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

Should you visit Tampa or Wisconsin Dells?

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

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

Tampa

Tampa is a laid-back, easy-going, and low-key city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food and beaches.

Wisconsin Dells

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

Tampa and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Tampa or Wisconsin Dells?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tampa. Although Tampa and Wisconsin Dells are both popular with visitors, Tampa has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Tampa is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Wisconsin Dells is known for its museums, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and shopping. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Tampa and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Tampa is popular for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port. It is also home to Busch Gardens.

How is Tampa different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tampa
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Tampa or Wisconsin Dells? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tampa
Wisconsin Dells

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Tampa and Wisconsin Dells can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Tampa is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Wisconsin Dells offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Tampa or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options for nightlife.

Wisconsin Dells has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Is Tampa or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Tampa
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa is not a resort destination.


Is Tampa or Wisconsin Dells Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa
Wisconsin Dells

Tampa is a city with a few options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Tampa has a few snorkeling spots. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Wisconsin Dells is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tampa or Wisconsin Dells Better for Beaches?

Tampa
Wisconsin Dells

Tampa is a great destination for the beache. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Tampa is considered a top beach destination. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is Tampa or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Tampa
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Tampa is not a hiking destination.

Wisconsin Dells is a good destination for hiking. Visitors often forget that this was originally a destination for its natural beauty. There are still many hiking trails in the area with some of the favorites found at Mirror Lake State Park, Rocky Arbor State Park, and Chimney Rock Private Park.

Tampa is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Wisconsin Dells?

Tampa
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Tampa
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Wisconsin Dells is a very family-friendly destination. While it used to be known for its impressive sandstone formations along the Wisconsin River, today it has a more touristy atmosphere with theme parks and amusement parks. It's also become known as the "Water Park Capital of the World", and it won't disappoint. There are both indoor and outdoor waterparks as well as train rides, boat rides, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants.

Tampa is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

Is Tampa or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Tampa
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options 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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.


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

Tampa
Wisconsin Dells

Neither Tampa or Wisconsin Dells offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Wisconsin Dells. There's no real public transportation in the area.

Is Tampa or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Tampa
Wisconsin Dells

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

Tampa is generally not a very walkable city. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Wisconsin Dells?

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

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


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

One day in Tampa or Wisconsin Dells?

The easy-going destination of Tampa offers food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

In Wisconsin Dells, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this lighthearted destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Tampa or Wisconsin Dells?

The city of Tampa offers food. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wisconsin Dells. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Wisconsin Dells?

Tampa is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Wisconsin Dells is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Wisconsin Dells. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tampa or Wisconsin Dells?

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Tampa. 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.

You'll find food and nightlife around the high energy destination of Wisconsin Dells. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or Tampa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampa is $179, 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 Tampa and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $85
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $170
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Tampa and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Tampa 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 Tampa


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: Tampa Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $69
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

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

  • Tampa hotels to Tampa Bay Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer : $51
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Tampa Airport TPA to Tampa City in Business Car: $72
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Tampa Airport TPA to Tampa City in Luxury SUV: $86
  • Departure Private Transfer: Tampa City to Tampa Airport TPA in Business Car: $72
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Tampa Airport (TPA): $36
  • Private Arrival Transfer In Tampa International Airport (TPA) : $35
  • Private One-way Tampa Airport Transfer To/From Tampa: $46
  • Private Transfer from TPA to Lakeland and Winter Haven: $157
  • Private Transfer from TPA to Tampa / St Petersburg / Clearwater Beach : $121
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport (TPA) to Clearwater Beach: $189
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport TPA to Lakeland/Winter Haven: $188
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport to Clearwater: $120

Is it cheaper to fly into Tampa or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and Tampa 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
    Tampa $53
    Wisconsin Dells $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampa

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

  • Cooking Class near Disney in Tampa Florida: $88
  • Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tampa $20
    Wisconsin Dells $46

Tours and Activities in Tampa

For Tampa, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Tampa Riverwalk: A Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.33
  • Smartphone Audio Private Walking Tour in Tampa Riverwalk: $7.99
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Tampa by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Tampa with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour: $26
  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Shared Ybor City Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • Sunset and Night Cruises Tour: $30
  • Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • The Official Downtown Tampa Ghost Tour: $30
  • Tampa Celebrity Homes Boat Tour: $31
  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31

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
    Tampa $26
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Bar Hunt: Tampa Takeover Bar Crawl: $12
  • Tampa Bar Crawl on a 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart: $40
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $40


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


Which is Bigger, Tampa or Wisconsin Dells?

Tampa has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Tampa 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 Tampa 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 Tampa or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Tampa during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Tampa because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year.

In July, Tampa is generally a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 82°F (28°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

In Wisconsin Dells, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the summer, Tampa often gets less sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually gets more rain in July than Wisconsin Dells. Tampa 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
    Tampa 82°F (28°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Wisconsin Dells. The city's sights and attractions are the main draw to Tampa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Tampa is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during autumn. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tampa usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tampa 75°F (24°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Wisconsin Dells. Many travelers come to Tampa for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Wisconsin Dells in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Wisconsin Dells can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Tampa is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tampa in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 19°F (-7°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tampa this time of the year. In the winter, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets more rain in January than Wisconsin Dells. Tampa 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
    Tampa 60°F (15°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tampa in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Tampa is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 71°F (22°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

It's quite sunny in Wisconsin Dells. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during spring. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tampa usually receives less rain than Wisconsin Dells. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tampa 71°F (22°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Tampa

Tampa Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°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 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 68°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)