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

Should you visit Destin 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 Destin and Wisconsin Dells can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a beautiful, relaxing, and peaceful beach town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food.

Wisconsin Dells

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

Destin and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Destin or Wisconsin Dells?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Wisconsin Dells. Although Destin and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations, Wisconsin Dells has more sights and attractions for tourists. Wisconsin Dells is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and hiking, while Destin attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Destin and is known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. It is also well known for Noah's Ark Water Park. Destin is famous for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants.

How is Destin different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Wisconsin Dells is a moderate city for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Wisconsin Dells offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. 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.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Destin and Wisconsin Dells.

Destin offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Wisconsin Dells has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Destin or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Wisconsin Dells is notable for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach 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.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Destin is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Destin is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

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

Is Destin or Wisconsin Dells Better for Beaches?

Destin is a great destination for the beache. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Destin is considered a top beach destination. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is Destin or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Wisconsin Dells is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin 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.

Destin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Destin offers some nice shopping areas. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

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 Destin or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Wisconsin Dells is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Destin is very family-friendly. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

Is Destin or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Both Destin and Wisconsin Dells are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Destin is a nice destination for couples. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

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

Neither Destin or Wisconsin Dells offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

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

Is Destin or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Wisconsin Dells is a moderate city for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not very walkable. While the downtown area is walkable, you really need a car to access everything that the area has to offer.

Destin is not a very walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

For even more information, also check out Is Destin Worth Visiting? and Is Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Destin?

How long in Destin or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Destin or Wisconsin Dells. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Destin due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wisconsin Dells.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wisconsin Dells than Destin 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 Wisconsin Dells.

One day in Destin or Wisconsin Dells?

The relaxing destination of Destin offers food and shopping. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Destin or Wisconsin Dells?

The beach town of Destin offers shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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 Destin or Wisconsin Dells?

Destin is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This beach town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Destin or Wisconsin Dells?

The relaxing beach town of Destin offers shopping and food. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Destin and Wisconsin Dells, we can see that Destin 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 Destin would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Destin 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 Destin Expensive? and Is Wisconsin Dells Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Destin or Wisconsin Dells?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Wisconsin Dells. Most visitors come to Destin for the beaches 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.

In the summer, Destin is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the summer temperatures in Destin in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 74°F (24°C).

Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Destin usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Destin or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Destin as well as Wisconsin Dells. The autumn months attract visitors to Destin because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year.

In October, Destin is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 69°F (21°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Destin receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Destin usually gets more rain in October than Wisconsin Dells. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Also, 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. Destin is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the winter. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 50°F (10°C) in January, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 19°F (-7°C).

It's quite rainy in Destin. In January, Destin usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Destin or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Destin during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Destin for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Destin is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the spring temperatures in Destin in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 49°F (10°C).

Destin usually gets more rain in April than Wisconsin Dells. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Destin