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

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

Washington

Washington is a active, monument-filled, and international city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Wisconsin Dells

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

Washington and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Wisconsin Dells?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Washington. Although Washington and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations, Washington has more sights and attractions for tourists. Washington is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Wisconsin Dells attracts visitors for its resorts and hiking. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Washington and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Washington is famous for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also well known for The Washington Monument and the White House.

How is Washington different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Washington is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Washington are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

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 Washington or Wisconsin Dells Better for Theater?

Washington is a great destination for its theatre productions. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Washington. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Wisconsin Dells is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Washington is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

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 Washington or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is great in both Washington and Wisconsin Dells.

Many people head to Washington for the nightlife scene. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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.

Is Washington or Wisconsin Dells Better for Music?

Washington is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Washington is active and vibrant. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Wisconsin Dells is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Wisconsin Dells is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Washington is not a resort destination.

Wisconsin Dells has a handful of resorts to choose from. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.

Washington is not a resort destination.

Is Washington or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Wisconsin Dells is very good for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Wisconsin Dells?

Washington is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

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 Washington or Wisconsin Dells Better for Christmas?

Washington is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Wisconsin Dells does not offer Christmas activities.

Washington is a world class destination for shoppers. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Wisconsin Dells does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Wisconsin Dells is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Washington is a very kid-friendly city. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Is Washington or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Washington frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

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.

Is Washington or Wisconsin Dells Better for Students?

Washington is a world-class destination for students. However, Wisconsin Dells is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Washington. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Wisconsin Dells is not popular with students.

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

Washington is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Washington can get you around easily. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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

Is Washington or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Washington is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Washington on foot is easy. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Washington?

How long in Washington or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Washington or Wisconsin Dells. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Washington due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wisconsin Dells.

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

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

One day in Washington or Wisconsin Dells?

Washington is a big city with plenty to do. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

A weekend in Washington or Wisconsin Dells?

Washington is a big city with plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Washington or Wisconsin Dells?

Washington is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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

A week in Washington or Wisconsin Dells?

Washington is a big city with plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Wisconsin Dells?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 230 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Washington as well as Wisconsin Dells. Most visitors come to Washington for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, 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, Washington is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the summer temperatures in Washington in July average around 79°F (26°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 Washington this time of the year. In the summer, Washington often gets less sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets more rain in July than Wisconsin Dells. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Washington because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year.

In October, Washington is generally a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 60°F (15°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Washington usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during autumn. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Washington usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Washington or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Washington during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Washington 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. It's quite cold in Washington in the winter. Washington is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the winter. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 35°F (1°C) in January, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 19°F (-7°C).

In the winter, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wisconsin Dells. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets more rain in January than Wisconsin Dells. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Wisconsin Dells. Many travelers come to Washington for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Washington is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the spring temperatures in Washington in April average around 56°F (14°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 Washington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Washington usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during spring. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Washington usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Washington