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

Should you visit Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Williamsburg and Wisconsin Dells. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a quaint, well-preserved, and historic town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a high energy, fun-filled, and lighthearted city. Other popular activities here include hiking, nightlife, and food.

Williamsburg and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Williamsburg. Although Williamsburg and Wisconsin Dells are both popular with visitors, Williamsburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Williamsburg is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Wisconsin Dells is known for its nightlife, resorts, and hiking. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Williamsburg and is known for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Williamsburg is popular for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments. It is also home to Colonial Williamsburg.

How is Williamsburg different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Williamsburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

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 Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Williamsburg is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Williamsburg. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

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 Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Wisconsin Dells is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Wisconsin Dells know how to have a good time. 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.

Williamsburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

Is Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Wisconsin Dells is a good destination for its resorts. However, Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is not a resort destination.

Is Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells Better for its Old Town?

Williamsburg is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Wisconsin Dells does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Williamsburg is revered around the world. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

Wisconsin Dells does not have a historic old town.

Is Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Wisconsin Dells is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

Wisconsin Dells offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Williamsburg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

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 Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Both Williamsburg and Wisconsin Dells are amazing family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Williamsburg is very family-friendly. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

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.

Is Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Williamsburg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

Wisconsin Dells is a good town 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 Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Williamsburg. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

Wisconsin Dells is not popular with students.

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

Williamsburg is a town 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 Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.

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

Is Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Williamsburg and Wisconsin Dells both are decent when exploring on foot.

Williamsburg is generally not very walkable. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need a car.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not a very walkable town. 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 Williamsburg Worth Visiting? and Is Wisconsin Dells Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Williamsburg?

How long in Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells?

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

Families should spend more time in Williamsburg than Wisconsin Dells. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Williamsburg, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

One day in Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells?

The historic destination of Williamsburg offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 food and nightlife that this lighthearted city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells?

The town of Williamsburg offers museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

Wisconsin Dells is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells?

Williamsburg is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and nightlife around the high energy destination of Wisconsin Dells. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells?

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Williamsburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Wisconsin Dells is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Williamsburg and Wisconsin Dells, we can see that Wisconsin Dells is more expensive. And not only is Williamsburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Williamsburg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Williamsburg 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 Wisconsin Dells would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Wisconsin Dells than you might in Williamsburg.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Williamsburg Expensive? and Is Wisconsin Dells Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells?

Williamsburg has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Williamsburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Williamsburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Williamsburg is generally around the same temperature as Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Williamsburg average around 78°F (26°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Wisconsin Dells. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Williamsburg. Williamsburg usually receives less sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during summer. Williamsburg gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 309 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Williamsburg. In July, Williamsburg usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Williamsburg gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Williamsburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Williamsburg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Wisconsin Dells in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Williamsburg is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the autumn. The daily temperature in Williamsburg averages around 61°F (16°C) in October, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Williamsburg. In the autumn, Williamsburg often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Williamsburg gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 171 hours of full sun.

Williamsburg usually gets more rain in October than Wisconsin Dells. Williamsburg gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Williamsburg and Wisconsin Dells. Many visitors come to Williamsburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Wisconsin Dells for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Wisconsin Dells can be very cold during winter. Williamsburg can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Williamsburg is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the winter temperatures in Williamsburg in January average around 38°F (4°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 19°F (-7°C).

Williamsburg usually receives more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells during winter. Williamsburg gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Wisconsin Dells receives 141 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Williamsburg usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Williamsburg gets 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Williamsburg as well as Wisconsin Dells. Most visitors come to Williamsburg for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Williamsburg is generally a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Williamsburg average around 57°F (14°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wisconsin Dells. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Williamsburg this time of the year. In the spring, Williamsburg often gets more sunshine than Wisconsin Dells. Williamsburg gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wisconsin Dells receives 208 hours of full sun.

Williamsburg usually gets more rain in April than Wisconsin Dells. Williamsburg gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Williamsburg