconsin Dells offers food and nightlife. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells?

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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.

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Wisconsin Dells, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Wisconsin Dells is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells?

Since Beaufort is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Beaufort?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaufort is $131, 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 Beaufort and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort 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 Beaufort


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: Beaufort Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Beaufort 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
    Beaufort $31
    Wisconsin Dells $43

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

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Beaufort are as follows:

  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $29
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55

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
  • Haunted History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells: $25

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


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


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells?

Beaufort has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort 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 Beaufort 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 Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Wisconsin Dells. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, 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, Beaufort is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beaufort in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 74°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wisconsin Dells this time of the year. In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaufort usually receives less sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during summer. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun in the summer.

Beaufort gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Wisconsin Dells. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, 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, Beaufort is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 68°F (20°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In the autumn, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets more rain in October than Wisconsin Dells. Beaufort 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
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Beaufort 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. Beaufort is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the winter. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 48°F (9°C) in January, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 19°F (-7°C).

Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during winter. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Beaufort 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
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Beaufort during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year.

In the spring, Beaufort is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beaufort in April average around 67°F (19°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 49°F (10°C).

In Wisconsin Dells, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Beaufort. In the spring, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets more rain in April than Wisconsin Dells. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Beaufort

Beaufort Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)