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

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

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a fun-filled, underrated, and relaxed coastal city. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a fun-filled, lighthearted, and high energy city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Saint Petersburg and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Saint Petersburg. Although Saint Petersburg and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations, Saint Petersburg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Saint Petersburg is very popular for its museums, food, beaches, and shopping, while Wisconsin Dells attracts visitors for its nightlife and hiking. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Saint Petersburg and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Saint Petersburg is famous for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. It is also well known for St. Pete Beach.

How is Saint Petersburg different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Saint Petersburg
Wisconsin Dells

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

Saint Petersburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

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 Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Petersburg
Wisconsin Dells

Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

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 Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is great for nightlife. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Wisconsin Dells for the nightlife scene. 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 Saint Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

Is Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg
Wisconsin Dells

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Saint Petersburg and Wisconsin Dells.

Saint Petersburg has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

With a selection of resorts, Wisconsin Dells makes a nice vacation spot. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.


Is Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg
Wisconsin Dells

Saint Petersburg is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Saint Petersburg. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Saint Petersburg
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is very good for hiking. However, Saint Petersburg 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.

Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells?

Saint Petersburg
Wisconsin Dells

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

Saint Petersburg offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

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 Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Saint Petersburg
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

Saint Petersburg is a very kid-friendly coastal city. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

Is Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Saint Petersburg
Wisconsin Dells

Saint Petersburg is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Saint Petersburg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

Wisconsin Dells is a good coastal city 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 Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Petersburg
Wisconsin Dells

Saint Petersburg is a coastal 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 Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

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


Is Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Saint Petersburg
Wisconsin Dells

Saint Petersburg and Wisconsin Dells are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Saint Petersburg is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not very walkable. 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 Saint Petersburg Worth Visiting? and Is Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells. In our opinion, Saint Petersburg has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Saint Petersburg than Wisconsin Dells. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg.


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

One day in Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells?

The relaxed destination of Saint Petersburg offers nightlife and food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find food and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of Wisconsin Dells. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells?

The coastal city of Saint Petersburg offers food and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the high energy city of Wisconsin Dells. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.


Five days in Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells?

Saint Petersburg is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This coastal 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Saint Petersburg. 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.

Wisconsin Dells is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Saint Petersburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Petersburg is $204, 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 Saint Petersburg and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Petersburg $127
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Petersburg $254
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Saint Petersburg and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg


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: Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $47
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Saint Petersburg 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
    Saint Petersburg $49
    Wisconsin Dells $43
Typical Food Prices in Saint Petersburg

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Saint Petersburg:


  • Burger Dinner (for 2)
    $20
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $37
  • Gelato (for 2)
    $8.00
  • Breakfast at Piper's Patio (for 2)
    $17

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

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
    Saint Petersburg $41
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14


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


Which is Bigger, Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Saint Petersburg as well as Wisconsin Dells. Most visitors come to Saint Petersburg for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Wisconsin Dells because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Saint Petersburg is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Petersburg in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 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 Saint Petersburg this time of the year. In the summer, Saint Petersburg often gets less sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Saint Petersburg gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun.

Saint Petersburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. Saint Petersburg usually gets more rain in July than Wisconsin Dells. Saint Petersburg gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Petersburg 82°F (28°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Saint Petersburg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year.

In October, Saint Petersburg is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 76°F (24°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during autumn. Saint Petersburg gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Petersburg usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Saint Petersburg gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Petersburg 76°F (24°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Saint Petersburg during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint Petersburg this time of year. Furthermore, 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. Saint Petersburg is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 59°F (15°C) in January, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 19°F (-7°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Petersburg. In the winter, Saint Petersburg often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Saint Petersburg gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun.

Saint Petersburg usually gets more rain in January than Wisconsin Dells. Saint Petersburg gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Petersburg 59°F (15°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Petersburg and Wisconsin Dells. Many travelers come to Saint Petersburg for the beaches.

In the spring, Saint Petersburg is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Petersburg in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 49°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wisconsin Dells this time of the year. In Saint Petersburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Petersburg usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during spring. Saint Petersburg gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Wisconsin Dells. Saint Petersburg gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Saint Petersburg is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Petersburg 73°F (23°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)