A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Fort Lauderdale vs. Wisconsin Dells for Resorts, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a scenic, bustling, and spirited coastal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Wisconsin Dells

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

Fort Lauderdale and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale. Although Fort Lauderdale and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations, Fort Lauderdale has more sights and attractions for tourists. Fort Lauderdale is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Wisconsin Dells attracts visitors for its museums and hiking. Fort Lauderdale is famous for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also well known for The Local Beaches. Wisconsin Dells is famous for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Wisconsin Dells is a city with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Fort Lauderdale and Wisconsin Dells offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

Fort Lauderdale offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Fort Lauderdale know how to have a good time. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Fort Lauderdale is a great choice. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

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

Is Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Fort Lauderdale has a few good snorkeling spots. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Wisconsin Dells is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Wisconsin Dells is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Fort Lauderdale offers some nice shopping areas. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Wisconsin Dells is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Fort Lauderdale is very family-friendly. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Fort Lauderdale makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

Wisconsin Dells is a good coastal 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 Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Fort Lauderdale is a coastal 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 Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

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

Is Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale is a very walkable coastal city. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not a very walkable coastal 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 Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wisconsin Dells.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wisconsin Dells than Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells?

The spirited destination of Fort Lauderdale offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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.

The fun-filled destination of Wisconsin Dells 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.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells?

The coastal city of Fort Lauderdale offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

The city of Wisconsin Dells offers food and nightlife. 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.

Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells?

Fort Lauderdale is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This coastal city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Wisconsin Dells 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.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells?

The bustling coastal city of Fort Lauderdale offers shopping and nightlife. 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.

Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Wisconsin Dells. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Fort Lauderdale is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the summer temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in July average around 83°F (28°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 Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wisconsin Dells during summer. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Fort Lauderdale. In July, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Fort Lauderdale during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene 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.

In October, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 78°F (26°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in October than Wisconsin Dells. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Wisconsin Dells. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, 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. Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the winter. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 67°F (20°C) in January, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 19°F (-7°C).

In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during winter. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Wisconsin Dells. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the spring temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in April average around 75°F (24°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 Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the spring, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in April than Wisconsin Dells. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 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 Fort Lauderdale