A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Wisconsin Dells for Resorts, Families, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach 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.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a diverse, vibrant, and fun-filled beach area. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife.

Wisconsin Dells

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

West Palm Beach and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Not as many resort options
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

Both Wisconsin Dells and West Palm Beach have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. West Palm Beach is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Wisconsin Dells attracts visitors for its museums, food, hiking, and shopping. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than West Palm Beach and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. West Palm Beach is famous for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports.

How is West Palm Beach different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

West Palm Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is adequate for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach 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.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

West Palm Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, West Palm Beach is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in West Palm Beach. Oceanfront restaurants usually have a great view and offer local and fresh seafood. There are also many local restaurants concentrated around Clematis Street and CityPlace districts.

Is West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach
Wisconsin Dells

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find high quality options in both West Palm Beach and Wisconsin Dells.

The nightlife in West Palm Beach has something for everybody. With rooftop bars and clubs, oceanfront venues, and plenty of nightlife options downtown, this city rivals most places when it comes to nightlife. The nightlife scene is particularly active during spring break, when university students head to town.

Wisconsin Dells offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach
Wisconsin Dells

West Palm Beach is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, West Palm Beach is a great choice. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Wisconsin Dells has a few great resort options. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.


Is West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

West Palm Beach
Wisconsin Dells

West Palm Beach is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting West Palm Beach. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Wisconsin Dells is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach
Wisconsin Dells

West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

West Palm Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place for hiking. However, West Palm Beach 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.

West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

West Palm Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is adequate for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Wisconsin Dells is a good destination for shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers, as well as gift shops in the area.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

West Palm Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area 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.

West Palm Beach is a very kid-friendly beach area. Animal lovers will appreciate the zoos and aquariums in the area. Check out McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary, Manatee Lagoon, the Palm Beach Zoo, and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium.

Is West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

West Palm Beach
Wisconsin Dells

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

Couples visit West Palm Beach frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy kayaking, dining out, or simply relaxing on the beach. It's fun to spend a day exploring the botanical gardens and an evening wandering around Clematis Street.

Wisconsin Dells is a good beach area 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 West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

West Palm Beach
Wisconsin Dells

West Palm Beach is a popular place for its public transit. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in West Palm Beach, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a downtown trolley, a commuter trail line (connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), and a bus system with about 30 lines.

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

Is West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach
Wisconsin Dells

West Palm Beach 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.

West Palm Beach is a somewhat walkable place. West Palm Beach has a surprisingly walkable area and it's possible to explore the downtown area on foot.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not a very walkable beach area. 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 West Palm Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wisconsin Dells than West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells? Ideal Length of Stay
    West Palm Beach 3-7 
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4

One day in West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

The diverse destination of West Palm Beach offers nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

The lighthearted destination of Wisconsin Dells offers nightlife and food. 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.


A weekend in West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

The beach area of West Palm Beach offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

The city of Wisconsin Dells offers food 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.

Five days in West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

West Palm Beach is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This beach area offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Wisconsin Dells 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.

A week in West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

The fun-filled beach area of West Palm Beach offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Wisconsin Dells. 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.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Wisconsin Dells or West Palm Beach?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in West Palm Beach is $330, 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 West Palm Beach and Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    West Palm Beach $234
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    West Palm Beach $468
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in West Palm Beach and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach


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: West Palm Beach Hotel Prices and Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    West Palm Beach $49
    Wisconsin Dells $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in West Palm Beach

Also for West Palm Beach, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Private Transfer: Palm Beach Airport PBI to Palm Beach in Luxury SUV: $109
  • Departure Private Transfer: Palm Beach to Palm Beach Airport PBI in Business Car: $94
  • Departure Private Transfer: Palm Beach to Palm Beach Airport PBI in Luxury SUV: $108
  • Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $61
  • Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach Port - Arrival Transfer: $41
  • Palm Beach Intl Airport (PBI) to Port of Palm Beach - Arrival Private Transfer : $41
  • Palm Beach Intl Airport (PBI) to Port of Palm Beach - RoundTrip Private Transfer: $83
  • Palm Beach hotels to Cruise Port of Palm Beach - Departure Private Transfer : $41
  • Palm Beach to Palm Beach Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $41

Is it cheaper to fly into West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells and West Palm Beach 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
    West Palm Beach $66
    Wisconsin Dells $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in West Palm Beach

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

  • Mornings in the Market Food Tour: $75
  • Mornings in the Market Food Tour: $75
  • Downtown West Palm Beach Food Tour: $85
  • Downtown Food Tour: $85
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $101
  • Food Tour of Historic West Palm Beach Neighborhoods: $101
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $101
  • Historic Neighborhood Food Tour: $101

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    West Palm Beach $19
    Wisconsin Dells $46

Tours and Activities in West Palm Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for West Palm Beach.

  • 45-Minute Candy Evolution Tour with Guide: $13
  • Bulk Candy Store Tour: $13
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in West Palm Beach by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Sound Bath Meditation and Yoga Experience: Retail Therapy Gift for Women: $25
  • Flamingle Happy Hour Cruise: $40
  • Beginner Snorkel Tour With Videos in West Palm Beach: $49
  • Tour and Photoshoot along Beautiful Historic Worth Avenue: $49
  • Tour and Photoshoot along Beautiful Historic Worth Ave: $49
  • Experience Peanut Island Adventures: $50
  • Scenic Sunset Cruise in West Palm Beach: $51
  • Historical Sightseeing Catamaran Cruise in Palm Beach: $51
  • Palm Beach: Sightseeing Catamaran Cruise: $54

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
  • Haunted Downtown Tour of Baraboo: $16
  • Haunted History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    West Palm Beach $39
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14


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


Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

West Palm Beach has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Wisconsin Dells. The summer months attract visitors to West Palm Beach because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year.

In the summer, West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the summer temperatures in West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach this time of the year. In the summer, West Palm Beach often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wisconsin Dells. West Palm Beach gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in July than Wisconsin Dells. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 78°F (25°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during autumn. West Palm Beach gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in West Palm Beach. In October, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 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 West Palm Beach.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    West Palm Beach 78°F (25°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

Both Wisconsin Dells and West Palm Beach during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to West Palm Beach 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. West Palm Beach is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the winter. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 65°F (19°C) in January, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 19°F (-7°C).

It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. In the winter, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. West Palm Beach gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in January than Wisconsin Dells. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    West Palm Beach 65°F (19°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Wisconsin Dells. Many visitors come to West Palm Beach in the spring for the beaches.

In the spring, West Palm Beach is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the spring temperatures in West Palm Beach in April average around 74°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 West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during spring. West Palm Beach gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in West Palm Beach is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    West Palm Beach 74°F (23°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 65°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 66°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (166 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 9.8 inches (250 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 78°F (25°C) 8.7 inches (222 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)