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

Should you visit Memphis or Wisconsin Dells?

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

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

Memphis

Memphis is a creative, laid-back, and soulful city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a high energy, fun-filled, and lighthearted city. It's also popular because of the hiking, nightlife, and food.

Memphis and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 with backpackers


Is there more to do in Memphis or Wisconsin Dells?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Memphis. Although Memphis and Wisconsin Dells are both popular with visitors, Memphis has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Memphis is more popular for its museums, music, and big city activities, while Wisconsin Dells is known for its resorts and hiking. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Memphis and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Memphis is popular for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. It is also home to Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Memphis different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Memphis
Wisconsin Dells

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

Memphis offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.

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

Memphis
Wisconsin Dells

Foodies will find both Memphis and Wisconsin Dells both to be good destinations.

Memphis is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

Wisconsin Dells offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Memphis or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Memphis
Wisconsin Dells

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find very good options in both Memphis and Wisconsin Dells.

The nightlife in Memphis has something for everybody. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

Wisconsin Dells offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Memphis or Wisconsin Dells Better for Music?

Memphis
Wisconsin Dells

Memphis is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Memphis There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Wisconsin Dells is not a live music destination.


Is Memphis or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Memphis
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Memphis is not a resort destination.

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

Memphis is not a resort destination.

Is Memphis or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Memphis
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Memphis 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.

Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Wisconsin Dells?

Memphis
Wisconsin Dells

If you're looking to go shopping, Memphis and Wisconsin Dells both offer plenty of decent spots.

Memphis has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Wisconsin Dells is a good destination for shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers, as well as gift shops in the area.


Is Memphis or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Memphis
Wisconsin Dells

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

Memphis is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Is Memphis or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Memphis
Wisconsin Dells

Memphis and Wisconsin Dells are both good to visit as a couple.

Memphis is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.

Wisconsin Dells is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of resorts with spas and romantic atmospheres. There are also wineries and plenty of entertainment options in the area.

Is Memphis or Wisconsin Dells Better for Students?

Memphis
Wisconsin Dells

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

Memphis is popular with students. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Wisconsin Dells is not popular with students.


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

Memphis
Wisconsin Dells

Memphis 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 Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

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

Is Memphis or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Memphis
Wisconsin Dells

Memphis is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Memphis is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Memphis?

How long in Memphis or Wisconsin Dells?

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

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

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


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

One day in Memphis or Wisconsin Dells?

The soulful destination of Memphis offers nightlife and live music. It's no surprise that live music 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.

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 Memphis or Wisconsin Dells?

The city of Memphis offers live music and food. 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 Memphis or Wisconsin Dells?

Memphis is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. 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 Memphis or Wisconsin Dells?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Memphis. 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 Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Memphis?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Memphis is $167, 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 Memphis and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Memphis $84
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Memphis $168
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Memphis and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Memphis 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 Memphis


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: Memphis Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Memphis $59
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

Also for Memphis, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $133
  • Memphis Airport Transfers: $60
  • Guided Tour with Riverboat Cruise & Hotel Transfers: $339
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Departure Transfer to Memphis Airport MEM: $72

Is it cheaper to fly into Memphis or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Memphis:


  • Baskin Robins (for 2)
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Memphis

For Memphis, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Memphis $45
    Wisconsin Dells $46

Tours and Activities in Memphis

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Memphis.

  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Beale Street: $6.50
  • Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Downtown In-App Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Memphis by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure City Game on Your Phone: $10
  • Entry Ticket to the Edge Motor Museum: $10
  • Rock 'n' Soul Museum with Audio Tour: $11
  • Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum Admission Ticket in Memphis: $15
  • 1-Hour Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $16
  • Memphis Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21

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
    Memphis $26
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Memphis

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Memphis:

  • Drinking Spirits with Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Haunted Pub Crawl in Memphis: $27
  • Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $59
  • Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $62


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


Which is Bigger, Memphis or Wisconsin Dells?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 260 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Memphis 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 Memphis or Wisconsin Dells?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Memphis or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Memphis as well as Wisconsin Dells. Many visitors come to Memphis in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Memphis is generally a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 83°F (29°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wisconsin Dells. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Memphis this time of the year. In the summer, Memphis often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wisconsin Dells. Memphis gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun.

Memphis usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Wisconsin Dells. Memphis gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Memphis 83°F (29°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Memphis are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Memphis for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Wisconsin Dells because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Memphis is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the autumn. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 64°F (18°C) in October, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Memphis. Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during autumn. Memphis gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Memphis usually receives less rain than Wisconsin Dells. Memphis gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Memphis during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Memphis 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. The weather in Memphis can be very cold. In the winter, Memphis is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the winter temperatures in Memphis in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 19°F (-7°C).

In the winter, Memphis often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Memphis gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun.

Memphis usually gets more rain in January than Wisconsin Dells. Memphis gets 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Memphis 40°F (5°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Memphis and Wisconsin Dells. The activities around the city are the main draw to Memphis this time of year.

In April, Memphis is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 64°F (18°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wisconsin Dells this time of the year. In Memphis, it's very sunny this time of the year. Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during spring. Memphis gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun in the spring.

Memphis gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Memphis usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Memphis gets 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Memphis

Memphis Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 2.4 inches (62 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 45°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 72°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 83°F (29°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)