A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Myrtle Beach vs. Wisconsin Dells for Nightlife, Families, Food, and Resorts

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

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a busy, jam-packed, and high energy beach city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife and beaches. See Myrtle Beach travel costs.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a high energy, fun-filled, and lighthearted city. Other popular activities here include hiking, nightlife, and food. See Wisconsin Dells travel costs.

Myrtle Beach and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Myrtle Beach and Wisconsin Dells are both popular with visitors, Myrtle Beach has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Myrtle Beach is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Wisconsin Dells is known for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, and hiking. Myrtle Beach is popular for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. It is also home to the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Wisconsin Dells is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Myrtle Beach
Wisconsin Dells

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

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Myrtle Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is very good for its restaurant scene. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Myrtle Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Slices of pizza and seafood buffets are the most common options in the area. There are also themed restaurants and dinner shows that make for a fun night, even if the food isn't the highest quality.

Is Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Myrtle Beach is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Myrtle Beach just to party. This beach is famous for its nightlife. From all-night bars and clubs, to music concerts and outdoor venues, there's no shortage of things to do. Bachelor and Bachelorette parties and spring break crowds make this the place to be for a party.

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 Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is very good for its resorts. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its luxury resorts.

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

Myrtle Beach has a few resort options worth checking out. While there are a handful of resorts in the area, like the popular Marriott Vacation Club, most hotels are crowded and lacking in space.


Is Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Myrtle Beach is a great destination for the beach. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Myrtle Beach is considered a top beach destination. Most people head to the center of town and boardwalk for the nightlife and vibrant activities more than the actual beach. The stretches north and south have nice beaches lined with hotels and resorts, and a much more family-friendly atmosphere. If you want a more relaxed beach setting without the huge crowds, check out Myrtle Beach State Park.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Myrtle Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Myrtle Beach 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.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

Myrtle Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Shopping is a popular activity in both Wisconsin Dells and Myrtle Beach.

Myrtle Beach has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. The town is filled with souvenir shops, t-shirt shops, and candy vendors that make shopping entertaining.

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 Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options 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.

For families, Myrtle Beach is not always the best place to visit. While this area isn't generally considered a family destination, there are some newer vacation clubs and resorts that cater specifically to families and have become popular. The Marriott Vacation Club is one of the most popular with families in Myrtle Beach.

Is Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Both Myrtle Beach and Wisconsin Dells are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Myrtle Beach is a good beach city for couples to visit. The beach area isn't exactly a romantic destination but for couples who enjoy going out and having fun together, there is no shortage of night time activities.

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 Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Wisconsin Dells

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

Myrtle Beach is a very popular beach city for students and younger travelers. University students flock to the area for spring break and end of year celebrations. If you're a student during those times, this is the place to be, otherwise, the area is best avoided.

Wisconsin Dells is not popular with students.


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

Myrtle Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Neither Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Myrtle Beach. There are no real public transit options so you'll need a car to get around.

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

Is Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Myrtle Beach and Wisconsin Dells both are decent when exploring on foot.

Myrtle Beach is generally not very walkable. By the Boardwalk, it's easy to walk around, but traffic can still be congested and once you're out of the main strip, a car is essential.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not a very walkable beach 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 Myrtle Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Families should spend more time in Wisconsin Dells than Myrtle Beach. 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 Myrtle Beach. 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.


  • How many days in Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells? Ideal Length of Stay
    Myrtle Beach 2-7 
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4

One day in Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

The high energy destination of Myrtle Beach offers nightlife. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. It's no surprise that nightlife 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, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this high energy city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

The beach city of Myrtle Beach offers nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

Wisconsin Dells is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

Myrtle Beach is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. This beach city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find food and nightlife around the lighthearted destination of Wisconsin Dells. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

The busy beach city of Myrtle Beach offers nightlife. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Myrtle Beach?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Myrtle Beach Prices
    USA Prices
    Wisconsin Dells Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Myrtle Beach $214
    Wisconsin Dells $174

The average daily cost (per person) in Myrtle Beach is $214, while the average daily cost in Wisconsin Dells is $174. 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 Myrtle Beach and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach 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 Myrtle Beach


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: Myrtle Beach Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Myrtle Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Myrtle Beach:

  • One Way To/From Airport Transfer: $50
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Myrtle Beach Airport MYR: $36
  • Private Departure Transfer to Myrtle Beach Airport (MYR): $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Myrtle Beach 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
    Myrtle Beach $97
    Wisconsin Dells $74
Typical Food Prices in Myrtle Beach

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Myrtle Beach:


  • Dinner for Two
    $49
  • Diner Breakfast for Two
    $21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Myrtle Beach

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

  • Riga Tony's Murder Mystery Dinner Show : $60
  • Polynesian Fire Luau and Dinner Show Ticket in Myrtle Beach: $67
  • Adventure Luau - Polynesian Dinner Show: $69
  • North Dinner Cruise on a Paddle Wheel Boat: $69
  • Luau with Polynesian Dinner and Live Show: $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $46
    Wisconsin Dells $46
Typical Entertainment Prices in Myrtle Beach

Here are a few typical costs in Myrtle Beach for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Mini Golf for Two
    $18
  • Beach Chairs
    $15

Tours and Activities in Myrtle Beach

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

  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Myrtle Beach SC: $15
  • SkyWheel Entry Ticket: $22
  • Murrells Inlet: Scenic Sunset Cruise: $29
  • Mayhem, Mystique, & Murder in Myrtle Beach Ghost Tour : $32
  • Mayhem, Mystique & Murder in Myrtle Beach Ghost Tour: $32
  • Murrells Inlet: Saltwater Marsh Eco Tour w/ Marine Biologist: $32
  • 2 HR Dolphin Tour in North Myrtle Beach: $37
  • Catamaran Dolphin Cruise in Myrtle Beach with Barrier Island Stop: $40
  • Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach Entry Ticket: $43
  • Waccamaw River Pontoon Boat Tour: $44
  • Treehouse Experience: $44
  • Myrtle Beach Military History Trolley Tour: $45

Tours and Activities in Wisconsin Dells

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

  • Haunted History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14


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


Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

Myrtle Beach has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach 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 Myrtle Beach 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 Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches, the city activities, 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 July, Myrtle Beach is generally a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 81°F (27°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Wisconsin Dells. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually receives less sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during summer. Myrtle Beach gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Myrtle Beach. In July, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Myrtle Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year.

Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the autumn. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 65°F (18°C) in October, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Myrtle Beach. In the autumn, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Myrtle Beach gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in October than Wisconsin Dells. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Wisconsin Dells. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Myrtle Beach 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. In the winter, Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the winter temperatures in Myrtle Beach in January average around 45°F (7°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 19°F (-7°C).

Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during winter. Myrtle Beach gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Wisconsin Dells. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Myrtle Beach is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 62°F (17°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 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 Myrtle Beach this time of the year. In the spring, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Myrtle Beach gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in April than Wisconsin Dells. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)


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