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

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

Richmond

Richmond is a growing, friendly, and historical 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. Other popular activities here include hiking, nightlife, and food.

Richmond and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
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


Is there more to do in Richmond or Wisconsin Dells?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wisconsin Dells. Although Richmond 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 Richmond is known for its museums and shopping. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Richmond and is known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. It is also home to Noah's Ark Water Park. Richmond is popular for its cultural and historical sights.

How is Richmond different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Richmond
Wisconsin Dells

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

Richmond offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.

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

Richmond
Wisconsin Dells

Foodies will find both Richmond and Wisconsin Dells both to be good destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Richmond area. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Wisconsin Dells. 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 Richmond or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Richmond
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Wisconsin Dells has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Richmond. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

Is Richmond or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Richmond
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is very good for its resorts. However, Richmond 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.

Richmond is not a resort destination.


Is Richmond or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Richmond
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Richmond 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.

Richmond is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Richmond or Wisconsin Dells?

Richmond
Wisconsin Dells

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

Richmond offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

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 Richmond or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Richmond
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Richmond is a family-friendly city. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.


Is Richmond or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Richmond
Wisconsin Dells

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

Richmond is a good city for couples to visit. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

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 Richmond or Wisconsin Dells Better for Students?

Richmond
Wisconsin Dells

Richmond is a popular place for students. However, Wisconsin Dells is not popular with students.

Richmond is popular with students. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Wisconsin Dells is not popular with students.

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

Richmond
Wisconsin Dells

Richmond 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 Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

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


Is Richmond or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Richmond
Wisconsin Dells

Richmond 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.

Richmond is a somewhat walkable place. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

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

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Richmond?

How long in Richmond or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Richmond 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 Richmond, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wisconsin Dells.

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

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


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

One day in Richmond or Wisconsin Dells?

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

The city of Wisconsin Dells offers food and nightlife. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Richmond or Wisconsin Dells?

The city of Richmond 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.

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Wisconsin Dells, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Richmond or Wisconsin Dells?

Richmond 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Richmond or Wisconsin Dells?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Richmond. 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 great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


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 Richmond?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Richmond is $161, 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 Richmond and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Richmond $101
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Richmond $202
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Richmond and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Richmond 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 Richmond


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: Richmond Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Richmond $72
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $72
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Richmond or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Richmond 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
    Richmond $21
    Wisconsin Dells $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Richmond

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

  • The Carytown Food Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour in Richmond, VA: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour: $80
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $80
  • Pizza & Ice Cream Tour: $80
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond: $85
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $85
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Richmond $13
    Wisconsin Dells $46

Tours and Activities in Richmond

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Richmond are as follows:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Hollywood Cemetery Tour Richmond Lore and Civil War: $24
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $25
  • Richmond Ghosts: Sinister Scares of Shockoe Bottom Tour: $26
  • Shockoe Bottom Ghost Walking Tour: $30
  • Phantoms of Franklin Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Court End Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Monroe Park Campus Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Church Hill Guided Ghost Tour: $30
  • Downtown & Capitol Square Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $30

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
    Richmond -
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

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

  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Drink Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl: $74
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $74
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90


When comparing the travel costs between Richmond and Wisconsin Dells, we can see that Richmond 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 Richmond Expensive? and Is Wisconsin Dells Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Richmond or Wisconsin Dells?

Richmond has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Richmond 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 Richmond 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 Richmond or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Richmond and Wisconsin Dells. Most visitors come to Richmond for 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, Richmond is generally around the same temperature as Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Richmond average around 78°F (26°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wisconsin Dells this time of the year. In Richmond, it's very sunny this time of the year. Richmond usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wisconsin Dells during summer. Richmond gets 305 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun in the summer.

Richmond gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Richmond usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Richmond gets 5 inches (128 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Richmond 78°F (26°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Richmond as well as Wisconsin Dells. The autumn months attract visitors to Richmond because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year.

Richmond is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the autumn. The daily temperature in Richmond averages around 59°F (15°C) in October, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Richmond this time of the year. In the autumn, Richmond often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Richmond gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun.

Richmond usually gets more rain in October than Wisconsin Dells. Richmond gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Richmond 59°F (15°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Richmond are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Richmond 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. It's quite cold in Richmond in the winter. In the winter, Richmond is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the winter temperatures in Richmond in January average around 36°F (2°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 19°F (-7°C).

Richmond usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during winter. Richmond gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Richmond usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Richmond gets 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Richmond 36°F (2°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Richmond during the spring are popular places to visit.

In April, Richmond is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Richmond average around 58°F (14°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

In Wisconsin Dells, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Richmond. In the spring, Richmond often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Richmond gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun.

Richmond usually gets more rain in April than Wisconsin Dells. Richmond gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Richmond

Richmond Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 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 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)