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

Should you visit Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells?

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

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

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a innovative, diverse, and dynamic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a lighthearted, high energy, and fun-filled city. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and nightlife.

Minneapolis and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • 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 for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Minneapolis than Wisconsin Dells, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Minneapolis is better known for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Wisconsin Dells is more popular for its resorts and hiking. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Minneapolis and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Minneapolis is well known for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people. Also, Minneapolis is famous for Mall of America.

How is Minneapolis different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Minneapolis
Wisconsin Dells

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

Minneapolis offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There's a wide variety of museums that include art, history, science, and local culture. Some of the favorite museums in the city are the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Weisman Art 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 Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Minneapolis
Wisconsin Dells

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

Minneapolis has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Dishes in the Midwest are known for being hearty comfort foods, and the food in Minneapolis is no exception. You'll find cheese-stuffed burgers that are known as Juicy Lucys, Tator Tot casseroles, and deep-fried cheese curds. For international food, there's a variety of Scandinavian options around town.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Wisconsin Dells area. 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 Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Minneapolis
Wisconsin Dells

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Minneapolis and Wisconsin Dells.

Minneapolis has a large number of nightlife venues. There are diverse neighborhoods that each have their own personality. You'll find rooftop lounges in Uptown, international venues in Whittier, and trendy bars in the North Loop. But at the heart of the city's nightlife scene is Downtown Minneapolis.

Wisconsin Dells is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Minneapolis
Wisconsin Dells

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

Minneapolis is not a resort destination.


Is Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Minneapolis
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells?

Minneapolis
Wisconsin Dells

Minneapolis is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Minneapolis make it a world-class shopping destination. Known for the megamall, Mall of America, this is a shopper's paradise. Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country and it even has an aquarium and a theme park within it. In addition to this iconic shopping mall, Minneapolis also has many shopping districts including the Minnehaha Mile.

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 Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Minneapolis
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Minneapolis is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Mall of America is at the top of the list for most families, but there's also plenty of kid-friendly museums around town as well as nature centers, parks, and playgrounds. There's the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, and Afton Apple Orchard. For museums, kids will love the Minnesota Children's Museum or the Science Museum of Minnesota.


Is Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Minneapolis
Wisconsin Dells

Minneapolis and Wisconsin Dells are both notable to visit as a couple.

Minneapolis makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore as well as museums and fine dining. Couples will appreciate stopping by the Stone Arch Bridge or wandering through the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.

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 Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells Better for Students?

Minneapolis
Wisconsin Dells

Minneapolis is a great destination for students. However, Wisconsin Dells is not popular with students.

Minneapolis is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are a number of colleges and universities in the area including the University of Minnesota. The city is known for its academic and intellectual focus, and students will enjoy being challenged educationally while enjoying a dynamic city.

Wisconsin Dells is not popular with students.

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

Minneapolis
Wisconsin Dells

Minneapolis is a popular place for its public transit. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Minneapolis, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

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


Is Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Minneapolis
Wisconsin Dells

Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis is a somewhat walkable place. There are neighborhoods that are dense enough to be walkable, but the city is still very car-focused.

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

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Minneapolis?

How long in Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells. In our opinion, Minneapolis has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Minneapolis than Wisconsin Dells. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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


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

One day in Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells?

The diverse destination of Minneapolis offers nightlife and food. It's no surprise that shopping 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lighthearted city of Wisconsin Dells. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells?

The city of Minneapolis offers food and shopping. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the high energy destination of Wisconsin Dells. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells?

Minneapolis is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The lighthearted city of Wisconsin Dells offers nightlife and food. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Wisconsin Dells. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Minneapolis?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Minneapolis is $206, 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 Minneapolis and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Minneapolis $110
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Minneapolis $220
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Minneapolis and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis


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: Minneapolis Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Minneapolis $43
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Minneapolis

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

  • Minneapolis Airport (MSP) to Minneapolis - Arrival Private Transfer: $69
  • Minneapolis Airport (MSP) to Minneapolis - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $139
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Minneapolis Airport MSP: $88
  • Private Departure Transfer to Minneapolis Airport MSP: $88

Is it cheaper to fly into Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Minneapolis 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
    Minneapolis $40
    Wisconsin Dells $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Minneapolis

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

  • Minneapolis Food Tour - Walking: $115

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Minneapolis $27
    Wisconsin Dells $46

Tours and Activities in Minneapolis

For Minneapolis, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Minneapolis River Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Minneapolis River Walk: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Minnehaha Falls: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Minneapolis: $7.99
  • In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Downtown Minneapolis: $7.99
  • Mighty Mississippi: A Self-Guided Riverside Walking Tour: $7.99
  • In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Minnehaha Falls: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Minneapolis: $7.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Saint Paul by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Minneapolis by Wacky Walks: $10
  • St. Paul Historic Cave Tour: $15
  • Minnesota Twins Baseball Game Ticket at Target Field: $16
  • Lost Souls Tour: $20

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
    Minneapolis $24
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Minneapolis

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

  • History and 4-Bar Crawl Guided Walking Tour: $69
  • All-Inclusive Minneapolis Craft Brewery Tour: $85
  • 3-Hour Craft Brewery Tour: $100


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


Which is Bigger, Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells?

Minneapolis has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Minneapolis during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Minneapolis in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Minneapolis is around the same temperature as Wisconsin Dells in the summer. The daily temperature in Minneapolis averages around 76°F (25°C) in July, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

In Wisconsin Dells, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Minneapolis. In the summer, Minneapolis often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Minneapolis gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun.

Minneapolis usually gets more rain in July than Wisconsin Dells. Minneapolis gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Minneapolis 76°F (25°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Minneapolis and Wisconsin Dells. Most visitors come to Minneapolis for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Wisconsin Dells because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Minneapolis is around the same temperature as Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Minneapolis in October average around 52°F (11°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 52°F (11°C).

Minneapolis usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wisconsin Dells during autumn. Minneapolis gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Minneapolis usually receives around the same amount of rain as Wisconsin Dells. Minneapolis gets 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Minneapolis 52°F (11°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Minneapolis as well as Wisconsin Dells. The winter months attract visitors to Minneapolis because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, 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 Minneapolis can be very cold. In January, Minneapolis is generally cooler than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Minneapolis average around 15°F (-10°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 19°F (-7°C).

In the winter, Minneapolis often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Minneapolis gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun.

Minneapolis usually gets less rain in January than Wisconsin Dells. Minneapolis gets 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Minneapolis 15°F (-10°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Minneapolis or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Minneapolis are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Minneapolis this time of year.

Minneapolis is around the same temperature as Wisconsin Dells in the spring. The daily temperature in Minneapolis averages around 49°F (10°C) in April, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

It's quite sunny in Wisconsin Dells. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Minneapolis. Minneapolis usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during spring. Minneapolis gets 244 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Minneapolis usually receives less rain than Wisconsin Dells. Minneapolis gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Minneapolis 49°F (10°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Minneapolis

Minneapolis Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 15°F (-10°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 21°F (-6°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 34°F (1°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 49°F (10°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 62°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 71°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 76°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 52°F (11°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 36°F (2°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 21°F (-6°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)