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

Should you visit Houston 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 Houston 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.

Houston

Houston is a one-of-a-kind, diverse, and sprawling city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Wisconsin Dells

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

Houston and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Houston or Wisconsin Dells?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Houston than Wisconsin Dells, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Houston is better known for its museums, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Wisconsin Dells is more popular for its resorts and hiking. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Houston and is known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Houston is well known for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. Also, Houston is famous for The Space Center Houston.

How is Houston different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Houston
Wisconsin Dells

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

Houston offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's 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 Houston or Wisconsin Dells? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Houston
Wisconsin Dells

Foodies will find both Houston and Wisconsin Dells both to be notable destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Houston. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

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 Houston or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Houston
Wisconsin Dells

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

Houston is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

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 Houston or Wisconsin Dells Better for Music?

Houston
Wisconsin Dells

Houston is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Houston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Wisconsin Dells is not a live music destination.


Is Houston or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Houston
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a good destination for its resorts. However, Houston 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.

Houston is not a resort destination.

Is Houston or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Houston
Wisconsin Dells

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

Houston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Wisconsin Dells?

Houston
Wisconsin Dells

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

Houston offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

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 Houston or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Houston
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Houston 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Houston. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

Is Houston or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Houston
Wisconsin Dells

Houston and Wisconsin Dells both notable destinations for a couple.

Houston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

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 Houston or Wisconsin Dells Better for Students?

Houston
Wisconsin Dells

Houston is a popular place for students. However, Wisconsin Dells is not popular with students.

Houston is popular with students. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Wisconsin Dells is not popular with students.


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

Houston
Wisconsin Dells

Houston 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 Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

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

Is Houston or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Houston
Wisconsin Dells

Houston and Wisconsin Dells both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Houston is generally not very walkable. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very 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 Houston Worth Visiting? and Is Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Houston?

How long in Houston or Wisconsin Dells?

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

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


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

One day in Houston or Wisconsin Dells?

Houston is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Wisconsin Dells, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Houston or Wisconsin Dells?

Houston is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Wisconsin Dells, you'll find food and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Wisconsin Dells has to offer.

Five days in Houston or Wisconsin Dells?

Houston 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.

Wisconsin Dells is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Houston or Wisconsin Dells?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wisconsin Dells. Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Wisconsin Dells. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Houston?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Houston is $262, 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 Houston and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Houston $142
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Houston $284
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Houston and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Houston 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 Houston


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: Houston Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Houston $72
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) to Galveston Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $195
  • William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston - Arrival Private Transfer: $170
  • Arrival Private Transfer: George Bush Airport IAH to Houston in Business Car: $109
  • George Bush Airport (IAH) to Galveston Port - Arrival Transfer: $195
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $163
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH): Transfer to Houston: $352
  • Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Houston - Arrival Private Transfer: $82
  • Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $163
  • Houston to Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) - Departure Private Transfer: $82
  • Private Arrival Transfer From Houston IAH airport : $100
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Houston George Bush Airport (IAH): $51
  • Private One-way George Bush Airport Transfer To/From Houston: $71

Is it cheaper to fly into Houston or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Houston

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

  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $70
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $70
  • The Heights Food Tour in Houston: $76
  • Houston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $85
  • Houston Downtown: Secret Food Tours: $88
  • Howdy H-Town EADO Food Tour: $90
  • East Downtown Food Tour: $90
  • Houston Heights Culture and Food Tour: $95

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Houston $14
    Wisconsin Dells $46

Tours and Activities in Houston

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

  • Houston Tunnel Tour & NASA Space Center Ticket/Transportation : $5.00
  • Sights of Downtown Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.33
  • Houston Museum of Natural Sciences: Planetarium Ticket: $9.00
  • Downtown In App Audio Walking Tour: $9.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Houston by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Houston by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern History Tour: $12
  • Houston - Downtown: At your leisure and your pace. An audio walking tour. : $12
  • Houston Botanic Garden Entry Ticket: $13
  • Sightseeing Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Houston Rockets NBA Basketball Game Ticket: $16
  • Austin & Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17

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
    Houston $13
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Houston

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

  • Brewery Pass with Beer Tastings: $50
  • Private Houston Brewery Tour by Cart: $57
  • 2-Hour Downtown Brewery Tour by Electric Cart: $70
  • Downtown Houston Brewery Bike Tour : $71


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


Which is Bigger, Houston or Wisconsin Dells?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 830 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

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

Houston is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the summer. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. In July, Houston usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Houston 84°F (29°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Houston or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Houston during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Houston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Wisconsin Dells in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Houston is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Houston in October average around 71°F (22°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 52°F (11°C).

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Houston 71°F (22°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Houston or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Wisconsin Dells. Many visitors come to Houston in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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. In January, Houston is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 52°F (11°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 19°F (-7°C).

In January, Houston usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Houston 52°F (11°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Houston or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Houston as well as Wisconsin Dells. Most visitors come to Houston for the activities around the city during these months.

Houston is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the spring. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 70°F (21°C) in April, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

Houston usually gets more rain in April than Wisconsin Dells. Houston 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
    Houston 70°F (21°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Houston

Houston Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 4.8 inches (122 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)