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

Should you visit Providence or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Providence and Wisconsin Dells. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Providence

Providence is a fascinating, active, and friendly city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Wisconsin Dells

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

Providence and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Providence or Wisconsin Dells?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wisconsin Dells. Although Providence and Wisconsin Dells are both popular with visitors, Wisconsin Dells has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wisconsin Dells is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and hiking, while Providence is known for its museums, food, and shopping. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Providence and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. It is also home to Noah's Ark Water Park. Providence is popular for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is Providence different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Providence
Wisconsin Dells

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

Providence offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several historical museums around town as well as art museums, zoos, a planetarium and natural history museum, and even a children's 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 Providence or Wisconsin Dells? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Providence
Wisconsin Dells

Providence 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 Providence. The food scene around town has grown and diversified in recent years. You'll find a mix of international and local options and for such a small city, it really has a lot to offer.

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 Providence or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Providence
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Providence. Comedy clubs, bars, and clubs keep the energy high during the evening hours. It's not hard to find something to do, particularly on weekend nights.

Is Providence or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Providence
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a resort destination.


Is Providence or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Providence
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a good destination for hiking. However, Providence is not a hiking destination.

Wisconsin Dells offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Providence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Providence or Wisconsin Dells?

Providence
Wisconsin Dells

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

Providence offers some nice shopping areas. Malls, shopping centers, and boutiques all offer a range of shopping experiences 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 Providence or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Providence
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Wisconsin Dells is very family-friendly. 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.

Providence is a family-friendly place to visit. There are opportunities for kids to interact with animals at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, as well as plenty of places for kids to run around like Rocky Point Park or Goddard Memorial State Park. There's also the Providence Children's Museum, go carting, and entertainment centers.


Is Providence or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Providence
Wisconsin Dells

Providence and Wisconsin Dells both good destinations for a couple.

Providence is a good city for couples to visit. You can see a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or visit some of the city's historic buildings and museums. There are also parks and coastal walks as well as many great restaurants.

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 Providence or Wisconsin Dells Better for Students?

Providence
Wisconsin Dells

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

Providence is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's a college town vibe to this small city because it's home to Brown University, which is a member of the Ivy League.

Wisconsin Dells is not popular with students.

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

Providence
Wisconsin Dells

Providence 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 Providence, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are RIPTA buses that travel around town.

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


Is Providence or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Providence
Wisconsin Dells

Providence 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.

Providence is a very walkable city. It's a walkable city and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Providence?

How long in Providence or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Providence or Wisconsin Dells. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Wisconsin Dells due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Providence, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wisconsin Dells.

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

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


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

One day in Providence or Wisconsin Dells?

The fascinating destination of Providence offers nightlife and food. 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.

With food and nightlife around the fun-filled city of Wisconsin Dells, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Providence or Wisconsin Dells?

The city of Providence 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Wisconsin Dells, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Providence or Wisconsin Dells?

Providence 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Providence or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


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 Providence?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Providence is $210, 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 Providence and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Providence $114
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Providence $228
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Providence and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Providence 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 Providence


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: Providence Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Providence $46
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Providence

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

  • New York’s JFK International Airport to Providence – Departure Private Transfer: $272
  • Private Departure Transfer to Providence TF Green Airport PVD: $36
  • Private Transfer from Providence Airport (PVD) to Newport Port : $49
  • Private Transfer from Providence City Hotels to Newport Port: $61
  • Providence to Boston’s Logan International Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $169
  • Providence to Rhode Island Airport PVD Departure Transfer : $46
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $46
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $91

Is it cheaper to fly into Providence or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Providence 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
    Providence $48
    Wisconsin Dells $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Providence

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

  • Downcity Providence Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Providence $26
    Wisconsin Dells $46

Tours and Activities in Providence

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

  • Providence Scavenger Hunt: Providence Adventure: $12
  • Self-Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Providence, RI: Murder Mystery Detective Experience: $15
  • Downtown Providence Self-Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Providence, RI: $15
  • Ghosts, Phantoms and Poltergeists Walking Tour: $26
  • Providence Ghosts Phantoms and Poltergeists Tour: $30
  • Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour: $30
  • Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence: $30
  • Providence Mob Walking Tour: $33
  • The Creative Capital: An Art and Architecture Tour of Providence: $35
  • Power and Politics: The Struggle for the Soul of Providence Tour: $35

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
    Providence $13
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Providence

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

  • Vineyard Voyages - Floating Wine Tasting: $58


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


Which is Bigger, Providence or Wisconsin Dells?

Providence has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Providence 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 Providence 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 Providence or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Providence as well as Wisconsin Dells. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Providence this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Providence is generally around the same temperature as Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Providence average around 73°F (23°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wisconsin Dells. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Providence this time of the year. In the summer, Providence often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wisconsin Dells. Providence gets 293 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun.

Providence usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Wisconsin Dells. Providence 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
    Providence 73°F (23°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Providence or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Providence are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Providence for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Wisconsin Dells in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Providence. Providence usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during autumn. Providence gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Providence usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Providence 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
    Providence 53°F (12°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Providence or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Providence during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Providence in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Wisconsin Dells for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Wisconsin Dells can be very cold during winter. Providence can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Providence is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the winter temperatures in Providence in January average around 28°F (-2°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 19°F (-7°C).

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

Providence usually gets more rain in January than Wisconsin Dells. Providence 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
    Providence 28°F (-2°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Providence or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Providence and Wisconsin Dells.

In April, Providence is generally around the same temperature as Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Providence average around 48°F (9°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wisconsin Dells this time of the year. In Providence, it's very sunny this time of the year. Providence usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during spring. Providence gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Providence usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Providence 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
    Providence 48°F (9°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Providence

Providence 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)