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

Should you visit Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Should I visit Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a maritime, authentic, and blue collar city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a fun-filled, lighthearted, and high energy city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Norfolk and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • 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 Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Wisconsin Dells. Although Norfolk and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations, Wisconsin Dells has more sights and attractions for tourists. Wisconsin Dells is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, and hiking, while Norfolk attracts visitors for its museums and shopping. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Norfolk and is known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. It is also well known for Noah's Ark Water Park. Norfolk is famous for its naval base and military presence.

How is Norfolk different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Norfolk
Wisconsin Dells

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

Norfolk offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

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

Norfolk
Wisconsin Dells

Both Norfolk and Wisconsin Dells offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

Norfolk offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Wisconsin Dells has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Norfolk
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Wisconsin Dells know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Norfolk has a few options to choose from. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Is Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Norfolk
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for its resorts. However, Norfolk is not a resort destination.

Wisconsin Dells has a handful of resorts to choose from. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.

Norfolk is not a resort destination.


Is Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Norfolk
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

Wisconsin Dells is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells?

Norfolk
Wisconsin Dells

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

Norfolk offers some nice shopping areas. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

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 Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Norfolk
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Wisconsin Dells is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.


Is Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Norfolk
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic 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.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

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

Norfolk
Wisconsin Dells

Norfolk 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 Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

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

Is Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Norfolk
Wisconsin Dells

Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable place. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Norfolk?

How long in Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Norfolk 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, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Norfolk, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wisconsin Dells.

Families should spend more time in Wisconsin Dells than Norfolk. 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 Norfolk. 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.

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


  • How many days in Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells? Ideal Length of Stay
    Norfolk 1-2 
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4

One day in Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells?

The blue collar destination of Norfolk offers nightlife and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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 Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells?

The city of Norfolk 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.

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 Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells?

Norfolk is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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


A week in Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Norfolk. 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 Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Norfolk?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Norfolk is $166, 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 Norfolk and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Norfolk 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 Norfolk


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: Norfolk Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Norfolk $54
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Norfolk

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Norfolk:

  • Bamville Transportation (Private & Airport Transfers): $275

Is it cheaper to fly into Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Norfolk 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
    Norfolk $49
    Wisconsin Dells $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Norfolk

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

  • Buffet Dinner Cruise: $101
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise: $112
  • Norfolk Mother's Day Signature Dinner Cruise: $112
  • Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise : $140
  • Norfolk 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise: $182

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

Tours and Activities in Norfolk

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

  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Norfolk with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Skip the Line: Virginia Living Museum Admission Ticket: $22
  • Neon District Contemporary Art Walking Tour: $32
  • Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin Combo Ticket: $38
  • Electric Bike Rental Downtown Norfolk (self guided tour) : $60
  • Elizabeth River Candlelit Buffet Lunch Cruise: $76
  • Elizabeth River Sunday Buffet Brunch Cruise: $84
  • Norfolk Buffet Brunch Cruise : $84
  • Mother's Day Signature Brunch Cruise Norfolk: $103
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Brunch Cruise: $103

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
    Norfolk $10
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Norfolk

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Norfolk:

  • Party Bike Pub Crawl in Downtown Norfolk: $30


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


Which is Bigger, Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells?

Norfolk has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Norfolk 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Norfolk are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Norfolk because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year.

In the summer, Norfolk is around the same temperature as Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the summer temperatures in Norfolk in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 74°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Wisconsin Dells. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. Norfolk usually receives less sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during summer. Norfolk gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Norfolk. In July, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Norfolk gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Norfolk 79°F (26°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Norfolk during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Norfolk this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Norfolk is generally a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 62°F (16°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Norfolk. In the autumn, Norfolk often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Norfolk gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun.

Norfolk usually gets more rain in October than Wisconsin Dells. Norfolk gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Norfolk 62°F (16°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Norfolk and Wisconsin Dells. Many travelers come to Norfolk for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Wisconsin Dells in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Wisconsin Dells can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Norfolk. Norfolk is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the winter. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 39°F (4°C) in January, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 19°F (-7°C).

Norfolk usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during winter. Norfolk gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Norfolk gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Norfolk 39°F (4°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Norfolk as well as Wisconsin Dells.

In the spring, Norfolk is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the spring temperatures in Norfolk in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 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 Norfolk this time of the year. In the spring, Norfolk often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Norfolk gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun.

Norfolk usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Wisconsin Dells. Norfolk gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Norfolk 58°F (14°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Norfolk

Norfolk Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)