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

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

Newport

Newport is a historical, charming, and coastal town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Wisconsin Dells

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

Newport and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Newport or Wisconsin Dells?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Newport. Although Newport and Wisconsin Dells are both popular with visitors, Newport has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Newport is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Wisconsin Dells is known for its nightlife, resorts, and hiking. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Newport and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Newport is popular for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also home to Thames Street.

How is Newport different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Newport
Wisconsin Dells

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

Newport offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

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

Newport
Wisconsin Dells

Newport is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Newport. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

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 Newport or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Newport
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Wisconsin Dells has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Newport or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Newport
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Newport 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.

Newport is not a resort destination.


Is Newport or Wisconsin Dells Better for Beaches?

Newport
Wisconsin Dells

Newport is a great destination for the beache. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Newport is considered a top beach destination. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is Newport or Wisconsin Dells Better for its Old Town?

Newport
Wisconsin Dells

Newport is a great destination for its old town. However, Wisconsin Dells does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Wisconsin Dells does not have a historic old town.

Is Newport or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Newport
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is very good for its hiking trails. However, Newport 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.

Newport is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Newport or Wisconsin Dells?

Newport
Wisconsin Dells

Newport is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Newport is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

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 Newport or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Newport
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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.

Newport is a very family-friendly place to visit. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Is Newport or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Newport
Wisconsin Dells

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

Newport makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

Wisconsin Dells is a good town 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 Newport or Wisconsin Dells Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newport
Wisconsin Dells

Newport 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 Newport, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

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

Is Newport or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Newport
Wisconsin Dells

Newport is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Newport is a very walkable town. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not a very walkable town. 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 Newport Worth Visiting? and Is Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Newport?

How long in Newport or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Newport or Wisconsin Dells. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Newport due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Newport, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wisconsin Dells.

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

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


  • How many days in Newport or Wisconsin Dells? Ideal Length of Stay
    Newport 2-5 
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4

One day in Newport or Wisconsin Dells?

The historical destination of Newport offers nightlife and food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Newport or Wisconsin Dells?

The town of Newport offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Newport or Wisconsin Dells?

Newport is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Wisconsin Dells is a great place to explore. 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 Newport or Wisconsin Dells?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newport. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Newport?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Newport is $159, 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 Newport and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Newport $92
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Newport $184
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Newport and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Newport 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 Newport


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: Newport Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Newport $36
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newport

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

  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence Airport (PVD): $49
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence city Hotels: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Newport or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Newport 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
    Newport $45
    Wisconsin Dells $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

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

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Newport $17
    Wisconsin Dells $46

Tours and Activities in Newport

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

  • Downtown Historic Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Newport Downtown Historic Audio APP Self Guided Smart Phone Tour: $6.75
  • Newport Cliff Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Newport's Cliff Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Newport, Rhode Island: Cliff Walk Gilded Age Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.49
  • Newport Cliff Walk - Legends of the Gilded Age GPS Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Ocean Drive Historic District: A Newport Self-Guided Driving Tour: $9.99
  • Newport Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Ocean Drive Historic District Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Discover Newport's Grandeur: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Newport, Rhode Island: Scenic Self-Driving Audio Tour: $13

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
  • Haunted History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Newport $14
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14


When comparing the travel costs between Newport and Wisconsin Dells, we can see that Newport is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Newport Expensive? and Is Wisconsin Dells Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Newport or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Both Wisconsin Dells and Newport during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Wisconsin Dells because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Newport is generally around the same temperature as Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Newport average around 73°F (23°C), 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 Newport. In the summer, Newport often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wisconsin Dells. Newport gets 293 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun.

Newport usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Wisconsin Dells. Newport gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Newport 73°F (23°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Newport or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Newport and Wisconsin Dells. The autumn months attract visitors to Newport because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year.

Newport is around the same temperature as Wisconsin Dells in the autumn. The daily temperature in Newport averages around 53°F (12°C) in October, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In Newport, it's very sunny this time of the year. Newport usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during autumn. Newport gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Newport usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Newport gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Newport 53°F (12°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Newport or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Newport as well as Wisconsin Dells. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Newport this time of year. Additionally, 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. It's quite cold in Newport in the winter. In the winter, Newport is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the winter temperatures in Newport in January average around 28°F (-2°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 19°F (-7°C).

In the winter, Newport often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Newport gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun.

Newport usually gets more rain in January than Wisconsin Dells. Newport gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Newport 28°F (-2°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Newport or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Newport are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Newport is generally around the same temperature as Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Newport average around 48°F (9°C), 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 Newport. Newport usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during spring. Newport gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Newport usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Newport gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Newport 48°F (9°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Newport

Newport Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)