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

Should you visit Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tallahassee and Wisconsin Dells can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a youthful, lively, and vibrant 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.

Tallahassee and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
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 Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wisconsin Dells. Although Tallahassee 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 food, nightlife, resorts, and hiking, while Tallahassee is known for its museums and shopping. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Tallahassee and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. It is also home to Noah's Ark Water Park. Tallahassee is popular for its capital building and many universities.

How is Tallahassee different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tallahassee
Wisconsin Dells

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

Tallahassee offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital 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 Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tallahassee
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a city with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Tallahassee
Wisconsin Dells

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

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 Tallahassee. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

Is Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Tallahassee
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a city with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a resort destination.


Is Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Tallahassee
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a city with good options for hiking. However, Tallahassee is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around 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.

Tallahassee is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells?

Tallahassee
Wisconsin Dells

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

Tallahassee offers some nice shopping areas. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

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 Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Tallahassee
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Wisconsin Dells is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.


Is Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Tallahassee
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a city with good options for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Wisconsin Dells is a good 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.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

Is Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallahassee
Wisconsin Dells

Tallahassee is a popular place for backpackers. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Tallahassee. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

Wisconsin Dells is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find campgrounds in the area, but most places are very built up and don't have the natural setting that backpackers appreciate.

Is Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells Better for Students?

Tallahassee
Wisconsin Dells

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

Tallahassee is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Wisconsin Dells is not popular with students.


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

Tallahassee
Wisconsin Dells

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

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

Is Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Tallahassee
Wisconsin Dells

Tallahassee and Wisconsin Dells are decent when it comes to walkability.

Tallahassee is generally not a very walkable city. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Tallahassee?

How long in Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells?

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

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


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

One day in Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells?

The youthful destination of Tallahassee offers shopping and museums. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fun-filled city of Wisconsin Dells. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells?

The city of Tallahassee offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the fun-filled destination of Wisconsin Dells. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells?

Tallahassee 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.

The lighthearted city of Wisconsin Dells offers nightlife and food. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells?

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Tallahassee. 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.

Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Wisconsin Dells. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Tallahassee?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallahassee is $156, 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 Tallahassee and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallahassee $89
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallahassee $178
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Tallahassee and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee


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: Tallahassee Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallahassee $33
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee $47
    Wisconsin Dells $43

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallahassee $12
    Wisconsin Dells $46

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

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

  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $191
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $246
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $375
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $481

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
    Tallahassee $53
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14


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


Which is Bigger, Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells?

Tallahassee has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tallahassee as well as Wisconsin Dells. Many travelers come to Tallahassee for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Wisconsin Dells in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tallahassee is generally a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Tallahassee average around 82°F (28°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 Tallahassee this time of the year. In the summer, Tallahassee often gets less sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Tallahassee gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun.

Tallahassee receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tallahassee usually gets more rain in July than Wisconsin Dells. Tallahassee gets 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Tallahassee are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tallahassee in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

Tallahassee is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tallahassee averages around 69°F (20°C) in October, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. Tallahassee usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during autumn. Tallahassee gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Tallahassee gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Tallahassee is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Tallahassee during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tallahassee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Wisconsin Dells because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Wisconsin Dells can be very cold. In the winter, Tallahassee is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tallahassee in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 19°F (-7°C).

In the winter, Tallahassee often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Tallahassee gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun.

Tallahassee usually gets more rain in January than Wisconsin Dells. Tallahassee gets 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

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

In April, Tallahassee is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Tallahassee average around 67°F (19°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 Tallahassee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tallahassee usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during spring. Tallahassee gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun in the spring.

Tallahassee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Tallahassee gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Tallahassee.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Tallahassee

Tallahassee Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)